Note 8 at 2 Cor. 8:4: The Greek word that was translated "gift" in this verse is the same Greek word, "charis," that was translated "grace" in vv. 1, 6, 7, 9, and 19 (see note 5 at Rom. 1:5, p. 740).

Note 9 at 2 Cor. 8:4: The terms "ministering to" or "ministered to the saints" are found a total of 3 times in the New Testament (2 Cor. 8:4; 9:1; Heb. 6:10). In each case, "ministering to the saints" is a term that refers to financially helping God's people. When we reach out to others in His Name we are fulfilling the great commandment of scripture, "To love the Lord our God and our neighbour as ourselves" (Mt. 22:36-40). Luke 10:29-37 shows us that anyone in need could be our neighbour or, as stated by the apostle Paul, "As we have therefore opportunity, let us do good unto all men, especially unto them who are of the household of faith" (Gal. 6:10).

Therefore, we as believers have a responsibility to help the poor, regardless of whether or not they are believers. But these scriptures establish that we have a special responsibility to help fellow Christians who are in need. Sad to say, our fellow Christians are often passed over in our attempts to minister to the poor of the world.