Note 1 at 2 Cor. 8:8: Paul has been encouraging the Corinthians to give in this chapter, but he now makes it clear that this is just an encouragement, not a command. Paul goes on to state in 2 Corinthians 9:7 that God intended them to give "not grudgingly, or of necessity: for God loveth A CHEERFUL GIVER." To command someone to give out of necessity would violate the principle of love. So, Paul is not giving an order, but rather is giving the Corinthians an opportunity to prove their Christian love is real.

Note 2 at 2 Cor. 8:8: When Paul uses the phrase "forwardness of others" he is speaking about the godly zeal and eagerness of the Macedonians to give. The word "forwardness" in this sense means boldness. The best way to teach someone truth is by a godly example. Paul is using the Macedonians as an example and teacher for the Corinthians.

The positive actions of others not only teach us, but they motivate us too. Hebrews 10:24 says, "And let us consider one another to provoke unto love and to good works." Moses prophesied that the Lord would provoke His people to jealousy (Dt. 32:21; Rom. 10:19; 11:11). Paul also sought to provoke the Jews to accept Christ (Rom. 11:14).

So, it is scriptural to use the actions of others for instruction and motivation. However, it is not scriptural to use others as the primary source of instruction or motivation. Man will fail us (Ps. 118:8), and "the fear of man bringeth a snare: but whosoever putteth his trust in the LORD, shall be safe" (Prov. 29:25).