“On the background of Macedonia’s liberality the Apostle urges the Corinthians to give generously (viii. 1-7). He points to the example of the Lord Jesus Christ, and indicates the proportion to be observed in contributing (viii. 8-15). He tells the Corinthians that Titus and two others will be in charge of this service (viii. 16-24). In view of his intention to visit Corinth soon the Apostle expresses the hope that the offering will have been raised (ix. 1-5), and that it will have been generous (ix. 6-15).
There is nothing here of the frantic and sensational appeals which are today so frequent. Paul’s treatment of the subject is a universe away from modern ways of ‘raising the wind.’ Chicken suppers, whist drives, dances, raffles, conjuring and pierrots are among methods employed to increase the finances of many a modern church. But this is not only not Christian giving, it is not giving at all; and it is an insult to the Almighty God.”
W. Graham Scroggie (1877-1958) in The Unfolding Drama of Redemption (Grand Rapids: Kregel, 1994) 100.