2 Corinthians 1:11

Helping together. Through prayer the Corinthian believers could be co-laborers with Paul in his ministry. He firmly believed in the value of intercessory prayer — his own (Rom. 1:9; Eph. 1:16; Phil. 1:4; etc.) and that of others (Rom. 15:30; 1 Thess. 5:25; 2 Thess. 3:1). Paul highly esteemed the united prayers of God’s people.

The gift bestowed. That is, the blessing that had been granted in answer to united prayers. Paul doubtless refers to his deliverance from mortal peril (v. 8).

Many persons. Literally, “many faces,” a picturesque idiom meaning “persons.” Perhaps Paul thinks of the many persons whose faces had been lifted to God on his behalf. The spirit of prayer and thankfulness is mirrored in the face. Looking back upon the afflictions and trials through which he has passed, he realizes that a divine hand has delivered him from death, but sees also a sea of upturned faces interceding for him at the throne of grace.

Paul invites members of the household of faith to unite in prayer for those God has appointed to minister to their spiritual needs. The position of these leaders is often most perilous. Their responsibilities are great and their problems many. Their spiritual and physical preservation is a matter of major concern to the church. It is equally important that ministers sense the loving fellowship of their flock. This is what led Paul to express his yearning for the prayers of those among whom he labored. Great strength results from sympathy and prayerful support. Paul had not been alone in prayer for divine help; now he could not rejoice alone. He longed for others to share the blessings that had come to him.