2 Corinthians 8:18

Have sent. That is, are sending (see on verse 17).

The brother. Paul entrusted the work of the collection in Achaia to three men, Titus and two others whose names are not given. All three enjoyed the confidence of the churches. This arrangement was designed to facilitate the collection and to protect all concerned with the collection against suspicion of appropriating funds thus collected to their own use. In view of the fact that a minority at Corinth still opposed Paul, it was better that he not collect the funds personally. Undoubtedly a considerable sum was collected, and a full report could thus be made back to the churches, both as to the amount given and as to its delivery at Jerusalem (see verses 20, 21). Paul knew his opponents would find fault with him if they could. The minister of the gospel is specifically counseled to be discreet in his attitude toward money (1 Timothy 3:3; 1 Peter 5:2).

Whose praise. This brother had proved an effective laborer “in the gospel,” and should be respected as a worthy colaborer of Paul and Titus.