What is the difference between “them” and “all others” in II Corinthians 9:13
Question:
"By their approval of this service, they will glorify God because of your submission that comes from your confession of the gospel of Christ, and the generosity of your contribution for them and for all others" (II Corinthians 9:13 ESV).
Is there any difference between "for them" and "for all others"? Are they both needy saints only?
Answer:
The gift being sent by the Gentile brethren will prove to the Jewish brethren that the Gentiles have truly been converted by the gospel, as evidenced by the changes in their behavior. The Gentiles, instead of being separated from the Jews, are sharing their bounty with them and with all. Their confession of belief is then put into action — actions that speak more than mere words. The Jews, in turn, will express their thankfulness for their fellowship with the Gentiles (Ephesians 2:11-18).
Many translations have “all men” at the end of II Corinthians 9:13. “Men” is not in the text, and the supplied “men” is misleading. “All” refers to all others of the same type. Since it is a gift to saints under discussion (II Corinthians 9:12), it is a gift to the Jewish brethren and all other brethren. This is further seen in II Corinthians 9:14, where those receiving the gift express their gratitude in prayer to God. The brethren would do that, but not the world in general. Therefore, the "all others" should be understood as "all other brethren."
