9:4 Lest haply if they of Macedonia come with me, and find you unprepared, we (that we say not, ye) should be ashamed in this same {a} confident boasting.
(a) The word which he uses signifies a mind so steady and established that it cannot be moved by any terror or fear.
9:4 Lest haply if they of Macedonia come with me. Luke named certain brethren of Macedonia who did attend him (Ac 20:4).
And find you unprepared, we... should be ashamed. If these should find Corinth unprepared with the collection when Paul came, after what he had said, it would fill him with shame.
9:1-5 When we would have others do good, we must act toward them prudently and tenderly, and give them time. Christians should consider what is for the credit of their profession, and endeavour to adorn the doctrine of God their Saviour in all things. The duty of ministering to the saints is so plain, that there would seem no need to exhort Christians to it; yet self-love contends so powerfully against the love of Christ, that it is often necessary to stir up their minds by way of remembrance.
