Prior, however, to the use of gifts in an effort to “honor the Lord” and demonstrate an “eagerness to help” (8:19), there remained the problem of the actual collection at Corinth. Apparently, as Paul was pondering precisely how to handle this task, Titus took the “initiative” (8:16–17). Paul, in turn, seeks in this section to commend Titus to the church. But Titus is not to be commended and sent on alone (8:16–24). So that no one may suspect Paul’s motives, and in order to avoid “criticism,” Titus is to be accompanied by an unnamed brother whose reputation is beyond reproach, and who has been “chosen” by the common consent of the churches (presumably all the churches associated with the collection) to “carry the offering” (8:18–21).

Moreover, Paul is sending a third brother (who is either a…