Albert Barnes Commentary 2 Corinthians 8:2

"how that in much proof of affliction the abundance of their joy and their deep poverty abounded unto the riches of their liberality." — 2 Corinthians 8:2 (ASV)

How that, in a great trial of affliction. This was when one might suppose they were unable to give; when many would suppose they needed the help of others; or when one might suppose their minds would be entirely preoccupied with their own concerns. The trial to which the apostle here refers was undoubtedly some persecution stirred up against them, probably by the Jews (Acts 16:20; Acts 17:5).

The abundance of their joy. Their joy arose from the hopes and promises of the gospel. Despite their persecutions, their joy abounded, and the result of their joy was seen in the generous contribution they made. Their joy could not be suppressed by their persecution, and they cheerfully contributed generously to help others.

And their deep poverty. Their extreme poverty nevertheless overflowed generously to meet the needs of others. It is implied here:

1. That they were very poor—a fact likely resulting from the consideration that the poor generally embraced the gospel first, and also because it is probable that they were harassed and stripped of their property during persecutions .
2. That despite this, they were able to make a generous contribution—a fact demonstrating that people can do much even when poor, if all are willing to do it, and that afflictions are conducive to such efforts.
3. That one cause of this was the joy they experienced even in their trials. If people possess the joys of the gospel and the consolations of religion themselves, they will somehow or other find ways to contribute to the welfare of others. They will be willing to work for this purpose, or they will find something they can sacrifice or spare. Even their deep poverty will overflow with the fruits of benevolence.

Abounded. They contributed generously. Their joy was demonstrated by a large donation, despite their poverty.

Unto the riches of their liberality (the marginal reading is 'simplicity'). The word (aplothv) used here properly means sincerity, candour, probity; then Christian simplicity, integrity; and then liberality. (See Romans 12:8 [Margin]; 2 Corinthians 9:11, 13.)

The phrase "riches of liberality" is a Hebraism, meaning rich or abundant liberality. The meaning is that their generosity was much greater than could be expected from people so poor, and the apostle's purpose is to motivate the Corinthians to give generously by their example.