Charles Ellicott Commentary 2 Corinthians 8:24

"Show ye therefore unto them in the face of the churches the proof of your love, and of our glorying on your behalf." — 2 Corinthians 8:24 (ASV)

Therefore show them.—In adding “before the churches” (literally, in the face of the churches), St. Paul appeals, as he has done throughout the chapter, to that natural love of praise. This love of praise is a legitimate—though it may be, and ought to be, a subordinate—motive for Christian benevolence. They were not to consider only what he, Titus, and the two brothers would think of them. The eyes of the churches were upon them. Probably Philippi, Thessalonica, and Beroea are referred to.

The proof of your love, and of our boasting.—The “love” to which he appeals is probably their personal regard for him. What the “boast” was, he states more fully in 2 Corinthians 9:2. With a subtle knowledge of human nature, he attacks them, as it were, on every side. They have to compete with Macedonia; they have to show their love for their teacher; they have to sustain their own reputation.