Expositor's Bible Commentary Commentary 2 Corinthians 8:15

"as it is written, He that [gathered] much had nothing over; and he that [gathered] little had no lack." — 2 Corinthians 8:15 (ASV)

Paul now illustrates this principle of equality of supply from the account of God’s provision of manna to the Israelites in the wilderness (Exodus 16:13–36; esp. v.18). Although some gathered more than others and some less, the needs of all were met. Miraculously there was equal provision, with neither surplus nor deficiency. But Paul’s illustration also points to a contrast. The equality the Israelites miraculously experienced in the wilderness was enforced; the equality Christians are themselves to create in the church and the world is voluntary.