Matthew Henry Commentary 2 Corinthians 8:16-24

"But thanks be to God, who putteth the same earnest care for you into the heart of Titus. For he accepted indeed our exhortation; but being himself very earnest, he went forth unto you of his own accord. And we have sent together with him the brother whose praise in the gospel [is spread] through all the churches; and not only so, but who was also appointed by the churches to travel with us in [the matter of] this grace, which is ministered by us to the glory of the Lord, and [to show] our readiness: Avoiding this, that any man should blame us in [the matter of] this bounty which is ministered by us: for we take thought for things honorable, not only in the sight of the Lord, but also in the sight of men. and we have sent with them our brother, whom we have many times proved earnest in many things, but now much more earnest, by reason of the great confidence which [he hath] in you. Whether [any inquire] about Titus, [he is] my partner and [my] fellow-worker to you-ward, or our brethren, [they are] the messengers of the churches, [they are] the glory of Christ. 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 8:16-24 (ASV)

The apostle commends the brothers sent to collect their charitable offering, so that it might be known who they were and how safely they could be trusted.

It is the duty of all Christians to act prudently and, as far as we can, to prevent all unjust suspicions. It is necessary, first, to act uprightly in the sight of God, but things honest in the sight of men should also be addressed. A clear character, as well as a pure conscience, is required for usefulness.

These individuals brought glory to Christ as instruments and had obtained honor from Christ to be considered faithful and employed in His service. The good opinion others have of us should be a motivation for us to do well.