1. “First A Willing Mind…” Regardless of the particular, attitude and mental posture is of the utmost importance and largely determine the success of a given matter. “For as he thinketh in his heart, so is he” (Prov. 23: 7).

2. “First A Willing Mind…” “11: Now therefore perform the doing of it; that as there was a readiness to will, so there may be a performance also out of that which ye have. 12: For if there be first a willing mind, it is accepted according to that a man hath, and not according to that he hath not” (2 Cor. 8).

3. “First A Willing Mind…” The Macedonia Christians were poor (v. 2). Yet, they were liberal in their giving (Ibid.). They had a certain willingness (v. 3). Their attitude was exemplary (v. 4). They “…gave themselves to the Lord” (v. 5). They were used to teach the Corinthians (v. 7). The ultimate example (v. 9). The “willing mind” (v. 12).

4. “First A Willing Mind…” “Verse 12. For if there be first a willing mind. If there is a readiness…, a disposition to give; if the heart is in it, then the offering will be acceptable to God, whether you be able to give much or little. A willing mind is the first consideration…. This had relation, as used by Paul, to the duty of almsgiving; but the principle is as applicable to everything in the way of duty. A willing mind is the first and main thing. It is that which God chiefly desires, and that without which everything else will be offensive, hypocritical, and vain.” (Albert Barnes, cp. 2 Cor. 9: 7.)

5. “First A Willing Mind…” Notice again this section of the quotation from Barnes: “… the principle is as applicable to everything in the way of duty. ….”

6. “First A Willing Mind…” While the specific teaching relative to “giving” pertains to needy saints, certainly such teaching generally serves I Cor. 16: 1, 2, 2 Cor. 8, 9, cp. I Cor. 9: 14). Giving

7. “First A Willing Mind…” Ephesians 4: 3 applies to all Christians and implies a love of the truth and the ability to correctly apply it. Unity

8. “First A Willing Mind…” Ephesians 5: 22 through 6: 4 pertains to family order, structure, and several duties. The ideal family involves each family member, doing their part. Family

9. “First A Willing Mind…” Ephesians 4: 29 forbids “corrupt communication” but also enjoins speech that is edifying and that “ministers grace unto the hearers.” Edifying speech

10. “First A Willing Mind…” The early Christians were busy attempting to teach and instruct others (Acts 8: 4). They held forth “the word of life” (Phili. 2: 16). Teaching others

11. “First A Willing Mind…” God has provided the local church arrangement for Christians to corporately function (I Tim. 3: 15). Within the local church, there is much work. Work of local church

12. “First A Willing Mind…” “First a willing mind” is elemental and essential. Providing there is the right attitude and correct teaching, the action will be forthcoming, attended by all the various nuances.