The Greek verb translated will be enriched is passive. Some languages must make explicit the subject of the verb. Continuing the thought of verse 10, God is the one who makes a person “rich enough to be generous.” One language has avoided the passive by translating the first part of this verse as follows: “He [God] will give you abundance in all things so that you will be able to share freely with other people.”

In every way for great generosity: literally “in all unto every generosity.” “In all” seems to mean “in every aspect of life.” The Greek adjective “each [or, every]” may mean “every single form of generosity” or, as in Revised Standard Version, “generosity to the highest degree.” Good News Translation takes “all generosity” to imply that the readers will be able to be generous “at all times.” Similarly Martin: “so that you can always be generous.” The English translations of Revised Standard Version and Good News Bible are not really as different in meaning as they first appear to be. Note that the word translated generosity is also found in 1.12; 8.2; 9.13; 11.3.

Which through us will produce thanksgiving to God: the meaning in the context is that the Jerusalem Christians will thank God for the gifts that are the result of the ministry of Paul and his fellow workers. Though Good News Translation says “which they receive from us,” translators should avoid suggesting that the gifts are already being received. Contemporary English Version shows that the gift has not yet been delivered: “Then many people will thank God when we deliver your gift.” The second half of this verse shows the result of the Corinthians becoming rich and sharing their wealth with others: “this will make others thankful to God for what we have done” (Translator’s New Testament).

Quoted with permission from Omanson, Roger L. and Ellingworth, Paul. A Handbook on Paul’s Second Letter to the Corinthians. (UBS Handbook Series). New York: UBS, 1993. For this and other handbooks for translators see here .