2 Corinthians 10: All thought of Obedience

                Paul addresses the Corinthians who believe that “…his letters…are weighty and powerful; but his speech contemptible [lacking authority or unimpressive]” (2 Corinthians 10:10) Essentially the Corinthians were telling Paul that while his letters to them were mean, his personal interactions with them were weak and unimpressive in person.

Paul asks; “Do ye look on things after the outward appearance? …For though I should boast somewhat more of our authority, which the Lord hath given to us for edification, and not for your destruction, I should not be ashamed; That I may not seem as if I would terrify you by letters.” (2 Corinthians 10:7-9) Paul, speaking as an Apostle explains that his reason for a harsh letter was never to terrify them, but rather to edify and build them. He could also be powerful in his speech in person, but it is not his desire to be harsh.