1 Corinthians 4:16-21

New International Version

¹⁶ Therefore I urge you to imitate me.^{(A) 17} For this reason I have sent to you^(B) Timothy,^(C) my son^(D) whom I love, who is faithful in the Lord. He will remind you of my way of life in Christ Jesus, which agrees with what I teach everywhere in every church.^(E)

¹⁸ Some of you have become arrogant,^(F) as if I were not coming to you.^{(G) 19} But I will come to you very soon,^(H) if the Lord is willing,^(I) and then I will find out not only how these arrogant people are talking, but what power they have. ²⁰ For the kingdom of God is not a matter of^(J) talk but of power.^{(K) 21} What do you prefer? Shall I come to you with a rod of discipline,^(L) or shall I come in love and with a gentle spirit?