⁹ I do not want to seem as though I am trying to frighten you with my letters.

¹⁰ For someone says,^[a] “His letters are weighty and strong, but his bodily presence is weak and his speech contemptible.”^(A)

¹⁹ But I will come to you soon, if the Lord wills, and I will find out not the talk of these arrogant people but their power.^{(A) 20} For the kingdom of God depends not on talk but on power. ²¹ What would you prefer? Am I to come to you with a stick or with love in a spirit of gentleness?^(B)

⁵ Therefore do not pronounce judgment before the time, before the Lord comes, who will bring to light the things now hidden in darkness and will disclose the purposes of the heart. Then each one will receive commendation from God.^(A)