¹⁰ This is why I write these things when I am absent, that when I come I may not have to be harsh^(A) in my use of authority—the authority the Lord gave me for building you up, not for tearing you down.^(B)

⁸ So even if I boast somewhat freely about the authority the Lord gave us^(A) for building you up rather than tearing you down,^(B) I will not be ashamed of it.

³ I wrote as I did,^(A) so that when I came I would not be distressed^(B) by those who should have made me rejoice. I had confidence^(C) in all of you, that you would all share my joy.

¹³ This saying is true. Therefore rebuke^(A) them sharply, so that they will be sound in the faith^(B)

⁸ For we cannot do anything against the truth, but only for the truth.

² I already gave you a warning when I was with you the second time. I now repeat it while absent:^(A) On my return I will not spare^(B) those who sinned earlier^(C) or any of the others,

²⁰ For I am afraid that when I come^(A) I may not find you as I want you to be, and you may not find me as you want me to be.^(B) I fear that there may be discord,^(C) jealousy, fits of rage, selfish ambition,^(D) slander,^(E) gossip,^(F) arrogance^(G) and disorder.^{(H) 21} I am afraid that when I come again my God will humble me before you, and I will be grieved^(I) over many who have sinned earlier^(J) and have not repented of the impurity, sexual sin and debauchery^(K) in which they have indulged.

² I beg you that when I come I may not have to be as bold^(A) as I expect to be toward some people who think that we live by the standards of this world.^(B)

²¹ What do you prefer? Shall I come to you with a rod of discipline,^(A) or shall I come in love and with a gentle spirit?