2 Corinthians 10:7-11

Expanded Bible

⁷ You ·must look at the facts before you [or are looking only at outward appearances]. If you ·feel sure [are confident] that you belong to Christ, you must ·remember [consider again] that we belong to Christ just as you do. ⁸ ·It is true that we brag freely [^LIf I boast too much…] about the authority the Lord gave us. But this authority is to build you up, not to tear you down. So I will not be ashamed. ⁹ I do not want you to think I am trying to scare you with my letters. ¹⁰ Some people say [v. 1], “Paul’s letters are ·powerful [forceful] and ·sound important [weighty; or demanding], but ·when he is with us, he [his physical presence] is weak. And his ·speaking is nothing [speaking skills are deplorable; or speeches are worthless; ^CGreek culture highly valued rhetorical skill].” ¹¹ They should ·know [consider] this: ·The authority we show by letter [^LWhat we are in word] while we are ·away [absent], we will ·demonstrate in our actions [^Lbe in deed] when we ·come to you [^Lare present].