2 Corinthians 13:10

This is why I write these things while absent, so that when I am present I will not need to be severe in my use of the authority that the Lord gave me for building you up, not for tearing you down.

Berean Standard Bible

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Study note

Setting — Paul writes to the Corinthian church from a distance, addressing them immediately before his planned visit. He states that his distant correspondence is intended to spare him the need for harsh discipline when he arrives.

The words — The text explicitly uses ἀπὼν (apōn) for "being absent" and παρὼν (parōn) for "being present" to frame his writing as a temporary bridge. ἵνα (ina) introduces the purpose clause "so that," showing his letters function instrumentally to shape his future conduct.

The thread — The text directly parallels 2 Corinthians 10:8, which defines the same Lord-given authority as strictly for building up rather than tearing down. It also aligns with 2 Corinthians 2:3, where Paul's prior writing aimed to prevent personal grief upon his physical arrival.

Why it lands — The text states that church authority must operate exclusively for constructive edification, not for destructive control. It requires readers to evaluate their submission to leadership based on whether that leadership strengthens their faith or merely breaks them down.

Drafted by a language model from the text, its original words and its cross-references, then checked against them. It can still be wrong: open the verse in the app to report it.

The Greek words

King James Version

Therefore I write these things being absent, lest being present I should use sharpness, according to the power which the Lord hath given me to edification, and not to destruction.

Cross-references

2 Corinthians 10:8 For even if I boast somewhat excessively about the authority the Lord gave us for building you up rather than tearing you down, I will not be ashamed.
2 Corinthians 2:3 I wrote as I did so that on my arrival I would not be grieved by those who ought to make me rejoice. I had confidence in all of you, that you would share my joy.
Titus 1:13 This testimony is true. Therefore rebuke them sternly, so that they will be sound in the faith
1 Corinthians 4:21 Which do you prefer? Shall I come to you with a rod, or in love and with a gentle spirit?
2 Corinthians 10:2 I beg you that when I come I may not need to be as bold as I expect toward those who presume that we live according to the flesh.
2 Corinthians 13:8 For we cannot do anything against the truth, but only for the truth.
2 Corinthians 12:20 For I am afraid that when I come, I may not find you as I wish, and you may not find me as you wish. I fear that there may be quarreling, jealousy, rage, rivalry, slander, gossip, arrogance, and disorder.
2 Corinthians 13:2 I already warned you the second time I was with you. So now in my absence I warn those who sinned earlier and everyone else: If I return, I will not spare anyone,