2 corinthians 13:10 - For this cause I write these things while absent, that I may not deal sharply when present, according to the authority which the Lord gave me for building up, and not for tearing down.
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What does "2 corinthians 13:10" mean?
This verse, 2 Corinthians 13:10, is Paul explaining his motivation for writing a somewhat stern letter (or letters) to the Corinthian church. Let's break down what it means:
"For this cause I write these things while absent...": Paul is writing while he is not physically present with the Corinthian church. He's communicating via letters instead of being there in person. "These things" likely refers to the content of his letters, which includes rebukes, corrections, and warnings.
"...that I may not deal sharply when present...": The purpose of writing beforehand is to potentially avoid having to be overly harsh or severe when he finally arrives in Corinth. He wants to address the issues through writing so that when he's there, the situation might be improved, and he won't have to use his authority in a painful or disciplinary way. "Dealing sharply" suggests a firm and potentially unpleasant confrontation or correction.
"...according to the authority which the Lord gave me...": Paul is reminding them that he has been given authority by God as an apostle. He's not acting on his own whims or personal feelings. This authority is divinely ordained and should be respected.
"...for building up, and not for tearing down.": This is the core principle guiding Paul's exercise of authority. His primary goal is to strengthen, edify, and build up the church ("building up"). He doesn't want to destroy or harm the church ("tearing down"). Even when using his authority to correct and rebuke, his ultimate aim is restoration and growth. He sees correction as a necessary part of building a healthy church.
In essence, Paul is saying:
"I'm writing these strong words to you now, so that when I finally visit you, I won't have to be severe and use my apostolic authority in a harsh manner. God has given me this authority to build you up, not to tear you down. I'm hoping that by addressing these issues in writing, you'll respond appropriately, and I can come with a spirit of encouragement and further growth, rather than having to discipline you."
Key takeaways:
Preventive correction: Paul prefers to address problems proactively to avoid more severe measures later.
Authority with purpose: Paul acknowledges his authority but emphasizes its purpose is to build up, not tear down. Even correction should be done with a constructive aim.
Pastoral concern: The verse reveals Paul's genuine concern for the well-being of the Corinthian church. He wants to see them grow in faith and unity.
Tough love: It shows a balanced approach where Paul is willing to be firm and address problems directly, but always with the goal of restoration and growth in mind.
The verse offers insight into the nature of church leadership and the responsible exercise of authority within a Christian community. It highlights the importance of proactive communication, constructive correction, and a commitment to building up believers in their faith.
2 corinthians 13:10 - For this cause I write these things while absent, that I may not deal sharply when present, according to the authority which the Lord gave me for building up, and not for tearing down.
What does "2 corinthians 13:10" mean?
This verse, 2 Corinthians 13:10, is Paul explaining his motivation for writing a somewhat stern letter (or letters) to the Corinthian church. Let's break down what it means:
"For this cause I write these things while absent...": Paul is writing while he is not physically present with the Corinthian church. He's communicating via letters instead of being there in person. "These things" likely refers to the content of his letters, which includes rebukes, corrections, and warnings.
"...that I may not deal sharply when present...": The purpose of writing beforehand is to potentially avoid having to be overly harsh or severe when he finally arrives in Corinth. He wants to address the issues through writing so that when he's there, the situation might be improved, and he won't have to use his authority in a painful or disciplinary way. "Dealing sharply" suggests a firm and potentially unpleasant confrontation or correction.
"...according to the authority which the Lord gave me...": Paul is reminding them that he has been given authority by God as an apostle. He's not acting on his own whims or personal feelings. This authority is divinely ordained and should be respected.
"...for building up, and not for tearing down.": This is the core principle guiding Paul's exercise of authority. His primary goal is to strengthen, edify, and build up the church ("building up"). He doesn't want to destroy or harm the church ("tearing down"). Even when using his authority to correct and rebuke, his ultimate aim is restoration and growth. He sees correction as a necessary part of building a healthy church.
In essence, Paul is saying:
"I'm writing these strong words to you now, so that when I finally visit you, I won't have to be severe and use my apostolic authority in a harsh manner. God has given me this authority to build you up, not to tear you down. I'm hoping that by addressing these issues in writing, you'll respond appropriately, and I can come with a spirit of encouragement and further growth, rather than having to discipline you."
Key takeaways:
Preventive correction: Paul prefers to address problems proactively to avoid more severe measures later.
Authority with purpose: Paul acknowledges his authority but emphasizes its purpose is to build up, not tear down. Even correction should be done with a constructive aim.
Pastoral concern: The verse reveals Paul's genuine concern for the well-being of the Corinthian church. He wants to see them grow in faith and unity.
Tough love: It shows a balanced approach where Paul is willing to be firm and address problems directly, but always with the goal of restoration and growth in mind.
The verse offers insight into the nature of church leadership and the responsible exercise of authority within a Christian community. It highlights the importance of proactive communication, constructive correction, and a commitment to building up believers in their faith.