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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.
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For I want to use the authority the Lord has given me to strengthen you, not to tear you down.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/esv/2_corinthians/13.htm">English Standard Version</a></span><br />For this reason I write these things while I am away from you, that when I come I may not have to be severe in my use of the authority that the Lord has given me for building up and not for tearing down.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/bsb/2_corinthians/13.htm">Berean Standard Bible</a></span><br />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.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/blb/2_corinthians/13.htm">Berean Literal Bible</a></span><br />Therefore I write these things being absent, so that being present I should not treat <i>you</i> with severity according to the authority that the Lord has given me for building up and not for tearing down.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/kjv/2_corinthians/13.htm">King James Bible</a></span><br />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.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/nkjv/2_corinthians/13.htm">New King James Version</a></span><br />Therefore I write these things being absent, lest being present I should use sharpness, according to the authority which the Lord has given me for edification and not for destruction.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/nasb_/2_corinthians/13.htm">New American Standard Bible</a></span><br />For this reason I am writing these things while absent, so that when present I <i>need</i> not use severity, in accordance with the authority which the Lord gave me for building up and not for tearing down.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/nasb/2_corinthians/13.htm">NASB 1995</a></span><br />For this reason I am writing these things while absent, so that when present I need not use severity, in accordance with the authority which the Lord gave me for building up and not for tearing down.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/nasb77/2_corinthians/13.htm">NASB 1977 </a></span><br />For this reason I am writing these things while absent, in order that when present I may not use severity, in accordance with the authority which the Lord gave me, for building up and not for tearing down.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/lsb/2_corinthians/13.htm">Legacy Standard Bible </a></span><br />For this reason I am writing these things while absent, so that when present I <i>need</i> not use severity, in accordance with the authority which the Lord gave me for building up and not for tearing down.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/amp/2_corinthians/13.htm">Amplified Bible</a></span><br />For this reason I am writing these things while absent from you, so that when I come, I will not need to deal severely [with you], in my use of the authority which the Lord has given me [to be used] for building you up and not for tearing you down.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/csb/2_corinthians/13.htm">Christian Standard Bible</a></span><br />This is why I am writing these things while absent, so that when I am there I may not have to deal harshly with you, in keeping with the authority the Lord gave me for building up and not for tearing down.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/hcsb/2_corinthians/13.htm">Holman Christian Standard Bible</a></span><br />This is why I am writing these things while absent, that when I am there I will not use severity, in keeping with the authority the Lord gave me for building up and not for tearing down. <span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/asv/2_corinthians/13.htm">American Standard Version</a></span><br />For this cause I write these things while absent, that I may not when present deal sharply, according to the authority which the Lord gave me for building up, and not for casting down.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/cev/2_corinthians/13.htm">Contemporary English Version</a></span><br />I am writing these things to you before I arrive. This way I won't have to be hard on you when I use the authority the Lord has given me. I was given this authority, so I could help you and not destroy you. <span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/erv/2_corinthians/13.htm">English Revised Version</a></span><br />For this cause I write these things while absent, that I may not when present deal sharply, according to the authority which the Lord gave me for building up, and not for casting down.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/gwt/2_corinthians/13.htm">GOD'S WORD® Translation</a></span><br />That's why I'm writing this letter while I'm not with you. When I am with you I don't want to be harsh by using the authority that the Lord gave me. The Lord gave us this authority to help you, not to hurt you.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/gnt/2_corinthians/13.htm">Good News Translation</a></span><br />That is why I write this while I am away from you; it is so that when I arrive I will not have to deal harshly with you in using the authority that the Lord has given me--authority to build you up, not to tear you down. <span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/isv/2_corinthians/13.htm">International Standard Version</a></span><br />For this reason I am writing this while I am away from you: When I come I do not want to be severe in using the authority the Lord gave me to build you up and not to tear you down.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/msb/2_corinthians/13.htm">Majority Standard Bible</a></span><br />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.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/net/2_corinthians/13.htm">NET Bible</a></span><br />Because of this I am writing these things while absent, so that when I arrive I may not have to deal harshly with you by using my authority--the Lord gave it to me for building up, not for tearing down! <span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/nheb/2_corinthians/13.htm">New Heart English Bible</a></span><br />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.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/wbt/2_corinthians/13.htm">Webster's Bible Translation</a></span><br />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.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/wey/2_corinthians/13.htm">Weymouth New Testament</a></span><br />For this reason I write thus while absent, that when present I may not have to act severely in the exercise of the authority which the Lord has given me for building up, and not for pulling down.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/web/2_corinthians/13.htm">World English Bible</a></span><br />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. <div class="vheading2"><b>Literal Translations</b></div><span class="versiontext"><a href="/lsv/2_corinthians/13.htm">Literal Standard Version</a></span><br />Because of this, these things—being absent—I write, that being present, I may not treat [any] sharply, according to the authority that the LORD gave me for building up, and not for casting down.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/blb/2_corinthians/13.htm">Berean Literal Bible</a></span><br />Therefore I write these things being absent, so that being present I should not treat <i>you</i> with severity according to the authority that the Lord has given me for building up and not for tearing down.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/ylt/2_corinthians/13.htm">Young's Literal Translation</a></span><br /> because of this, these things -- being absent -- I write, that being present, I may not treat any sharply, according to the authority that the Lord did give me for building up, and not for casting down.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/slt/2_corinthians/13.htm">Smith's Literal Translation</a></span><br />For this I write these things being absent, that being present I should not wound severely, according to the power which the Lord gave me for building up, and not for pulling down.<div class="vheading2"><b>Catholic Translations</b></div><span class="versiontext"><a href="/drb/2_corinthians/13.htm">Douay-Rheims Bible</a></span><br />Therefore I write these things, being absent, that, being present, I may not deal more severely, according to the power which the Lord hath given me unto edification, and not unto destruction. <span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/cpdv/2_corinthians/13.htm">Catholic Public Domain Version</a></span><br />Therefore, I write these things while absent, so that, when present, I may not have to act more harshly, according to the authority which the Lord has given to me, for edification and not for destruction.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/nabre/2_corinthians/13.htm">New American Bible</a></span><br />I am writing this while I am away, so that when I come I may not have to be severe in virtue of the authority that the Lord has given me to build up and not to tear down. <span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/nrsvce/2_corinthians/13.htm">New Revised Standard Version</a></span><br />So I write these things while I am away from you, so that when I come, I may not have to be severe in using the authority that the Lord has given me for building up and not for tearing down.<div class="vheading2"><b>Translations from Aramaic</b></div><span class="versiontext"><a href="/lamsa/2_corinthians/13.htm">Lamsa Bible</a></span><br />Therefore I write these things while I am far away, so that when I come, I need not deal harshly with you, according to the authority which my LORD has given me, which is for your edification and not for your destruction.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/aramaic-plain-english/2_corinthians/13.htm">Aramaic Bible in Plain English</a></span><br />Therefore, as I am absent I write these things, lest when I come, I deal severely according to the authority that my Lord gives to me for your building up, and not for your destruction.<div class="vheading2"><b>NT Translations</b></div><span class="versiontext"><a href="/anderson/2_corinthians/13.htm">Anderson New Testament</a></span><br />For this reason, I write these things, while absent, that I may not, when present, use severity, according to the authority which the Lord has given me for edification, and not for destruction.<CM><span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/godbey/2_corinthians/13.htm">Godbey New Testament</a></span><br />Therefore being absent I write these things, in order that being present, I may not use severity, according to the power which the Lord has given me for edification, and not for destruction.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/haweis/2_corinthians/13.htm">Haweis New Testament</a></span><br />For this cause, though absent, I have written these things, that when I am present I may not use severity, according to the power which the Lord hath given me for edification, and not for destruction.<CM><span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/mace/2_corinthians/13.htm">Mace New Testament</a></span><br />these things therefore I write to you being absent, that when I come I may not use severity, according to the power which the Lord hath given me for edification, and not for destruction.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/wey/2_corinthians/13.htm">Weymouth New Testament</a></span><br />For this reason I write thus while absent, that when present I may not have to act severely in the exercise of the authority which the Lord has given me for building up, and not for pulling down.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/worrell/2_corinthians/13.htm">Worrell New Testament</a></span><br />For this cause, I write these things while absent; that I may not, when present, deal sharply according to the authority which the Lord gave me for building up, and not casting down.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/worsley/2_corinthians/13.htm">Worsley New Testament</a></span><br />Therefore I write these <i>things</i> while absent, that when present I may not use severity, according to the power which the Lord hath given me for edification, and not for destruction.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/parallel/2_corinthians/13-10.htm">Additional Translations ...</a></span></div></div></div><div id="centbox"><div class="padcent"><a name="audio" id="audio"></a><div class="vheadingv"><b>Audio Bible</b></div><iframe width="100%" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/ddheG4hMg28?start=2527" title="YouTube video player" frameborder="0" allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture; web-share" allowfullscreen></iframe><span class="p"><br /><br /><br /></span><div class="vheadingv"><b>Context</b></div><span class="hdg"><a href="/bsb/2_corinthians/13.htm">Examine Yourselves</a></span><br>…<span class="reftext">9</span>In fact, we rejoice when we are weak but you are strong, and our prayer is for your perfection. <span class="reftext">10</span><span class="highl"><a href="/greek/3778.htm" title="3778: touto (DPro-ANS) -- This; he, she, it. ">This is why</a> <a href="/greek/1223.htm" title="1223: Dia (Prep) -- A primary preposition denoting the channel of an act; through."></a> <a href="/greek/1125.htm" title="1125: graphō (V-PIA-1S) -- A primary verb; to grave, especially to write; figuratively, to describe.">I write</a> <a href="/greek/3778.htm" title="3778: tauta (DPro-ANP) -- This; he, she, it. ">these things</a> <a href="/greek/548.htm" title="548: apōn (V-PPA-NMS) -- To be absent. From apo and eimi; to be away.">while absent,</a> <a href="/greek/2443.htm" title="2443: hina (Conj) -- In order that, so that. Probably from the same as the former part of heautou; in order that.">so that</a> <a href="/greek/3918.htm" title="3918: parōn (V-PPA-NMS) -- From para and eimi; to be near, i.e. At hand; neuter present participle time being, or property.">when I am present</a> <a href="/greek/3361.htm" title="3361: mē (Adv) -- Not, lest. A primary particle of qualified negation; not, lest; also (whereas ou expects an affirmative one) whether."></a> <a href="/greek/5530.htm" title="5530: chrēsōmai (V-ASM-1S) -- To use, make use of, deal with, take advantage of. ">I will not need to be</a> <a href="/greek/664.htm" title="664: apotomōs (Adv) -- Sharply, severely. Adverb from a derivative of a comparative of apo and temno; abruptly, i.e. Peremptorily.">severe</a> <a href="/greek/2596.htm" title="2596: kata (Prep) -- A primary particle; down, in varied relations (genitive, dative or accusative) with which it is joined).">in my use of</a> <a href="/greek/3588.htm" title="3588: tēn (Art-AFS) -- The, the definite article. Including the feminine he, and the neuter to in all their inflections; the definite article; the.">the</a> <a href="/greek/1849.htm" title="1849: exousian (N-AFS) -- From exesti; privilege, i.e. force, capacity, competency, freedom, or mastery, delegated influence.">authority</a> <a href="/greek/3739.htm" title="3739: hēn (RelPro-AFS) -- Who, which, what, that. ">that</a> <a href="/greek/3588.htm" title="3588: ho (Art-NMS) -- The, the definite article. Including the feminine he, and the neuter to in all their inflections; the definite article; the.">the</a> <a href="/greek/2962.htm" title="2962: Kyrios (N-NMS) -- Lord, master, sir; the Lord. From kuros; supreme in authority, i.e. controller; by implication, Master.">Lord</a> <a href="/greek/1325.htm" title="1325: edōken (V-AIA-3S) -- To offer, give; I put, place. A prolonged form of a primary verb; to give.">gave</a> <a href="/greek/1473.htm" title="1473: moi (PPro-D1S) -- I, the first-person pronoun. A primary pronoun of the first person I.">me</a> <a href="/greek/1519.htm" title="1519: eis (Prep) -- A primary preposition; to or into, of place, time, or purpose; also in adverbial phrases.">for</a> <a href="/greek/3619.htm" title="3619: oikodomēn (N-AFS) -- Feminine of a compound of oikos and the base of doma; architecture, i.e. a structure; figuratively, confirmation.">building you up,</a> <a href="/greek/2532.htm" title="2532: kai (Conj) -- And, even, also, namely. "></a> <a href="/greek/3756.htm" title="3756: ouk (Adv) -- No, not. Also ouk, and ouch a primary word; the absolute negative adverb; no or not.">not</a> <a href="/greek/1519.htm" title="1519: eis (Prep) -- A primary preposition; to or into, of place, time, or purpose; also in adverbial phrases.">for</a> <a href="/greek/2506.htm" title="2506: kathairesin (N-AFS) -- Taking down, razing, destroying. From kathaireo; demolition; figuratively, extinction.">tearing you down.</a> </span> <span class="reftext">11</span>Finally, brothers, rejoice! Aim for perfect harmony, encourage one another, be of one mind, live in peace. And the God of love and peace will be with you.…<div class="cred"><a href="//berean.bible">Berean Standard Bible</a> · <a href="//berean.bible/downloads.htm">Download</a></div><span class="p"><br /><br /></span><a name="crossref" id="crossref"></a><div class="vheading">Cross References</div><div id="crf"><span class="crossverse"><a href="/1_corinthians/4-21.htm">1 Corinthians 4:21</a></span><br />Which do you prefer? Shall I come to you with a rod, or in love and with a gentle spirit?<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="crossverse"><a href="/2_corinthians/10-8.htm">2 Corinthians 10:8</a></span><br />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.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="crossverse"><a href="/1_thessalonians/5-14.htm">1 Thessalonians 5:14</a></span><br />And we urge you, brothers, to admonish the unruly, encourage the fainthearted, help the weak, and be patient with everyone.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="crossverse"><a href="/titus/1-13.htm">Titus 1:13</a></span><br />This testimony is true. Therefore rebuke them sternly, so that they will be sound in the faith<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="crossverse"><a href="/2_timothy/4-2.htm">2 Timothy 4:2</a></span><br />Preach the word; be prepared in season and out of season; reprove, rebuke, and encourage with every form of patient instruction.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="crossverse"><a href="/1_corinthians/5-3.htm">1 Corinthians 5:3-5</a></span><br />Although I am absent from you in body, I am present with you in spirit, and I have already pronounced judgment on the one who did this, just as if I were present. / When you are assembled in the name of our Lord Jesus and I am with you in spirit, along with the power of the Lord Jesus, / hand this man over to Satan for the destruction of the flesh, so that his spirit may be saved on the Day of the Lord.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="crossverse"><a href="/1_corinthians/14-12.htm">1 Corinthians 14:12</a></span><br />It is the same with you. Since you are eager to have spiritual gifts, strive to excel in gifts that build up the church.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="crossverse"><a href="/2_corinthians/1-23.htm">2 Corinthians 1:23</a></span><br />I call God as my witness that it was in order to spare you that I did not return to Corinth.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="crossverse"><a href="/2_corinthians/2-9.htm">2 Corinthians 2:9</a></span><br />My purpose in writing you was to see if you would stand the test and be obedient in everything.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="crossverse"><a href="/2_corinthians/7-8.htm">2 Corinthians 7:8-9</a></span><br />Even if I caused you sorrow by my letter, I do not regret it. Although I did regret it—for I see that my letter caused you sorrow, but only for a short time— / yet now I rejoice, not because you were made sorrowful, but because your sorrow led you to repentance. For you felt the sorrow that God had intended, and so were not harmed in any way by us.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="crossverse"><a href="/2_corinthians/12-19.htm">2 Corinthians 12:19</a></span><br />Have you been thinking all along that we were making a defense to you? We speak before God in Christ, and all of this, beloved, is to build you up.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="crossverse"><a href="/romans/15-2.htm">Romans 15:2</a></span><br />Each of us should please his neighbor for his good, to build him up.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="crossverse"><a href="/ephesians/4-12.htm">Ephesians 4:12</a></span><br />to equip the saints for works of ministry and to build up the body of Christ,<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="crossverse"><a href="/hebrews/12-5.htm">Hebrews 12:5-6</a></span><br />And you have forgotten the exhortation that addresses you as sons: “My son, do not take lightly the discipline of the Lord, and do not lose heart when He rebukes you. / For the Lord disciplines the one He loves, and He chastises every son He receives.”<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="crossverse"><a href="/revelation/3-19.htm">Revelation 3:19</a></span><br />Those I love I rebuke and discipline. Therefore be earnest and repent.</div><span class="p"><br /><br /></span><a name="tsk" id="tsk"><div class="vheading">Treasury of Scripture</div><p class="tsk2">Therefore I write these things being absent, lest being present I should use sharpness, according to the power which the Lord has given me to edification, and not to destruction.</p><p class="hdg">I write.</p><p class="tskverse"><b><a href="/2_corinthians/2-3.htm">2 Corinthians 2:3</a></b></br> And I wrote this same unto you, lest, when I came, I should have sorrow from them of whom I ought to rejoice; having confidence in you all, that my joy is <i>the joy</i> of you all.</p><p class="tskverse"><b><a href="/2_corinthians/10-2.htm">2 Corinthians 10:2</a></b></br> But I beseech <i>you</i>, that I may not be bold when I am present with that confidence, wherewith I think to be bold against some, which think of us as if we walked according to the flesh.</p><p class="tskverse"><b><a href="/2_corinthians/12-20.htm">2 Corinthians 12:20,21</a></b></br> For I fear, lest, when I come, I shall not find you such as I would, and <i>that</i> I shall be found unto you such as ye would not: lest <i>there be</i> debates, envyings, wraths, strifes, backbitings, whisperings, swellings, tumults: … </p><p class="hdg">lest.</p><p class="tskverse"><b><a href="/2_corinthians/13-2.htm">2 Corinthians 13:2,8</a></b></br> I told you before, and foretell you, as if I were present, the second time; and being absent now I write to them which heretofore have sinned, and to all other, that, if I come again, I will not spare: … </p><p class="tskverse"><b><a href="/titus/1-13.htm">Titus 1:13</a></b></br> This witness is true. Wherefore rebuke them sharply, that they may be sound in the faith;</p><p class="hdg">according.</p><p class="tskverse"><b><a href="/2_corinthians/10-8.htm">2 Corinthians 10:8</a></b></br> For though I should boast somewhat more of our authority, which the Lord hath given us for edification, and not for your destruction, I should not be ashamed:</p><div class="vheading">Jump to Previous</div><a href="/2_corinthians/13-2.htm">Absent</a> <a href="/2_corinthians/12-18.htm">Act</a> <a href="/2_corinthians/11-17.htm">Authority</a> <a href="/2_corinthians/12-19.htm">Building</a> <a href="/2_corinthians/11-12.htm">Cause</a> <a href="/2_corinthians/13-4.htm">Deal</a> <a href="/2_corinthians/11-25.htm">Destruction</a> <a href="/2_corinthians/12-19.htm">Edification</a> <a href="/luke/19-21.htm">Harsh</a> <a href="/acts/24-2.htm">Measures</a> <a href="/2_corinthians/11-9.htm">Need</a> <a href="/2_corinthians/13-7.htm">Order</a> <a href="/2_corinthians/10-8.htm">Overthrowing</a> <a href="/2_corinthians/13-8.htm">Power</a> <a href="/2_corinthians/13-2.htm">Present</a> <a href="/2_corinthians/12-7.htm">Reason</a> <a href="/2_corinthians/8-2.htm">Severe</a> <a href="/2_corinthians/11-23.htm">Severely</a> <a href="/romans/11-22.htm">Severity</a> <a href="/acts/15-39.htm">Sharp</a> <a href="/acts/28-18.htm">Sharply</a> <a href="/psalms/89-43.htm">Sharpness</a> <a href="/acts/14-14.htm">Tearing</a> <a href="/1_corinthians/12-23.htm">Treat</a> <a href="/2_corinthians/11-21.htm">Use</a> <a href="/2_corinthians/13-2.htm">Write</a><div class="vheading2">Jump to Next</div><a href="/philippians/1-27.htm">Absent</a> <a href="/galatians/4-7.htm">Act</a> <a href="/ephesians/1-21.htm">Authority</a> <a href="/ephesians/2-21.htm">Building</a> <a href="/galatians/4-18.htm">Cause</a> <a href="/philippians/2-27.htm">Deal</a> <a href="/galatians/2-18.htm">Destruction</a> <a href="/romans/14-19.htm">Edification</a> <a href="/colossians/2-23.htm">Harsh</a> <a href="/revelation/6-6.htm">Measures</a> <a href="/ephesians/4-16.htm">Need</a> <a href="/galatians/1-4.htm">Order</a> <a href="/2_timothy/2-18.htm">Overthrowing</a> <a href="/galatians/3-5.htm">Power</a> <a href="/galatians/1-4.htm">Present</a> <a href="/galatians/6-4.htm">Reason</a> <a href="/colossians/2-1.htm">Severe</a> <a href="/titus/1-13.htm">Severely</a> <a href="/colossians/2-23.htm">Severity</a> <a href="/ephesians/4-31.htm">Sharp</a> <a href="/1_timothy/5-1.htm">Sharply</a> <a href="/psalms/89-43.htm">Sharpness</a> <a href="/deuteronomy/33-20.htm">Tearing</a> <a href="/galatians/4-14.htm">Treat</a> <a href="/galatians/5-2.htm">Use</a> <a href="/galatians/1-20.htm">Write</a><div class="vheading2">2 Corinthians 13</div><span class="reftext">1. </span><span class="outlinetext"><a href="/2_corinthians/13-1.htm">Paul threatens severity, and the power of his apostleship, against obstinate sinners.</a></span><br><span class="reftext">5. </span><span class="outlinetext"><a href="/2_corinthians/13-5.htm">And, advising them to a trial of their faith,</a></span><br><span class="reftext">7. </span><span class="outlinetext"><a href="/2_corinthians/13-7.htm">and to a reformation of their sins before his coming,</a></span><br><span class="reftext">11. </span><span class="outlinetext"><a href="/2_corinthians/13-11.htm">he concludes his epistle with a general exhortation and a prayer.</a></span><br></div></div><div id="mdd"><div align="center"><div class="bot2"><table align="center" width="100%"><tr><td><div align="center"> <script id="3d27ed63fc4348d5b062c4527ae09445"> (new Image()).src = 'https://capi.connatix.com/tr/si?token=51ce25d5-1a8c-424a-8695-4bd48c750f35&cid=3a9f82d0-4344-4f8d-ac0c-e1a0eb43a405'; 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His absence allowed him to communicate thoughtfully and prevent immediate emotional reactions. This approach reflects the wisdom found in <a href="/proverbs/15-28.htm">Proverbs 15:28</a>, where the righteous ponder their answers. Writing from a distance also allowed Paul to address multiple issues comprehensively, as seen in his other epistles.<p><b>so that when I am present I will not need to be severe</b><br>Paul's intention was to avoid harshness when he visited the Corinthian church. His desire to be gentle aligns with the fruit of the Spirit mentioned in <a href="/galatians/5-22.htm">Galatians 5:22-23</a>. The severity he refers to could involve church discipline, which he discusses in <a href="/1_corinthians/5.htm">1 Corinthians 5</a>. His approach reflects Jesus' teaching in <a href="/matthew/18-15.htm">Matthew 18:15-17</a> on resolving conflicts within the church.<p><b>in my use of the authority that the Lord gave me</b><br>Paul's authority as an apostle was divinely appointed, as seen in <a href="/acts/9-15.htm">Acts 9:15-16</a>. This authority was not self-proclaimed but recognized by other apostles and church leaders, as evidenced in <a href="/galatians/2-7.htm">Galatians 2:7-9</a>. His role was to guide and correct the church, similar to the Old Testament prophets who spoke with God's authority.<p><b>for building you up, not for tearing you down</b><br>Paul's mission was to edify the church, a theme consistent throughout his letters (<a href="/ephesians/4-11.htm">Ephesians 4:11-12</a>). The imagery of building up is reminiscent of the construction of the temple, a place of God's presence, as described in <a href="/1_kings/6.htm">1 Kings 6</a>. This constructive purpose contrasts with the destructive nature of false teachings, which Paul warns against in <a href="/2_timothy/2-17.htm">2 Timothy 2:17-18</a>. His focus on edification reflects Christ's ministry, who came to save and not to condemn (<a href="/john/3-17.htm">John 3:17</a>).<div class="vheading2">Persons / Places / Events</div>1. <b><a href="/topical/p/paul_the_apostle.htm">Paul the Apostle</a></b><br>The author of the letter, addressing the church in Corinth. He is emphasizing his role and authority given by God to build up the church.<br><br>2. <b><a href="/topical/c/corinth.htm">Corinth</a></b><br>A major city in ancient Greece, known for its diverse culture and significant Christian community. The church in Corinth faced various challenges, including moral and doctrinal issues.<br><br>3. <b><a href="/topical/t/the_corinthian_church.htm">The Corinthian Church</a></b><br>The recipients of Paul's letter, a community of believers struggling with internal conflicts and needing guidance and correction.<br><br>4. <b><a href="/topical/p/paul's_authority.htm">Paul's Authority</a></b><br>The divine authority given to Paul by the Lord to guide, correct, and build up the church.<br><br>5. <b><a href="/topical/p/paul's_absence_and_presence.htm">Paul's Absence and Presence</a></b><br>Paul writes from a distance, intending to visit the Corinthians and hoping to avoid severe disciplinary actions.<div class="vheading2">Teaching Points</div><b><a href="/topical/t/the_purpose_of_authority.htm">The Purpose of Authority</a></b><br>Authority in the church is meant for edification, not destruction. Leaders should use their God-given authority to nurture and strengthen the faith of believers.<br><br><b><a href="/topical/c/constructive_correction.htm">Constructive Correction</a></b><br>Correction should aim to build up rather than tear down. When addressing issues within the church, the goal should be restoration and growth.<br><br><b><a href="/topical/t/the_role_of_absence_and_presence.htm">The Role of Absence and Presence</a></b><br>Paul's strategy of writing before visiting shows the importance of preparing hearts and minds for constructive change. Addressing issues from a distance can sometimes prevent immediate conflict and allow for reflection.<br><br><b><a href="/topical/b/balancing_discipline_and_encouragement.htm">Balancing Discipline and Encouragement</a></b><br>Church leaders must balance discipline with encouragement, ensuring that their actions reflect Christ's love and purpose for His church.<br><br><b><a href="/topical/t/the_responsibility_of_the_church.htm">The Responsibility of the Church</a></b><br>The church community should be receptive to correction and guidance, understanding that it is for their spiritual growth and maturity.<a name="commentary" id="commentary"></a><div class="vheading2"><a href="/commentaries/ellicott/2_corinthians/13.htm">Ellicott's Commentary for English Readers</a></div>(10) <span class= "bld">Therefore I write these things being absent . . .</span>--The words speak of an inner conflict, in which love has triumphed, not without pain, over feelings of bitterness and indignation. The storm has passed, and the sky is again clear. He does not recall what he has written, but he explains and half-apologises for it. It was better to speak with severity than to act. But even had it been necessary to act, as at one time he thought it would be, he wished them to understand that even then his aim would have been, as it was now, to restore them to their true completeness in Christ; not to inflict punishment for the sake of punishing, or as a mere display of power.<p><div class="vheading2"><a href="/commentaries/pulpit/2_corinthians/13.htm">Pulpit Commentary</a></div><span class="cmt_sub_title">Verse 10.</span> - <span class="cmt_word">I should use sharpness.</span> The word rendered "sharpness" is an adverb, like our "abruptly" or "precipitately." The only other passage of the New Testament where it occurs is <a href="/titus/1-13.htm">Titus 1:13</a>; but the substantive <span class="accented">apotomia</span> occurs in <a href="/romans/11-22.htm">Romans 11:22</a> for "severity." <span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/commentaries/2_corinthians/13-10.htm">Parallel Commentaries ...</a></span><span class="p"><br /><br /><br /></span><a name="lexicon" id="lexicon"></a><div class="vheading">Greek</div><span class="word">This is why</span><br /><span class="grk">τοῦτο</span> <span class="translit">(touto)</span><br /><span class="parse">Demonstrative Pronoun - Accusative Neuter Singular<br /></span><span class="str"><a href="/greek/strongs_3778.htm">Strong's 3778: </a> </span><span class="str2">This; he, she, it. </span><br /><br /><span class="word">I write</span><br /><span class="grk">γράφω</span> <span class="translit">(graphō)</span><br /><span class="parse">Verb - Present Indicative Active - 1st Person Singular<br /></span><span class="str"><a href="/greek/strongs_1125.htm">Strong's 1125: </a> </span><span class="str2">A primary verb; to 'grave', especially to write; figuratively, to describe.</span><br /><br /><span class="word">these things</span><br /><span class="grk">ταῦτα</span> <span class="translit">(tauta)</span><br /><span class="parse">Demonstrative Pronoun - Accusative Neuter Plural<br /></span><span class="str"><a href="/greek/strongs_3778.htm">Strong's 3778: </a> </span><span class="str2">This; he, she, it. </span><br /><br /><span class="word">while absent,</span><br /><span class="grk">ἀπὼν</span> <span class="translit">(apōn)</span><br /><span class="parse">Verb - Present Participle Active - Nominative Masculine Singular<br /></span><span class="str"><a href="/greek/strongs_548.htm">Strong's 548: </a> </span><span class="str2">To be absent. From apo and eimi; to be away.</span><br /><br /><span class="word">so that</span><br /><span class="grk">ἵνα</span> <span class="translit">(hina)</span><br /><span class="parse">Conjunction<br /></span><span class="str"><a href="/greek/strongs_2443.htm">Strong's 2443: </a> </span><span class="str2">In order that, so that. Probably from the same as the former part of heautou; in order that.</span><br /><br /><span class="word">when I am present</span><br /><span class="grk">παρὼν</span> <span class="translit">(parōn)</span><br /><span class="parse">Verb - Present Participle Active - Nominative Masculine Singular<br /></span><span class="str"><a href="/greek/strongs_3918.htm">Strong's 3918: </a> </span><span class="str2">From para and eimi; to be near, i.e. At hand; neuter present participle time being, or property.</span><br /><br /><span class="word">I will not need to be</span><br /><span class="grk">χρήσωμαι</span> <span class="translit">(chrēsōmai)</span><br /><span class="parse">Verb - Aorist Subjunctive Middle - 1st Person Singular<br /></span><span class="str"><a href="/greek/strongs_5530.htm">Strong's 5530: </a> </span><span class="str2">To use, make use of, deal with, take advantage of. </span><br /><br /><span class="word">severe</span><br /><span class="grk">ἀποτόμως</span> <span class="translit">(apotomōs)</span><br /><span class="parse">Adverb<br /></span><span class="str"><a href="/greek/strongs_664.htm">Strong's 664: </a> </span><span class="str2">Sharply, severely. Adverb from a derivative of a comparative of apo and temno; abruptly, i.e. Peremptorily.</span><br /><br /><span class="word">in my use of</span><br /><span class="grk">κατὰ</span> <span class="translit">(kata)</span><br /><span class="parse">Preposition<br /></span><span class="str"><a href="/greek/strongs_2596.htm">Strong's 2596: </a> </span><span class="str2">A primary particle; down, in varied relations (genitive, dative or accusative) with which it is joined).</span><br /><br /><span class="word">the</span><br /><span class="grk">τὴν</span> <span class="translit">(tēn)</span><br /><span class="parse">Article - Accusative Feminine Singular<br /></span><span class="str"><a href="/greek/strongs_3588.htm">Strong's 3588: </a> </span><span class="str2">The, the definite article. Including the feminine he, and the neuter to in all their inflections; the definite article; the.</span><br /><br /><span class="word">authority</span><br /><span class="grk">ἐξουσίαν</span> <span class="translit">(exousian)</span><br /><span class="parse">Noun - Accusative Feminine Singular<br /></span><span class="str"><a href="/greek/strongs_1849.htm">Strong's 1849: </a> </span><span class="str2">From exesti; privilege, i.e. force, capacity, competency, freedom, or mastery, delegated influence.</span><br /><br /><span class="word">that</span><br /><span class="grk">ἣν</span> <span class="translit">(hēn)</span><br /><span class="parse">Personal / Relative Pronoun - Accusative Feminine Singular<br /></span><span class="str"><a href="/greek/strongs_3739.htm">Strong's 3739: </a> </span><span class="str2">Who, which, what, that. </span><br /><br /><span class="word">the</span><br /><span class="grk">ὁ</span> <span class="translit">(ho)</span><br /><span class="parse">Article - Nominative Masculine Singular<br /></span><span class="str"><a href="/greek/strongs_3588.htm">Strong's 3588: </a> </span><span class="str2">The, the definite article. Including the feminine he, and the neuter to in all their inflections; the definite article; the.</span><br /><br /><span class="word">Lord</span><br /><span class="grk">Κύριος</span> <span class="translit">(Kyrios)</span><br /><span class="parse">Noun - Nominative Masculine Singular<br /></span><span class="str"><a href="/greek/strongs_2962.htm">Strong's 2962: </a> </span><span class="str2">Lord, master, sir; the Lord. From kuros; supreme in authority, i.e. controller; by implication, Master.</span><br /><br /><span class="word">gave</span><br /><span class="grk">ἔδωκέν</span> <span class="translit">(edōken)</span><br /><span class="parse">Verb - Aorist Indicative Active - 3rd Person Singular<br /></span><span class="str"><a href="/greek/strongs_1325.htm">Strong's 1325: </a> </span><span class="str2">To offer, give; I put, place. A prolonged form of a primary verb; to give.</span><br /><br /><span class="word">me</span><br /><span class="grk">μοι</span> <span class="translit">(moi)</span><br /><span class="parse">Personal / Possessive Pronoun - Dative 1st Person Singular<br /></span><span class="str"><a href="/greek/strongs_1473.htm">Strong's 1473: </a> </span><span class="str2">I, the first-person pronoun. A primary pronoun of the first person I.</span><br /><br /><span class="word">for</span><br /><span class="grk">εἰς</span> <span class="translit">(eis)</span><br /><span class="parse">Preposition<br /></span><span class="str"><a href="/greek/strongs_1519.htm">Strong's 1519: </a> </span><span class="str2">A primary preposition; to or into, of place, time, or purpose; also in adverbial phrases.</span><br /><br /><span class="word">building [you] up,</span><br /><span class="grk">οἰκοδομὴν</span> <span class="translit">(oikodomēn)</span><br /><span class="parse">Noun - Accusative Feminine Singular<br /></span><span class="str"><a href="/greek/strongs_3619.htm">Strong's 3619: </a> </span><span class="str2">Feminine of a compound of oikos and the base of doma; architecture, i.e. a structure; figuratively, confirmation.</span><br /><br /><span class="word">not</span><br /><span class="grk">οὐκ</span> <span class="translit">(ouk)</span><br /><span class="parse">Adverb<br /></span><span class="str"><a href="/greek/strongs_3756.htm">Strong's 3756: </a> </span><span class="str2">No, not. Also ouk, and ouch a primary word; the absolute negative adverb; no or not.</span><br /><br /><span class="word">for</span><br /><span class="grk">εἰς</span> <span class="translit">(eis)</span><br /><span class="parse">Preposition<br /></span><span class="str"><a href="/greek/strongs_1519.htm">Strong's 1519: </a> </span><span class="str2">A primary preposition; to or into, of place, time, or purpose; also in adverbial phrases.</span><br /><br /><span class="word">tearing [you] down.</span><br /><span class="grk">καθαίρεσιν</span> <span class="translit">(kathairesin)</span><br /><span class="parse">Noun - Accusative Feminine Singular<br /></span><span class="str"><a href="/greek/strongs_2506.htm">Strong's 2506: </a> </span><span class="str2">Taking down, razing, destroying. From kathaireo; demolition; figuratively, extinction.</span><br /><span class="p"><br /><br /></span><div class="vheading">Links</div><a href="/niv/2_corinthians/13-10.htm">2 Corinthians 13:10 NIV</a><br /><a href="/nlt/2_corinthians/13-10.htm">2 Corinthians 13:10 NLT</a><br /><a href="/esv/2_corinthians/13-10.htm">2 Corinthians 13:10 ESV</a><br /><a href="/nasb/2_corinthians/13-10.htm">2 Corinthians 13:10 NASB</a><br /><a href="/kjv/2_corinthians/13-10.htm">2 Corinthians 13:10 KJV</a><span class="p"><br /><br /></span><a href="//bibleapps.com/2_corinthians/13-10.htm">2 Corinthians 13:10 BibleApps.com</a><br /><a href="//bibliaparalela.com/2_corinthians/13-10.htm">2 Corinthians 13:10 Biblia Paralela</a><br /><a href="//holybible.com.cn/2_corinthians/13-10.htm">2 Corinthians 13:10 Chinese Bible</a><br /><a href="//saintebible.com/2_corinthians/13-10.htm">2 Corinthians 13:10 French Bible</a><br /><a href="/catholic/2_corinthians/13-10.htm">2 Corinthians 13:10 Catholic Bible</a><span class="p"><br /><br /></span><a href="/2_corinthians/13-10.htm">NT Letters: 2 Corinthians 13:10 For this cause I write these things (2 Cor. 2C iiC 2Cor ii cor iicor) </a></div></div></td></tr></table></div><div id="left"><a href="/2_corinthians/13-9.htm" onmouseover='lft.src="/leftgif.png"' onmouseout='lft.src="/left.png"' title="2 Corinthians 13:9"><img src="/left.png" name="lft" border="0" alt="2 Corinthians 13:9" /></a></div><div id="right"><a href="/2_corinthians/13-11.htm" onmouseover='rght.src="/rightgif.png"' onmouseout='rght.src="/right.png"' title="2 Corinthians 13:11"><img src="/right.png" name="rght" border="0" alt="2 Corinthians 13:11" /></a></div><div id="botleft"><a href="#" onmouseover='botleft.src="/botleftgif.png"' onmouseout='botleft.src="/botleft.png"' title="Top of Page"><img src="/botleft.png" name="botleft" border="0" alt="Top of Page" /></a></div><div id="botright"><a href="#" onmouseover='botright.src="/botrightgif.png"' onmouseout='botright.src="/botright.png"' title="Top of Page"><img src="/botright.png" name="botright" border="0" alt="Top of Page" /></a></div><div id="bot"><iframe width="100%" height="1500" scrolling="no" src="/botmenubhnew2.htm" frameborder="0"></iframe></div></td></tr></table></div></body></html>