Devine Scripture

2 Corinthians 10:9

What does 2 Corinthians 10:9 mean?

A plain-English look at 2 Corinthians 10:9 in WEB alongside six other public-domain English translations, with cross-references and chapter context.

What 2 Corinthians 10:9 means

Paul clarifies that he does not write strongly to frighten them. His letters may be firm, but his aim is not to terrorize; it is to correct and build. He anticipates misinterpretation—that bold words equal domineering spirit. He wants the Corinthians to feel the moral weight of truth, not the pressure of a bully. By distinguishing intent from effect, he invites them to receive his letters as pastoral care. Severity in writing can serve love when it seeks their restoration. Paul thus distances himself from manipulative rhetoric and aligns his tone with the constructive purpose stated previously.

Parallel translations

WEB

World English Bible · 2000

that I may not seem as if I would terrify you by my letters.

KJV

King James Version · 1611

That I may not seem as if I would terrify you by letters.

ASV

American Standard Version · 1901

that I may not seem as if I would terrify you by my letters.

BBE

Bible in Basic English · 1949

That I may not seem to have the desire of causing you fear by my letters.

YLT

Young's Literal Translation · 1862

that I may not seem as if I would terrify you through the letters,

DRA

Douay-Rheims (Challoner) · 1752

But that I may not be thought as it were to terrify you by epistles,

DBY

Darby Bible · 1890

that I may not seem as if I was frightening you by letters:

Context

Verse 8 established that Paul’s authority is for edification. Verse 9 guards against a common misunderstanding: strong letters are not meant to intimidate. This prepares for verses 10–11, where he directly quotes the criticism about his weak presence and inconsequential speech and then responds. The contextual logic is tight: authority is constructive, not oppressive; firmness is pastoral, not fearful; and, as the next verse notes, external impressions do not determine apostolic legitimacy or effectiveness.

v.8For though I should glory somewhat abundantly concerning our authority (which the Lord gave for building you up, and not for casting you down), I shall not be put to shame:

v.9This passage

v.10For, His letters, they say, are weighty and strong; but his bodily presence is weak, and his speech of no account.

Cross references

Related passages from across Scripture, drawn from the Treasury of Scripture Knowledge.

  • 1 Corinthians 4:19

    But I will come to you shortly, if the Lord will; and I will know, not the word of them that are puffed up, but the power.

  • 1 Corinthians 4:5

    Wherefore judge nothing before the time, until the Lord come, who will both bring to light the hidden things of darkness, and make manifest the counsels of the hearts; and then shall each man have his praise from God.

  • 2 Corinthians 10:10

    For, His letters, they say, are weighty and strong; but his bodily presence is weak, and his speech of no account.

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