New Testament
2 Corinthians 13:10
Read the Bible in clear, modern English—easy to understand, faithful to the meaning, and written for everyday readers.
That's why I'm writing all this while I'm still away — so that when I arrive, I won't have to be harsh with you. The Lord gave me authority to build you up, not to tear you down.
Compare translations
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.
What 2 Corinthians 13:10 means
Plain-English insight for readers
In this passage, Paul is explaining why he is writing to the Corinthians while he is still away from them. He wants to address issues in their community without being harsh when he visits. His goal is to encourage and strengthen them, not to criticize or tear them down. Paul emphasizes that his authority comes from the Lord, and it is meant for building people up. He understands the importance of his words and actions, wanting to foster a positive relationship with the church. By writing ahead of time, he hopes to prepare them for a constructive conversation. This approach shows his care and concern for their growth and well-being. Paul’s message is clear: leadership should focus on uplifting others rather than being punitive. His intention is to guide them toward a better path, reinforcing the idea that true authority is used to support and nurture, not to harm or destroy. This reflects a loving and responsible approach to leadership that prioritizes the community's health.
How to apply 2 Corinthians 13:10 to your life
Consider how you use your words and authority in your relationships. Are you building others up or tearing them down? Strive to communicate in ways that encourage and support those around you, fostering a positive environment for growth and connection. Your influence can make a significant difference in someone's life today. Lead with love and purpose, just as Paul did with the Corinthians.
Curated for this public verse page. 2 Corinthians Summary
Explore more of the Bible
Learn the Bible through its people and places
Get to know the people in Scripture through illustrated stories, and explore the places where they lived and traveled.
Illustrated scene from Mary, Jesus' mother's story: An Angel Visits Mary (Luke 1:26–38)
Meet the people of the Bible
Follow their lives in order, with illustrated scenes and Bible passages that tell their stories.
Mary, Jesus' mother
Photo: Gary Todd (Gary Lee Todd, Ph.D.), via Wikimedia Commons. License: CC0 1.0 Universal Public Domain Dedication. Source. Location: Southern end of the Temple Mount, Jerusalem Old City. Resized for the web.
Explore the places of the Bible
See where biblical events happened, why each place matters, and what archaeology helps us understand.
Jerusalem
David's capital, the city of the temple, and the place where Jesus died and rose again.
Get full access with one subscription
Explore the people and places of the Bible. Read summaries of every book, with images and clear explanations covering every chapter. Access all these features and our Bible study tools with one subscription.
See PlansAsk AI about 2 Corinthians 13:10
Ask a question about this verse and get a clear answer, with Bible references you can read for yourself.
Every Bible book, explained chapter by chapter
Explore summaries of every book of the Bible, with images and easy-to-understand explanations covering every chapter.
Keep studying 2 Corinthians 13:10
Related Bible verses
Key themes
Related topics
At a Glance — the Book of 2 Corinthians
- Author
- Paul the apostle
- Written
- Around AD 56
- Genre
- Letter (epistle)
- Original Audience
- The church in Corinth
Frequently Asked Questions
Quick, clear answers about this verse
What does 2 Corinthians 13:10 mean?
In 2 Corinthians 13:10, Paul explains that he is writing to the Corinthians while away to address issues without being harsh when he visits. His goal is to build them up and encourage them, emphasizing that his authority is meant for their edification, not for criticism.
What is the meaning of authority in 2 Corinthians 13:10?
In this verse, authority refers to the power given to Paul by the Lord to guide and strengthen the church. It highlights that true leadership should focus on uplifting others rather than using authority to harm or criticize.
How does 2 Corinthians 13:10 relate to leadership?
2 Corinthians 13:10 illustrates that effective leadership involves using one's authority to build others up rather than to tear them down. Paul demonstrates a caring approach, prioritizing the growth and well-being of the community.
What themes are present in 2 Corinthians 13:10?
Key themes in 2 Corinthians 13:10 include authority, edification, leadership, community, and encouragement. The verse emphasizes the importance of using one's influence to support and nurture others.
Daily Verse — straight to your inbox
A verse and a 2-sentence plain-English explanation, every morning. Free. Unsubscribe anytime.