Now I Paul myself beseech you by the meekness and gentleness of Christ, who in presence am base among you, but being absent am bold toward you:

2 CORINTHIANS 10:1KJV
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2 Corinthians 10:1 (KJV)

What does 2 Corinthians 10:1 mean?

2 Corinthians 10:1 describes Paul personally appealing to the Corinthian believers, urging them by the meekness and gentleness of Christ. Paul points out that while he seems humble and unimpressive when present with them, he is bold and direct when writing from a distance.

Paul is the one speaking, addressing the church in Corinth. Some in the church had questioned his authority and criticized his manner, so Paul highlights that his approach—both gentle and bold—mirrors the character of Christ. This verse sets the tone for the following section, where Paul will defend his ministry and explain the reasons for his actions and attitude.

The Greek behind 2 Corinthians 10:1

  • πραΰτης (prautēs, G4236): This word is translated as "meekness" and refers to a gentle, humble strength. Paul appeals to the Corinthians using the same kind of meekness that characterized Jesus, emphasizing strength under control rather than weakness.
  • ἐπιείκεια (epieikeia, G1932): Translated as "gentleness," this word carries the sense of fairness, reasonableness, and kindness. Paul is not just being soft, but showing a Christ-like patience and understanding.
  • ταπεινός (tapeinos, G5011): Rendered as "base" in the KJV, this word means lowly or humble. Paul acknowledges that in person, he appears unassuming or unimpressive, which some critics used against him.
  • θαρρέω (tharreō, G2292): The word for "bold," meaning to be confident or courageous. Paul contrasts his humble demeanor in person with the boldness of his letters, addressing the perception that he is only forceful when absent.

Why 2 Corinthians 10:1 matters

  • This verse helps clear up the misconception that meekness and boldness are opposites; Paul shows that both can exist together in Christian leadership, modeled after Christ.
  • Paul’s self-description addresses criticism from some Corinthians who thought he was inconsistent or weak, revealing his intentional choice to act with humility when present and boldness when needed.
  • The verse sets up the rest of the chapter, where Paul will further explain his authority and the reasons behind his actions, helping the reader understand the context of his relationship with the Corinthian church.

Where else these words appear

“gentleness” Greek G1932 · used in 2 verses

  • Acts 24:4 Notwithstanding, that I be not further tedious unto thee, I pray thee that thou wouldest hear us of thy clemency a few words.

“bold” Greek G2292 · used in 6 verses

  • 2 Corinthians 5:6 Therefore we are always confident, knowing that, whilst we are at home in the body, we are absent from the Lord:
  • 2 Corinthians 5:8 We are confident, I say, and willing rather to be absent from the body, and to be present with the Lord.
  • 2 Corinthians 10:2 But I beseech you, 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.

“absent” Greek G548 · used in 7 verses

  • 1 Corinthians 5:3 For I verily, as absent in body, but present in spirit, have judged already, as though I were present, concerning him that hath so done this deed,
  • 2 Corinthians 13:2 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:
  • Philippians 1:27 Only let your conversation be as it becometh the gospel of Christ: that whether I come and see you, or else be absent, I may hear of your affairs, that ye stand fast in one spirit, with one mind striving together for the faith of the gospel;

“base” Greek G5011 · used in 8 verses

  • Matthew 11:29 Take my yoke upon you, and learn of me; for I am meek and lowly in heart: and ye shall find rest unto your souls.
  • Romans 12:16 Be of the same mind one toward another. Mind not high things, but condescend to men of low estate. Be not wise in your own conceits.
  • James 1:9 Let the brother of low degree rejoice in that he is exalted: