Let such an one think this, that, such as we are in word by letters when we are absent, such will we be also in deed when we are present.

2 CORINTHIANS 10:11KJV
Know the Bible

2 Corinthians 10:11 (KJV)

What does 2 Corinthians 10:11 mean?

2 Corinthians 10:11 means that Paul wants anyone criticizing him to realize that he will act with the same seriousness and authority in person as he does in his letters. Paul assures his readers that his actions when present will match the strong words he writes when absent.

Paul is writing to the church in Corinth, addressing some who have questioned whether he is as bold face-to-face as he is in his letters. Paul is making it clear that his authority and intentions do not change based on whether he is present or absent. This verse is part of a larger defense of his ministry and leadership.

The Greek behind 2 Corinthians 10:11

  • λόγῳ (logō; "word"): This word refers to speech or what is said, highlighting the contrast between Paul's written words and his actions.
  • ἐπιστολῶν (epistolōn; "letters"): This word means "letters" or "epistles," pointing to the actual written communications Paul sent to the Corinthians.
  • ἔργῳ (ergō; "deed"): This word means "work" or "action," emphasizing that Paul’s behavior and actions will be consistent with his words.
  • παρών (parōn; "present"): This word means "being present," underlining the difference between Paul’s absence and his physical presence with the church.

Why 2 Corinthians 10:11 matters

  • This verse addresses a common accusation that Paul was only bold or forceful in writing, not in person, clarifying that his authority is consistent in both settings.
  • It helps explain the tension in the Corinthian church, where some doubted Paul’s leadership because of his physical presence versus his letters.
  • The verse connects to the wider passage, where Paul is defending his ministry and urging the Corinthians to take his instructions seriously, whether he is with them or not.

Where else these words appear

“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;

“as” Greek G3634 · used in 12 verses

  • Matthew 24:21 For then shall be great tribulation, such as was not since the beginning of the world to this time, no, nor ever shall be.
  • Luke 9:55 But he turned, and rebuked them, and said, Ye know not what manner of spirit ye are of.
  • Philippians 1:30 Having the same conflict which ye saw in me, and now hear to be in me.

“present” Greek G3918 · used in 22 verses

  • Matthew 26:50 And Jesus said unto him, Friend, wherefore art thou come? Then came they, and laid hands on Jesus, and took him.
  • Acts 17:6 And when they found them not, they drew Jason and certain brethren unto the rulers of the city, crying, These that have turned the world upside down are come hither also;
  • Galatians 4:18 But it is good to be zealously affected always in a good thing, and not only when I am present with you.

“letters” Greek G1992 · used in 23 verses

  • Acts 9:2 And desired of him letters to Damascus to the synagogues, that if he found any of this way, whether they were men or women, he might bring them bound unto Jerusalem.
  • 1 Corinthians 16:3 And when I come, whomsoever ye shall approve by your letters, them will I send to bring your liberality unto Jerusalem.
  • Colossians 4:16 And when this epistle is read among you, cause that it be read also in the church of the Laodiceans; and that ye likewise read the epistle from Laodicea.