Book of 2 Corinthians - Chapter 10 - Verse 9

The verse "That I may not seem as if I would terrify you by letters" can be found in 2 Corinthians 10:9. This verse is part of a larger passage in which the apostle Paul is defending himself against accusations made by false teachers who were undermining his authority. In this particular verse, Paul is explaining his intention behind his previous letters to the Corinthian church. He clarifies that his purpose in writing to them was not to intimidate or scare them, but rather to address their concerns and offer guidance.

Paul's statement here reflects his desire to maintain a loving and respectful relationship with the Corinthian church, even in the face of opposition. He wants to assure them that his words are meant to build them up and encourage them, rather than to instill fear or anxiety. By emphasizing his true intentions, Paul seeks to dispel any misconceptions or doubts that may have arisen because of the negative influence of the false teachers.

Ultimately, this verse serves as a reminder of the importance of clear communication and genuine intentions in any form of correspondence. Paul's words remind us to consider the impact of our words on others and to always strive to communicate with honesty, compassion, and empathy.

In this verse, the Apostle Paul is addressing the Corinthian church, expressing his desire not to come across as intimidating or harsh in his written communication with them. The word "terrify" here comes from the Greek word "ekphobéo," which can also be translated as "frighten" or "alarm." Paul's intention is to reassure the Corinthians that his letters are not meant to instill fear in them but rather to communicate with them in a spirit of love and honesty. This insight into the deeper meaning of the verse helps us understand the Apostle's pastoral approach and his concern for the spiritual well-being of the Corinthian believers. By studying the original language and context of the verse, we gain a greater appreciation for the nuances and intentions behind Paul's words, highlighting the importance of interpreting scripture with a careful and attentive eye to detail.