In chapter 10, Paul answers the accusation that his presence was weak while his letters were harsh and powerful.
The Apostle’s Defense, vv. 1-13
A. His meekness: Paul follows Christ’s meekness and gentleness with the Corinthian believers.
B. His methodology, vv. 2-6
1. What Paul does not do: he does not depend on the tactics of this world.
2. What Paul does: he uses God’s mighty weapons to knock down Satan’s strongholds.
C. His militancy, vv. 7-11
1. The ridicule, vv. 7a, 10: what Paul’s enemies say about him.
a. He possesses no power or authority.
b. He writes like a lion but in person is weak as a lamb.
2. The response, vv. 7b-9, 11: what Paul says about himself.
a. He possesses the power and authority of Christ Himself.
b. They will soon discover he is as a lion both in pen and in person.
D. His measure, vv. 12-13
1. He does not compare himself to other men, v. 12.
2. He does conform himself to Jesus Christ, v. 13.
The Apostle’s Desire, vv. 14-18
A. His desire for them, vv. 14-15: that their faith will grow.
B. His desire for himself, vv. 16-18
1. That he be allowed to preach the gospel to the regions beyond, vv. 16-17.
2. That he be approved by God Himself, v. 18.