2 Corinthians 10:9-10

Paul’s reference to terrifying his readers (2 Corinthians 10:9) is ironical, as is clear from 2 Corinthians 10:10. It is probably better to take the critics’ charge that Paul was unimpressive as a reference to his conduct among them, not to his physical appearance, in view of the context (cf. 2 Corinthians 1:13). Paul evidently was not a showy speaker compared to many silver-tongued orators of his day, or even Apollos. The power of his influence came through the Holy Spirit’s working through his words (cf. 1 Corinthians 1:17; 1 Corinthians 2:3; 2 Corinthians 11:6).

". . . unlike his opponents (2 Corinthians 11:20), Paul avoided self-assertiveness and admitted the inferiority of his rhetorical skills (1 Corinthians 1:17; 1 Corinthians 2:1-5; 2 Corinthians 11:6). What he firmly resists, however, is the inference drawn from the claim about his personal bearing and his manner of speaking-namely, that he was ’"timid" when face to face’ (2 Corinthians 10:1)." [Note: Ibid., p. 382.]

"Like so many who judge things according to the outward display of this world, Paul’s opponents interpreted meekness as weakness, forbearance as cowardice, and gentleness as indecision (cf. 2 Corinthians 10:1; . . . 2 Corinthians 11:21 . . .)-or at least they had sought to induce the Corinthians to place this interpretation on Paul’s character." [Note: Hughes, p. 362.]