since you are seeking proof of Christ speaking in me, who is not weak toward you, but strong in you.

For although He was crucified in weakness, yet He lives by the power of God. For we are weak in Him, yet we shall live with Him by the power of God toward you.

Because of this I write these things being absent, in order that when I am present I may not deal sharply with you, according to the authority which the Lord gave me for edification and not for destruction.

For I am afraid, lest perhaps when I come, I will not find you as I desire, and that I will be found by you as you do not desire; lest perhaps there [be] contentions, jealousies, outbursts of wrath, disputes, slanders, gossipings, pride, disorders;