Verse 10. Therefore I write these things, etc. This is a kind of apology for what he had said, and especially for the apparently harsh language which he had felt himself constrained to use. He had reproved them; he had admonished them of their faults; he had threatened punishment, all of which was designed to prevent the necessity of severe measures when he should be with them.

Lest being present I should use sharpness. In order that when I come may not have occasion to employ severity. See the sentiment explained in See Barnes "2 Co 10:2".

According to the power, etc. That I may not use the power with which Christ has invested me for maintaining discipline in his church. The same form of expression is found in 2 Co 10:8. See Barnes "2 Co 10:8".

{c} "sharpness according" Tit 1:13 {d} "to the power" 2 Co 10:8 {+} "to destruction" "for destruction" {++} "to edification" "for edification"