TRV
Translation
King James Version
Let such an one think this, that, such as we are in word by letters when we are absent, such will we be also in deed when we are present.
Complete Jewish Bible
Such a person should realize that what we say in our letters when absent, we will do when present.
Berean Standard Bible
Such people should consider that what we are in our letters when absent, we will be in our actions when present.
American Standard Version
Let such a one reckon this, that, what we are in word by letters when we are absent, such are we also in deed when we are present.
World English Bible Messianic
Let such a person consider this, that what we are in word by letters when we are absent, such are we also in deed when we are present.
Geneva Bible (1599)
Let such one thinke this, that such as wee are in woorde by letters, when we are absent, such wil we be also in deede, when we are present.
Young's Literal Translation
This one--let him reckon thus: that such as we are in word, through letters, being absent, such also, being present, we are in deed.
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In the KJVVerse 28,983 of 31,102
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Commentary on 2 Corinthians 10 verses 7–11
7 ¶ Do ye look on things after the outward appearance? If any man trust to himself that he is Christ's, let him of himself think this again, that, as he is Christ's, even so are we Christ's.
8 For though I should boast somewhat more of our authority, which the Lord hath given us for edification, and not for your destruction, I should not be ashamed:
9 That I may not seem as if I would terrify you by letters.
10 For his letters, say they, are weighty and powerful; but his bodily presence is weak, and his speech contemptible.
11 Let such an one think this, that, such as we are in word by letters when we are absent, such will we be also in deed when we are present.
In these verses the apostle proceeds to reason the case with the Corinthians, in opposition to those who despised him, judged him, and spoke hardly of him: "Do you," says he, "look on things after the outward appearance? Co2 10:7. Is this a fit measure or rule to make an estimate of things or persons by, and to judge between me and my adversaries?" In outward appearance, Paul was mean and despicable with some; he did not make a figure, as perhaps some of his competitors might do: but this was a false rule to make a judgment by. It should seem that some boasted mighty things of themselves, and made a fair show. But there are often false appearances. A man may seem to be learned who has not learned Christ, and appear virtuous when he has not a principle of grace in his heart. However, the apostle asserts two things of himself: -
I. His relation to Christ: If any man trust to himself that he is Christ's, even so are we Christ's, Co2 10:7. It would seem by this that Paul's adversaries boasted of their relation to Christ as his ministers and servants. Now the apostle reasons thus with the Corinthians: "Suppose it to be so, allowing what they say to be true (and let us observe that, in fair arguing, we should allow all that may be reasonably granted, and should not think it impossible but those who differ from us very much may yet belong to Christ, as well as we), allowing them," might the apostle say, "what they boast of, yet they ought also to allow this to us, that we also are Christ's." Note, 1. We must not, by the most charitable allowances we make to others who differ from us, cut ourselves off from Christ, nor deny our relation to him. For, 2. There is room in Christ for many; and those who differ much from one another may yet be one in him. It would help to heal the differences that are among us if we would remember that, how confident soever we may be that we belong to Christ, yet, at the same time, we must allow that those who differ from us may belong to Christ too, and therefore should be treated accordingly. We must not think that we are the people, and that none belong to Christ but ourselves. This we may plead for ourselves, against those who judge us and despise us that, how weak soever we are, yet, as they are Christ's, so are we: we profess the same faith, we walk by the same rule, we build upon the same foundation, and hope for the same inheritance.
II. His authority from Christ as an apostle. This he had mentioned before (Co2 10:6), and now he tells them that he might speak of it again, and that with some sort of boasting, seeing it was a truth, that the Lord had given it to him, and it was more than his adversaries could justly pretend to. It was certainly what he should not be ashamed of, Co2 10:8. Concerning this observe, 1. The nature of his authority: it was for edification, and not for destruction. This indeed is the end of all authority, civil and ecclesiastical, and was the end of that extraordinary authority which the apostles had, and of all church-discipline. 2. The caution with which he speaks of his authority, professing that his design was not to terrify them with big words, nor by angry letters, Co2 10:9. Thus he seems to obviate an objection that might have been formed against him, Co2 10:10. But the apostle declares he did not intend to frighten those who were obedient, nor did he write any thing in his letters that he was not able to make good by deeds against the disobedient; and he would have his adversaries know this (Co2 10:11), that he would, by the exercise of his apostolical power committed to him, make it appear to have a real efficacy.
Matthew Henry (1662–1714) — Commentary on the Whole Bible. This section covers verses 7–11. Public domain.
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AmbrosiasterAD 384
COMMENTARY ON PAUL’S EPISTLES
Someone to whom power has not been given is capable of being bold when absent but when present he is put to shame. The apostle will not be put to shame when issuing his rebuke. He is doing this in bold reliance on his spiritual power.
John ChrysostomAD 407
Homily 22 on 2 Corinthians
"But that I may not seem as if I would terrify you: for his letters, say they, are weighty and strong: but his bodily presence is weak, and his speech of no account. Let such a one reckon this, that what we are in word by letters when we are absent, such are we also in deed when we are present."
What he says is this: 'I could boast indeed, but that they may not say the same things again, to wit, that I boast in my letters, and am contemptible when present, I will say nothing great.' And yet afterwards he did say something great, but not about this power by which he was formidable, but about revelations and at greater lengths about trials. 'Therefore, that I may not seem to be terrifying you, "let such an one reckon this, that what we are by letters when we are absent, such are we also in deed when we are present."' For since they said, 'he writes great things of himself, but when he is present he is worthy of no consideration,' therefore he says these things, and those again in a moderated form. For he did not say, 'as we write great things, so when we are present we also do great things,' but in more subdued phrase. For when he addressed himself to the others indeed, he stated it with vehemency, saying, "I beseech you that I may not when present show courage with the confidence wherewith I think to be bold against some:" but when to these, he is more subdued. And therefore he says, 'what we are when present, such too when absent, that is, lowly, modest, no where boasting. And it is plain from what follows.
Source: Quotations drawn from early Church Fathers and historical Christian theologians (AD 100–1500). Some quotes address the surrounding passage context rather than this verse alone.
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SUMMARY
Second Corinthians 10:11 serves as Paul's direct and firm declaration of his unwavering integrity and consistency in ministry, asserting that his actions when physically present with the Corinthian church will perfectly align with the strong and authoritative words he has conveyed through his letters while absent. This verse directly confronts the accusations of his critics who claimed he was bold in writing but weak in person, underscoring his commitment to authentic and powerful apostolic leadership.
CONTEXT
EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS
Key Word Analysis
Verse Breakdown
Literary Devices
Paul employs several potent literary devices in 2 Corinthians 10:11 to convey his message with force and clarity. The most prominent is Antithesis, which creates a stark contrast between two opposing ideas: "word by letters when we are absent" versus "in deed when we are present." This highlights the perceived dichotomy that Paul's critics were exploiting and which he is now directly refuting. By setting these two states in opposition, Paul emphasizes the unity and consistency that he insists characterize his ministry. There is also an element of Assertion, as Paul makes a definitive, declarative statement about his future conduct. This is not a plea or a request, but a firm declaration of intent, underscoring his confidence in his apostolic authority. Furthermore, the verse carries a strong Rhetorical Challenge to his opponents, implicitly daring them to continue their accusations or to doubt his resolve. He is not merely explaining but confronting, forcing his critics to reconsider their faulty assessment of his character and power.
THEOLOGICAL AND THEMATIC CONNECTIONS
The profound theological implication of 2 Corinthians 10:11 lies in the essential nature of integrity for Christian leadership and witness. Paul's insistence on consistency between his "word" and his "deed" reflects a core biblical principle: that true faith and genuine authority are demonstrated not just by what one says or writes, but by how one lives and acts. This mirrors the character of God Himself, whose words are always accompanied by His faithful actions, and whose promises are always fulfilled. For Paul, his ministry was not about human performance or rhetorical skill, but about embodying the truth of the gospel with authentic power. This consistency builds trust, validates authority, and powerfully testifies to the reality of the God whom one serves. It is a call for all believers to live lives that genuinely reflect the Christ they proclaim, ensuring that their actions do not contradict their confessions.
REFLECTION AND APPLICATION
Paul's unwavering commitment to consistency in 2 Corinthians 10:11 serves as a powerful and enduring challenge for every believer today. In a world often characterized by superficiality, performative actions, and a disconnect between public persona and private reality, the call to integrity rings ever louder. We are challenged to examine whether our actions align with our words, whether our private lives reflect the same convictions we proclaim in public, and whether our "walk" truly matches our "talk." This principle applies to all areas of life: our witness to the gospel, our relationships, our work, and our personal discipleship. When our deeds contradict our declarations, we undermine our credibility and hinder the effectiveness of our message. Conversely, when our lives are marked by genuine consistency, we become powerful and authentic witnesses to the transformative power of Christ, building trust and demonstrating the reality of our faith.
Questions for Reflection
FAQ
Why was Paul's consistency questioned by the Corinthians?
Answer: Paul's consistency was questioned because his critics in Corinth, likely false apostles or those influenced by them, spread accusations that he was bold and authoritative in his letters but appeared weak, unimpressive, or even timid when he was physically present. 2 Corinthians 10:10 explicitly states this: "For his letters, say they, are weighty and powerful; but his bodily presence is weak, and his speech contemptible." This was a common rhetorical tactic in the Greco-Roman world to discredit an opponent by highlighting perceived inconsistencies or a lack of imposing presence, which was highly valued in public discourse. Paul's response in 2 Corinthians 10:11 directly refutes this, asserting that his actions will indeed match the power of his words.
What does this verse teach us about Christian leadership?
Answer: This verse teaches Christian leaders the paramount importance of integrity and consistency. True leadership, as exemplified by Paul, is not about outward show, charismatic personality, or eloquent speech alone, but about a unified life where one's actions consistently support and demonstrate the truth of one's words. It underscores that spiritual authority is validated by authentic conduct. Leaders must be trustworthy, ensuring that their private lives and public ministries are in harmony. This consistency builds confidence in those they lead and honors God, who is Himself utterly consistent and faithful. It means being "doers of the word, and not hearers only" (James 1:22).
How does this verse relate to the common phrase "walking the talk"?
Answer: 2 Corinthians 10:11 is a profound biblical articulation of the principle behind the modern phrase "walking the talk." Paul is essentially declaring that he will "walk the talk"—that the "word" (his letters) will be fully matched by his "deed" (his actions when present). It emphasizes that genuine conviction and authority are demonstrated through consistent behavior, not just through verbal declarations or written statements. For believers, "walking the talk" means living out the truths of the Gospel, allowing our actions to be a tangible expression of our faith, thereby giving credibility to our verbal witness and honoring Christ.
CHRIST-CENTERED FULFILLMENT
While 2 Corinthians 10:11 speaks to Paul's personal integrity and apostolic authority, it ultimately points to the perfect consistency and fulfillment found in Jesus Christ. Paul's striving for his "word" to match his "deed" is a reflection of the One who is the very embodiment of truth and faithfulness. Jesus is the ultimate "Word made flesh" (John 1:14), whose entire life, ministry, death, and resurrection perfectly aligned with and fulfilled every divine promise and prophecy. He did not merely speak truth; He was the Truth (John 14:6). His teachings were always substantiated by His miraculous deeds and His sinless life (Hebrews 4:15). The ultimate "deed" of Christ, His atoning sacrifice on the cross, perfectly accomplished the "word" of God's redemptive plan (Romans 5:8). Thus, Paul's commitment to consistency, while vital for his ministry, finds its perfect and complete realization in the person and work of Jesus, who flawlessly lived out every word He spoke and perfectly fulfilled the will of the Father (John 6:38).