• 2 Corinthians 10:10
    The Kingdom Interlinear Translation of the Greek Scriptures

    • 10 ὅτι because Αἱ The ἐπιστολαὶ letters μέν, indeed, φησίν, say they, βαρεῖαι weighty καὶ and ἰσχυραί, strong, ἡ the δὲ but παρουσία presence τοῦ of the σώματος body ἀσθενὴς weak καὶ and ὁ the λόγος word ἐξουθενημένος. having been treated as utterly nothing.

  • 2 Corinthians Study Notes—Chapter 10
    New World Translation of the Holy Scriptures (Study Edition)

    • 10:10

      For they say: Paul here introduces a quote that appears to come from some of his critics in Corinth, perhaps the “superfine apostles” or those under their influence. (See study note on 2Co 11:5.) They claim that Paul’s “presence in person is weak and his speech contemptible.” However, in Lystra, the Lycaonian people mistook Paul for Hermes, a mythical Greek god of skillful speech. (See study note on Ac 14:12.) And Paul’s speeches recorded in the book of Acts show his outstanding speaking ability. (Ac 13:15-43; 17:22-34; 26:1-29) So the criticism coming from Paul’s opponents in Corinth may have been as unfounded as it was unkind and disrespectful.

      his presence in person: Paul contrasted “his presence [Greek, pa·rou·siʹa] in person” with his being “absent.” (2Co 10:11) He used pa·rou·siʹa here in the sense of being present with the brothers rather than in reference to his approach or arrival. The Greek word is used in a similar sense five other times in the Christian Greek Scriptures. (1Co 16:17; 2Co 7:6, 7; Php 1:26; 2:12) The same Greek word is also used in connection with the invisible presence of Jesus Christ. (Mt 24:3; 1Co 15:23) Although many translations render it “arrival” or “coming” when referring to Jesus’ presence, the rendering “presence” is supported by the way Paul uses the Greek word.​—See study notes on 1Co 15:23; 16:17.