Now I pray God that ye do no evil To give me occasion of showing my apostolical power; not that we should appear approved I desire not to appear approved by miraculously punishing you; but that ye may do that which is honest Το καλον, that which is beautiful, amiable, and good; though we should be as if we were disapproved
Having no occasion to give that proof of our apostleship. For we can do nothing against the truth Neither against that which is just and right, nor against those who walk according to the truths of the gospel. As if he had said, Walk as becomes the gospel, and you shall have no need to fear my power; for I have no power against those that so walk: but for the truth In support of the gospel, and for spreading the knowledge of it; or, to encourage persons in the ways of piety and virtue, and to bring those into them that go astray therefrom. For we are glad when we are weak When we appear so, having no occasion to use our apostolic power; and ye are strong In gifts and graces; and this we wish, even your perfection In faith, love, and obedience, that you may fully reform whatever is amiss, either in principle or practice; and that God would make you perfect in every good work to do his will, working in you that which is well pleasing in his sight, Hebrews 13:21. Therefore I write these things Thus largely, by way of counsel, caution, threatening, &c.; being absent That you may reform; lest If you do not, that, being present, I should use sharpness Or severity; according to the divine and extraordinary power which the Lord Christ hath given me for the edification of his people, and not to the destruction of men's lives and comforts.