Now I Paul myself beseech you by the meekness and gentleness of Christ, who in presence am base among you, but being absent am bold toward you:
I Paul myself - no longer "we," "us," "our" (2 Corinthians 9:11). But (so Greek: But, while I deal thus tenderly with you, I can and will exercise authority) I who am represented as "base," etc. I, the same Paul, of my own accord, "exhort" you for your sake х parakaloo (G3870)]. As I "beseech you" [a distinct Greek verb, deomai (G1189): 2 Corinthians 10:2] for my sake. Eunnerling thinks Paul here began to write with his own hand. His expressing "I Paul myself" implies condescending tenderness; apostle of the world though he be, he humbly craves as a personal favour what is their own interest.
By the meekness and gentleness of Christ. He mentions these graces especially (Psalms 18:35; Matthew 11:29), as for his imitation of them in particular he was despised. He shows that, though he must have recourse to more severe measures, he is naturally inclined to gentle ones, after Christ's example. "Meekness" х prautees (G4240)] is more in the mind; "gentleness" х epieikeia (G1932)] in the external behaviour, and in relation to others, as the yieldingness of a superior to an inferior, the former not insisting on his strict rights (Trench). Bengel, 'by the meekness and gentleness derived by me from Christ,' not from my own nature: he objects to understanding it of Christ's meekness and gentleness, since nowhere else is "gentleness" attributed to Him. But though the Greek word is not applied to Him, the idea is (cf. Isaiah 40:11; Matthew 12:19-20).
In presence - in personal appearance when present with you.
Base, х tapeinos (G5011)] - 'lowly,' timid, opposed to "bold." "Am" stands here, by ironical concession, for 'am reputed' (cf. 2 Corinthians 10:10).