Boldness and Grace

Speaking with Love and Confidence

Courage in Conversation: Finding Strength in 2 Corinthians 10:1 

In 2 Corinthians 10:1, Paul’s statement—“I, Paul, am 'timid' when face to face with you, but 'bold' when away”—reveals a vulnerability that is both relatable and instructive. Paul, though a bold preacher of the gospel, experienced hesitation and a sense of intimidation when engaging in face-to-face confrontations, a sentiment many of us share in difficult situations. His candidness is a reminder that even the most devoted leaders struggle with their humanity.

William Barclay, in his commentary on 2 Corinthians, points out that Paul’s critics in Corinth accused him of being bold only when writing letters, but timid in person. However, Barclay notes that Paul’s boldness stemmed not from personal arrogance but from the confidence in his mission and trust in Christ. Barclay adds, "True Christian courage is not about never feeling fear, but about doing the right thing despite that fear." 

Balancing Boldness and Gentleness in Difficult Dialogues

Richard Foster, in his reflections on communication, emphasizes the importance of humility and love in all interactions. He warns against the dangers of rash or hasty communications, saying, "We must learn to pause and reflect before we respond, especially in the age of instant messages and emails. Our words must be seasoned with grace."

Timid Yet Bold: Paul's Example of Godly Communication

Eugene Peterson, in The Message, renders 2 Corinthians 10:1 with an emphasis on Paul's compassionate approach: "And now a personal but most urgent matter: I write in the gentle but firm spirit of Christ." Peterson's focus on gentleness aligns with Paul’s overall goal—not to tear down the Corinthians, but to build them up with firmness and love.

Matthew Henry, commenting on this passage, highlights Paul’s wisdom in choosing his approach to communication. "There is a time for boldness and a time for gentleness," Henry writes, "and Paul, knowing the Corinthians’ weaknesses, used letters to speak truth when personal confrontation might have caused more harm than good."

The wisdom you reflect on is crucial in our time, especially with how easily emotions can be misread in written communication. Sending off "cross emails" can escalate a situation and cause damage. Proverbs 15:1 reminds us, "A gentle answer turns away wrath, but a harsh word stirs up anger." In difficult conversations, whether face-to-face or through letters, the goal should always be to build up and not tear down.

Lessons from Paul’s Letters

Reflecting on Paul's example, the best course is often a combination of courage, tact, and grace—whether in person or through thoughtful written communication.

Let us Pray

Lord, give me the wisdom and grace to approach difficult conversations with humility and love. Help me to speak boldly when necessary, but always with gentleness and compassion. Guard my words, whether spoken or written, and let them be instruments of peace and understanding. In Jesus’ name, Amen.

Soli Deo Gloria