17. For this reason I am sending you Timothy, who is my beloved and faithful son in the Lord; he will remind you of my ways in Christ [Jesus], just as I teach them everywhere in every church.
18. Some have become inflated with pride, as if I were not coming to you.
19. But I will come to you soon, if the Lord is willing, and I shall ascertain not the talk of these inflated people but their power.
20. For the kingdom of God is not a matter of talk but of power.
21. Which do you prefer? Shall I come to you with a rod, or with love and a gentle spirit?