1 Do you think I am a coward when I am with you and brave when I am far away? Well, I ask you to listen, because Christ himself was humble and gentle.
2 Some people have said that we act like the people of this world. So when I arrive, I expect I will have to be firm and forceful in what I say to them. Please don't make me treat you that way.
3 We live in this world, but we don't act like its people
4 or fight our battles with the weapons of this world. Instead, we use God's power that can destroy fortresses. We destroy arguments
5 and every bit of pride that keeps anyone from knowing God. We capture people's thoughts and make them obey Christ.
6 And when you completely obey him, we will punish anyone who refuses to obey.
7 You judge by appearances. If any of you think you are the only ones who belong to Christ, then think again. We belong to Christ as much as you do.