1 Corinthians 4:14-21

New International Version

Paul’s Appeal and Warning

¹⁴ I am writing this not to shame you^(A) but to warn you as my dear children.^{(B) 15} Even if you had ten thousand guardians in Christ, you do not have many fathers, for in Christ Jesus I became your father^(C) through the gospel.^{(D) 16} Therefore I urge you to imitate me.^{(E) 17} For this reason I have sent to you^(F) Timothy,^(G) my son^(H) whom I love, who is faithful in the Lord. He will remind you of my way of life in Christ Jesus, which agrees with what I teach everywhere in every church.^(I)

¹⁸ Some of you have become arrogant,^(J) as if I were not coming to you.^{(K) 19} But I will come to you very soon,^(L) if the Lord is willing,^(M) and then I will find out not only how these arrogant people are talking, but what power they have. ²⁰ For the kingdom of God is not a matter of^(N) talk but of power.^{(O) 21} What do you prefer? Shall I come to you with a rod of discipline,^(P) or shall I come in love and with a gentle spirit?