1 Corinthians 4 21

1 Corinthians 4:21 kjv

What will ye? shall I come unto you with a rod, or in love, and in the spirit of meekness?

1 Corinthians 4:21 nkjv

What do you want? Shall I come to you with a rod, or in love and a spirit of gentleness?

1 Corinthians 4:21 niv

What do you prefer? Shall I come to you with a rod of discipline, or shall I come in love and with a gentle spirit?

1 Corinthians 4:21 esv

What do you wish? Shall I come to you with a rod, or with love in a spirit of gentleness?

1 Corinthians 4:21 nlt

Which do you choose? Should I come with a rod to punish you, or should I come with love and a gentle spirit?

1 Corinthians 4 verses

1 Corinthians 4 21 Meaning

This verse poses a rhetorical question from the Apostle Paul to the Corinthians. He asks if they would prefer him to come with a "rod" or with "love and a spirit of gentleness." This choice reflects Paul's potential approach to correcting and guiding the Corinthian church, indicating a readiness to discipline if necessary but a preference for a gentle, loving approach.

1 Corinthians 4 21 Context

First Corinthians chapter 4 addresses the issue of spiritual authority and leadership. Paul had been accused of being weak and ineffective when present among the Corinthians but strong in his letters. In response, he asserts his apostolic authority and his intention to come to them. Before his arrival, he warns them that he might need to use a stern approach, symbolizing a "rod" for correction, or he could come with a spirit of love and gentleness. This chapter follows discussions about divisions, boasting, and spiritual pride within the Corinthian church, highlighting the need for Paul to address these issues authoritatively but also lovingly.

1 Corinthians 4 21 Word Analysis

• Will (Greek: $\theta\epsilon\acute{\lambda}\omega$, thelō): This indicates a desire, volition, or willingness. Paul is asking what they prefer from his available options.
• I (Greek: $\epsilon\gamma\acute{\omega}$, egō): The first-person singular pronoun, emphasizing Paul's personal involvement and agency.
• Come (Greek: $\epsilon\acute{\lambda}\theta\omega$, elthō): From $\epsilon\rho\chi\acute{o}\mu\alpha\iota$, erchomai, meaning to come or go. Refers to his anticipated physical presence.
• To (Greek: $\pi\rho\acute{o}\varsigma$, pros): Indicates direction towards.
• You (Greek: $\upsilon\mu\alpha\hat{\varsigma}$, hymas): The second-person plural pronoun, referring to the church at Corinth.
• With (Greek: $\epsilon\nu$, en): A preposition indicating "in," "with," or "by." Here it signifies the manner or instrument.
• A (Greek: $\mu\acute{\iota}\alpha$, mia - feminine, agreeing with "rod"): Article used to indicate one.
• Rod (Greek: $\rho\acute{\alpha}\beta\delta\omicron\varsigma$, rhabdos): This refers to a staff or a rod. In a context of discipline, it symbolizes corrective authority, chastisement, or punitive action. It is not necessarily a physical rod but a metaphor for the power to correct severely.
• Or (Greek: $\eta\acute{\eta}$, ē): Conjunction presenting an alternative.
• Love (Greek: $\alpha\gamma\acute{\alpha}\pi\eta$, agapē): The highest form of love, self-sacrificing and unconditional. This denotes a tender, benevolent, and affectionate disposition.
• And (Greek: $\kappa\alpha\acute{\iota}$, kai): Conjunction connecting "love" and "spirit."
• Spirit (Greek: $\pi\nu\epsilon\hat{\upsilon}\mu\alpha$, pneuma): Refers to the Holy Spirit or, more broadly, a disposition or attitude. In this context, it points to a disposition.
• Of (Greek: implied possession/association):
• Gentleness (Greek: $\pi\rho\alpha\epsilon\acute{\iota}\alpha$, praeotes): This is a significant term, translating meekness, gentleness, or mildness. It describes a controlled strength, a disposition that is not easily provoked and exercises gentleness even in the face of opposition or provocation. It is often paired with self-control.

Group Analysis:

The contrast is between two distinct approaches: "with a rod" versus "with love and a spirit of gentleness." The former signifies a mode of authority that could involve rebuke and discipline if the situation warrants, while the latter expresses a desire for a relational, Christ-like approach characterized by deep affection and a gentle disposition. Paul’s framing implies that both approaches are within his authority as an apostle, but he presents the choice to the Corinthians, urging them to reflect on their own conduct which will dictate his response.

1 Corinthians 4 21 Bonus Section

The rhetorical question "Shall I come unto you with a rod, or with love, and the spirit of gentleness?" serves as a stark choice that places the responsibility for Paul’s approach largely on the Corinthians themselves. It's a mature and self-aware way of addressing difficult situations. Paul doesn't act arbitrarily; his approach is a response to their spiritual condition. The Greek word praeotes (gentleness/meekness) is one of the key "fruits of the Spirit" and a hallmark of Christ Himself. This verse highlights that genuine spiritual authority is not about dominance but about loving service and the readiness to correct according to the Spirit's leading, always aiming for the edification of the body of Christ.

1 Corinthians 4 21 Commentary

Paul is concluding his explanation of apostolic authority and his defense against critics. He asks the Corinthians to consider the manner in which he will finally confront their issues upon his arrival. Will they compel him to adopt a stern, corrective posture akin to wielding a rod (implying judgment and discipline, perhaps reflecting their divisions and disunity), or will he be able to come in the spirit of genuine Christian love and gentle humility (reflecting the fruit of the Spirit)? The question is a powerful, yet indirect, call for self-examination and repentance on their part, so that he might deal with them lovingly, reflecting the character of Christ. It underscores the principle that church leaders have the authority to discipline, but also the responsibility to do so with love and gentleness, seeking restoration.

• Practical Application: When addressing sin or error in a community or individual, leaders (and all believers) should first consider the approach of love and gentleness, reflecting Christ. However, they must also be prepared to exercise necessary discipline if love and gentleness alone do not yield repentance, following Christ's example in tough love for the spiritual well-being of all.