...by the meekness and gentleness of Christ, I appeal to you—I, Paul, who am ‘timid’ when face to face with you, but ‘bold’ when away! I beg you that when I come I may not have to be as bold as I expect to be toward some people who think that we live by the standards of this world… - 2 Corinthians 10:1-2 (NKJV)

How clear can Paul be about the proper use of authority? Paul was the conduit, the channel of the authority of God. Jesus is THE Authority and is “meek and gentle” in His dealings with us. His unlimited power is used for our benefit because He is meek and gentle.

That does not mean that He is timid! Meekness is best defined as “power under control.” Jesus’ vast power is not used like the power of a bomb, which is very destructive. Instead, His power is controlled like electricity that powers our lights and other beneficial tools and appliances.

When you use the power of God’s authority, you do not try to change people – that is Christ’s role. You hope, pray, encourage, exhort, and rebuke, but leave the change up to them and God. That is what Paul did. He was the messenger that things would not go well if they continued to do what Christ stated was sinful and inappropriate behavior.

And notice that Paul did not say anything about his power or authority. He called the Corinthians' attention to God’s authority and power. Our power is irrelevant; if you do not believe that, you will try to control instead of calling people back to God’s standards.