1 Corinthians 4:18-21
4:18 Some have become arrogant, 1 as if I were not coming to you.
4:19 But I will come to you soon, if the Lord is willing, and I will find out not only the talk of these arrogant people, but also their power.
4:20 For the kingdom of God is demonstrated not in idle talk but with power.
4:21 What do you want? Shall I come to you with a rod of discipline 2 or with love and a spirit of gentleness?
1 tn Grk “puffed up”; “inflated.”
2 tn Grk “rod.” Context indicates that this rod will be used for disciplinary purposes.
sn Paul is using the term rod in this context to refer to his apostolic authority to discipline those who have become arrogant in the Corinthian church and have attempted to undermine his ministry (cf. 4:18-19).