1 Corinthians 4:16-21

16Therefore I urge you, imitate me.

17For this reason I have sent Timothy to you, who is my beloved and faithful son in the Lord, who will remind you of my ways in Christ, as I teach everywhere in every church.

18Now some are puffed up, as though I were not coming to you.

19But I will come to you shortly, if the Lord wills, and I will know, not the word of those who are puffed up, but the power.

20For the kingdom of God is not in word but in power.

21What do you want? Shall I come to you with a rod, or in love and a spirit of gentleness?