Look at the obvious facts. Those who say they belong to Christ must recognize that we belong to Christ as much as they do. 8 I may seem to be boasting too much about the authority given to us by the Lord. But our authority builds you up; it doesn’t tear you down. So I will not be ashamed of using my authority.

9 I’m not trying to frighten you by my letters. 10 For some say, “Paul’s letters are demanding and forceful, but in person he is weak, and his speeches are worthless!” 11 Those people should realize that our actions when we arrive in person will be as forceful as what we say in our letters from far away. NLT

Remember, Paul combined ”the gentleness and kindness of Christ” (1) in his ”appeal” to the Corinthians. In his general approach he had balanced toughness and tenderness, but this had led to the charge that Paul was one thing in his letters, but another thing entirely in person. However, he makes it clear that when he visits the church again, he will not hesitate to use his God-given authority if he has to. But he also shows us, in this chapter, that church discipline is essentially constructive and not destructive. The authority he has is for building people up and not tearing them down. Amidst, at times, necessary disciplinary procedures, Jesus goes on building His church, through His people who stay fully loyal to Him.

” For this reason I write these things while I am away from you, that when I come I may not have to be severe in my use of the authority that the Lord has given me for building up and not for tearing down.” 2 Corinthians 13:10 ESVUK.

This is pastoral authority. It is essentially constructive. It is always the authority of the servant.