1 Corinthians 4:20-21
1 Corinthians 4:18-21 The Message (MSG)
I know there are some among you who are so full of themselves they never listen to anyone, let alone me. They don’t think I’ll ever show up in person. But I’ll be there sooner than you think, God willing, and then we’ll see if they’re full of anything but hot air. God’s Way is not a matter of mere talk; it’s an empowered life. So how should I prepare to come to you? As a severe disciplinarian who makes you walk the line? Or as a good friend and counselor who wants to share heart-to-heart with you? You decide.
1 Corinthians 4:20-21 King James Version (KJV)
For the kingdom of God is not in word, but in power. What will ye? shall I come unto you with a rod, or in love, and in the spirit of meekness?
1 Corinthians 4:20-21 New American Standard Bible - NASB 1995 (NASB1995)
For the kingdom of God does not consist in words but in power. What do you desire? Shall I come to you with a rod, or with love and a spirit of gentleness?
1 Corinthians 4:20-21 New Century Version (NCV)
because the kingdom of God is present not in talk but in power. Which do you want: that I come to you with punishment or with love and gentleness?
1 Corinthians 4:20-21 American Standard Version (ASV)
For the kingdom of God is not in word, but in power. What will ye? shall I come unto you with a rod, or in love and a spirit of gentleness?
1 Corinthians 4:20-21 New International Version (NIV)
For the kingdom of God is not a matter of talk but of power. 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 4:20-21 New King James Version (NKJV)
For the kingdom of God is not in word but in power. What do you want? Shall I come to you with a rod, or in love and a spirit of gentleness?
1 Corinthians 4:20-21 Amplified Bible (AMP)
For the kingdom of God is not based on talk but on power. Which do you prefer? Shall I come to you with a rod [of discipline and correction], or with love and a gentle spirit?
1 Corinthians 4:20-21 New Living Translation (NLT)
For the Kingdom of God is not just a lot of talk; it is living by God’s power. Which do you choose? Should I come with a rod to punish you, or should I come with love and a gentle spirit?