Expositor's Bible Commentary Commentary 2 Corinthians 13:3

"seeing that ye seek a proof of Christ that speaketh in me; who to you-ward is not weak, but is powerful in you:" — 2 Corinthians 13:3 (ASV)

It seemed as if in their immaturity the Corinthians were unimpressed by Christlike gentleness and meekness (10:1) but were overawed by arbitrary displays of power (11:20). In their misguided judgment, Paul’s gentle demeanor raised doubts about his claim to apostolic authority; he had to give them some proof that Christ in his resurrection power was speaking through him. His reply was that, though he had previously been “weak” in the Corinthian estimation (10:1, 10), his impending severity would provide sufficient proof that he was a spokesman of Christ and that Christ was powerful among them. The Corinthians had in effect challenged Christ, who would not disappoint them as he exhibited his resurrection power through his apostle.