What is the context?
Paul says he is coming a third time. He recalls the warning he gave when he was with them the second time and now warns those who sinned earlier, along with everyone else. The coming visit will bring unresolved disobedience into the open.
He cites the rule that a matter must be established by two or three witnesses. Deuteronomy 19:15–21 gives that rule in a setting that also calls for careful investigation of accusations. Paul places accountability alongside a standard for establishing what happened.
The Corinthians have demanded proof that Christ speaks through him. Paul answers by pointing to Christ’s power among them. His own apparent weakness does not exhaust what they will encounter when he comes.
Christ Himself was crucified in weakness and lives by God’s power. Paul places his own weakness and the power at work through his ministry within that pattern. The warning prepares them to take his appeal seriously before the visit.
How is this passage commonly understood?
Christians commonly understand this as a serious warning about accountability, grounded in the power of the risen Christ. Wesley’s notes on verses 2–4 and the USCCB notes on verses 2–4 both connect Paul’s weakness and authority with that power.
Where does this fit in God's plan?
Acts 2:22–24 explicitly places Jesus’ death within God’s purpose and proclaims that God raised Him from the dead. The crucified Jesus is the living Lord through whom God is carrying out His saving work.
That gives the weakness-and-power pattern its larger setting. Paul represents this risen Lord, and his service depends on the power of the God who raised Christ.
What is our position?
We don't have a position on this passage yet. When our study reaches a conclusion the text supports, it will appear here.