10:9-11
We get back to the accusation that in person Paul is weak and timid (see 10:1), but bold and forceful from afar, ie in his letters. He is also accused of not being a good speaker (see 1 Cor 2:1), and oratory was greatly valued in the culture of the time. Paul is not so much interested in the accusation that he is weak in person, but addresses the one about being bold in his letters. He stresses that he does not want to frighten them in his letters.
Paul finishes by declaring that he is actually the same in his letters as he is in person. The letters are not empty rhetoric, but would be backed up with action.
10:12
We now get more information on the opponents, and Paul is quite dismissive of them. The opponents boasted about themselves, and used themselves as the measure. Paul is being sarcastic when he says that he and his workers do not dare to compare themselves with the opponents. The only one we should measure ourselves against is Christ. This will have two effects. First, we will never boast, for we can never be anything like the equal of Christ. Secondly, it will urge us on to constant improvement, seeking to become ever more Christlike. This is a useful comparison to make, unlike comparing ourselves with ourselves, or even to others, will produce unjustified pride and complacency.
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