What does 1 Corinthians 4:19 mean?

Paul has described some arrogant people among the Corinthians: those who will not respond to instruction to them to change their ways. In part, this resistance is because they don't think Paul is coming back to see them in person. Having described their relationship as that of a father and little children, he creates a picture of kids who are rebelling because dad is away from the house. They disobey because they don't think their "father" will catch them in the act.

Paul now insists, though, that he is coming to see them, if the Lord wills. Paul often describes his travel plans as being open to change by God's will (1 Corinthians 16:7; Romans 1:10; 15:32; 1 Thessalonians 3:11; Philemon 1:22).

Paul says that he wants to find out how much power these arrogant people will have when he stands face-to-face with them. He's not worried about their tough talk, but with what power they will demonstrate it. This is an interesting thing for Paul to criticize. The error is parallel to much of the "brave talk" seen on social media. People are often more aggressive, arrogant, or "tough" when they don't think they'll be confronted with another person, in person.

Paul is not trash talking or threatening anyone. The Corinthians will remember the impressive displays of the Holy Spirit's supernatural power that God used to back up Paul's preaching of the gospel (1 Corinthians 2:1–5). Paul is reminding his readers that same power continues to show that God's authority is with Paul. Will those living in rebellion against Paul's teaching in Corinth continue to resist when faced with this power once more?