Why did Paul write 1 Corinthians before visiting the church at Corinth?
Paul wrote 1 Corinthians as a preparatory letter before visiting the church at Corinth, aiming to appeal to them in love and meekness. He preferred not to come with a rod, wrath, and anger, since harsh measures were not his nature unless absolutely necessary.
Les explains that in 1 Corinthians 4:21 Paul asks the Corinthians whether he should come with a rod, in wrath and anger, or in love and the spirit of meekness. Les notes Paul would choose love and meekness, since harsh measures were not his nature unless absolutely necessary. Thus, this letter was preparatory to his coming to the congregation in Corinth so he could appeal to them in love and meekness.
What will ye? shall I come unto you with a rod, or in love, and in the spirit of meekness?