1)
Is exposed rebuke better than hidden love?
1.
Malbim: The verse discusses exposed rebuke from (due to) hidden love. If one rebukes his friend for his evil way, and it is amidst hidden love, like a father who rebukes his son, this is amidst his great love - "Ki Es Asher Ye'ehav Hashem Yochi'ach" (3:12). Even though the rebuke is open, it is very good.