Paul has a history of setting up churches and then being dogged by apostolic imposters after he's gone. These false teachers then begin to undermine Paul's work in the Gospel as they attack his character; question his authority; and attempt to refute his theology.
But once again, Paul's having to answer his accusers provides us with another unique insight into God's work in the lives of believers. In this case, answering their demand for letters of commendation.
In an age without the benefit of an Internet search or even a telephone, it was not uncommon to send someone traveling to another place of work with letters of recommendation.
These interlopers at Corinth no doubt came with their own ‘letters of recommendation' since all indications are that no one knew who they were. They probably received their letters from the Pharisaic branch of the Jerusalem Council (Acts 15:5).
They berated Paul for not having letters of recommendation. And now they are insisting that Paul produce his own.
Paul would have preferred not to have to defend himself. He knew the work was way beyond any human authority or recognition when he said, “Who is adequate for these things?” (2:16).
Still, he knew that defending himself was crucial because he was God's chosen instrument for communicating Gospel truth. And if he can be successfully discredited, it would hinder the flow of transformational truth to the Corinthians.
Paul's response is simple: “You are our letter, written in our hearts, known and read by all men” (v2). No matter where they go; no matter who they see, there's no denying the transformation in these Corinthian believers. They themselves are his letter.
Featuring a sermon puts it on the front page of the site and is the most effective way to bring this sermon to the attention of thousands including all mobile platforms + newsletter.
Text-Featuring a sermon is a less expensive way to bring this sermon to the attention of thousands on the right bar with optional newsletter inclusion. As low as $30/day.
