In 2 Corinthians 3, the apostle Paul discussed his reputation toward the Corinthians. They knew him well, having received letters and strong teaching from him in the past. So, he did not need to introduce himself to them in an attempt by reputation to make his letters more influential to their faith. First, he stated in verse one to have no need to “commend” himself to them. They knew his authority and the truthfulness of his words to them.
Second, he acknowledged that others might need this. In fact, he needed it himself early in his ministry, as he was not accepted by the church in Jerusalem until Barnabas interceded on his behalf (cf. Acts 9:26-28). Others not known by the Corinthians could benefit from such an introduction, or perhaps the Corinthians could help a lesser known name by sending out commendations themselves. Notice Paul’s rhetorical questions, “Or do we need, as some others, epistles of commendation to you or letters of commendation from you?” (1).
There are legitimate reasons why such letters might be needed by some. An introduction of a new individual, given by someone the Corinthians knew or trusted could be beneficial. There are other, less noble reasons. It could be that a letter of commendation offers an illegitimate claim of faithfulness, or fails to reveal sin or troubling faults of the one introduced.
Regardless, it was not needed by Paul. He was an apostle, having been given the position by the Lord Himself, (cf. Galatians 1:1). This, the Corinthians knew.
More to the point in Paul’s actual relationship with the Corinthians are the following words, “You are our epistle written in our hearts, known and read by all men; clearly you are an epistle of Christ, ministered by us, written not with ink but by the Spirit of the living God, not on tablets of stone but on tablets of flesh, that is, of the heart” (3:2-3).
Two clear points are here made. First, Paul’s reputation was established by the Corinthians themselves. His teaching, their acceptance of it, and clear repentance when convicted of their sin, revealed to men just how effective, authoritative and dedicated Paul was.
Second, Paul acknowledged to be only a minister. So, his effectiveness among them was because he served Jesus Christ. As such, we see the importance of our own influence, showing Christ’s teachings on “tablets of flesh, that is, of the heart.” This augments (but does not replace) the written word. We are the light of the world! An influence that any and all can see! (cf. Matthew 5:16).
