So many seek self-validation, or the validation of others. More problematic is the fact that society in general requires the same. It seems the wisdom of the day is that if you don’t brag about yourself, then you have little chance to be accepted. Think of the constant self-promotion of politicians as an example.
Paul here objected to that. While some may need it to bolster themselves, Paul’s validation came from the Corinthians themselves. They knew of Paul’s legitimate ministry in Christ because they themselves benefitted from it. His words, “clearly you are an epistle of Christ, ministered by us” (3).
The contrast is wonderful, where others need the written word, to get a “letter of commendation” to be accepted, Paul depended upon the epistle of Christ, written on the heart of those he ministered to, the Corinthians themselves!
Some might have been grudging in their acceptance. That was their problem, not the problem of Paul. His work spoke for itself!
