Corinth, was a large and prosperous city, major center of trade and communication. In Paul’s time it was a cosmopolitan place, home of a wide range of philosophers and religions. Paul’s mission was to spread the world that Jesus was soon to come again. Until then, believers must live in the world and live how God wants you to live. He traveled to the church of Corinth because he saw the community was divided and was in disbelief at how the church was excepting immoral and scandalous behavior. When Paul attended this church he treated the Corinth’s community as friends but did not get the same response from the majority of the church. In 2 Corinthians Paul has the same tune but different tone. The tone changes in chapter ten. The “Painful” letter was a letter about, Paul’s relationship with the Corinthians over a long period of time. Written soon after Paul’s public humiliation and before his reconciliation with the Corinthians

Paul’s letter starts off by saying he comes with gentleness and meekness which comes from Christ. Although gentleness is what Paul claims to have it is not what is expressed. He claims to be full of bold towards the Corinthian’s and humble when face to face. Knowing he is tempted to be bold towards the Corinthians face to face he writes a letter. The prolog of chapter ten, gives a clear understanding of how Paul wanted the people of Corinth to interrupt his letter.  Paul has to state how his letter should be approached because of misunderstanding from the superapostles. The superapostles was a name Paul sarcastically called newcomers who came in his midst and congregation that opposed him (also known as the Corinthians from the Corinth church). Paul states in chapter 10:9-11 how some say he is strong and weightily in his letters but in person he is weak and his speech is unworthy Corth. 2 10:11.

As discussed in Ehrman Paul threatens to make a third visit to the congregation. Describing the superapostles as false apostles, ministers of Satan who prey on the minds of the Corinthians 11:12-14. Paul says, “their end will match their deeds.” Paul’s tone is bitter in 10-13.

Paul is excepting what is said about him and not letting the negative judgments tear him apart but build him stronger. With all the insults, persecutions and hardships of weakness Paul finds himself content because he knows God will help him become stronger.