Conquest, Control, and the Cross: Paul's Self-Portrayal in 2 Corinthians 10–13

St. Paul the Apostle's second letter to the Corinthians indicates that his apostolic work had become a hotly debated issue there and the apostle himself had become an object of contention. In verse 10-13 of 2 Corinthians, the apostle uses reason and emotion and paints a picture of himself as both parent and military soldier of his converts. These devices were recognized by ancient orators as part of a speaker's attempt to persuade an audience.