This reflection has a somewhat controversial tone. Apparently, some preachers in Corinth presented themselves with letters of recommendation—possibly from the authorities in Jerusalem or Antioch—which was a common practice in both civil and Christian contexts (cf. Acts 18:27; Rom 16:1f; 1 Cor 4:10). It is likely that Paul’s opponents displayed these documents as proof of legitimacy and to cover up their deceitfulness. Paul rhetorically asks the Corinthians if he needs recommendations and responds with a powerful image: they, the Corinthians, are his letter of recommendation from Christ. This letter, written by the Spirit, is the New Covenant, of which the Apostle claims to be a servant—not based on his own merit, but through the power given to him by Christ.