We reach the central part of the letter. Up to this point, Paul has defended himself against his critics. Now he describes his ‘ideal’ of the mission of an apostle of Christ. He speaks openly, shaped by many years of missionary work. He believes that “a crucified man” is the best messenger of the Crucified One. But just as Christ’s death brought life to him and to everyone else, so the suffering of the Apostle brings life to the community: death in us and life in you (12). With this hope, the Apostle faces his hardships with joy and confidence, concluding that “he who raised the Lord Jesus will raise us up with Jesus and bring us with you into his presence” (14).