Vindication Of Paul's Apostolic Authority

THE REALITY OF HIS AUTHORITY (10:1-18)

1. His readiness (and reluctance) to exercise his authority (:1-6)

Reply to the charge of cowardice

2. His powerful pesonal presence --consistent with his strong letters (:7-11)

Reply to the charge of weakness

3. His legitimate sphere of authority (:12-18)

Reply to the charge of pride

PRINCIPLES DEMONSTRATING THAT SPIRITUAL AUTHORITY MUST BE JUDGED BY SPIRITUAL STANDARDS

1. Spiritual authority is given by God (:8,13)

2. Spiritual authority cannot be recognized through physical appearance or attributes (:7,12), rather we learn to judge as God judges and commend whom God commends (:18)

3. Spiritual authority is exercised in meekness (:1)

meekness is not timidity (:2,10,11)

spiritual leader must be strong to fight spiritual wars with spiritual weapons (:3-5)

4. Spiritual authority is given for edification (:8)

5. Spiritual authority will not be ashamed (or refuted) (:8)

6. Paul's Spiritual Authority within the field (probably geographical) God has assigned (:13)

7. Effectiveness of Spiritual Leader in a church is limited by the submission and faith of the church (:6,15)