As nothing can be written, either so perfectly, or with so great affection and zeal, which is not Unprofitable to many, and resisted be some: so the first epistle written by S. Paul to the Corinthians, besides to purity and perfection of the doctrine, sheweth a love toward them far passing all natural affections: which did not only not profit all, but hardened the hearts of many to remain in their stubbornness, and contemn the Apostle’s authority. By reason whereof S. Paul, being let with just occasions to come unto them, wrote this epistle from Macedonia, minding to accomplish the work which he had begun among them. First therefore he wisheth them well in the Lord, declaring that albeit certain wicked persons abused his afflictions to condemn thereby his authority, yet they were necessary schoolings, and sent to him by God for their bettering. And where as they blame his long absence, it came of no inconstancy, but to bear with their inability and imperfection, lest contrary to his fatherly affection, he should have been compelled to use rigor and severity. And as touching his sharp writing in the former epistle, it came through their faute, as is now evident both in that, that he pardoneth the trespasser, seeing he doeth repent: and also in that he was unquiet in his mind, till he was certified by Titus of their estate. But forasmuch as the false Apostles went about to undermine his authority, he confuteth their arrogant brags, and commendeth his office, and the diligent executing of the same: so that Satan must have greatly blinded their eyes, which see not the brightness of the Gospel in his preaching: the effect whereof is newness of life, forsaking of our selves, cleaving to God, fleeing from idolatry, embracing the true doctrine, and that sorrow which engendreth true repentance: to the which is joined mercy and compassion towards our brethren: also wisdom to put difference betwixt the simplicity of the Gospel, and the arrogancy of the false preachers, who under pretence of preaching the truth, sought only to fill their bellies, where as he contrariwise, sought them, and not their goods, as those ambitious persons slandered him: wherefore at his coming he menaceth such as rebel against his authority, that he will declare by lively example, that he is the faithful ambassador of Jesus Christ.