2 Corinthians 12:13

In irony again Paul appealed to his readers for forgiveness because he had not treated them as he had a right to do as an apostle. It was only in refraining from demanding his rights of support as an apostle that Paul had not treated the Corinthians as an apostle would normally do (cf. 2 Corinthians 11:5-12; 1 Corinthians 9:1-18). He had given them special privileges. This treatment had led some to criticize him.

Paul’s focusing on the signs (evidences) of an apostle rather than on the rights of an apostle is helpful for all servants of the Lord to observe. We, too, should concentrate on demonstrating the proofs of our ambassadorship in our works, especially our perseverance, rather than expecting those we serve to follow us because we claim our rights. We need to earn the respect of those we serve with our works rather than demanding it because of our position.