In Word and Deed: Moral Integrity in Paul

In 2 Corinthians 10-13 Paul responds to the charge and accusations, of his opponents by an appeal to a moral vision that comes to expression in the familiar Greek phrase in word and deed (10:11). This phrase, which is as old as Homer and yet still vital in Hellenism, played an important role in articulating and evaluating the moral life not only for Paul but for ancient Mediterranean society in general. By affirming the continuity of his deeds with his word, Paul established his apostolic integrity on the basis of a moral vision grounded in a critical autonomy.