5:11–15 In this section, Paul draws a conclusion (note the “therefore,” Since, then [oun], in v. 11) to the previous discussion. He rejects the opponents’ physical criterion for assessing the legitimacy of his apostolic office and seeks instead to establish valid, internal criteria.

5:11 The conclusion begins in verse 11, the expression fear the Lord tying in with what Paul has said about the judgment seat of Christ in verse 10. Since he is well aware that all people must give an account of their actions in the final judgment, Paul carries out his apostolic ministry in reverence before the “Lord,” which means here either God or Christ, since both are seated together on the merkabah and perform activities interchangeably (see on v. 10). His previous encounters with the divine merkabah (cf.…