Thesis (Ph.D.)--Boston University / The problem of this dissertation is Paul's weakness in II Corinthians 10-13 as the polemical issue upon which the legitimacy of his apostleship depended. In this investigation, the Pauline polemic is regarded as the basic perspective from which both Corinthian theology and Pauline theological motifs are to be examined. The approach taken to the problem, therefore, is distinguished from attempts to reconstruct Corinthian theology as well as from motif-research in Pauline theology. "Weakness" in II Corinthians 10-13 was the term which the Corinthians used for the purpose of characterizing Paul's apostleship, and only in this sense did it become a polemical issue. This characterization of Paul originated from his missionary stance which was expressed in his words and conduct. Though his opponents in Corinth highly esteemed pneumatic demonstrations, it is not likely that Paul was regarded as weak because of his inability to perform them. His claim of equality with the so-called superlative apostles is supported with his reminder to the Corinthians of his previous ministry. [TRUNCATED] / 2031-01-01