In chapter 9, Paul joyfully encourages generous Christian giving. In chapter 10, he turns to defend his apostolic ministry against critics who questioned his authority. At first glance these subjects seem unrelated, but together they teach us that the Christian life is both a life of open hands and a life of spiritual battle. Believers are called to give generously because God has given generously to us. At the same time, we are called to fight—not with worldly weapons, b