1. AM I not an apostle (a special messenger)? Am I not free (unrestrained and exempt from any obligation)? Have I not seen Jesus our Lord? Are you [yourselves] not [the product and proof of] my workmanship in the Lord?
2. Even if I am not considered an apostle (a special messenger) by others, at least I am one to you; for you are the seal (the certificate, the living evidence) of my apostleship in the Lord [confirming and authenticating it].
3. This is my [real ground of] defense (my vindication of myself) to those who would put me on trial and cross-examine me.
4. Have we not the right to our food and drink [at the expense of the churches]?