One of the most striking features of Paul’s explanation to the Corinthians of the mindset and motives that were at work in this letter, is the CONFIDENCE that he expresses. Paul is confident that, ultimately, the Corinthians will respond rightly.
What is equally striking is that he doesn’t just express his confidence, he insists on the legitimate nature of it. He writes, “But just as everything we said to you was true, so also our boasting before Titus has proved true (vs.14).” And then he writes, “I have perfect confidence in you (vs.16).”