The Change of tone in II Corinthians chapter 10 has caused critics to doubt the cohesiveness of the letter through the years. This shift in Paul's focus makes perfect sense, however, when one considers the basic structure of the epistle. Paul gives the prescription (suffering my design) followed by the diagnosis (self-serving apostasy). Evidently this exhortation was difficult for Corinth, as history records yet further rebuke from Clement of Rome in the late first century for this church's lingering obstinance. II Corinthians is a difficult and necessary message for the church even (if not especially) today!