2 Corinthians 1 - Apostolic Authority and Motive

The letter of 2 Corinthians opens with a pretty typical greeting from one of the Lord's apostles. However, in light of the context of the letter in Paul dealing with opposition in the church from men claiming to be apostles, what is the significance of him describing himself as an apostle "by the will of God?" What is the authority that the office of an apostle chosen by Christ carried? What does the motivation of these men and the description of their lives and ministry's teach us about true church leadership? Consider these things in another episode of transforming our thinking through the power of God's Word.