2 Corinthians 6:9

As unknown. In this verse Paul seems to contrast outward appearance with actual fact. Some said Paul's sufferings proved he was unknown to God. But in fact, he is known by God (authenticated). Some said he was dead, because he constantly tempted death by the risks he took in proclaiming the Good News! But in fact, he was very much alive! Some saw God's punishment in the calamities which came to Paul. Yet, as he says, we are not killed, and he takes this as being the spanking of a father. [Paul's painful physical ailment (2 Corinthians 12:7) may be part of what he is thinking about here.]