Paul is confident to carry out his calling to preach Jesus in Corinth because of the promise he receives of divine protection, and the assurance he receives of divine election. He knows, as can we, that through the words of Jesus’ messengers, the Good Shepherd calls out to his own sheep; and though our words are imperfect and inadequate, His voice – the voice of the Good Shepherd – rings out loud and clear through our dull words; His sheep hear His voice and will follow their Shepherd.