John Calvin Commentary 2 Corinthians 2:16

"to the one a savor from death unto death; to the other a savor from life unto life. And who is sufficient for these things?" — 2 Corinthians 2:16 (ASV)

And who is sufficient for these things? This exclamation is thought by some to be introduced as a way to guard against arrogance, because he confesses that to discharge the office of a good Apostle to Christ is something that exceeds all human power, and thus he ascribes the praise to God. Others think that he is noting the small number of good ministers.

In my opinion, there is an implied contrast that is expressed shortly afterward. “Profession, it is true, is common, and many confidently boast; but to possess the reality indicates a rare and distinguished excellence. I claim nothing for myself except what will be discovered to be in me if put to the test.”

Accordingly, since those who share the office of instructor indiscriminately claim the title for themselves, Paul, by claiming a distinctive excellence for himself, separates himself from the herd of those who had little or no experience of the influence of the Spirit.