1. The gospel proclaimed without eloquence (1,2)

Paul was a Pharisee. He was very well educated and must have been very eloquent in his speech. He must have also been brilliant with an extremely sharp mind. But whenever he preached the gospel, Paul never relied on his wisdom or eloquence. It is tempting to do-to show off our knowledge of the gospel and the Bible. But Paul resolved to rely on nothing but the message of Jesus Christ and him crucified.

2. Faith based on God's power (3-5)

Why didn't Paul rely on his superior wisdom and eloquence? Not only that, Paul admitted when he spoke, he did so in much weakness and trembling. It was in order to demonstrate the power of the Holy Spirit. Paul knew an important secret. Christian faith is based on God's power alone. Our faith is not based on our knowledge of the Bible. It is not based on how well we speak the gospel message either. Our faith is based on God's power alone.


Application: Father, thank you that I don't need to be eloquent or very knowledgeable to speak your message. Help me to rely only on Jesus Christ and him crucified.
One Word: Nothing but Jesus Christ and him crucified