1 CorinthiansНамуна

In this section, Paul revisits what he emphasized in the previous chapter: it is not about the person, but about the intervention of the Holy Spirit. Using his own example, Paul makes it clear that he did not rely on impressive rhetoric or human wisdom. Instead, he proclaimed “only” Jesus Christ and him crucified. Nothing more. Nothing less. That was his mission—and it is also our mission as the church and for each one of us individually.

Paul did not preach from his own power or personal strength, but in fear and trembling, in weakness and anxiety. And yet, it was precisely in his weakness that the power of God was displayed. It is a paradoxical principle of the Kingdom of God: in weakness, God’s power is at work.

The “mystery” Paul speaks of here is further explained in Ephesians 3:1–7: it is about the Gentiles becoming sharers in salvation through Jesus. God’s promises to Abraham, that through him all nations would be blessed, find their fulfillment in Jesus, who is the Redeemer of all peoples. It is a truth that remains hidden from the natural mind and can only be recognized through the Holy Spirit. The Holy Spirit plays a crucial role. He reveals to us the truth about God and His actions. Without the Holy Spirit, we cannot understand God’s thoughts or accept His gift of salvation.

For Discussion

Paul describes how he felt weak in his preaching and stood before the Corinthians with fear and trembling. Where have you experienced something similar? How did you experience Jesus in that situation?