Paul brought his message in weakness. What this weakness
was is not clear. Perhaps Paul is referring to a health problem that he had at the time when he was in Corinth, or to the violent opposition that he encountered there (Acts 18:1–17). He may even be referring to his deficiencies in the art of rhetoric.
Whatever the case may be, Paul’s weakness caused him to preach the gospel in fear and much trembling,
a clear proof that the gospel is not based on human wisdom or power.
3 And I was with you in weakness and in fear and much trembling,