1 Corinthians 2:3
And I was with you in weakness, and in fear, and in much trembling.
Original Language Analysis
καὶ
And
G2532
καὶ
And
Strong's:
G2532
Word #:
1 of 14
and, also, even, so then, too, etc.; often used in connection (or composition) with other particles or small words
ἀσθενείᾳ
weakness
G769
ἀσθενείᾳ
weakness
Strong's:
G769
Word #:
4 of 14
feebleness (of mind or body); by implication, malady; morally, frailty
καὶ
And
G2532
καὶ
And
Strong's:
G2532
Word #:
5 of 14
and, also, even, so then, too, etc.; often used in connection (or composition) with other particles or small words
καὶ
And
G2532
καὶ
And
Strong's:
G2532
Word #:
8 of 14
and, also, even, so then, too, etc.; often used in connection (or composition) with other particles or small words
πολλῷ
much
G4183
πολλῷ
much
Strong's:
G4183
Word #:
11 of 14
(singular) much (in any respect) or (plural) many; neuter (singular) as adverbial, largely; neuter (plural) as adverb or noun often, mostly, largely
ἐγενόμην
was
G1096
ἐγενόμην
was
Strong's:
G1096
Word #:
12 of 14
to cause to be ("gen"-erate), i.e., (reflexively) to become (come into being), used with great latitude (literal, figurative, intensive, etc.)
Cross References
2 Corinthians 13:4For though he was crucified through weakness, yet he liveth by the power of God. For we also are weak in him, but we shall live with him by the power of God toward you.2 Corinthians 13:9For we are glad, when we are weak, and ye are strong: and this also we wish, even your perfection.
Historical Context
Paul arrived in Corinth after hostile receptions in Philippi (beaten, jailed), Thessalonica (mob violence), Berea (pursued by agitators), and Athens (mocked by philosophers). This succession of trials would shake any preacher. Additionally, Corinth's reputation for immorality and its status as Roman administrative center added pressure. Paul's vulnerability here contrasts sharply with the Corinthian Christians' later boasting in spiritual superiority (4:8-10).
Questions for Reflection
- How does Paul's admission of fear and weakness challenge contemporary expectations of confident, charismatic Christian leadership?
- When have you experienced God's power made perfect in your weakness (2 Corinthians 12:9)?
- Why might human strength and self-confidence actually hinder gospel effectiveness rather than enhance it?
Related Resources
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Analysis & Commentary
And I was with you in weakness, and in fear, and in much trembling. Paul confesses three states: astheneia (ἀσθένεια, "weakness")—possibly physical infirmity or deliberate restraint from rhetorical power; phobos (φόβος, "fear")—not cowardice but sober awareness of gospel stakes; and tromos (τρόμος, "trembling")—visceral anxiety about faithful witness. This self-portrait contradicts triumphalistic Christian ministry models.
Acts 18:9-10 records Christ encouraging Paul in Corinth: "Do not be afraid... for I have many people in this city." Paul's fear wasn't lack of faith but recognition of human inadequacy for divine commission. His trembling authenticates 2 Corinthians 12:9-10: "When I am weak, then I am strong." Paradoxically, Paul's manifest weakness became the medium for Spirit-power (v. 4), demonstrating that gospel effectiveness depends on God's work, not human confidence.