1 Corinthians 2:3

An Understandable Version (2005 edition)

And I was weak, apprehensive and fearful when I was [there] with you [Note: This probably refers to Paul’s sense of inadequacy in view of the task before him].

Cross References

Acts 17:1

Now when they [Note: A change from the use of “we” to “they” suggests that the writer Luke remained behind in Philippi at this point] had traveled through the [Macedonian] towns of Amphipolis and Apollonia, they came to [the city of] Thessalonica where there was a Jewish synagogue.

Acts 18:1

After this happened Paul left Athens and went to Corinth [i.e., a principal city of Greece].

Acts 18:12

But when Gallio was magistrate of Achaia [i.e., the southern province of Greece] the Jews joined forces to attack Paul and brought him before the court of justice,

Acts 18:6

When the Jews resisted [Paul’s efforts] and spoke against him and his message, he shook out his clothing [i.e., an expression of rejection and contempt] and said to them “Let your blood be on your own heads [i.e., you are responsible for whatever harm comes from your action]; I am not responsible. From now on I will go [and preach] to the Gentiles [only].”

2 Corinthians 10:1

Now I Paul, who am humble [when speaking] face to face with you, but bold when I am away from you, urge you by the meekness and gentleness of Christ [Note: This means either Paul was imitating Christ’s behavior or that the Corinthians were to do so]:

2 Corinthians 10:10

For some people are saying, “Paul’s letters are heavy and severe, but in person he is weak [physically (?)] and his speaking ability is unimpressive.”

2 Corinthians 13:4

For He was weak when He was crucified [i.e., by assuming a human body capable of suffering and death], but [now] He lives by God’s power. For we too are weak, [along] with Him [i.e., each of us experiences the frailties of a human body], but by [this same] power from God, we will live with Him to serve you. [Note: The various translations differ widely on how to properly translate this difficult verse].

2 Corinthians 13:9

For we are glad when we are weak and you are powerful. And we are also praying for your complete restoration [i.e., to spiritual maturity]

2 Corinthians 4:1

So, having obtained this ministry through [God’s] mercy, we do not become discouraged.

2 Corinthians 4:16

Therefore, we do not get discouraged, for though our physical body is decaying, yet our inner person is being renewed daily.

2 Corinthians 6:4

But, as ministers of God, we [try to] commend ourselves [to others] in every way. [We do this] by [our] great steadfastness in troubles, hardships and difficulties.

2 Corinthians 7:15

And he has great affection for you when he remembers how obedient all of you were [i.e., obedient to his or Paul’s instructions to the church], and how you welcomed him with fear and trembling [i.e., with a respectful, submissive spirit]

2 Corinthians 7:5

For even when we came to Macedonia we had no rest for our bodies. But we met with trouble on every hand. [There were] conflicts on the outside and fears within us.

Ephesians 6:5

Slaves, you should obey those who are your earthly masters, out of reverence and eagerness to please them, with a sincere heart, as you would [obey] Christ.