And I was with you in weakness, and in fear, and in much trembling. 1 Corinthians 2:3
Depending on the circumstances, some of the most powerful and dynamic people in history have been timid and withdrawn when they were in certain situations. We read of great generals who fearlessly led their troops into bloody battles against great odds, but who were afraid to face the adoring fans when they returned to their home towns. We read of powerful athletes setting world records in their sports, but who are too shy to speak to reporters. In our text, we are made to wonder why the fearless apostle Paul could speak of weakness, fear, and trembling. This is the man who had no reluctance in challenging the enemies of his Lord, in speaking boldly before crowds of bloodthirsty Jewish radicals, in making history with the first Gospel message ever proclaimed at Athens’ world famous Mars Hill. But there was one situation that caused the apostle to tremble in weakness and fear. And that situation was in teaching the doctrines of the New Testament Assembly to believers.
For many of us, the fear and weakness set in when we are called upon to spread the Gospel. It takes more sand than we sometimes have available to speak up in public when unsaved acquaintances are near, to approach someone with a Gospel tract or an invitation to Gospel meetings, or to carry an open Bible into a hostile gathering, or even to stand in a Sunday night pulpit. But that was no problem for Paul. He knew those folks needed to hear the Gospel, he had a message to deliver to them, and he delivered it faithfully. Paul often suffered for his boldness in the Gospel. But how much would we have to suffer if we were to be as bold? We should be ashamed of ourselves for our weakness and fear in Gospel work.
Family responsibilities for Christians can also cause some of us to move in fear and weakness. We are reluctant to challenge family traditions and family leaders sometimes even when they clash with the standards that we endorse as Christians. But Paul was not shy when it came to dealing with his own people. He made every effort to reach them with the Gospel, and made it clear to all that he longed to see his people saved.
When it came to dealing with the Lord’s people, Paul admitted that it was a struggle. How could a man who has given us most of our teaching about New Testament Assembly principles and conduct be fearful about it? Maybe that’s why God chose Paul to deliver us the doctrine he provided in his epistles: Paul acknowledged his weakness and fear. Therefore, he looked to the Holy Spirit to guide him in his preaching and in his writing. He has set an example for those today who would lead and teach the Lord’s people. If Paul felt weak and fearful, so should God’s people today in dealing with Assembly matters.
God’s Assembly and His people are very precious to Him. That is why He requires us to be very humble and rely on His guidance in all Assembly matters. -Jim MacIntosh