11:6
Paul was not trained as a speaker. In Greek culture rhetoric was considered to be very important and highly valued, hence the criticism of Paul. This was something he alluded to in 1 Corinthians as well, see chapter 2. So we should be wary of placing too much emphasis on presentational skills in preaching. This is not an excuse for incoherent rubbish or a monotonous drawl, but we need to be always aware that true success is down to the work of the Holy Spirit, not any supposed eloquence on our part. Moreover, the content of the message is vital. We should preach Biblical truth, not worldly nonsense.
11:7
The philosopher teachers of the day sought to exalt themselves, making themselves out to be someone of note. Paul did not do this, he sought to identify with the people. All of us have sinned and fallen short of the glory of God (Rom 3:23), and all of us can be saved by faith. If we are a preacher or teacher we are in no way higher than the people we preach to. Moreover, Paul did not seek to make money out of preaching, he preached free of charge. He was criticised for this! Now this does not mean pastors should not be paid properly, elsewhere Paul makes clear that pastors should be paid. But if making money becomes our goal we are no longer in step with the Holy Spirit.
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