Why does Paul use himself as an example in 1 Corinthians 2, and what did he determine to know among the Corinthians?
Paul uses himself as the prime example to contrast the wisdom of this world with the wisdom of God, showing that he did not come with excellency of speech or human wisdom. Among the Corinthians he determined to know nothing except Jesus Christ and Him crucified.
Les explains that Paul again uses himself because he is the prime example. In 1 Corinthians 2, Paul says he came to the Corinthians not with excellency of speech or wisdom as he declared the testimony of God, but he determined not to know anything among them save Jesus Christ and Him crucified. Les notes Paul did not come to Corinth's Bema Seat, which was like the town square where philosophers would take the stage, nor did he come with the knowledge of Greek classics such as Homer and Plato. That did not count with Paul.
And I, brethren, when I came to you, came not with excellency of speech or of wisdom, declaring unto you the testimony of God.
For I determined not to know any thing among you, save Jesus Christ, and him crucified.