What kind of philosophical eloquence or Greek learning did Paul refuse to bring when he came to Corinth?
Paul refused to rely on excellency of speech or human wisdom, and he did not bring the knowledge of Greek classics such as Homer and Plato. He determined to know nothing among the Corinthians except Jesus Christ and Him crucified, rejecting philosophical eloquence and worldly wisdom.
Les explains that chapter 2 introduces the contrast between the wisdom of this world and the wisdom of God. Paul, using himself as the prime example, says that when he came to the Corinthians he did not come with excellency of speech or of wisdom as he declared the testimony of God. He determined to know nothing among them except Jesus Christ and Him crucified. Les notes Paul did not come to Corinth to the Bema Seat, the town-square-like place where philosophers would take the stage and begin their philosophy. Paul did not come with the knowledge of the Greek classics, Homer and Plato; that did not count with him.
And I, brethren, when I came to you, came not with excellency of speech or of wisdom, declaring unto you the testimony of God.