What does Paul say his motive is not in preaching?
Paul says his motive in preaching is not to preach himself, not for personal support or fame, not to be a religious bigwig, and not to build a personal empire. He comes as a bondslave for Jesus' sake, not for self-advancement.
Les explains that in 2 Corinthians 4:5 Paul writes, "For we preach not ourselves." Paul is defending his apostleship, insisting he is not coming to gain personal support, personal fame, to be some religious bigwig, or to build a personal empire. He says he is a bondslave for Jesus' sake, meaning he serves Christ, not himself.
2 Corinthians 4:5
For we preach not ourselves, but Christ Jesus the Lord; and ourselves your servants for Jesus’ sake.