In this one statement, Paul exposes the perverse human tendency to measure the revelation of God by the standards of human wisdom. For under all circumstances we want our thoughts to be the program according to which God operates. The problem is exacerbated when we consider that God has revealed the depths of supernatural wisdom in plain workingman's clothes. The scorn and derision of unbelievers have caused a reactionary tendency of believers to desperately want to dress the gospel up in philosophical clothes, to make it more respectable.
Human achievement is limited.
Once in a long while, a mere mortal will make a great discovery. These discoveries pale compared to the power of the Almighty Creator. Men are inclined to worship the human spirit. Nevertheless, man's capacity to determine the will of God does not reside in his own unaided powers. That does not mean the revealed message lacks power to do what it was intended to do.