We read this…
17 Unlike so many, we do not peddle the word of God for profit. On the contrary, in Christ we speak before God with sincerity, as those sent from God.

The word “peddle” is not a complimentary kind of word but using an Americanism is can mean “Huckster” or for us “trickster” or “crook”. Perhaps in the old days they would be called, “Snake oil salespeople”. You see, some of those who had come to Corinth were simply presenting themselves as superior Christians but who were doing so for free room and board and who were hoping to profit personally from their presentations. Sadly, these people had received a warm and I would dare say, “profitable” welcome at the Corinthian Church.