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2 Corinthians 11:13
Verse
Context
Paul and the False Apostles
12But I will keep on doing what I am doing, in order to undercut those who want an opportunity to be regarded as our equals in the things of which they boast.13For such men are false apostles, deceitful workers, masquerading as apostles of Christ.14And no wonder, for Satan himself masquerades as an angel of light.
Sermons






Summary
Commentary
- Adam Clarke
- Jamieson-Fausset-Brown
- John Gill
- Tyndale
Adam Clarke Bible Commentary
For such are false apostles - Persons who pretend to be apostles, but have no mission from Christ. Deceitful workers - They do preach and labor, but they have nothing but their own emolument in view. Transforming themselves - Assuming as far as they possibly can, consistently with their sinister views, the habit, manner, and doctrine of the apostles of Christ.
Jamieson-Fausset-Brown Bible Commentary
For--reason why he is unwilling they should be thought like him [BENGEL]. such--they and those like them. false apostles--those "overmuch apostles" (see on Co2 11:5) are no apostles at all. deceitful workers--pretending to be "workmen" for the Lord, and really seeking their own gain.
John Gill Bible Commentary
For such are false apostles,.... Such as those he had in view, who sought an occasion to depress him, and exalt themselves, and to get money from the Corinthians; these were "false apostles", or apostles falsely so called; they had the name, but not the thing; they were not called and sent forth by Christ; they had not the grace of apostleship, or gifts qualifying them for that high office; the power and authority they exercised was usurped by them; they could not prove their mission by true and real miracles; nor had they any seals of their apostleship, as those who were sent by Christ had: deceitful workers; they went by the name of labourers in Christ's vineyard, when they were loiterers in it; they pretended to work, but did not; and to work for Christ, when they only served themselves, and their own bellies; they took upon them to interpret the Scriptures, but in a very fallacious manner; they walked in craftiness, and handled the word of God deceitfully, and lay in wait to deceive men; and were masters of so much art and cunning, that, if it was possible, they would have deceived the very elect: transforming themselves into the apostles of Christ: not so much by putting on a like garb or dress, but by pretending to be of the same principles, and to follow their practices, and to pursue the same good ends in their ministrations.
Tyndale Open Study Notes
11:13-15 Paul fiercely condemns the false teachers in Corinth (cp. Gal 1:6-9). Although the false teachers wanted to claim that their work was just like Paul’s (2 Cor 11:12), they were in fact false apostles and deceitful workers (cp. Phil 3:2). Just as Satan changed himself into an angel of light to deceive Eve (as described in the Jewish apocryphal book The Life of Adam and Eve), so his servants also disguise themselves as servants of righteousness. Satan’s servants claim to be God’s servants, but their deeds are wicked, and their punishment is sure (cp. 2 Cor 5:10).
2 Corinthians 11:13
Paul and the False Apostles
12But I will keep on doing what I am doing, in order to undercut those who want an opportunity to be regarded as our equals in the things of which they boast.13For such men are false apostles, deceitful workers, masquerading as apostles of Christ.14And no wonder, for Satan himself masquerades as an angel of light.
- Scripture
- Sermons
- Commentary
Spiritual Warfare and Deception
By Jim Cymbala10K42:07Gibeonites2CO 11:13In this sermon, the preacher shares a personal story about encountering wolves in the South. He emphasizes the importance of not judging things solely by their appearance and highlights two mistakes made by Joshua in the Bible. The preacher also discusses the tendency to make decisions without seeking God's guidance and warns against the potential consequences of such actions. Additionally, he mentions a situation where someone falsely claimed that God had sent them to take over the preacher's church, causing him distress.
(Demonology) How the Warfare Goes
By Willie Mullan2.3K1:16:51DemonologyMRK 1:352CO 11:13JAS 2:5JAS 2:8In this sermon, the preacher discusses the power of the devil and his influence over various realms, including the political, physical, mental, and spiritual realms. The preacher emphasizes the need for believers to be aware of the devil's tactics and to stand firm in their faith. He encourages the congregation to rely on the word of God and the blood of the Lamb to overcome the devil's oppression. The sermon also references biblical passages, such as Mark 1:35, to illustrate the example of Jesus in facing temptation.
An Enemy in the Neighborhood
By Warren Wiersbe2.1K57:48MAT 13:37MAT 13:51ACT 20:292CO 11:13GAL 1:61JN 3:12REV 2:9This sermon delves into the parable of the chairs in Matthew chapter 13, highlighting the dual sowers at work in the world - Jesus sowing good seed and Satan sowing counterfeits. It emphasizes the presence of counterfeit believers, the lineage of the devil's children from Cain to false ministers in the New Testament, and the importance of discernment to identify counterfeits. The sermon stresses the need to be alert, avoid detours, have a global concern, and maintain a long-term perspective in the spiritual battle against counterfeits. It concludes with a call to be faithful stewards who share both old and new treasures of God's Word.
David Wilkerson Sharing: A Warning Against the Prosperity Gospel
By David Wilkerson1.0K10:182CO 11:13This sermon warns about the deception of false teachings in the church, focusing on how Satan is using ministers who appear righteous but preach a distorted gospel of material gain and prosperity without repentance. It emphasizes the importance of discerning true gospel messages from deceptive ones, especially in a time where many are being misled by false doctrines.
The Corinthians
By Steve Gallagher61650:502CO 11:13This sermon delves into the intricate details of Paul's interactions with the Corinthians, highlighting the challenges he faced with false teachers, divisions, and immorality in the church. It emphasizes Paul's self-distrust and unwavering trust in the Lord, showcasing his deep love for the Corinthians despite the difficulties he encountered. The sermon also touches on the importance of discernment in identifying false teachers and the need for humility in ministry.
On Gospel Sanctification.
By Thomas Reade0ROM 3:27ROM 6:1ROM 6:142CO 6:142CO 11:13EPH 2:20EPH 4:1EPH 6:10PHP 2:14PHP 4:8Thomas Reade preaches about the foundation of the Gospel being Jesus Christ, emphasizing the heavenly graces it offers and the need for humility, faith, and obedience. He highlights the exclusivity of human merit in Paul's theology, focusing on the sanctifying nature of true faith in Christ. Reade urges believers to live lives worthy of their calling, emphasizing the importance of holiness, unity, and love. He cautions against abusing the grace of the Gospel and encourages believers to resist sin and walk in the sanctifying power of faith in Christ.
The Satanic Influence
By Ray Comfort0MAT 7:21LUK 15:11JHN 8:44ACT 26:18ROM 3:202CO 11:132TI 4:3JAS 1:221JN 3:8REV 3:17Ray Comfort delivers a powerful sermon on the subtle deceptions of Satan, warning about how he can manifest as an 'angel of light' and deceive even those within the Church. By referencing 2 Corinthians 11:13-15, Comfort highlights the danger of false apostles and deceitful workers who masquerade as ministers of righteousness. He emphasizes the importance of recognizing Satan's influence and deception, especially in today's society where many deny his existence despite the clear warnings in the Bible.
Epistle 29
By George Fox0True MinistryDiscernmentPSA 24:1MAL 3:10MAT 10:8MAT 10:10LUK 10:7ROM 15:272CO 11:13PHP 3:19HEB 7:241JN 4:2George Fox emphasizes the distinction between true ministers of Christ and those who misuse scripture for personal gain. He warns against supporting those who demand tithes without providing spiritual nourishment, arguing that such practices contradict Christ's teachings. Fox highlights the importance of recognizing the unchangeable priesthood of Christ and the new covenant, which frees believers from the obligations of the old priesthood. He encourages believers to support genuine ministers who preach the gospel freely, while rejecting those who exploit their positions for financial gain. Ultimately, Fox calls for discernment in spiritual matters and a commitment to Christ's doctrine.
Extreme Unction
By Ian Paisley0MRK 6:132CO 11:132TH 2:9JAS 5:141JN 4:1Ian Paisley delivers a sermon critiquing the sacrament of Extreme Unction in the Roman Catholic Church, highlighting its origins, practices, and contradictions with Apostolic teachings. He emphasizes the manipulation and exploitation of believers through this sacrament, pointing out the lack of true spiritual elements like repentance, faith, and the work of the Holy Spirit in the process. Paisley condemns the imposition of Extreme Unction as a cruel and deceptive practice that leads people away from the true message of salvation and Christ's grace.
Modern Day Delusions
By Arno Clemens Gaebelein0MAT 24:242CO 11:13GAL 1:61TH 5:32TH 2:101TI 4:11TI 6:202TI 4:31JN 4:1The preacher Arno Clemens Gaebelein warns against the dangers of various cults and false teachings, such as the rapid growth of the Science cult on the Pacific Coast, the spread of Christian Science, the rise of the 'New Thought Movement,' the deceptive practices of Bahaism, the expansion of Mormonism, and the influence of Abdul Baha's false teachings. These cults and movements promote anti-Christian beliefs, deny essential Christian doctrines, and lead people away from the truth of the Gospel. The preacher emphasizes the importance of standing firm in the faith, exposing false teachings, and remaining vigilant against deceptive ideologies that seek to undermine true Christianity.
Indulgences
By Ian Paisley02CO 11:13EPH 5:6COL 2:81TI 4:12PE 2:1Ian Paisley delves into the controversial topic of Indulgences, tracing its significance in European history and its connection to the Reformation, particularly through the lens of Martin Luther's life and teachings. He highlights the excessive practices of priestly imposture by figures like Tetzel, leading to the calamities of the Lutheran revolt, and the subsequent attempts by the Papal writers to moderate and restrain the doctrine. Paisley emphasizes the dangerous implications of Indulgences, portraying it as a virtual license to sin and a system that confuses and manipulates believers, ultimately undermining the grace of God and the work of Christ.
Popish Miracles
By Ian Paisley0MAT 24:241CO 13:22CO 11:132TH 2:91JN 4:1Ian Paisley delivers a sermon warning about the dangers of the kingdom of Antichrist, emphasizing the use of miracles, signs, and lying wonders to deceive people. He criticizes Popery for claiming to have worked miracles in favor of the Catholic Church, pointing out the lack of evidence and credibility in these claims. Paisley questions the authenticity of supposed miracles performed by figures like St. Francis Xavier, highlighting the absurdity and lack of proof in these stories. He challenges the Church of Rome's reliance on miraculous power to validate its religion, suggesting that these supposed miracles have transitioned from true to false over time, aligning with prophecies of apostasy.
Why I Left the Prophetic Movement
By Andrew Strom0JER 23:16MAT 7:152CO 11:132TI 4:31JN 4:1Andrew Strom delivers a powerful sermon expressing deep sadness and disappointment over the state of the 'Prophetic' movement, highlighting the lack of repentance, anointing, and true prophetic preaching at a recent conference. He emphasizes the need for discernment, repentance, and separation from the corruption and deception that have infiltrated the movement, urging a return to the foundational elements of holiness, faith, prayer, and giving. Strom calls for a complete cutting-off from the existing Prophetic movement to pave the way for a new, untainted prophetic revival, reminiscent of the ministries of John the Baptist, Finney, Wesley, and Whitefield.
New Birth
By W.W. Fereday0GEN 3:1JDG 21:25ACT 17:112CO 11:13JAS 1:22The preacher delves into the concept of 'paralogizomai', which means to reason beside or alongside truth, leading to deception through false reasoning. This deception can be self-inflicted by not obeying God's Word, resulting in spiritual miscalculation and self-delusion. The old serpent, Satan, uses delusion as a weapon, as seen in the deception of Eve. The sermon emphasizes the importance of discerning between truth and error, especially in a world filled with counterfeits and imitations that can lead us astray.
Part #2 - "Leaving the Prophetic Movement
By Andrew Strom0MAT 7:15ACT 20:282CO 11:131TI 4:11JN 4:1Andrew Strom addresses the alarming issues within the Prophetic movement, expressing deep grief over the deception and spiritual damage caused by false teachings and practices. He courageously names prominent leaders and ministries involved in questionable activities, urging believers to cut ties with deceptive movements and emphasizing the importance of discernment and repentance. Strom highlights the need for a return to true prophetic ministry focused on repentance and warns against the dangers of peer pressure, manipulation, and the commercialization of spiritual gifts.
Is Your Heart Blameless?
By David Wilkerson0Pursuing RighteousnessBlameless LivingPSA 24:4PRO 11:3MAT 5:82CO 11:13PHP 2:15COL 3:231TH 2:31PE 3:16David Wilkerson emphasizes the call for Christians to live blameless lives, drawing from Paul's example in 1 Thessalonians 2:10. He explains that a blameless Christian is characterized by honesty, purity, and a sincere desire to honor Jesus, avoiding deceit and unclean speech. Wilkerson warns against false prophets and encourages believers to pursue righteousness by faith, highlighting that a true blameless walk cannot be faked. He urges listeners to set their hearts on being blameless today, promising that such a commitment will lead to God's favor and a positive impact on others.
Homily 6
By Clement of Rome0PRO 14:15ISA 5:201CO 10:112CO 11:13EPH 5:6COL 2:81TI 4:12PE 2:11JN 4:1Clement meets Appion in Tyre, where Appion begins to discuss the false accusations he made against the gods, claiming they were allegorical and not to be taken literally. Appion proceeds to interpret various myths, explaining the origin of chaos, Kronos and Rhea, Phanes, and other mythological figures as symbolic representations of natural elements and processes. Clement, having heard similar allegorical interpretations before, summarizes Appion's explanations and questions the wisdom of those who created such stories, suggesting they were wicked magicians rather than gods. Peter arrives from Cæsarea, and the people of Tyre gather to welcome him, while Appion withdraws with his companions.
Roman Catholicism
By J.C. Philpot0MAT 7:151CO 5:102CO 11:13EPH 5:112TI 4:31JN 4:1J.C. Philpot delivers a sermon exposing the dangers and deceptiveness of Roman Catholicism, describing it as 'the masterpiece of Satan' due to its adaptability to human nature, pride, persecution of believers, perversion of God's word, and promotion of sin. He highlights the alluring aspects of Popery, such as the rituals, miracles, and monastic lifestyle, which are based on a mixture of truth and error to deceive many. Philpot warns against the false teachings of Romanism and the bondage it brings to those who embrace it, emphasizing the need for discernment and spiritual separation from worldly influences.
A Messenger of Peace
By Derek Prince0PRO 6:12MAT 7:152CO 11:13PHP 3:191JN 4:1Derek Prince warns against individuals who use deceitful tactics to manipulate and persuade others for their own selfish gain, emphasizing the importance of discerning the true motives behind people's actions. He highlights the destructive consequences that await those who engage in such behavior, as they will ultimately face judgment and sudden destruction without remedy. Prince urges listeners to be cautious of those who do not bring the peace of God with them, as their words and actions may be driven by ulterior motives rather than genuine care for others.
The Ignatian Epistles Entirely Spurious - Part 5
By William Dool Killen0MAT 7:15ROM 16:172CO 11:13GAL 1:6EPH 4:14COL 2:81TI 6:52PE 2:11JN 4:1William Dool Killen delves into the controversial topic of the Ignatian Epistles, suggesting that they are likely forgeries originating in the early part of the third century. He explores the possible involvement of Callistus, who later became Bishop of Rome, in the creation of these letters to strengthen the hierarchy of the Church. The Epistle to the Romans, believed to be the first produced, subtly introduces the concept of episcopal authority and martyrdom, aiming to solidify the claims of the bishops. Killen highlights the intricate web of deceit and manipulation woven into these letters, challenging the authenticity and motives behind their composition.
Despair and Deliverance
By W.T.P. Wolston0ACT 20:292CO 11:13GAL 2:42PE 2:1JUD 1:4William Barclay delves into the vivid verb 'crept in unawares,' illustrating how false believers sneak into the faith, settling alongside genuine believers, cloaked in counterfeit faith. Jude warns of the danger these bogus believers pose, insinuating evil into the church like stealthy thieves. Paul and Spurgeon emphasize the treachery of these infiltrators, who undermine the gospel from within. The importance of exposing these deceivers is highlighted, as they introduce error secretly among the brethren.
Punishment of Heretics
By Ian Paisley0MAT 7:152CO 11:13EPH 6:121PE 5:81JN 4:1Ian Paisley delivers a sermon exposing the deceptive nature of Popery, which hides its true intentions to regain power and persecute heretics once it has the opportunity. He warns about the unchanging and destructive nature of Popery's creed towards those outside the Roman Catholic Church, viewing them as enemies to be destroyed. Paisley highlights the insidious tactics of Popery in adapting to political and social climates while secretly holding onto its oppressive doctrines, as seen in recent events in Ireland and England.
When the Lord Commends Hatred
By F.C. Jennings0MAT 7:151CO 16:162CO 11:131JN 4:1REV 2:6F.C. Jennings delves into the significance of hating the deeds of the Nicolaitans, emphasizing the importance of discerning false apostles and evil influences that infiltrate the church. Drawing parallels to the biblical account of Samson's hatred for the Philistines, he highlights the need for believers to stand firm against those who seek to exalt themselves over the laity, promoting clericalism over true service and love. Jennings urges the congregation to embrace a genuine love for Christ that includes hating anything that dishonors Him or harms His people, even in the face of accusations of narrow-mindedness or bigotry.
- Adam Clarke
- Jamieson-Fausset-Brown
- John Gill
- Tyndale
Adam Clarke Bible Commentary
For such are false apostles - Persons who pretend to be apostles, but have no mission from Christ. Deceitful workers - They do preach and labor, but they have nothing but their own emolument in view. Transforming themselves - Assuming as far as they possibly can, consistently with their sinister views, the habit, manner, and doctrine of the apostles of Christ.
Jamieson-Fausset-Brown Bible Commentary
For--reason why he is unwilling they should be thought like him [BENGEL]. such--they and those like them. false apostles--those "overmuch apostles" (see on Co2 11:5) are no apostles at all. deceitful workers--pretending to be "workmen" for the Lord, and really seeking their own gain.
John Gill Bible Commentary
For such are false apostles,.... Such as those he had in view, who sought an occasion to depress him, and exalt themselves, and to get money from the Corinthians; these were "false apostles", or apostles falsely so called; they had the name, but not the thing; they were not called and sent forth by Christ; they had not the grace of apostleship, or gifts qualifying them for that high office; the power and authority they exercised was usurped by them; they could not prove their mission by true and real miracles; nor had they any seals of their apostleship, as those who were sent by Christ had: deceitful workers; they went by the name of labourers in Christ's vineyard, when they were loiterers in it; they pretended to work, but did not; and to work for Christ, when they only served themselves, and their own bellies; they took upon them to interpret the Scriptures, but in a very fallacious manner; they walked in craftiness, and handled the word of God deceitfully, and lay in wait to deceive men; and were masters of so much art and cunning, that, if it was possible, they would have deceived the very elect: transforming themselves into the apostles of Christ: not so much by putting on a like garb or dress, but by pretending to be of the same principles, and to follow their practices, and to pursue the same good ends in their ministrations.
Tyndale Open Study Notes
11:13-15 Paul fiercely condemns the false teachers in Corinth (cp. Gal 1:6-9). Although the false teachers wanted to claim that their work was just like Paul’s (2 Cor 11:12), they were in fact false apostles and deceitful workers (cp. Phil 3:2). Just as Satan changed himself into an angel of light to deceive Eve (as described in the Jewish apocryphal book The Life of Adam and Eve), so his servants also disguise themselves as servants of righteousness. Satan’s servants claim to be God’s servants, but their deeds are wicked, and their punishment is sure (cp. 2 Cor 5:10).