- Home
- Bible
- 2 Corinthians
- Chapter 11
- Verse 11
2 Corinthians 11:14
Verse
Context
Paul and the False Apostles
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.15It is not surprising, then, if his servants masquerade as servants of righteousness. Their end will correspond to their actions.
Sermons




Summary
Commentary
- Adam Clarke
- Jamieson-Fausset-Brown
- John Gill
Adam Clarke Bible Commentary
And no marvel - Και ου θαυμαστον· And no wonder; it need not surprise you what the disciples do, when you consider the character of the master. Satan himself is transformed into an angel of light - As in Co2 11:3 the apostle had the history of the temptation and fall of man particularly in view, it is very likely that here he refers to the same thing. In what ever form Satan appeared to our first mother, his pretensions and professions gave him the appearance of a good angel; and by pretending that Eve should get a great increase of light, that is, wisdom and understanding, he deceived her, and led her to transgress. It is generally said that Satan has three forms under which he tempts men: 1. The subtle serpent. 2. The roaring lion. 3. The angel of light. He often, as the angel of light, persuades men to do things under the name of religion, which are subversive of it. Hence all the persecutions, faggots, and fires of a certain Church, under pretense of keeping heresy out of the Church; and hence all the horrors and infernalities of the inquisition. In the form of heathen persecution, like a lion he has ravaged the heritage of the Lord. And by means of our senses and passions, as the subtle serpent, he is frequently deceiving us, so that often the workings of corrupt nature are mistaken for the operations of the Spirit of God.
Jamieson-Fausset-Brown Bible Commentary
is transformed--rather, "transforms himself" (compare Job 1:6); habitually; the first occasion of his doing so was in tempting Eve. "Himself" is emphatical: If their master himself, who is the "prince of darkness," the most alien to light, does so, it is less marvellous in the case of them who are his servants (Luk 22:54; Eph 6:12).
John Gill Bible Commentary
And no marvel,.... This need not be wondered at, nor is it any new or strange thing; nor should it be thought to be incredible that there are such persons in being: for Satan himself is transformed into an angel of light; a good angel, one that has his abode in the regions of light; and is possessed of divine and spiritual light and understanding; who is clothed and arrayed with light, this is his form and essence. The apostle speaks agreeably to the notion, of the Jews, who say (t), "rwa Mh Mlk Mykalmhv, "that all the angels are light", the clothing of God himself;'' and they have a distinction between , "angels of the day", and angels of the night (u): now Satan, the enemy of mankind, sometimes appears in the form of one of these; as he did to Eve in the garden, and to Christ in the wilderness; and by such appearances he often imposes on mankind; pretends the greatest friendship, when he designs nothing but ruin; and under a notion of good, either honest, or pleasant, or profitable, draws on into the commission of the greatest evils; and, under a show of truth, introduces the most notorious falsehoods and errors; and, under a pretence of religion, all sorts of idolatry, superstition, and impiety; it is in this way he has succeeded in his enterprises and temptations; these are his wiles, stratagems, and cunning devices. (t) R. Abraham Seba, Tzeror Hammor, fol. 18. 4. (u) Zohar in Numb. fol. 91. 1. & 93. 3.
2 Corinthians 11:14
Paul and the False Apostles
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.15It is not surprising, then, if his servants masquerade as servants of righteousness. Their end will correspond to their actions.
- Scripture
- Sermons
- Commentary
The False Gospel of Prosperity
By David Wilkerson51K10:17Prosperity GospelAMO 6:4LUK 6:20LUK 6:242CO 11:141TI 6:9JAS 2:3In this sermon, the preacher highlights the dire state of the world, with one billion people near starvation and millions unemployed. He emphasizes the persecution faced by God's chosen people, who are losing everything they possess. The preacher questions whether Christians have been deceived by teachings that prioritize self and prosperity, and urges them to turn to the true gospel of Jesus. He contrasts the gospel of gain, which promises forgiveness without repentance, with the teachings of Jesus, who blesses the poor, the hungry, and those who are persecuted. The preacher warns against seeking material wealth and emphasizes the importance of valuing and helping the poor.
(Genesis) Genesis 3 Introduction
By J. Vernon McGee2.8K06:34GenesisGEN 3:12CO 11:14REV 12:9REV 20:2In this sermon, the preacher discusses the temptation and fall of man in the Garden of Eden. He starts by mentioning that man is a responsible creature and introduces the serpent as a creature used by Satan. The preacher then delves into the setting of the temptation, highlighting the subtlety of the serpent and questioning why it approached the woman instead of the man. He explains that the woman received her information from the man and emphasizes that man was created innocent, not righteous. The preacher also mentions that the serpent's origin and transformation can be found in Isaiah 14 and Ezekiel 28.
Light on Satan's Tactics - Satan's Tactic With Eve
By Zac Poonen2.3K1:00:39SatanGEN 3:1PSA 91:11MAT 4:6MAT 5:192CO 11:142TI 3:16JAS 4:7In this sermon, the speaker emphasizes the importance of obedience to God's commandments, even the smallest ones. He uses the example of testing a child's obedience by instructing them not to commit serious sins like murder or adultery, but rather by observing their response to simple commands like doing homework. The speaker then delves into the story of Adam and Eve in Genesis 3, highlighting how Satan tempted them and caused them to fall into sin. However, God did not leave them without hope, as He promised a solution through the coming of Jesus to defeat Satan and redeem humanity.
Spiritual Deception
By Darwin Hostetler1.8K1:03:04Spiritual DeceptionDEU 11:16PSA 119:147MAT 6:33LUK 21:8JHN 8:32JHN 14:62CO 11:14In this sermon, the speaker reflects on his rebellious youth and the deception he fell into, thinking that the world had something to offer that God didn't. He warns young people against making the same mistake and emphasizes that following the ways of the world will come at a cost. The speaker shares a personal experience of relying on God's intervention when his daughter had an accident, highlighting the importance of surrendering to the Lordship of Jesus. He also addresses the lack of conversation and focus on the forgiveness of sins and the joy of serving Jesus in Christian circles, suggesting that there is something missing in these discussions. The sermon concludes with a call to prioritize talking about Jesus and His work in our lives above all else.
Audio Sermon: Spiritual Warfare and Deception
By Jim Cymbala1.7K43:40PRO 4:23PRO 13:20MAT 7:152CO 6:142CO 11:14EPH 6:121TH 5:211JN 4:1This sermon emphasizes the importance of discerning spiritual warfare, highlighting the dangers of deception and seduction by Gibeonites, who masquerade as harmless but aim to deceive and destroy. It urges listeners to seek God's discernment, avoid compromising with evil influences, and be vigilant against false prophets and wolves in sheep's clothing.
How Satan Destroys a Church - Part 1 (Guard Your Garden)
By Don Courville1.6K41:31Spiritual WarfareGEN 2:15PSA 121:5MAT 6:332CO 11:32CO 11:14EPH 5:22EPH 5:25In this sermon, the preacher shares a story about a hunter encountering a bear and how they negotiate their desires. He then goes on to talk about his experiences and travels, which have given him insights into the most important things he has learned in 42 years. He briefly touches on the submission of the wife, referring to Genesis chapter 2, and emphasizes the importance of following God's commands. The sermon concludes with a lesson about the dangers of being in places we shouldn't be, using a humorous anecdote about a child carrying swimming trunks to school.
Jude: Last Days - Balaam 2
By Martin Geehan1.4K45:23BalaamNUM 22:6NUM 23:19NUM 23:23NUM 35:52CO 11:14HEB 13:8In this sermon, the preacher emphasizes the need for the love of Christ to be present in the world. He believes that until people have Christ's love in their hearts towards one another, the current conditions in the world will persist. The preacher highlights the importance of preaching the power of Christ's love and not trying to legalize it. He also discusses the lack of belief in God's promises and the consequences of not living as though they will be fulfilled. The sermon concludes with a reference to the story of Balaam and how he deceived Israel.
The Church Today Asleep & in Bondage #4
By Milton Green9921:59:57GEN 1:27ROM 12:21CO 10:132CO 4:172CO 11:14EPH 6:12JAS 4:71PE 2:111PE 5:8This sermon delves into the concept of godliness as a mystery of iniquity, highlighting the contrast between Christ and the Antichrist. It emphasizes the importance of understanding that Satan counterfeits everything that God represents, urging listeners to be vigilant and keep their minds focused on the Lord to combat spiritual oppression and distractions. The message underscores the desire of the Holy Spirit to express God's likeness through individuals, drawing parallels to Adam's fall and the ongoing spiritual battles faced in daily life.
The Spirit of Anti Christ
By Erlo Stegen7751:04:43PRO 2:6MAT 7:151CO 3:182CO 11:141TH 5:212TH 2:3JAS 3:171JN 2:181JN 4:1This sermon delves into the topic of the Antichrist as mentioned in 2 Thessalonians 2, warning against deception and the spirit of lawlessness already at work. It emphasizes the need for discernment, urging listeners to test all teachings against the truth of the Bible. The story of a woman deceived on a train serves as a cautionary tale, highlighting the importance of seeking wisdom and not blindly following false knowledge. Additionally, it stresses the significance of personal transformation before attempting to influence others, drawing parallels to a priest's realization of starting change from within.
Knowing
By Welcome Detweiler73109:52LUK 19:10JHN 3:16ACT 16:31ROM 3:23ROM 10:32CO 11:14GAL 6:7In this sermon, the speaker expresses concern about the widespread ignorance of the gospel message among the people, despite living in a country with an abundance of Bibles. He highlights the deceptive tactics of Satan, who disguises himself as an angel of light and his ministers as apostles of Christ. The speaker emphasizes the importance of reading the Bible regularly and not relying solely on preachers for spiritual guidance. He also criticizes the tendency of people to follow second-hand ideas and traditions instead of seeking the truth directly from the Bible. The sermon concludes with a reference to Paul's letter to the Romans, where he laments the ignorance of God's righteousness and the substitution of personal ideas and religion.
Homiletics: Eisegesis Is Not a Light Matter - Part 5
By Tim Conway4442:06:512CO 11:14EPH 4:142TI 2:152TI 4:21PE 5:81JN 4:1This sermon reflects on the importance of accurately interpreting and teaching the Word of God, emphasizing the dangers of misrepresenting Scripture and the need for pastors to diligently study and adhere to biblical truths. It highlights the story of students in a resistance movement during World War II who faced interrogation and remained firm in their beliefs despite intense pressure, drawing parallels to the unwavering faith required in handling God's Word. The sermon also addresses the significance of discerning spiritual experiences and dreams, emphasizing the importance of aligning them with biblical truths to avoid deception and false teachings.
The Christian and Psychic Force
By Watchman Nee1Spiritual WarfareDiscernmentGEN 2:7EZK 36:26MAT 7:15JHN 3:6ROM 8:22CO 11:14GAL 5:16EPH 5:181TH 5:211JN 4:1Watchman Nee addresses the latent psychic force within humanity, emphasizing that while Adam possessed miraculous abilities at creation, these powers became hidden after the fall. He warns that Satan seeks to control and exploit this latent power, leading to confusion between divine miracles and those produced by human psychic abilities. Nee highlights the importance of discerning between the workings of the Holy Spirit and the manipulations of the enemy, urging Christians to rely on God's spirit rather than their own soul power. He concludes by stressing the need for vigilance against deception in spiritual matters, as the enemy continues to exploit human abilities for his purposes.
A Plea for the Christians
By Athenagoras0PSA 115:4ISA 44:61CO 8:52CO 11:14EPH 6:12COL 1:16JAS 2:191PE 5:81JN 4:1Athenagoras addresses the Emperors Marcus Aurelius Anoninus and Lucius Aurelius Commodus, highlighting the injustice faced by Christians in the empire for their beliefs. He defends the Christian faith by contrasting the true God with the false gods of mythology, emphasizing the absurdity of ascribing human-like qualities and immoral actions to deities. Athenagoras explains the distinction between God, angels, demons, and heroes, asserting that angels exercise providence over the created world while fallen angels and demons oppose God's goodness. He refutes the idea of divine providence being absent in earthly affairs, pointing out the influence of demons and adverse spirits on human actions.
To Friends in England, Ireland, Scotland, Holland, &C.
By Isaac Penington0PSA 27:1PRO 3:51CO 12:122CO 11:14GAL 6:1EPH 6:12COL 2:8JAS 4:71PE 5:81JN 4:1Isaac Penington preaches a heartfelt message to friends in various locations, reflecting on the desolation and distress of their souls before encountering the light of God's life. He warns against the enemy's tactics to draw believers away from God's truth and pure measure of life, emphasizing the importance of discerning spiritual assaults and seeking the Lord's guidance for deliverance and restoration. Penington addresses three subtle strategies of the enemy: instigating prejudices against chosen ministers, diverting attention from the present dispensation, and promoting self-judgment contrary to the measure of life. He urges believers to remain humble, watchful, and obedient to the true leading of the Spirit, guarding against deception and preserving unity in the body of Christ.
He Has the Worst Names
By Thomas Brooks0Spiritual WarfareUnderstanding EvilJOB 40:15MAT 4:3LUK 10:19JHN 10:102CO 11:14EPH 6:12JAS 4:71PE 5:81JN 5:19REV 9:11Thomas Brooks emphasizes the various names of Satan found in Scripture, illustrating his nature and disposition. Each name, such as Behemoth, Adversary, and Abaddon, reflects the devil's characteristics, including his brutishness, malice, and destructive tendencies. Brooks warns that these names reveal the true essence of Satan as the ultimate adversary, tempter, and destroyer, highlighting the seriousness of his influence in the world. The sermon serves as a reminder of the spiritual battle believers face against such a formidable foe. Ultimately, understanding Satan's nature through his names equips Christians to resist his temptations and deceptions.
Hugh Latimer
By Ian Paisley0MAT 13:252CO 11:14EPH 6:112TI 4:31PE 5:8Ian Paisley delivers a sermon reflecting on the diligent work of the Devil in hindering true religion and promoting superstition and idolatry. He emphasizes how the Devil is always active, never idle, and constantly working to obscure God's glory by promoting man-made traditions over God's Word. Paisley urges the audience to be vigilant against the Devil's schemes and to focus on sowing the 'corn of good doctrine' rather than allowing falsehoods to take root.
Painted and Gilded Over
By Thomas Brooks0Deception of SinSpiritual VigilancePRO 14:12ISA 5:20MAT 7:15ROM 12:22CO 2:112CO 11:14GAL 6:7EPH 5:6JAS 1:141PE 5:8Thomas Brooks warns against the deceptive nature of sin, emphasizing that Satan disguises sin with the appearance of virtue to lead us astray. He illustrates that sin remains vile and abominable, regardless of how it is presented, much like a poisonous pill gilded in gold or a wolf in sheep's clothing. Brooks urges believers to recognize the true nature of sin, which can often be hidden beneath attractive exteriors, and to remain vigilant against its allure.
2 Corinthians 11:13
By St. John Chrysostom01SA 12:31SA 17:34ISA 40:6AMO 7:14MIC 3:82CO 11:142CO 11:20PHP 3:4John Chrysostom preaches about false apostles who deceive by pretending to be true messengers of Christ, warning against those who seek to manipulate and exploit others for personal gain. He emphasizes the importance of discerning true ministers of righteousness from those who only appear righteous on the outside but lack genuine power and sincerity. Chrysostom challenges the congregation to evaluate leaders by their actions rather than outward appearances, highlighting the dangers of envy, vainglory, and the slavery that comes with seeking worldly recognition and approval.
The Danger of an Unconverted Ministry
By Gilbert Tennent0MAT 23:27MRK 6:34JHN 10:1ROM 10:141CO 12:312CO 11:141TH 5:212TI 2:2Gilbert Tennent preaches about the importance of having faithful ministers who are true shepherds to the flock, contrasting them with ungodly ministers who are like Pharisees, focusing on pride, policy, malice, ignorance, covetousness, and bigotry. He emphasizes the need for compassion towards those who lack faithful ministry, urging prayers for God to send forth faithful laborers. Tennent encourages seeking greater spiritual nourishment and growth by choosing to hear from ministers who provide edification, even if it means going beyond one's parish. He warns against the dangers and unprofitableness of following unconverted ministers, highlighting the importance of discernment and the duty to seek true spiritual guidance.
John 8:43-50. Christ Accuses His Enemies of Being the Children of Satan.
By Favell Lee Mortimer0JHN 8:44JHN 10:10JHN 14:62CO 11:141JN 3:10Favell Lee Mortimer preaches about the stark reality of being either a child of God or a child of the devil, emphasizing the transformation that can occur through faith in God. The sermon delves into the characteristics of Satan's children, focusing on his nature as a murderer and a liar, and how he continues to deceive and lead people away from God. Jesus is presented as the ultimate truth-teller who came to reveal the lies of Satan and defend the character of God, urging listeners to believe in Him and not be deceived.
Unto Another Gospel.
By Martin Luther02CO 11:14GAL 1:6EPH 6:121TI 4:11PE 5:8Martin Luther warns about the resourcefulness of the devil in disguising his deceitful schemes as light and truth, using false apostles and heretics to distort the Gospel of Christ. He highlights how the devil manipulates people by presenting his poison as God's Word, leading many astray. Luther emphasizes the importance of holding fast to the true Word of Christ amidst the cunning tactics of the enemy, recognizing the spiritual battle against dark forces and wickedness in high places.
Light for All
By H.J. Vine0JHN 1:9JHN 3:16JHN 8:122CO 11:141JN 1:7H.J. Vine preaches about the dangers of claiming 'special light' above others, which leads to pride and hardness of spirit, drawing attention to how Satan appeared as an angel of light to deceive. He emphasizes that the true light is found in Jesus Christ, who came into the world to shine for all, but not all receive Him. Believers are called to walk in the light, as children of God, set apart from darkness by the cleansing power of Jesus' blood, and to recognize Jesus as the true Light of the world.
Are Believers to Seek "More Light"?
By H.J. Vine0JHN 12:36JHN 14:62CO 11:14EPH 5:81JN 1:5H.J. Vine emphasizes the importance of believers growing in their understanding of the truth after coming into the light of Christ. In John's Gospel, the focus shifts from light shining outward to the world to the internal truth revealed to believers by Jesus. The distinction between 'light' and 'truth' is highlighted, with Jesus being the ultimate Light of the world and the Spirit of truth guiding believers. Believers are cautioned against seeking 'fresh light' or 'new truth' beyond what is already revealed in Christ, as Satan can deceive by masquerading as an angel of light.
Recognizing Satans Strategic Initiative
By A.W. Tozer0Spiritual WarfareDiscernmentMAT 7:1MAT 12:30ROM 12:92CO 11:14GAL 5:7EPH 6:112TI 4:3JAS 4:71PE 5:81JN 4:7A.W. Tozer warns that throughout history, Christians have often surrendered to evil due to worldliness and personal ungodliness. Today, Satan employs a more insidious strategy by appealing to our virtues, particularly charity, and distorting the image of Christ as overly tolerant and soft. This manipulation leads believers to avoid confrontation and to misinterpret scriptural teachings about judgment and love, ultimately paralyzing their resistance to evil. Tozer emphasizes the danger of being lulled into complacency, where the church fails to defend itself against the enemy's advances. He calls for vigilance and discernment to recognize and resist these deceptive tactics.
(Know Your Enemy) 3. the Deception of Satan
By Zac Poonen0GEN 3:1GEN 3:15PRO 1:10JHN 10:102CO 2:112CO 11:14Zac Poonen preaches on how Satan attacks by questioning God's Word and making us doubt His commands, leading us away from the Lord and towards destruction. He highlights how Satan deceives through lies and false promises, aiming to steal, kill, and destroy souls. Poonen emphasizes the importance of having a sensitive conscience and being alert to Satan's schemes, warning against various forms of Satanic influence like idol worship, witchcraft, and impure media. He concludes with a message of hope in Jesus defeating Satan's power, offering freedom and deliverance to all who believe.
- Adam Clarke
- Jamieson-Fausset-Brown
- John Gill
Adam Clarke Bible Commentary
And no marvel - Και ου θαυμαστον· And no wonder; it need not surprise you what the disciples do, when you consider the character of the master. Satan himself is transformed into an angel of light - As in Co2 11:3 the apostle had the history of the temptation and fall of man particularly in view, it is very likely that here he refers to the same thing. In what ever form Satan appeared to our first mother, his pretensions and professions gave him the appearance of a good angel; and by pretending that Eve should get a great increase of light, that is, wisdom and understanding, he deceived her, and led her to transgress. It is generally said that Satan has three forms under which he tempts men: 1. The subtle serpent. 2. The roaring lion. 3. The angel of light. He often, as the angel of light, persuades men to do things under the name of religion, which are subversive of it. Hence all the persecutions, faggots, and fires of a certain Church, under pretense of keeping heresy out of the Church; and hence all the horrors and infernalities of the inquisition. In the form of heathen persecution, like a lion he has ravaged the heritage of the Lord. And by means of our senses and passions, as the subtle serpent, he is frequently deceiving us, so that often the workings of corrupt nature are mistaken for the operations of the Spirit of God.
Jamieson-Fausset-Brown Bible Commentary
is transformed--rather, "transforms himself" (compare Job 1:6); habitually; the first occasion of his doing so was in tempting Eve. "Himself" is emphatical: If their master himself, who is the "prince of darkness," the most alien to light, does so, it is less marvellous in the case of them who are his servants (Luk 22:54; Eph 6:12).
John Gill Bible Commentary
And no marvel,.... This need not be wondered at, nor is it any new or strange thing; nor should it be thought to be incredible that there are such persons in being: for Satan himself is transformed into an angel of light; a good angel, one that has his abode in the regions of light; and is possessed of divine and spiritual light and understanding; who is clothed and arrayed with light, this is his form and essence. The apostle speaks agreeably to the notion, of the Jews, who say (t), "rwa Mh Mlk Mykalmhv, "that all the angels are light", the clothing of God himself;'' and they have a distinction between , "angels of the day", and angels of the night (u): now Satan, the enemy of mankind, sometimes appears in the form of one of these; as he did to Eve in the garden, and to Christ in the wilderness; and by such appearances he often imposes on mankind; pretends the greatest friendship, when he designs nothing but ruin; and under a notion of good, either honest, or pleasant, or profitable, draws on into the commission of the greatest evils; and, under a show of truth, introduces the most notorious falsehoods and errors; and, under a pretence of religion, all sorts of idolatry, superstition, and impiety; it is in this way he has succeeded in his enterprises and temptations; these are his wiles, stratagems, and cunning devices. (t) R. Abraham Seba, Tzeror Hammor, fol. 18. 4. (u) Zohar in Numb. fol. 91. 1. & 93. 3.