Paul was defending himself from charismatic infiltrators in the church but also and more importantly for him the very foundation of the gospel he had preached.
“And I will keep on doing what I am doing in order to cut the ground from under those who want an opportunity to be considered equal with us in the things they boast about. For such people are false apostles, deceitful workers, masquerading as apostles of Christ. And no wonder, for Satan himself masquerades as an angel of light. It is not surprising, then, if his servants also masquerade as servants of righteousness. Their end will be what their actions deserve.”
2 Corinthians 11:12-15
Paul said he would keep on not being paid because he was wanting to expose those who deceptively got rich and profited from the gospel.
He doesn’t mince his words. Look again at what he called these deceptive leaders. Then he explains why they are like this. It’s because they’re being used by satan who operates with a counterfeit goodness. The most dangerous lies are those that are 99% true.
So how do we spot these deceivers?
- they emphasise gifts over character.
- they are career-minded with selfish ambition.
- they undermine biblical authority with some claim of new revelation that sits outside the Bible.
- they create division by setting themselves above everyone else.
Paul says their end will not be good.
Today these verses are as important as when Paul penned them.
- We must test everything with the Word of God.
- Look at the character, can you see the fruit of the Spirit.
- Look at the possible motivations, ask about what they are trying to gain.
Truth will outlast deception, light will dispel darkness, discernment will expose lies, courage will confront the selfishness and a longing for authenticity will serve others. The truth is good.
Missions Paul 