Scripture:
[13] For such men are false apostles, deceitful workmen, disguising themselves as apostles of Christ. [14] And no wonder, for even Satan disguises himself as an angel of light. [15] So it is no surprise if his servants, also, disguise themselves as servants of righteousness. Their end will correspond to their deeds.
Observation:
One of the ways Satan disguises himself is as the angel of light. He can use this tactic to fool people in the guise of religion. It should not surprise us that his minions can do the same thing. Posing as teachers and prophets in God’s name.
Application:
One reason the scriptures warn us so much about false teachers and false apostles is because it can be very hard to discern that they are false and they can lead us far from God with their teaching.
The Church has had plenty of false apostles throughout history pretending to be true servants of Christ and it is no less of a problem now than when Paul wrote to the Corinthians. In fact, it is probably worse.
Corinth was going through all sorts of bad things when Paul wrote this. The people of the United States are now much like the Corinthians were then. Susceptible to sweet talk that may lead away from the Lord. Look around.. bad is good, good is bad. People are being led astray by false teaching and even Christians led away from the Lord by false apostles.
We need to all be very aware of what is going on around us. False apostles will have smooth speech and apparent wisdom but be motivated by power, greed or some other ungodly motivation. They will add or remove from the God breathed Word as thy see fit to meet their need.
Be alert. Have discernment. Compare a person’s outward appearance with their heart. Check what they teach – are they adding to, or removing from, the Word of God to suit their purpose? Are they staying strict to the Word or is there too much “interpretation”? Remember that Satan knows the scriptures and can appear to be something he is not.
Prayer:
Lord you are my cornerstone. Build be up with the strength of your Word and the Holy Spirit living in me. Keep me alert and give me good discernment. Let me glorify you in all I do and never be led away from you. In Jesus’ mighty name I pray, amen.