2 Corinthians 11:7-15 (NASB)
7 Or did I commit a sin in humbling myself so that you might be exalted, because I preached the gospel of God to you without charge?
8 I robbed other churches by taking wages from them to serve you;
9 and when I was present with you and was in need, I was not a burden to anyone; for when the brethren came from Macedonia they fully supplied my need, and in everything I kept myself from being a burden to you, and will continue to do so.
10 As the truth of Christ is in me, this boasting of mine will not be stopped in the regions of Achaia.
11 Why? Because I do not love you? God knows I do!
12 But what I am doing I will continue to do, so that I may cut off opportunity from those who desire an opportunity to be regarded just as we are in the matter about which they are boasting.
13 For such men are false apostles, deceitful workers, disguising themselves as apostles of Christ.
14 No wonder, for even Satan disguises himself as an angel of light.
15 Therefore it is not surprising if his servants also disguise themselves as servants of righteousness, whose end will be according to their deeds.
Introduction:
Julius and Ethel Rosenberg
Review:
He embarks upon foolish boasting
He demonstrates intense concern for them in godly jealousy and fear
He asserts his apostolic equality
Theme: Two contrasting portraits of an apostle so you will recognize a true servant of Christ today.
- A. Four Marks of a True Apostle vv.7-12
- His ministry He preached the gospel vs.7
- His means: He depends on the support of generous saint’s vv.8-9
- His method He continues to use boasting vv. 10, 12a
- His motive : He genuinely loves them vs. 11
- B. Four Marks of a False Apostle vv. 12b-15
- Their desire : They intend to be viewed as true apostles vs.12b
- Their deception : They are deceptive in their “work ” of “ministry” vs.13a
- Their disguise : They masquerade as true apostles vv.13b-15a
- Their destruction : They receive what they deserve in the end vs. 15b
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