NT Fire Starters – Day 253: 2 Corinthians 11:1-15

READ: 2 Corinthians 11:1-15

THINK: In most circumstances, sarcasm is uncalled for. But every once in a while, it’s the only way to get a serious point across and to show people how foolish or unreasonable they’re being. That’s Paul’s tone as he talks about people’s tendency to follow dynamic but deceptive leaders while disregarding his ministry because he served at his own expense. Paul took these issues seriously because they made people susceptible to Satan’s schemes. Too often, the devil is able to fool people by masking his lies and evil intentions in ways that seem innocent and good. But the end result will be disastrous unless someone loves people enough to tell the truth and to confront their issues head-on.

RESPOND: Why was Paul concerned that some Corinthian believers might be deceived and distracted away from devotion to Christ? (See 11:3 note.) What is it about the way false teachers often handle Biblical truth that makes their message and approach so deceptive and appealing? (See 11:4 note.) Why are some church-goers so tolerant of messages and ministry that conflict with the true message of Christ as revealed in the Bible? Who are the “superapostles” to whom Paul refers? (See 11:5 note.) Why was it easy for some people to disregard, take advantage of or look down on Paul (vv. 7-9)? In what way were “deceitful workmen” masquerading as genuine messengers of Christ? (See 11:13 note.) In what way were these false messengers behaving like the devil himself? (See 11:14 note.) What is it about Satan and his schemes that makes him so deceptive, and why are so many persuaded by his lies? In what ways does Satan masquerade “as an angel of light” (v. 14)? What evidence do you see of this in society?

PRAY: Pray for discernment so that you’ll never be deceived by leaders who may have charisma but are not completely loyal to the truth of God’s Word. Pray that you’ll always demonstrate a good attitude toward authentic godly leaders. Also, pray for God’s wisdom and insight in recognizing Satan’s deceptive schemes, especially when they are masked in attractive packages, innocent-looking activities and seemingly good causes.

ACT: Convey your appreciation to a godly leader in your life, thanking him or her for their faithfulness to God and their positive influence on you and others. Also, take special notice of things in all kinds of media today that demonstrate how Satan tries to portray himself and his devious plans as if they are innocent and good. Pray for all who are influenced by these things, asking God to open their spiritual eyes to Satan’s deception.