2 Corinthians 11:12-15
That I may cut off occasion ( ινα εκκοψω την αφορμην ). Purpose clause with ινα and first aorist active subjunctive of εκκοπτω, old verb to cut out or off (Mt 3:10; 5:30). See 2Co 5:12 for αφορμην.From them which desire an occasion ( των θελοντων αφορμην ). Ablative case after εκκοψω. There are always some hunting for occasions to start something against preachers.
They may be found ( ευρεθωσιν ). First aorist passive subjunctive of ευρισκω, to find with final conjunction ινα.
False apostles ( ψευδαποστολο ). From ψευδης, false, and αποστολος. Paul apparently made this word (cf. Re 2:2). In verse 26 we have ψευδαδελφος, a word of like formation (Ga 2:4). See also ψευδοχριστο and ψευδοπροφητα in Mr 13:22.
Deceitful ( δολιο ). Old word from δολος (lure, snare), only here in N.T. (cf. Ro 16:18).
Fashioning themselves ( μετασχηματιζομενο ). Present middle (direct) participle of the old verb μετασχηματιζω for which see on 1Co 4:6. Masquerading as apostles of Christ by putting on the outward habiliments, posing as ministers of Christ ("gentlemen of the cloth," nothing but cloth). Paul plays with this verb in verses 13, 14, 15.
An angel of light ( αγγελον φωτος ). The prince of darkness puts on the garb of light and sets the fashion for his followers in the masquerade to deceive the saints. "Like master like man." Cf. 2:11; Ga 1:8. This terrible portrayal reveals the depth of Paul's feelings about the conduct of the Judaizing leaders in Corinth. In Ga 2:4 he terms those in Jerusalem "false brethren."
As ministers of righteousness ( ως διακονο δικαιοσυνης ). Jesus (Joh 10:1-21) terms these false shepherds thieves and robbers. It is a tragedy to see men in the livery of heaven serve the devil.
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