2Cor 11:13-15 | RWP | e4.org | False apostles ( ψευδαποστολο ). From ψευδης , false, and αποστολος . Paul apparently made this word (cf. ). In verse we have ψευδαδελφος , a word of like formation ( ). See also ψευδοχριστο and ψευδοπροφητα in . Deceitful ( δολιο ). Old word from δολος (lure, snare), only here in N.T. (cf. ). Fashioning themselves ( μετασχηματιζομενο ). Present middle (direct) participle of the old verb μετασχηματιζω for which see on . 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 , , .

‏ 2 Corinthians 11:13-15

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.