For such are false apostles, deceitful workers, transforming themselves into the apostles of Christ.

2 CORINTHIANS 11:13KJV
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2 Corinthians 11:13 (KJV)

What does 2 Corinthians 11:13 mean?

2 Corinthians 11:13 warns that there are people pretending to be apostles, but they are actually false and deceitful, disguising themselves as true messengers of Christ. Paul is exposing these individuals as frauds who are misleading others by claiming an authority and role they do not truly have.

Paul is writing to the church in Corinth, addressing concerns about certain teachers who have come among them. He wants the believers to recognize that not everyone who claims to speak for Christ is genuine. This verse is part of a larger section where Paul defends his own ministry and warns against those who would lead the church astray by pretending to be something they are not.

The Greek behind 2 Corinthians 11:13

  • ἀπόστολοι (apostoloi): This word means "apostles" or "sent ones." Paul uses it here to highlight that these people are claiming the highest authority in the early church, not just any teaching role.
  • δόλιοι (dolioi, translated "deceitful"): This word carries the sense of craftiness or trickery. Paul is emphasizing that these workers are not just mistaken, but intentionally misleading.
  • μετασχηματιζόμενοι (metaschēmatizomenoi, "transforming themselves"): This verb means to change appearance or disguise oneself. Paul is pointing out that these false apostles are actively trying to look like true apostles of Christ, but it is only a disguise.

Why 2 Corinthians 11:13 matters

  • This verse clarifies that spiritual authority and titles can be faked, and not everyone who claims to represent Christ actually does.
  • Paul’s warning helps the church stay alert to deception, especially from those who seem convincing or authoritative.
  • Understanding this verse sheds light on the surrounding passage, where Paul explains the difference between genuine and false ministry, urging believers to be discerning.

Where else these words appear

“themselves” Greek G3345 · used in 5 verses

  • 1 Corinthians 4:6 And these things, brethren, I have in a figure transferred to myself and to Apollos for your sakes; that ye might learn in us not to think of men above that which is written, that no one of you be puffed up for one against another.
  • 2 Corinthians 11:14 And no marvel; for Satan himself is transformed into an angel of light.
  • 2 Corinthians 11:15 Therefore it is no great thing if his ministers also be transformed as the ministers of righteousness; whose end shall be according to their works.

“workers” Greek G2040 · used in 15 verses

  • Matthew 9:37 Then saith he unto his disciples, The harvest truly is plenteous, but the labourers are few;
  • Matthew 20:2 And when he had agreed with the labourers for a penny a day, he sent them into his vineyard.
  • Acts 19:25 Whom he called together with the workmen of like occupation, and said, Sirs, ye know that by this craft we have our wealth.

“such” Greek G5108 · used in 59 verses

  • Matthew 9:8 But when the multitudes saw it, they marvelled, and glorified God, which had given such power unto men.
  • Acts 22:22 And they gave him audience unto this word, and then lifted up their voices, and said, Away with such a fellow from the earth: for it is not fit that he should live.
  • 2 Corinthians 10:11 Let such an one think this, that, such as we are in word by letters when we are absent, such will we be also in deed when we are present.

“apostles” Greek G652 · used in 80 verses

  • Matthew 10:2 Now the names of the twelve apostles are these; The first, Simon, who is called Peter, and Andrew his brother; James the son of Zebedee, and John his brother;
  • Acts 8:14 Now when the apostles which were at Jerusalem heard that Samaria had received the word of God, they sent unto them Peter and John:
  • 2 Corinthians 8:23 Whether any do enquire of Titus, he is my partner and fellowhelper concerning you: or our brethren be enquired of, they are the messengers of the churches, and the glory of Christ.