A New Disguise for an Old Enemy

Sermon Series - Renewal In Christ

Sermon Text - 2 Corinthians 11:7–15

“Or did I commit a sin in humbling myself so that you might be exalted, because I preached God’s gospel to you free of charge? I robbed other churches by accepting support from them in order to serve you. And when I was with you and was in need, I did not burden anyone, for the brothers who came from Macedonia supplied my need. So I refrained and will refrain from burdening you in any way. As the truth of Christ is in me, this boasting of mine will not be silenced in the regions of Achaia. And why? Because I do not love you? God knows I do! And what I am doing I will continue to do, in order to undermine the claim of those who would like to claim that in their boasted mission they work on the same terms as we do. For such men are false apostles, deceitful workmen, disguising themselves as apostles of Christ. And no wonder, for even Satan disguises himself as an angel of light. So it is no surprise if his servants, also, disguise themselves as servants of righteousness. Their end will correspond to their deeds.”

Sermon Title: A New Disguise for an Old Enemy

Sermon Summary:

Its October, Spirit of Halloween stores are packed and you can’t go anywhere without seeing a costume for sale. Its a strange thing, but people really like to wear disguises. Every culture from Ancient Greek to Africa creates masks as part of their cultural art-forms. To my surprise, when my kids aren’t Minecrafting, they are usually playing some game that allows them to build an avatar and play virtual dress up. Its so fun that sometimes I even join them. Costumes are fun, but they also teach us a valuable lesson. We can pretend to be anything… for a little while. In this second message from 2 Corinthians 11, Paul reminds us that false teachers are no more than pretenders. They wear costumes that may appear to be holy but ultimately lack authenticity. This is a practice as old as creation itself as it is the precise tactic Satan has always used to fool the world. Therefore, pray for God to open your eyes and remove the disguises of the wicked through today’s word.