Reading for Thursday: 2 Corinthians 11
Paul write powerful letters that have influenced countless men and women of varying cultures and nationalities for thousands of years. But, in person, Paul was not an accomplished or eloquent speaker. He was not someone who was super impressive in stature or appearance. He would probably not be considered a “10” on anyone’s popularity poll. But, Paul’s faith in Christ was genuine and pure and he was dedicated to being a loyal “ friend of the bridegroom”.
In the Jewish culture of that day, the friend of the bridegroom served an important role. He was the one who planned the wedding and took care of all of the important details for their soon to be union. The bride to be was kept in a guarded place ( usually with family) and the friend of the bride carried messages between the espoused couple. During that time of betrothal, it was of utmost importance for him to be able to account for the bride’s character and purity on the wedding day. Paul, took the responsibility of presenting converted believers as “pure” in their faith to Christ. He didn’t want them to be led away and deceived.
“For I feel a divine jealousy for you, since I betrothed you to one husband, to present you as a pure virgin to Christ. But I am afraid that as the serpent deceived Eve by his cunning, your thoughts will be led astray from a sincere and pure devotion to Christ.”
2 Corinthians 11:2-3
Paul knew that there were enticements at work in the spiritual realm. He knew that there were speakers more eloquent than he, more impressive in appearance and very cunning in being able to deceive. These “super apostles” were prevalent in Paul’s day and in ours as well. To remain pure in our faith, we must also be aware that we could be falsely deceived if we are not very careful to guard our hearts and minds.
“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.” (v13-14)
If you turn on the TV or radio today, you will find many “popular” Christian speakers. They are eloquent in their words, captivating in their appearance and convincing in the deliverance of their messages. But, we know that they are not all in unity in what they teach. They may “ appear” to be speaking on behalf of Christ but they may be deceiving good hearted and well intentioned followers with half truths,twisted truths, and counterfeit spiritual experiences. How do we know?
Paul reminds us that we must know Christ personally, know His heart, know the truth of what He represents and teaches. “For if someone comes and proclaims another Jesus than the one we proclaimed, or if you receive a different spirit from the one you received, or if you accept a different gospel from the one you accepted..(v4) Anything that entices us away from the purity of Christ’s love and work of salvation will corrupt our betrothal relationship. We are his bride and we must stay pure.
How do we personally know Jesus? How do we know that we are being guided by light and not being deceived by darkness masquerading as light? The answer is literally found “ in His Word”.
“Your word is a lamp to my feet and a light to my path.” Psalm 119:105
We have to be in His Word for ourselves and not just relying on what others say. Every thought, belief, and action we adopt must be aligned with the Word of God. When we consider the teachings of prevalent speakers, we must compare what they say with what God’s Word says. We must consider their message as well as their motives. Are they placing Christ in His rightful place of authority? Are they promoting the selfless love of Christ? Are they encouraging a personal, ever deepening relationship with Christ and dependence on God vs man? Are they teaching salvation 100% based on Christ’s finished work at the cross?
Don’t forget that you are chosen to be the beloved, cherished bride of Christ. This is a beautiful, sacred privilege and responsibility. It is very important to remain spiritually discerning and devoted to this relationship with the One who loves you more than you can even begin to comprehend.