King James Version

What Does 2 Corinthians 11:13 Mean?

2 Corinthians 11:13 in the King James Version says “For such are false apostles, deceitful workers, transforming themselves into the apostles of Christ.” — study this verse from 2 Corinthians chapter 11 with commentary, cross-references, and original Greek word analysis.

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

2 Corinthians 11:13 · KJV

Context

11

Wherefore? because I love you not? God knoweth.

12

But what I do, that I will do, that I may cut off occasion from them which desire occasion; that wherein they glory, they may be found even as we.

13

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

14

And no marvel; for Satan himself is transformed into an angel of light.

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.

Read 2 Corinthians 11 full chapter

Commentary

KJV Study Commentary
For such are false apostles, deceitful workers, transforming themselves into the apostles of Christ. Paul's verdict on the 'super-apostles' is devastating: pseudapostoloi (ψευδαπόστολοι, 'false apostles'), ergatai dolioi (ἐργάται δόλιοι, 'deceitful/fraudulent workers'). These are not merely mistaken but actively deceptive—dolioi implies craftiness, treachery, bait-and-switch tactics.

The participle metaschēmatizomenoi (μετασχηματιζόμενοι, 'transforming/disguising themselves') describes ongoing masquerade. They transform themselves into apostles of Christ—wearing apostolic costume, using Christian vocabulary, claiming divine authority, yet serving Satan. This is identity theft on a spiritual scale. They are not what they appear to be.

The contrast with genuine apostles is stark: true apostles are sent by Christ (Gal 1:1), preach Christ crucified (1 Cor 2:2), display Christ-like character (2 Cor 6:4-10), and refuse to peddle God's word for profit (2:17). False apostles are self-appointed, preach themselves, display worldly credentials, and exploit the flock financially (11:20). The disguise is sophisticated but the fruit exposes them.

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Historical & Cultural Context

False apostles were an early church problem (Rev 2:2; 1 John 4:1). These itinerant teachers claimed apostolic authority—possibly connection to Jerusalem apostles or eyewitness status. Their credentials, eloquence, and Jewish background gave them credibility, making their false teaching more dangerous than obvious heresy. Churches needed discernment to distinguish true from counterfeit.

Reflection Questions

  1. What are the marks of false apostles today—how do we distinguish genuine from counterfeit Christian teachers and leaders?
  2. In what ways do false teachers 'transform themselves' to look authentic—what disguises should we watch for?
  3. How can we develop discernment to see past impressive credentials, eloquence, and Christian vocabulary to detect false teaching?

Original Language Analysis

Greek · 10 words
οἱ1 of 10
G3588

the (sometimes to be supplied, at others omitted, in english idiom)

γὰρ2 of 10

“For”

G1063

properly, assigning a reason (used in argument, explanation or intensification; often with other particles)

τοιοῦτοι3 of 10

“such”

G5108

truly this, i.e., of this sort (to denote character or individuality)

ψευδαπόστολοι4 of 10

“are false apostles”

G5570

a spurious apostle, i.e., pretended pracher

ἐργάται5 of 10

“workers”

G2040

a toiler; figuratively, a teacher

δόλιοι6 of 10

“deceitful”

G1386

guileful

μετασχηματιζόμενοι7 of 10

“transforming themselves”

G3345

to transfigure or disguise; figuratively, to apply (by accommodation)

εἰς8 of 10

“into”

G1519

to or into (indicating the point reached or entered), of place, time, or (figuratively) purpose (result, etc.); also in adverbial phrases

ἀποστόλους9 of 10

“the apostles”

G652

a delegate; specially, an ambassador of the gospel; officially a commissioner of christ ("apostle") (with miraculous powers)

Χριστοῦ10 of 10

“of Christ”

G5547

anointed, i.e., the messiah, an epithet of jesus

Study Guide

Historical Context

This verse is found in the book of 2 Corinthians. Understanding the historical and cultural background helps illuminate its meaning for the original audience and for us today.

Theological Significance

2 Corinthians 11:13 contributes to our understanding of God's character and His relationship with humanity. Consider how this verse connects to the broader themes of Scripture.

Cross-References

Verses related to 2 Corinthians 11:13 from Treasury of Scripture Knowledge

Revelation 2:2Galatians 1:71 John 4:1Philippians 3:2Galatians 2:4Acts 20:30

Test Your Knowledge

2 Corinthians 11 QuizTest your knowledge of this chapter2 Corinthians Book QuizComprehensive quiz for the entire book

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