King James Version

What Does 2 Corinthians 2:11 Mean?

2 Corinthians 2:11 in the King James Version says “Lest Satan should get an advantage of us: for we are not ignorant of his devices.” — study this verse from 2 Corinthians chapter 2 with commentary, cross-references, and original Greek word analysis.

“Lest Satan should get an advantage of us: for we are not ignorant of his devices.”

2 Corinthians 2:11 · KJV

Context

9

For to this end also did I write, that I might know the proof of you, whether ye be obedient in all things.

10

To whom ye forgive any thing, I forgive also: for if I forgave any thing, to whom I forgave it, for your sakes forgave I it in the person of Christ; person: or, sight in the person: or, in the sight

11

Lest Satan should get an advantage of us: for we are not ignorant of his devices.

12

Furthermore, when I came to Troas to preach Christ's gospel, and a door was opened unto me of the Lord,

13

I had no rest in my spirit, because I found not Titus my brother: but taking my leave of them, I went from thence into Macedonia.

Read 2 Corinthians 2 full chapter

Commentary

KJV Study Commentary
Lest Satan should get an advantage of us—The verb pleonekteō (πλεονεκτέω, "to take advantage, outwit, defraud") suggests calculated exploitation. The name Satanas (Σατανᾶς) means "adversary" or "accuser." Paul reveals that both unrepentant sin and unrelenting discipline serve Satan's purposes—the former through moral compromise, the latter through crushing despair and destroying community unity.

For we are not ignorant of his devices—The term noēmata (νοήματα, "schemes, thoughts, designs") indicates Satan's strategic thinking. Elsewhere Paul uses this word for "minds" (2 Cor 3:14, 4:4, 11:3), suggesting Satan's warfare targets human thinking. His "devices" include both temptation to sin and accusation after repentance. Wisdom recognizes both tactics: churches must address sin seriously while extending grace generously. Failing either way gives Satan advantage. Paul's pastoral balance thwarts demonic strategy.

KJV Study — Public Domain

Historical & Cultural Context

First-century Jewish and Christian literature (Testament of the Twelve Patriarchs, Dead Sea Scrolls) recognized Satan's role as accuser and tempter. Paul's pastoral theology incorporates this cosmic conflict dimension—church discipline is not merely interpersonal but spiritual warfare, requiring wisdom to avoid Satan's traps.

Reflection Questions

  1. How does Satan use both tolerance of sin and excessive punishment to harm churches?
  2. What are Satan's "devices" in your church context that exploit either laxness or harshness?
  3. How does understanding spiritual warfare inform church discipline practices?

Original Language Analysis

Greek · 12 words
ἵνα1 of 12
G2443

in order that (denoting the purpose or the result)

μὴ2 of 12
G3361

(adverb) not, (conjunction) lest; also (as an interrogative implying a negative answer (whereas g3756 expects an affirmative one)) whether

πλεονεκτηθῶμεν3 of 12

“should get an advantage of us”

G4122

to be covetous, i.e., (by implication) to over-reach

ὑπὸ4 of 12

“Satan”

G5259

under, i.e., (with the genitive case) of place (beneath), or with verbs (the agency or means, through); (with the accusative case) of place (whither (

τοῦ5 of 12
G3588

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

Σατανᾶ·6 of 12
G4567

the accuser, i.e., the devil

οὐ7 of 12

“we are not”

G3756

the absolute negative (compare g3361) adverb; no or not

γὰρ8 of 12

“for”

G1063

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

αὐτοῦ9 of 12

“of his”

G846

the reflexive pronoun self, used (alone or in the comparative g1438) of the third person, and (with the proper personal pronoun) of the other persons

τὰ10 of 12
G3588

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

νοήματα11 of 12

“devices”

G3540

a perception, i.e., purpose, or (by implication) the intellect, disposition, itself

ἀγνοοῦμεν12 of 12

“ignorant”

G50

not to know (through lack of information or intelligence); by implication, to ignore (through disinclination)

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 2:11 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 2:11 from Treasury of Scripture Knowledge

1 Peter 5:8Ephesians 6:11-122 Corinthians 11:3Luke 22:312 Corinthians 4:4Revelation 12:9-11

Test Your Knowledge

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

Continue Your Study

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