2 Corinthians 11:13 For such are false apostles, deceitful workers, transforming themselves into apostles of Christ.

 

Satan operates in many ways but for the most part, he works through people. In the modern church, we find hundreds, if not thousands, of false apostles, false prophets, and false teachers. These people seek titles, positions, and more than anything, money.

 

Paul called these people deceitful workers. In his letter to the Corinthians, Paul wrote But what I do, I will also continue to do, that I may cut off the opportunity from those who desire an opportunity to be regarded just as we are in the things of which they boast. For such are false apostles, deceitful workers, transforming themselves into apostles of Christ. And no wonder! For Satan himself transforms himself into an angel of light. Therefore it is no great thing if his ministers also transform themselves into ministers of righteousness, whose end will be according to their works. (2 Corinthians 11:12-15)

 

Paul knew what was going on in the church at Corinth and he called them out. He drew the contrast between himself and the false apostles and encouraged the Corinthians to consider the fruit of their works. He told them that no matter what these evil people said, he would continue in the faith and the Work the Lord placed before him.

 

He reminded them that he, unlike the others, was not motivated by titles or money. His motivation came from the fruit of his labor which was souls saved, healed, and delivered from sin. He encouraged them to test the spirit of these people. Would they continue to minister to the people if they were not paid money?

 

Awe! Therein lies the most important question and the best test for anyone in the ministry today. John encourages us to test every spirit. Beloved, do not believe every spirit, but test the spirits, whether they are of God; because many false prophets have gone out into the world. (1 John 4:1)

 

People who come with a fancy title behind their name and demand to be paid a large sum of money are not true ministers of the Gospel of Christ. Just as it was in the days of the Apostle Paul, ministry today is big business.

 

I encourage you to test the spirits of those standing in the pulpit where you go to church. Do they refer to themselves as Apostle so and so or Prophet so and so? Do they require a big salary and a benefit package to minister there? Would they continue in their ministry if all that was taken away? If those sitting in the pews would test the spirits of those standing on the platform, the face of the modern church would change dramatically.

 

Do not be deceived. Test every spirit.

 

I believe God will……..….turn the tide...........in His Church!

 

Thank you Jesus!         Doreen

 

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