2 Corinthians 11:4

KJV

For if he that cometh preacheth another Jesus, whom we have not preached, or [if] ye receive another spirit, which ye have not received, or another gospel, which ye have not accepted, ye might well bear with [him].

KJV (with Strong's)

For {G1063} if {G1487}{G3303} he that cometh {G2064} preacheth {G2784} another {G243} Jesus {G2424}, whom {G3739} we have {G2784} not {G3756} preached {G2784}, or {G2228} if ye receive {G2983} another {G2087} spirit {G4151}, which {G3739} ye have {G2983} not {G3756} received {G2983}, or {G2228} another {G2087} gospel {G2098}, which {G3739} ye have {G1209} not {G3756} accepted {G1209}, ye might {G430} well {G2573} bear with {G430} him.

Complete Jewish Bible

For if someone comes and tells you about some other Yeshua than the one we told you about, or if you receive a spirit different from the one you received or accept some so-called “good news” different from the Good News you already accepted, you bear with him well enough!

Berean Standard Bible

For if someone comes and proclaims a Jesus other than the One we proclaimed, or if you receive a different spirit than the One you received, or a different gospel than the one you accepted, you put up with it way too easily.

American Standard Version

For if he that cometh preacheth another Jesus, whom we did not preach, or if ye receive a different spirit, which ye did not receive, or a different gospel, which ye did not accept, ye do well to bear with him.

Commentary

### SUMMARY
In the Apostle Paul employs biting sarcasm to express his profound alarm and dismay at the Corinthian believers' alarming susceptibility to deceptive teachings. He highlights their apparent willingness to tolerate those who preach a fundamentally different "Jesus," impart a "different spirit," and proclaim a "different gospel" than what he, their spiritual father, had faithfully delivered to them. This verse serves as a stark warning, underscoring the critical importance of discerning authentic Christian truth from its dangerous counterfeits, which threaten the very foundation of faith.

### CONTEXT
* **Literary Context:** This verse is deeply embedded within Paul's impassioned and often sarcastic defense of his apostolic authority and ministry against the "super-apostles" or "false apostles" who had infiltrated the Corinthian church. Paul's concern is not merely for his reputation, but for the spiritual purity and fidelity of the believers. In [2 Corinthians 11:2](/2_corinthians/11-2 "2 Corinthians 11:2"), he declares his "divine jealousy" for them, having betrothed them to "one husband, to present you as a pure virgin to Christ." This profound pastoral love fuels his indignation in [2 Corinthians 11:4](/2_corinthians/11-4 "2 Corinthians 11:4"), where he sarcastically suggests that the Corinthians are remarkably tolerant of those who offer a corrupted version of the very core elements of their faith. The subsequent verses ([2 Corinthians 11:5-6](/2_corinthians/11-5-6 "2 Corinthians 11:5-6")) continue this line of argument, with Paul asserting his own apostolic credentials and intellectual capacity, subtly contrasting himself with the deceptive rhetoric of his opponents.
* **Historical & Cultural Context:** The city of Corinth was a bustling, cosmopolitan port city, known for its diverse philosophical schools, rhetorical traditions, and religious syncretism. In such an environment, itinerant teachers, philosophers, and religious leaders were common, often competing for followers by displaying impressive oratorical skills and promising new insights or experiences. The Corinthian believers, perhaps influenced by their cultural milieu, may have been drawn to the eloquence and charisma of these "super-apostles," valuing their rhetorical prowess over the simple, unadorned gospel Paul had preached ([1 Corinthians 2:1-5](/1_corinthians/2-1-5 "1 Corinthians 2:1-5 - Paul's Preaching in Corinth")). This cultural predisposition made them vulnerable to those who presented a seemingly more sophisticated or powerful version of Christianity, even if it deviated from the foundational truths. The false teachers likely challenged Paul's authority, perhaps criticizing his lack of impressive speech or his refusal to accept financial support, thereby undermining his genuine apostolic mission.
* **Key Themes:** [2 Corinthians 11:4](/2_corinthians/11-4 "2 Corinthians 11:4") powerfully contributes to several key themes woven throughout Paul's letters and the broader New Testament. Firstly, it highlights the **Danger of False Doctrine**, particularly concerning the non-negotiable foundations of Christian faith: the person of Jesus, the nature of the Holy Spirit, and the content of the gospel message itself. Any deviation in these areas is catastrophic, not merely a minor theological disagreement. Secondly, it underscores the **Singularity and Exclusivity of Christian Truth**. Paul emphasizes that there is only one true Jesus, one true Holy Spirit, and one true gospel, as revealed in Scripture. Any "other" is, by definition, a false alternative, leading to spiritual peril. This theme is echoed in his strong warning in [Galatians 1:6-9](/galatians/1-6-9 "Galatians 1:6-9 - Warning Against a Different Gospel"). Thirdly, the verse implicitly calls for **Spiritual Discernment**, lamenting the Corinthians' lack thereof. Their willingness to "bear with" or tolerate these false teachers demonstrates a failure to "test the spirits" ([1 John 4:1](/1_john/4-1 "1 John 4:1 - Test the Spirits")) and messages they encountered, a crucial aspect of mature Christian living. Finally, Paul's sharp tone reveals his profound **Apostolic and Pastoral Concern** for the flock entrusted to him. His sarcasm is born not of anger, but of deep anguish over the spiritual harm threatening the Corinthian believers whom he genuinely loves and desires to present "pure" to Christ ([2 Corinthians 11:2](/2_corinthians/11-2 "2 Corinthians 11:2 - Paul's Divine Jealousy")).

### EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS

#### Key Word Analysis
* **another (Greek, _állos'_):** G243. This primary word means "else," or "different" in many applications. Crucially, in this context, _állos_ signifies "another of a *different kind*." This is distinct from _héteros_ (G2087), which means "another of the *same kind*." By using _állos_ for "Jesus," "spirit," and "gospel," Paul emphasizes that the false teachers were not offering a mere variation or alternative perspective, but something fundamentally distinct and incompatible with the true Christian faith. It implies a qualitative difference, not just a quantitative one.
* **gospel (Greek, _euangélion'_):** G2098. Derived from the same root as _euangelízō_ (to preach good news), _euangélion_ refers to a "good message" or "the gospel." It encapsulates the core message of salvation through Jesus Christ—His life, death, resurrection, and ascension—and its implications for humanity. Paul's use of "another gospel" here underscores that any deviation from this singular, saving message constitutes a different, and therefore false, pathway to God, devoid of true redemptive power.
* **bear with (Greek, _anéchomai'_):** G430. This middle voice verb, formed from _aná_ (up) and _échō_ (to hold), literally means "to hold oneself up against," or figuratively, "to put up with," "endure," or "suffer." Paul's sarcastic use of this term highlights the Corinthians' surprising, even alarming, tolerance and patience toward these purveyors of false doctrine. Instead of resisting or rejecting them, they were passively or actively "bearing with" them, indicating a dangerous lack of discernment and spiritual fortitude.

#### Verse Breakdown
* **"For if he that cometh preacheth another Jesus, whom we have not preached":** Paul begins by addressing the possibility of new teachers arriving in Corinth. The phrase "another Jesus" is profoundly significant, indicating a Christ who is fundamentally different in nature, identity, or saving work from the Jesus proclaimed by Paul and the apostles. This "other Jesus" might be one who is not fully God and fully man, or one whose sacrifice is insufficient, or one who does not demand repentance and faith. The qualification "whom we have not preached" emphasizes that the apostolic message was singular, authoritative, and complete, serving as the benchmark against which all other claims must be measured.
* **"or if ye receive another spirit, which ye have not received":** Following the "other Jesus," Paul warns against "another spirit." This refers to a spiritual influence or manifestation that is distinct from the Holy Spirit, the true Spirit of God, who indwells believers and empowers them. A "different spirit" might manifest in ways that are not consistent with the fruit of the Spirit ([Galatians 5:22-23](/galatians/5-22-23 "Galatians 5:22-23 - Fruit of the Spirit")) or biblical teaching, perhaps emphasizing ecstatic experiences over righteousness, or promoting a message contrary to Christ. The phrase "which ye have not received" again points to the unique and authentic experience of the Spirit that accompanied Paul's initial ministry among them.
* **"or another gospel, which ye have not accepted":** The third critical deviation is "another gospel." This signifies a message of salvation that differs from the true gospel of grace through faith in Christ's atoning work. Such a "different gospel" might add works to faith, deny the necessity of Christ's death and resurrection, or offer salvation on different terms. Paul is clear throughout his letters that there is only one true gospel ([Galatians 1:6-9](/galatians/1-6-9 "Galatians 1:6-9 - Warning Against a Different Gospel")), and any alteration renders it null and void. The Corinthians' initial "acceptance" of Paul's gospel serves as a reminder of the truth they once embraced.
* **"ye might well bear with him":** This concluding clause is drenched in Paul's sarcasm. It conveys his astonishment and frustration that the Corinthians, having received the authentic Jesus, Spirit, and gospel, seem perfectly content to "bear with" or tolerate those who bring such dangerous counterfeits. The implied question is: How could you so readily accept these profound distortions when you have already received the truth? It highlights their alarming lack of discernment and willingness to compromise foundational truths for novelty or charismatic appeal.

#### Literary Devices
Paul's communication in [2 Corinthians 11:4](/2_corinthians/11-4 "2 Corinthians 11:4") is masterfully crafted, employing several literary devices to underscore his urgent message. The most prominent is **Sarcasm**, evident in the phrase "ye might well bear with him." Paul does not genuinely believe the Corinthians should tolerate these false teachers; rather, he uses this ironic statement to highlight the absurdity and danger of their actual tolerance. This rhetorical strategy aims to shock his audience into recognizing their error. Furthermore, the verse employs striking **Parallelism** through the repeated structure of "another Jesus... another spirit... or another gospel." This tripartite repetition emphasizes the comprehensive nature of the false teaching, which attacks the very core tenets of Christian belief—Christology, Pneumatology, and Soteriology. The use of the Greek word _állos_ (another of a *different kind*) for each element further intensifies this parallelism, stressing the qualitative departure from truth. The verse also functions as an implied **Rhetorical Question**, challenging the Corinthians' judgment and discernment without directly asking for an answer, thereby compelling them to reflect on their actions and the implications of their complacency.

### THEOLOGICAL AND THEMATIC CONNECTIONS
[2 Corinthians 11:4](/2_corinthians/11-4 "2 Corinthians 11:4") stands as a foundational text for understanding the absolute necessity of doctrinal purity and the unyielding nature of the Christian faith's core tenets. It asserts that truth about Jesus, the Holy Spirit, and the gospel is singular and non-negotiable. The "other" versions presented by false teachers are not merely alternative perspectives but dangerous deceptions, capable of leading believers astray from genuine salvation and spiritual life. This passage implicitly affirms the Trinitarian nature of God, as attacks on Jesus, the Spirit, and the gospel (which reveals the Father's plan) are attacks on the very being and work of God. It calls believers to a vigilant discernment, recognizing that spiritual warfare often manifests as a battle for truth, where subtle deviations can have eternal consequences. The integrity of the gospel message is paramount, as it is the power of God for salvation ([Romans 1:16](/romans/1-16 "Romans 1:16 - The Power of the Gospel")).

* [Galatians 1:6-9](/galatians/1-6-9 "Warning Against a Different Gospel")
* [1 John 4:1](/1_john/4-1 "Test the Spirits")
* [Jude 1:3-4](/jude/1-3-4 "Contend for the Faith")

### REFLECTION AND APPLICATION
[2 Corinthians 11:4](/2_corinthians/11-4 "2 Corinthians 11:4") remains profoundly relevant for believers today, serving as an urgent call to vigilant spiritual discernment in an age saturated with diverse spiritual claims and teachings. The ease with which the Corinthians tolerated false doctrine should be a sobering mirror for the contemporary church. We are constantly exposed to messages—through media, social platforms, and even within religious circles—that may subtly or overtly present a "different Jesus," a "different spirit," or a "different gospel." Therefore, it is imperative for believers to cultivate a deep, intimate knowledge of the true Jesus as revealed in Scripture, to understand the authentic work and fruit of the Holy Spirit, and to grasp the unadulterated gospel of grace. This requires diligent study of God's Word, prayerful reliance on the Holy Spirit for discernment, and a commitment to sound biblical teaching. Our tolerance for error, even seemingly minor deviations, can open the door to dangerous deception, compromising the integrity of our faith and the spiritual well-being of the community. We are called not to be naive, but to be "wise as serpents and innocent as doves" ([Matthew 10:16](/matthew/10-16 "Matthew 10:16 - Wise as Serpents, Innocent as Doves")), guarding the precious deposit of truth entrusted to us.

#### Questions for Reflection
* **How do I discern between a true biblical teaching and a "different" one in today's complex spiritual landscape?**
* **In what ways might I be unknowingly "bearing with" or tolerating teachings or influences that subtly deviate from the true Jesus, Spirit, or gospel?**
* **What practical steps can I take to deepen my understanding of the true gospel and the person of Jesus Christ, so that I can more readily identify counterfeits?**
* **How can I contribute to a culture of biblical discernment and doctrinal purity within my local church community?**

### FAQ

**What does Paul mean by "another Jesus," "another spirit," and "another gospel"?**

Answer: Paul uses the Greek word _állos_ (G243), which means "another of a *different kind*," not just a different version or perspective.
* **"Another Jesus"** refers to a portrayal of Jesus that fundamentally alters His identity (e.g., not fully God or fully man), His nature (e.g., a mere prophet, not the Son of God), or His saving work (e.g., His death on the cross was not sufficient for atonement). The true Jesus is the divine Son of God, who lived a sinless life, died as a propitiatory sacrifice for sins, and rose bodily from the dead ([John 1:1-14](/john/1-1-14 "John 1:1-14 - The Word Became Flesh"), [Romans 5:8](/romans/5-8 "Romans 5:8 - God's Love Demonstrated"), [1 Corinthians 15:3-4](/1_corinthians/15-3-4 "1 Corinthians 15:3-4 - The Gospel Defined")).
* **"Another spirit"** denotes a spiritual influence or manifestation that is not the Holy Spirit of God. This could be a demonic spirit, a human spirit, or a counterfeit spiritual experience that does not align with the character, fruit, or leading of the true Holy Spirit as revealed in Scripture ([Galatians 5:22-23](/galatians/5-22-23 "Galatians 5:22-23 - Fruit of the Spirit"), [1 John 4:1](/1_john/4-1 "1 John 4:1 - Test the Spirits")).
* **"Another gospel"** signifies a message of salvation that deviates from the authentic gospel of grace through faith in Jesus Christ alone. This might involve adding human works to salvation, denying the necessity of Christ's sacrifice, or promoting a different path to God. Paul vehemently asserts there is only one true gospel ([Galatians 1:6-9](/galatians/1-6-9 "Galatians 1:6-9 - Warning Against a Different Gospel")), and any deviation is a perversion.

### CHRIST-CENTERED FULFILLMENT
[2 Corinthians 11:4](/2_corinthians/11-4 "2 Corinthians 11:4") finds its ultimate fulfillment and counter-point in the person and work of Jesus Christ Himself. The very existence of "another Jesus," "another spirit," and "another gospel" underscores the unique and singular truth embodied in the historical, resurrected Christ. Jesus is not merely *a* way, but *the* way, *the* truth, and *the* life ([John 14:6](/john/14-6 "John 14:6 - Jesus, the Way, the Truth, and the Life")), making any "other" a lie. His incarnation, sinless life, atoning death, and glorious resurrection constitute the one, unchangeable gospel, the "power of God for salvation to everyone who believes" ([Romans 1:16](/romans/1-16 "Romans 1:16 - The Power of the Gospel")). The Holy Spirit, whom Paul contrasts with "another spirit," is the Spirit of Christ ([Romans 8:9](/romans/8-9 "Romans 8:9 - Spirit of Christ")), sent by the Father and the Son to bear witness to Jesus ([John 15:26](/john/15-26 "John 15:26 - The Spirit of Truth")) and to empower believers to live according to His truth. Therefore, the warning in [2 Corinthians 11:4](/2_corinthians/11-4 "2 Corinthians 11:4") serves to protect the centrality and supremacy of Christ, ensuring that believers remain anchored to the one Lord, one faith, and one baptism ([Ephesians 4:5](/ephesians/4-5 "Ephesians 4:5 - One Lord, One Faith, One Baptism")) that finds its full expression and saving power in Him alone. To accept any "other" is to reject the unique sufficiency and glory of Christ, the very foundation of our hope and salvation ([Colossians 1:15-20](/colossians/1-15-20 "Colossians 1:15-20 - The Supremacy of Christ")).

Note: Commentary is generated by AI with a directive for Biblical fidelity. Always rely on the Holy Spirit for discernment. The Scripture text and cross-references are from verified, non-AI sources.

Cross-References

Galatians 1:6

¶ I marvel that ye are so soon removed from him that called you into the grace of Christ unto another gospel:

Galatians 1:8

But though we, or an angel from heaven, preach any other gospel unto you than that which we have preached unto you, let him be accursed.

Ephesians 4:4

[There is] one body, and one Spirit, even as ye are called in one hope of your calling;

Ephesians 4:5

One Lord, one faith, one baptism,

1 Corinthians 3:11

¶ For other foundation can no man lay than that is laid, which is Jesus Christ.

1 Timothy 2:5

For [there is] one God, and one mediator between God and men, the man Christ Jesus;

1 Corinthians 12:4

Now there are diversities of gifts, but the same Spirit.