From the Pulpit...

Paul helps the Corinthians to understand why they need to listen to what he has to say by comparing himself to the false apostles. Though this is not the method he would choose, the Corinthians sort of forced his had, so he explains that he is not inferior to these teachers who have come in, that he does not take money like they do, and they are not in fact apostles of Christ like Paul is. In fact, they are apostles of Satan, bringing a different gospel, a different spirit, and a different Christ. Their work can be subtle, but we are warned by this passage to be discerning.