Peddlers of the Word: What Does That Mean? 2

Understanding Paul’s Warning in Today’s World

Let’s break down what “peddlers of the word” means, especially as the Apostle Paul uses it in the Bible, and see how it might relate to things we’re seeing today.

First off, in II Corinthians chapter 2, Paul is defending himself and his ministry. Some people were going around claiming to be teachers of God’s word, but Paul says that not everyone who talks about God is trustworthy. He calls these people “peddlers of God’s word.” Basically, a “peddler” is like a street vendor or huckster—someone who sells things, sometimes in a shady way. The idea is that these folks weren’t sharing the real message of Jesus, but instead were mixing it up with their own ideas and self-interest. They were, in a sense, watering down the message—just like cheap wine that’s been diluted with water.

Paul saw himself, by contrast, as sincere—genuinely sent by God and trying to spread the true message of Jesus. He describes himself and his companions as “the aroma of Christ,” which means their lives and actions give off the true scent or spirit of Jesus, not something fake or altered.

Now, why does this matter for us today? Well, sometimes you see people using the Bible or faith as a way to make money or push their own agenda. For example, recently, Donald Trump has been selling a special “USA Bible” for $59.99. He’s tying faith to his own version of patriotism and using the Bible as just another product to sell. When someone does this, it’s easy for the real message of the gospel—the good news of Jesus—to get lost or twisted. The focus shifts from what Jesus taught to whatever the seller wants to promote.

Paul was worried about this very thing: that the pure, powerful message of Jesus would get corrupted, watered down, or used for someone else’s gain. He wanted people to be careful, to look for sincerity and truth, not showmanship or sales tactics.

In short, “peddlers of the word” are people who use faith for their own benefit, not to honestly share God’s message. So when you see someone selling religion, especially when it’s clearly linked to their own interests or a money-making scheme, it’s wise to remember Paul’s warning. The real story of Jesus doesn’t need to be bought or mixed with other ideas. It stands on its own and is freely given to all who want to receive it.

That’s the good company Paul talks about—those who pray, who seek God, and who live their faith quietly and sincerely, without needing a sales pitch.