SINNERS TO AVOID
READ Romans 16:17-20
To finish out the week our focus will be upon the section of Romans 16 that lists some sinners to avoid. No one is particularly named in this section, but an extraordinarily strong warning is given. Notice Romans 16:17-18, "Now I beseech you, brethren, mark them which cause divisions and offences contrary to the doctrine which ye have learned; and avoid them. For they that are such serve not our Lord Jesus Christ, but their own belly; and by good words and fair speeches deceive the hearts of the simple."
The Apostle adds one final injunction. “Mark them which cause divisions and offences contrary to the doctrine which ye have learned; and avoid them.” Then, as now, there are those who advance unscriptural doctrine and practices. Paul therefore instructs them and us (with an imperative) to avoid them. It is of note that they were to avoid other professing Christians which caused “divisions and offences contrary to the doctrine” they had learned.
A divisive person is a person who...
grumbles
is argumentative
complains
causes strife
criticizes
acts out of pride, ambition, or selfishness
murmurs
gossips
is unloving
teaches a different form of doctrine
The word translated as "offences" has to do with sinful acts or that which is in disobedience to God. Hence, separation from other Christians is commanded when (1) they deviate doctrinally or (2) when sin or disobedient practices prevail in their lives.
Paul goes on to indicate that such really are more interested in “their own belly” (i.e, their own good) and not the work of “our Lord Jesus Christ.” Moreover, such compromisers often gloss over their error by “good words and fair speeches,” thus deceiving the naive. The word translated as "simple" has the idea of being ‘naive’ and hence easily deceived.
A divisive person is gripped by...
selfish desires
physical appetites
base ambition
wanting his own way
personal urges
getting what he wants
Note: Scripture clearly says that divisive persons do not serve Christ. They call themselves Christians, but their Lord is not Christ. They are not committed to His honor and glory and mission but to themselves—to getting and doing what they want. The divisive person is still given over to the things of this carnal, sensual, and secular world.
(For many walk, of whom I have told you often, and now tell you even weeping, that they are the enemies of the cross of Christ: 19 Whose end is destruction, whose God is their belly, and whose glory is in their shame, who mind earthly things)" (Philippians 3:18-19).
Your Friend and HIS,
Pastor Abbott
MEDITATIONS
1. Left unchecked, what kind of harm can a divisive person bring to a church? Is there a sure way to recognize such a person?
2. How can you keep a divisive person from getting a foothold in your church?
3. Does your life exhibit any of the characteristics listed concerning one who is divisive, and if so, what can you do to change?