Issue 9 - Day 3

Romans 16

Romans 16:17-18
17)  Now I beseech you, brethren, mark them which cause divisions and offences contrary to the doctrine which ye have learned; and avoid them.
18)  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.

This whole chapter is full of salutations and recommendations of the saints, then slap bang in the middle we get these out of place verses. Or not so out of place maybe. When giving a list of those who are following Christ, it is wise of Paul to warn of those who are not. We do need to keep our eyes and ears open.

There are three sorts of people to watch out for, and the bible is clear as to why they are acting as they do, it is to their own benefit, even when it does not appear to be so, and even when they themselves may not realise what they are doing. The first is those who cause division. The second are those who go against God’s word, while claiming that they are not, it is just that they are interpreting scripture differently (and they believe, correctly). The third is that subtle group of people, full of good words and fair speeches.

I was recently at a service where the preacher gave a powerful message, full of testimony of what God had been doing with his life. Unfortunately it was all good words and fair speech! He used a couple of words from one verse to explain where the name for his ministry organisation came from, and used not on other word of scripture. I am certain that he is a wonderful guy, doing his best to follow the Lord and do the work God has given him, but what a waste of opportunity when he could have been sharing the gospel. The wise were indeed blessed by his testimony, but the simple were no doubt deceived. Keep your eyes open and stand strong in what you know is truth from God’s word.