Avoid Them

You have to avoid the big rocks!

Scripture:

Rom. 16:17   I urge you, brothers and sisters, to keep an eye on those who cause dissensions and offenses, in opposition to the teaching that you have learned; avoid them. 

Observation

As Paul brings his letter to the Romans to a close, he offers one final series of instructions. Having greeted friends and co-workers in the faith, he now turns to something that is clearly weighing on his pastoral heart. He is deeply concerned about division within the community of believers.

There were those who were causing dissensions and creating obstacles by teaching in opposition to the truth the church had received. Paul, who had been trained by one of the finest rabbis of his day, understood the importance of sound doctrine. He knew that there would always be voices claiming to offer something new or different. His instruction is both simple and direct: do not give your time or attention to teaching that leads you away from the truth you have learned. Avoid them.

Application

We still encounter voices that cause dissensions and lead people away from the truth. Today many of those conversations take place on social media. Others come through influential personalities, books, podcasts, or movements that gradually drift away from the historic faith of the Church. Sometimes the most dangerous teaching is not obviously false. It can sound persuasive, attractive, and even biblical while slowly drawing people away from the truth they have received.

One place I have found Paul's advice especially helpful is on social media. A few years ago someone asked whether anyone had ever changed their opinion because of an argument online. The overwhelming response was "no." Most people are not looking to learn; they are looking for affirmation. Paul simply says, "Avoid them." There is wisdom in recognizing when a conversation will produce more heat than light.

One of the gifts God has given the Church is accountability. Whether we belong to a denomination or an independent congregation, no Christian leader should be beyond loving correction. Whenever a ministry becomes centered on one personality, we should be careful. The question is never whether a leader is charismatic or successful. The question is whether they remain faithful to the apostolic teaching handed down through the Scriptures. If what you are hearing consistently leads away from the truth you have received, Paul offers clear counsel: avoid it.

We are not to seek preaching that merely confirms our preferences or tells us what we want to hear. Instead, we should welcome teaching that faithfully proclaims God's Word, brings conviction, and encourages genuine spiritual growth.

I have to confess that I struggle a bit with FOMO—the fear of missing out. I enjoy being with people, engaging in conversations, and knowing what is happening around me. Yet there are times when I sense the Lord quietly saying, "In this case, avoid them." There are moments when the most faithful response is not to win the argument, but simply to walk away and keep my eyes fixed on Jesus.

Prayer

Lord, thank You for this loving warning from Paul. Help me to remain firmly rooted in Your truth and to keep my eyes fixed on Jesus. Grant me discernment to recognize those voices that draw me closer to You and the wisdom to turn away from those that do not. Keep me firmly planted on the foundation of Your Word. Amen.