Why is it important to "avoid them" who "put obstacles" in our path? Setting the Scene: Romans 16:17 “Now I urge you, brothers, to watch out for those who create divisions and obstacles that are contrary to the teaching you have learned. Turn away from them.” What Does “Obstacles” Mean Here? • Anything that blocks, trips, or detours believers from sound doctrine and obedient living • Often packaged as attractive ideas, persuasive personalities, or “new” insights, yet they oppose the apostolic teaching already received Why “Avoid” Is a Loving Command • Love protects. Guarding the flock from deception is an act of love (Acts 20:28-30) • Truth keeps us free (John 8:31-32). Falsehood enslaves • Unity around truth glorifies Christ; division around error dishonors Him (Ephesians 4:3-6) Five Key Reasons to Turn Away 1. Preserving Pure Doctrine – Galatians 1:8-9 warns that even an angel preaching a different gospel is to be rejected 2. Protecting Personal Holiness – 1 Corinthians 15:33: “Bad company corrupts good character.” Error often breeds sin 3. Maintaining Spiritual Health of the Church – Titus 3:10: “Reject a divisive person after a first and second admonition” 4. Safeguarding the Weak – Romans 14:13 calls us not to place a stumbling block before a brother; avoiding false guides prevents that 5. Honoring Christ’s Reputation – 2 John 1:10-11: welcoming false teachers makes us partners in their works, damaging the gospel’s witness Recognizing Modern “Obstacle-Makers” • Teachers who deny the deity of Christ or the authority of Scripture • Voices minimizing repentance, holiness, or the new birth • Movements that add works, rituals, or secret knowledge to salvation • Influencers promoting moral compromise as “grace” Practical Ways to “Watch Out” and “Turn Away” • Stay rooted in daily Scripture; compare every message with the Word (Acts 17:11) • Test the fruit—do their lives reflect godliness? (Matthew 7:15-20) • Consult mature, biblically grounded believers when unsure (Proverbs 15:22) • Limit platforms: avoid sharing or endorsing voices proven unfaithful (2 John 1:10) • Invest in faithful churches and teachers who handle the Word rightly (2 Timothy 2:15) The Promise in Obedience When we heed Romans 16:17, we enjoy: • Clearer understanding of truth • Deeper fellowship with believers walking the same path • Greater effectiveness in witness, unhampered by mixed signals • Lasting joy of walking in step with the Spirit (Galatians 5:25) Avoiding those who set obstacles isn’t withdrawal from the world; it’s wise separation from error so we can shine the light of Christ without distortion. |
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