Discerning the Difference    
Romans 16:17-20

Near the end of his letter to the Romans, Paul gives a parting admonition.  He is concerned about those in the church who cause dissent to serve their own purposes.  
“I appeal to you,” Paul says, “to watch out for those who cause divisions and create obstacles contrary to the doctrine that you have been taught; avoid them.” (16;17)
Great advice.  We know there are those in our churches, as well as other organizations, who do everything they can to cause trouble.  They constantly stir up arguments and turmoil just to keep things in crisis.  Sometimes they do this to get their own way (as Paul says).  Sometimes they do it because they love controversy and arguments.  I’ve known people like this, and Paul is right.  It’s best to avoid them and the discord they cause.  Nothing good comes of being with them.

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