“I urge you, brothers and sisters, to watch out for those who cause divisions and put obstacles in your way that are contrary to the teaching you have learned. Keep away from them.” – Romans 16:17

In this verse, Paul urges the believers in Rome to be on guard against those who would seek to divide and disrupt the community of faith. He warns them to watch out for individuals who teach things that are contrary to the gospel, and to keep away from them. This is not a call to isolation or exclusivism, but rather a warning to protect the unity and integrity of the church.

Paul’s words remind us that the church is not just a human institution, but a spiritual community that is founded on the teachings of Christ. As such, we have a responsibility to protect and preserve the truth of the gospel, and to avoid those who would seek to distort or undermine it. This requires discernment, wisdom, and a deep commitment to the teachings of Scripture.

So let us take Paul’s words to heart, dear friends. Let us be vigilant in protecting the unity and integrity of our church community. Let us be discerning in our relationships and interactions, and let us avoid those who would seek to divide or disrupt our fellowship. May we be a community that is founded on the truth of the gospel, and may we bring glory to Christ in all that we do.