Digging in Deeper: Romans 16:17-18

“Now I urge you, brothers and sisters, to watch out for those who create divisions and obstacles contrary to the teaching that you learned. Avoid them, because such people do not serve our Lord Christ but their own appetites. They deceive the hearts of the unsuspecting with smooth talk and flattering words.” (CSB – Read the chapter)

I am a committed believer that the church should be a place for everyone. When the church is operating properly, no one should not be able to find their place there. It doesn’t matter how rich or poor a person is. It doesn’t matter how educated or simple they are. It doesn’t matter whether they are black or white or brown or red or yellow or any other color on the palette. National origins make no difference. Politics don’t matter. Even sports affiliation is something we can learn to have grace for. Everyone is welcome in the church…except for some people. Let’s take a minute today to talk about some people we don’t want in the church.

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Morning Musings: Romans 16:17-18

“I appeal to you, brothers, to watch out for those who cause divisions and create obstacles contrary to the doctrine that you have been taught; avoid them.  For such persons do not serve our Lord Christ, but their own appetites, and by smooth talk and flattery they deceive the hearts of the naive.”  (ESV – read the chapter)

When it comes to non-Christians, the church is to be open to all people.  We should receive with grace and gladness anyone who is interested in becoming a follower of Jesus regardless of their background or what they’ve done.

In the church and among people who claim to be followers of Jesus the story changes somewhat.  Oftentimes today, people who are most concerned with protecting the purity and unity of the church work to keep out the world.  In the New Testament, the exact opposite approach is taken.  The biggest threats to the purity and unity of the church are never from without, but rather within.

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