A Final Warning Concerning Divisive People - Part 1

In Romans 16:17-20, Paul closes his letter to the Roman church with a strong warning to watch out for divisive persons who cause disunity and create stumbling blocks contrary to sound doctrine. Such persons do not serve Christ but their own appetites, using smooth talk and flattery to deceive the naive, as illustrated by Judas who subtly led the disciples into division before his betrayal. Paul identifies key characteristics of divisive persons: an obsession with quarreling and controversy, self-serving theological disputes, an inability to celebrate achieved unity, a pattern of gossip and tearing others down, and a refusal to submit to any authority outside themselves. The church is called to realize the threat, recognize these behaviors, and resist their influence by avoiding those who cause such divisions. Paul closes with the promise that the God of peace will soon crush Satan under their feet, urging believers to hold fast in love, unity, and kindness toward one another.