Romans 16:17 – Step Away From The Bad Doctrine

Daily Devotional Bible Verse

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. (Romans 16:17 ESV)

Have you ever had a friend or acquaintance who you thought was going the wrong direction with their beliefs? Maybe these beliefs seemed like they were somewhat Biblical, but with a little bit of study you knew that they were wrong.These false teaching or beliefs can cause divisions in your relationship with them. All you seem to do is argue with them about what the Bible really says and how they are wrong. This can happen in the church as well when it comes to false teachings.

What are you supposed to do then when you encounter false teachings or ideas that cause division? Paul tells the Romans to avoid them. Paul is not telling the church to accept just any doctrine, but that at times it is better to avoid those people all together than argue with them. When we start to argue with them, the worst in us can come out and it does not help our point. Many times we need to just step back, pray for them, and let the Holy Spirit do it’s when it comes to conviction and repentance.

Who have you been arguing with that you need to step away from and pray for?