Romans 16:17 Now I beseech you, brethren, mark them which cause divisions and offences contrary to the doctrine which ye have learned; and avoid them.
Context: Romans 16:18 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.
From the lexicon: Beseech=offer evidence that stands up in God’s court. Mark=keep your eye on . Cause=manufacture. Divisions=dissension. Offenses=hindrances, stumbling blocks.
Pulling it together: Romans 6:17 instructs us to take note of–keep an eye on individuals that bring about dissension–discord between believers and become a hindrance–a stumbling block to spiritual growth. This is contrary to the sound doctrine we have learned. Verse 18 continues the thought. Such people do not serve Christ but are seeking to fulfill their own desires–promoting their own causes–looking for selfish gain. With smooth talk and flattery, they appear sincere and knowledgeable deceiving those that are naïve or better yet, unlearned.
The best defense against such as described here is to study the Scripture and learn sound doctrine and to avoid those who would try to lead contrarywise. I am not responsible for what a false teacher teaches, but I am responsible for my actions if I follow his false teachings. 1 Timothy 4:7 Follows along with this thought by admonishing us to Have nothing to do with irreverent, silly myths. Rather train yourself for godliness;
Lord, I pray for grace to rightly divide the Word of Truth and to embrace sound teaching and to discern as those who would teach otherwise.