Avoid People Who Stir Up Contentions

Let us study the book of Romans, in chapter 16, and let God’s Words come into your soul. As you read these verses, be open to what the Lord would desire to teach you. His wisdom is for us, but we must be open to learn from Him first. Now, let us begin with verse 17. It reads, “now I beseech you, brethren, mark them which cause divisions and offences contrary to the doctrine which ye have learned; and avoid them. For they that are such serve not our Lord Jesus Christ, but their own belly; and by good words and fair speeches deceive the hearts of the simple. For your obedience is come abroad unto all men. I am glad therefore on your behalf: but yet I would have you wise unto that which is good, and simple concerning evil. And the God of peace shall bruise Satan under your feet shortly. The grace of our Lord Jesus Christ be with you. Amen.” (Romans 16:17-20) We are to avoid people who stir up contentions based on the doctrines of the church. Know who they are and do not associate with them. They don’t serve Jesus, but their own flesh and the pride of their eyes. So go forth and cling to what is good and run from what is evil. Because of your faith in Christ, Satan will have no power over you. Amen.

Paul also taught, starting in verse 25, “now to him that is of power to stablish you according to my gospel, and the preaching of Jesus Christ, according to the revelation of the mystery, which was kept secret since the world began, but now is made manifest, and by the scriptures of the prophets, according to the commandment of the everlasting God, made known to all nations for the obedience of faith: To God only wise, be glory through Jesus Christ for ever. Amen.” (Romans 16:25-27) God wants to teach and lead us in the truths of the gospel, which is the cross and the resurrection. This message is so important to our faith and walk with God. God’s mysteries are unfolded upon those who are obedient to God. This is when receive God’s commands and do them. This is what is called a doer and not just a hearer only. Now, remember that we cannot grow and mature in the faith if we allow people to debate with us and stir up contentions because of our beliefs. If these people were of God, then they would simply share what is on their mind, but not push it on you or anyone. The Holy Spirit will bear witness the truth unto us. So we hear what people say, but leave if it is contentious. Amen.

Let us pray:
Oh Lord, help each one of us to love one another and to treat people with respect. Not to say and do things that raise up arguments or contention. As Your faithful believers, we are above the dissensions in this world. Too many people are doing just what the world does in bringing people low, just because they think they are right. And this really saddens my soul. It is hard to believe that people who say they love You and their neighbor as themselves could treat people so terribly. To these people, I just ask, Lord, where are You in their lives? Have they stopped seeking Your hand? If they hadn’t, then Your peace and love would still be filling them up each and every hour of our day. Surely, this life is short, and too many people are on the pathway to hell as I pray this. But who is it for us to lead more people from Your path and into the ways of destruction? I say this, Lord, because if people say and do things that cause people to doubt their faith, they are only leading them apart from You. So God, help people to learn to leave judgment to You alone. It is wonderful to share Your truth with people, but not if people are resisting it. That is when we stop and leave them with peace. Yes, God, You have taught us to speak to people who are interested in the gospel, not to push our beliefs on anyone. I know that there is an urgency to get right with You, but not to push people away from following You. I love You, Lord Jesus. For that reason, I will lead people to You. Amen.

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