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Monday 3 September 2012

Romans 16:17-27 - Final Words

Every church and every age has people who cause division. Now Paul is not saying we should accept any and every view no matter how wacky it is, but if we look at reality we see that most divisions in churches are caused by human sin, by personal ambition, by people of a divisive nature. Theological differences are often just used as an excuse. Paul then says warns against those who put obstacles in our way, and defines this as people who teach things contrary to the apostolic teaching. 
As Paul says, such people are serving their own appetites, their own egos and pride. We are to keep away from such people. They use smooth talk and flattery and so deceive the mins of naive people. We are to be experts in doing and knowing what is good, but innocent about evil, ie having nothing to do with it.
Verse 20 is a reference to Gen 3:15. Our victory over Satan is assured.
Paul then sends some final greetings from his fellow travellers.
Paul's final words give the glory to God and proclaim the power of the gospel.

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