Our Scripture reading today is Romans 16:17-18.
Verse 17, "Now I beseech you, brethren, mark them which cause divisions and offences contrary to the doctrine which ye have learned; and avoid them."
How many times has this happened in recent days? You might be saying, "What are you talking about?" Well, if you are a part of Anchor Baptist Church, you should know (unless of course you were at work or ill) that just last night we spoke from 1 John 2 in reference to something pretty close to what Paul is writing in this text. There are no doubt dangerous leaders and teachers that we must mark and avoid. They are dividers and deceivers. God has given us His Spirit and His Spirit will lead us to truth and away from error. Our daily walk with God and our attendance at church will be used by God to build up defences against the false teaching that is in our world today. We cannot underestimate the enemy. He is doing all he can to divide and destroy God's people who are delivering the truth!
“Mad dogs are shot; infectious diseases are quarantined; but evil teachers who would divide to their destruction and draw away the saints with teaching contrary to the doctrine of Christ and His Apostles are everywhere tolerated!” (Newell)