20 April 2025
“Now I urge you, brothers and sisters, to watch out for those creating divisions and obstacles contrary to the teaching that you learned. Avoid them” (Romans 16:17, CSB). Mark Penrith presses the urgency of this command when he says, “Watch out. Those are not my words. They are the apostle’s.” This is not optional. It is not for the overly cautious. It is for every believer. We must see clearly and act decisively. The Christian life requires alertness because danger often hides in plain sight.
Mark sharpens the warning by reminding us what false teachers actually do. “They won’t come to us with obvious heresy. They come with a subtler attack.” Their aim is not always loud rebellion, but quiet division. They “create divisions and obstacles” and slowly pull hearts away from truth. You cannot afford to drift here. Voices that weaken unity around the gospel are not harmless. They are dangerous. Love for Christ means refusing to tolerate what tears apart His church.
The response is equally clear. “Don’t entertain them. Don’t debate with them. Avoid them.” That feels strong, but it is necessary. Mark illustrates this with a vivid picture. “I didn’t try to reason with it. I didn’t try to tame it. I kept my eyes on it… and we ran.” That is the posture of wisdom. You do not play with what can destroy you. You step away. You create distance. You act quickly because you understand the danger.
This requires discernment in everyday life. “Is the voice you are listening to calling you to take up the cross for gospel unity, or are they inflaming sin by creating divisions?” That question cuts through the noise. Not every podcast, opinion, or conversation deserves your attention. Some voices slowly shape your thinking without you noticing. Scripture calls you to test them, not trust them blindly.
Lead your family in this. Help your children learn the difference between truth and error. Keep it simple and clear. “Do you know the sound of the Serpent’s whisper? Or have you gotten used to the hiss?” Teach them to recognise that voice early. Model it in your own life. Show them what it looks like to choose truth over what sounds appealing.
Take time today to evaluate what you are listening to. Be honest. Be decisive. Walk away where needed. You are not being harsh. You are being faithful.
Lord, give me clarity to recognise false voices and courage to walk away. Guard my heart and my home in Your truth. Amen.