Romans 16:19-20
In church leadership, it’s not the charm or charisma that defines a leader’s worth. No, it’s the truth—or the lack thereof—that truly matters.
Imagine this: your church community, thriving and united, suddenly faces the challenge of false teachings infiltrating its ranks. How do you respond? Let’s explore.
“For the report of your obedience has reached everyone; therefore I am rejoicing over you, but I want you to be wise in what is good, and innocent in what is evil. The God of peace will soon crush Satan under your feet,” (Romans 16:19-20).
In the book of Romans, the apostle Paul doesn’t mince words. He urges us to be discerning, to be wise in what’s good and innocent in what’s evil. When it comes to false doctrine, Paul’s advice is clear: mark those who spread falsehoods and steer clear of their teachings.
This means we are to note who they are and they are not to be received or listen to.
But wait, what does that mean in practical terms? Picture this: your pastor, revered and respected, starts espousing doctrines that don’t quite align with New Testament teachings. It’s a tricky situation, but Paul’s wisdom guides us here. We’re called to take note of such deviations and, yes, avoid them.
Now, avoiding any person, much less a church leader, is never easy, especially within the close-knit fabric of church life. But Paul isn’t advocating for conflict avoidance; he’s urging us to uphold the truth, even if it means steering clear of certain individuals, churches or denominations.
But fear not, there’s a beacon of hope even in this terrible situations. The God of peace, as Paul assures us, will ultimately triumph over falsehood. Despite the chaos sown by those spreading error, God is at work, orchestrating the defeat of deceit.
So, what’s the takeaway here? Stay vigilant, dear friends. Uphold the truth, even in the face of opposition. And remember, victory is assured. So, don’t lose heart. Keep the faith, for in due time, error will be vanquished, and truth will prevail.
Satan uses these men to spread error and this causes people to stumble, it will not be long before God will stomp on the very neck of error. It will not be long before all error and all compromise will be put down forever.
This is what keeps us in the warfare. There will be an end and we will be discharged from the warfare. Victory is assured. Dont’ give up or give in to error.
For a devotion on Romans 16:25-27 click here.
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