Romans 16:17-20

 

Romans 16:17-20

A Prophesy Fulfilled

 

Rom 16:17  Now I beseech you, brethren, mark them which cause divisions and offences contrary to the doctrine which ye have learned; and avoid them. 

Rom 16:18  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. 

Rom 16:19  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. 

Rom 16:20  And the God of peace shall bruise Satan under your feet shortly. The grace of our Lord Jesus Christ be with you. Amen. 

 

1. A Warning – vs. 17-18
1. Paul pleads with the Roman church to mark those that are wolves in sheep’s clothing. Wolves can be recognized by the following:

                                                              i.      They cause division

1.      Matthew 7:15 

2.      Matthew 13:24-25 

                                                            ii.      They cause scandal

1.      Jude 1:4 

                                                          iii.      They teach contrary to sound doctrine

1.      1 Timothy 6:3-5 

                                                          iv.      They do not serve the Lord Jesus

1.      Micah 3:5-8 

                                                            v.      They serve their own fleshly lusts

1.      2 Timothy 3:5-9 

                                                          vi.      They use beautiful words to deceive the innocent

1.      2 Peter 2:18-19 

                                                        vii.      What are we to do when we encounter such people in the church?

1.      Avoid them

a.       2 Timothy2:16-18

2.      Don’t be simple minded

a.       2 Timothy 2:15 

3.      Learn sound doctrine

a.       2 Timothy 1:13 

2. A Commendation – vs. 19
1. Paul’s Praise

                                                              i.      Their obedience is widely known

1.      1 John 3:17-19 

                                                            ii.      They bring joy to Paul’s heart

1.      3 John 1:4 

2. Pauls’ Provocation

                                                              i.      They need to have an intimate knowledge of what is righteous

1.      Philippians 2:15-16 

                                                            ii.      They need to be ignorant regarding evil

1.      Ephesians 5:11-12 

3. A Promise – vs. 20
1. God intends to use them to crush the head of the serpent

                                                              i.      Genesis 3:15 

2. The grace of the Lord Jesus Christ be with them

                                                              i.      1 John 4:4