In Romans 16 How Does Pauls Warning Against Divisive Persons Apply To The Modern Church?
Understanding Paul’s Warning in Romans 16:17-20
Romans 16 is often seen as a chapter of greetings and personal notes, but nestled within these final words is a serious warning that speaks directly to the health and unity of the church—both in the first century and today. The Apostle Paul, after commending many faithful workers, turns his attention to a pressing danger: the threat of division caused by certain individuals within the church. Let’s examine what Paul says, why it mattered then, and how it applies urgently to the modern church.
Paul’s Warning: The Text
Now I beseech you, brethren, mark them that are causing the divisions and occasions of stumbling, contrary to the doctrine which ye learned: and turn away from them. For they that are such serve not our Lord Christ, but their own belly; and by their smooth and fair speech they beguile the hearts of the innocent. - Romans 16:17-18 ASV
Paul urges believers to be vigilant: to “mark” (identify) those who cause divisions and teach things contrary to the apostolic doctrine, and to “turn away” from them. His warning is not about trivial disagreements but about threats to the core gospel message and relational unity.
The Nature of Division
Division in the church is not new. Even in the earliest congregations, people arose who sowed discord and promoted teachings at odds with the gospel of grace. Paul’s concern is rooted in the truth that Christ prayed for His followers’ unity (John 17:21 ASV), and that the church’s witness is closely tied to its love and harmony (John 13:35 ASV).
For there must be also factions among you, that they that are approved may be made manifest among you. - 1 Corinthians 11:19 ASV
Paul acknowledges that divisions reveal the genuine from the false, but his instruction is clear: those who intentionally disrupt the unity of the church and distort essential doctrine are to be avoided, not accommodated.
Motivations and Methods of Divisive People
Paul says such people “serve not our Lord Christ, but their own belly” (Romans 16:18 ASV). Here, “belly” points to selfish desires—personal ambition, pride, or even greed. These individuals often use “smooth and fair speech” to deceive others, especially those who are naïve or spiritually immature.
This echoes Paul’s earlier warnings:
For I know that after my departing grievous wolves shall enter in among you, not sparing the flock; and from among your own selves shall men arise, speaking perverse things, to draw away the disciples after them. - Acts 20:29-30 ASV
Application to the Modern Church
Today’s church faces similar threats. Divisive people may arise over doctrinal disputes, personal preferences, or issues of power and control. In some cases, modern technology and social media amplify their influence, spreading disunity rapidly.
How should the church respond?
- Discernment: Believers must know the core doctrines of the faith (2 Timothy 1:13 ASV) so they can recognize false teaching.
- Accountability: Healthy church discipline, motivated by love, is necessary to protect the unity and purity of the body (Matthew 18:15-17 ASV).
- Grace and Truth: While we must avoid divisive people, we also remember the goal is always restoration if possible (Galatians 6:1 ASV).
- Focus on Christ: Unity is found not in uniformity, but in shared allegiance to Jesus and the gospel (Ephesians 4:13 ASV).
The Promise of Ultimate Victory
Paul’s warning is followed by a note of hope:
And the God of peace shall bruise Satan under your feet shortly. The grace of our Lord Jesus Christ be with you. - Romans 16:20 ASV
Division is a tool of the enemy, but God promises final victory. The church’s unity, founded on Christ and the gospel, will ultimately triumph through God’s power and grace.
Conclusion
Paul’s warning in Romans 16 is both sobering and practical. The modern church must remain alert to divisive influences, firmly anchor itself in biblical truth, and labor for unity that magnifies Christ. As we do, we trust in God’s grace to preserve and protect His people.