Guarding and Glorying
Romans 16:17-20; 25-27, “Now I beseech you, brethren, mark them which cause divisions and offences contrary to the doctrine which ye have learned; and avoid them. 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. 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. And the God of peace shall bruise Satan under your feet shortly. The grace of our Lord Jesus Christ be with you. Amen … Now to him that is of power to stablish you according to my gospel, and the preaching of Jesus Christ, according to the revelation of the mystery, which was kept secret since the world began, But now is made manifest, and by the scriptures of the prophets, according to the commandment of the everlasting God, made known to all nations for the obedience of faith: To God only wise, be glory through Jesus Christ for ever. Amen.”
The letter to the Romans ends with the twin notes of a sober warning (v. 17) and a soaring doxology (v. 18). Remember this. Love never sets truth aside, but love protects the flock from smooth talk that dilutes the gospel. Recognize this. False teachers serve their own appetites, not Christ, and their flattery seduces naive hearts. Your church’s unity hangs on guarding biblical doctrine, the good news of justification by faith alone in Christ alone, but protection is not paranoia. If our eyes are turned onto Jesus, they are glued to victory because Satan will be crushed under foot by the God of all peace (v. 20). The serpent-crusher promised in Genesis will finish the work, and He enlists His people in the mopping-up operation. Every act of doctrinal faithfulness and everyday holiness delivers a fresh bruise to the enemy’s head!
The letter concludes with a timely reminder that the gospel which saves also sustains and stabilizes. How do besieged believers keep standing? By clinging to the revelation of the mystery now fully disclosed. Namely, Christ crucified and risen for the nations. So then, are you actively learning sound doctrine so you can spot counterfeit teaching and live according to truth? Where might God be calling you to pair gospel clarity with courageous confrontation for the sake of His church?