Romans 16:17

KJV

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

KJV (with Strong's)

Now {G1161} I beseech {G3870} you {G5209}, brethren {G80}, mark {G4648} them which cause {G4160} divisions {G1370} and {G2532} offences {G4625} contrary {G3844} to the doctrine {G1322} which {G3739} ye {G5210} have learned {G3129}; and {G2532} avoid {G1578} them {G575}{G846}.

Complete Jewish Bible

I urge you, brothers, to watch out for those who cause divisions and put snares alongside the teaching in which you have been trained — keep away from them.

Berean Standard Bible

Now I urge you, brothers, to watch out for those who create divisions and obstacles that are contrary to the teaching you have learned. Turn away from them.

American Standard Version

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.

Commentary

### SUMMARY
Romans 16:17 delivers a crucial and urgent apostolic injunction from Paul to the Roman believers, calling them to actively identify and separate from individuals who sow discord and introduce teachings contrary to the established apostolic doctrine. This command underscores the paramount importance of safeguarding the church's unity, purity of faith, and communal harmony against internal threats that could undermine its spiritual health and mission.

### CONTEXT
* **Literary Context:** Romans 16:17 appears abruptly at the conclusion of Paul's magnum opus, the Epistle to the Romans. The preceding verses (Romans 16:1-16) are dedicated to extensive personal greetings and commendations, highlighting Paul's deep relational connections and the diverse, interconnected nature of the early Christian community in Rome. This section functions as a warm, communal closing, emphasizing fellowship and mutual recognition among believers. The sudden shift in tone in verse 17, from warm salutations to a stern warning, serves to punctuate the letter with a final, critical pastoral directive. It suggests that despite the apparent health and vibrancy of the Roman church, Paul perceived a latent or emerging threat that required immediate and decisive attention, making this exhortation a vital, concluding charge before his final benediction.

* **Historical & Cultural Context:** The Roman church was a complex tapestry of Jewish and Gentile believers, a dynamic that often presented challenges to unity, as seen in Paul's earlier discussions regarding food laws and observance of days in [Romans 14:1-12](/romans/14-1-12 "Romans 14:1-12 - Principles of Christian Liberty"). While Paul had largely addressed theological divisions concerning justification by faith, the warning in 16:17 points to potential practical or behavioral schisms. The Greco-Roman world was rife with philosophical schools and religious cults, some of which could easily infiltrate Christian communities with heterodox teachings or divisive practices. Paul's concern was not merely abstract theology but the concrete impact on the community's life and witness. The instruction to "mark them" and "avoid them" reflects a necessary measure of church discipline common in ancient societies for maintaining social order and group identity, adapted here for the spiritual health of the nascent Christian assembly.

* **Key Themes:** This verse powerfully reinforces several key themes woven throughout Paul's letter and his broader theology. First, it highlights the **supremacy of sound doctrine** as the foundation of Christian unity and life. Paul consistently emphasizes that deviations from the gospel he preached are dangerous (e.g., [Galatians 1:6-9](/galatians/1-6-9 "Galatians 1:6-9 - Warning Against a Different Gospel")). Second, it underscores the **importance of church unity** and the destructive nature of division. Paul's pleas for unity are pervasive, as seen in his call for the Corinthians to be "perfectly joined together in the same mind and in the same judgment" in [1 Corinthians 1:10](/1_corinthians/1-10 "1 Corinthians 1:10 - Plea for Unity"). Third, it calls for **pastoral vigilance and discernment** among believers, urging them not to be naive but to actively identify and respond to threats to the community's well-being. Finally, it implies the necessity of **church discipline** as a protective measure, ensuring that the body of Christ remains healthy and faithful to its calling.

### EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS

#### Key Word Analysis
* **mark (Greek, _skopéō'_):** This word, derived from _skopós_ (a goal or mark), means "to take aim at," "to spy," or "to regard carefully." It implies a deliberate, watchful, and discerning observation, not a passive awareness. Believers are commanded to actively identify and scrutinize those who cause division, suggesting a need for spiritual discernment rather than a hasty judgment. It's a call to be vigilant and attentive to the spiritual climate of the community.
* **divisions (Greek, _dichostasía'_):** From a compound of _dís_ (twice) and _stásis_ (a standing), this term literally means "a standing apart" or "dissension." It refers to factions, schisms, or internal conflicts that break the unity of a group. In the New Testament, it often denotes strife and discord within the church, stemming from differing opinions or personal agendas, directly opposing the Spirit's work of unity.
* **avoid (Greek, _ekklínō'_):** This word, formed from _ek_ (out from) and _klínō_ (to incline or bend), means "to deviate," "to shun," or "to go out of the way." It signifies a deliberate act of turning away or separating oneself from something or someone. In this context, it's a strong command for believers to disassociate from divisive individuals, not merely to ignore them, but to actively distance themselves to prevent further harm and protect the integrity of the church.

#### Verse Breakdown
* **"Now I beseech you, brethren,"**: Paul opens with a tender yet firm appeal, using the term "brethren" (_adelphoi_) to emphasize the familial bond and shared faith among believers. The verb "beseech" (_parakaléō_) conveys a sense of earnest exhortation, comfort, and strong appeal, highlighting the gravity and urgency of the command that follows. It's not a suggestion but a heartfelt, authoritative plea from an apostle who deeply cares for their spiritual welfare.
* **"mark them which cause divisions and offences contrary to the doctrine which ye have learned;"**: This is the core command. Believers are instructed to actively "mark" or observe carefully those who are "causing" (_poiéō_, making or doing) divisions (_dichostasía_) and offenses (_skándalon_). An "offense" here refers to a "stumbling block" or anything that causes others to fall morally or spiritually. Crucially, these divisive actions and teachings are described as "contrary" (_pará_, alongside, beyond, or opposed to) "the doctrine which ye have learned" (_didachḗ_, instruction; _manthánō_, to learn). This establishes sound apostolic teaching as the non-negotiable standard against which all actions and doctrines must be measured.
* **"and avoid them."**: This is the decisive, protective action required. Having identified those who sow discord and false teaching, the church is commanded to "avoid" (_ekklínō_) them. This means to turn away from, shun, or deliberately distance oneself from such individuals. It is a form of spiritual quarantine, designed to protect the integrity of the community, prevent the spread of harmful influences, and potentially lead the divisive person to repentance by isolating them from fellowship.

#### Literary Devices
Paul employs several **Literary Devices** in this concise yet powerful verse. The most prominent is the **Imperative Mood**, evident in the commands "mark" (_skopéō_) and "avoid" (_ekklínō_). These are not suggestions but direct, authoritative instructions, emphasizing the urgency and necessity of the actions. There is also a strong element of **Contrast** implied: the unity and peace of the church, which Paul has labored to build throughout the letter, stand in stark opposition to the "divisions and offences" caused by certain individuals. The term "offences" (_skándalon_) functions as a **Metaphor** for a "stumbling block" or "trap," vividly portraying the spiritual danger these individuals pose to others' faith and walk. Finally, the abrupt shift in tone from the preceding greetings to this stern warning creates a powerful **Juxtaposition**, underscoring the critical importance of this final pastoral charge.

### THEOLOGICAL AND THEMATIC CONNECTIONS
Romans 16:17 is a foundational text for understanding the church's responsibility to guard doctrinal purity and maintain communal harmony. It underscores that true Christian unity is not merely superficial agreement but is rooted in shared adherence to sound, apostolic teaching. The command to "mark" and "avoid" those who cause division highlights a necessary aspect of pastoral care and church discipline: protecting the flock from spiritual harm. This is not an encouragement for contentious behavior, but a sober call to discernment and decisive action when the core truths of the gospel or the peace of the community are threatened. It affirms that the integrity of the Christian witness depends on both internal cohesion and fidelity to the revealed Word of God.

Cross-references that illuminate this theme include:
* [1 Corinthians 1:10](/1_corinthians/1-10 "1 Corinthians 1:10 - Paul's Plea for Unity")
* [Galatians 1:8-9](/galatians/1-8-9 "Galatians 1:8-9 - Anathema on False Teachers")
* [Titus 3:10-11](/titus/3-10-11 "Titus 3:10-11 - Dealing with a Divisive Person")

### REFLECTION AND APPLICATION
Romans 16:17 remains acutely relevant for the church in every age. It challenges believers to cultivate a spirit of discernment, not to be naive concerning potential threats to the gospel or the community. In an era where diverse opinions and teachings abound, the call to "mark" those who cause divisions "contrary to the doctrine which ye have learned" necessitates a deep familiarity with sound biblical teaching. This requires diligent study of Scripture, engagement with faithful theological resources, and a commitment to the historic Christian faith. Furthermore, the command to "avoid them" implies that while love, patience, and reconciliation are paramount, there are times when decisive action, including separation from persistently divisive or heretical influences, becomes a necessary act of spiritual protection for the flock. This is not about personal preference or minor disagreements, but about safeguarding the foundational truths of the faith and the unity of the body of Christ from genuine spiritual harm. It encourages every believer to be a guardian of truth and a promoter of peace within their local church.

#### Questions for Reflection
* **How does my understanding of "the doctrine which ye have learned" inform my discernment of teachings and behaviors within the church today?**
* **What is the balance between extending grace and love to all, and the necessity of "avoiding" those who cause persistent division or undermine sound doctrine?**
* **In what ways can I, as an individual believer, contribute to the unity and doctrinal purity of my local church community?**
* **What specific steps can I take to deepen my own understanding of biblical truth so that I am better equipped to "mark" what is contrary to it?**

### FAQ

**What constitutes "divisions and offences" that Paul warns against?**

Answer: Paul's warning against "divisions" (Greek: _dichostasía_) refers to internal strife, factions, and schisms that break the unity of the church. These are not merely differences of opinion but active efforts to create separate groups or sow discord. "Offences" (Greek: _skándalon_) refers to "stumbling blocks" – actions, teachings, or behaviors that cause other believers to stumble in their faith, fall into sin, or deviate from sound doctrine. The crucial qualifier is that these divisions and offenses are "contrary to the doctrine which ye have learned," meaning they deviate from the apostolic teaching of the gospel. This distinguishes them from minor disagreements or matters of Christian liberty, which Paul addresses differently (e.g., in [Romans 14](/romans/14 "Romans 14 - Principles of Christian Liberty and Conscience")).

**Does "avoid them" mean we should never speak to someone who causes division?**

Answer: The command to "avoid them" (Greek: _ekklínō_) implies a deliberate disassociation or turning away from those who persistently cause division and promote false doctrine. This is a measure of protection for the church and, ideally, a means of bringing the divisive person to repentance through the absence of fellowship. It does not necessarily mean absolute silence or refusal to engage in any form of communication, especially if there's a possibility for admonition or restoration (as seen in [Titus 3:10](/titus/3-10 "Titus 3:10 - Warning Against a Divisive Person")). However, it does mean withdrawing from close fellowship, collaboration, or endorsement of their divisive activities or teachings, to prevent their harmful influence from spreading within the body of Christ. The primary goal is to safeguard the purity of the gospel and the unity of the believers.

### CHRIST-CENTERED FULFILLMENT
Romans 16:17, while a practical pastoral command, finds its ultimate Christ-centered fulfillment in the person and work of Jesus Christ, who is the very standard of the "doctrine which ye have learned." Christ Himself is the embodiment of truth and the source of unity for His church. He prayed for the unity of His disciples, "that they may be one, as we are one" ([John 17:21](/john/17-21 "John 17:21 - Jesus' Prayer for Unity")). Any "divisions and offences" are fundamentally contrary to the nature of the body of Christ, of which He is the head ([Ephesians 4:15-16](/ephesians/4-15-16 "Ephesians 4:15-16 - Growing Up into Christ, the Head")). The "doctrine which ye have learned" is the gospel of Christ, centered on His atoning death and resurrection, and His Lordship. Therefore, marking and avoiding those who deviate from this doctrine is an act of loyalty to Christ, preserving the integrity of the message He entrusted to His apostles ([1 Corinthians 15:3-4](/1_corinthians/15-3-4 "1 Corinthians 15:3-4 - The Core of the Gospel")). The church's vigilance against division is a reflection of Christ's own desire for a pure and spotless bride, unified in Him and His truth ([Ephesians 5:25-27](/ephesians/5-25-27 "Ephesians 5:25-27 - Christ's Love for the Church")). Ultimately, the church's adherence to sound doctrine and its pursuit of unity are a testament to the unifying and sanctifying power of its Head, Jesus Christ.

Note: Commentary is generated by AI with a directive for Biblical fidelity. Always rely on the Holy Spirit for discernment. The Scripture text and cross-references are from verified, non-AI sources.

Cross-References

Jude 1:19

These be they who separate themselves, sensual, having not the Spirit.

2 Thessalonians 3:6

¶ Now we command you, brethren, in the name of our Lord Jesus Christ, that ye withdraw yourselves from every brother that walketh disorderly, and not after the tradition which he received of us.

1 Timothy 6:3

If any man teach otherwise, and consent not to wholesome words, [even] the words of our Lord Jesus Christ, and to the doctrine which is according to godliness;

1 Timothy 6:5

Perverse disputings of men of corrupt minds, and destitute of the truth, supposing that gain is godliness: from such withdraw thyself.

2 Timothy 3:5

Having a form of godliness, but denying the power thereof: from such turn away.

Colossians 2:8

Beware lest any man spoil you through philosophy and vain deceit, after the tradition of men, after the rudiments of the world, and not after Christ.

Titus 3:10

A man that is an heretick after the first and second admonition reject;