Romans 16 A Final Appeal: Doctrine and Unity
Essentials vs. Non-Essentials:
Essentials: Clear biblical commands (e.g., Galatians 5:19-21).
Non-Essentials: Areas where Scripture does not give explicit instructions, allowing liberty.
“In essentials unity, in non-essentials liberty, in all things love.” - Augustine of Hippo
Health in the Roman Church Demonstrated from Romans 16:1-16
• They were a unified church
• There was commonality to love and serve one another deeply.
• The early church was on mission
Romans 16:17-18
I urge you, brothers and sisters, to watch out for those who cause divisions and put obstacles in your way that are contrary to the teaching you have learned. Keep away from them. 18 For such people are not serving our Lord Christ, but their own appetites. By smooth talk and flattery they deceive the minds of naive people.”
“FIERCELY PROTECT THE UNITY AND MISSION OF THE CHURCH!!”
Skopeo (Take heed, watch out for, keep an eye out) - Careful observation and to scrutinize!
“The God of peace will soon crush Satan under your feet.
The grace of our Lord Jesus be with you.” Vs 20
In other words… “Church, you stay on mission and protect your unity, love, service and care for the poor, and I will crush Satan on your behalf!”
Go and protect the mission.
Study Questions:
Paul’s Appeal for Unity: In what ways does Paul’s warning about divisive influences in Romans 16:17-18 apply to the modern church, and what practical steps can we take to protect the unity and mission of our community?
The Mission of the Early Church: What specific actions did the early church take to support the marginalized and care for one another, and how can we emulate these practices in our current context to fulfill our mission?
Paul’s Promise: In Romans 16:20, Paul states, “The God of peace will soon crush Satan under your feet.” What does this promise reveal about the relationship between church unity, spiritual warfare, and the assurance of God’s ultimate victory, and how can this encourage us in our current struggles?