Introduction: We have finished Paul’s greetings to the believers in Rome and while it might seem time to close the letter, Paul has another lesson for us all regarding divisive people. 17 Now I urge you, brethren, note those who cause divisions and offenses, contrary to the doctrine which you learned, and avoid them. • The enemy’s strategy is to divide and . • The offense is a intended to trap those he has divided. • Most cults know more about their than we do about the . • Our best is to avoid the snare by avoiding them. 18 For those who are such do not serve our Lord Jesus Christ, but their own belly, and by smooth words and flattering speech deceive the hearts of the simple. • False teachers serve the Lord. • They seek to their own selfish desires rather than God. • We should avoid them because they are at what they do. • Challenging them is not a task for the . 19 For your obedience has become known to all. Therefore, I am glad on your behalf; but I want you to be wise in what is good, and simple concerning evil. • They knew the truth and were serving the Lord without . • Sun Tsu - “Even the finest sword plunged into salt water will eventually .” • Wisdom is the application of knowledge. • Simple is to be without or pure. • We need to know and apply the good stuff to our life and more. 20 And the God of peace will crush Satan under your feet shortly. The grace of our Lord Jesus Christ be with you. Amen. • and are worrisome foes. • In we can rest assured that God will deal with Satan and the grace of God will cover our shortcomings.