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. 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.

Romans 16

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. 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. v17-18

As Paul closes out his letter to believers in Rome, he focuses once again on unity but this time through the lens of doctrinal purity. There are people both in the church who pull us apart and away from God - we must be on the lookout for these people and avoid them.

Also, John Piper, in this post, helps us understand that we must have BOTH unity and doctrinal purity and emphasizes purity for the sake of unity as both cannot exist without each other.

My Prayer: Lord Jesus, You are an amazing God who loves me and who has helped me find both greater purity and unity through brothers and sisters in Christ - thank You Jesus!  I am undeserving of such love and blessings as I worry - far too much.  Please forgive me Jesus and help me overcome and turn from my sin towards You.  Help me love You with all of my heart, soul and mind and love others as You love me.  Help me grow in my faith.  Give Lisa and myself wisdom and strength.  Please heal Lisa of her cancer and from the side effects of chemo. Help us lead Zach and Dustin to You Jesus and for them to choose You as their Lord and Savior.  Please provide Godly friends and spouses to Zach and Dustin.  Help me serve You, my family, my church, and others.  Help me understand, be obedient to, and apply Your message for me today and every day.