Caution: Doctrinal Divisions

Have you ever checked the ingredients to what you’re eating, and have you heard the old saying, “You are what you eat?” As is too easily seen, this is proven true today through the many preservatives and unhealthy additives to foods to increase their taste and delight. Unfortunately, these eating habits will lead to an unhealthy life. The same is true for what we digest spiritually. Too many of us don’t give enough evaluation to the ingredients that make up the teachings of our spiritual leaders. Are there emotional and cultural additives that we’ve become accustomed to? Is there a way to make sure that what we are consuming spiritually will keep us spiritually healthy? The apostle Paul writes to the Romans to watch out for those whose teaching causes divisions and give obstacles to spiritual growth and unity. Whereas so many are quick to enter into debates and controversies that get the blood pumping, he encourages the church towards obedience and innocence of evil. Romans 16:17-19New International Version (NIV) 17 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. 19 Everyone has heard about your obedience, so I rejoice because of you; but I want you to be wise about what is good, and innocent about what is evil.