2+2=5 Romans 16:17-19; 25-27

Have you ever heard anything that just didn't sound right? There are all kinds of people teaching all kinds of things, and some that even teach in the name of Christianity. I'm sorry to say that some of the things being taught are just flat wrong.

The challenge from this passage to to guard ourselves from deception and to hold on tightly to the teaching we know to be true. If you're saying to yourself, "How do I know what is true," the answer is simple. Does the teaching of scripture confirm it? Is it based off of the word of God or what people might want to hear? This is why it's so important to know the word of God, because this is how we protect ourselves from "smooth talk and flattery."

Romans 16:17-19;25-27
17I urge you, brothers, 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. 18For such people are not serving our Lord Christ, but their own appetites. By smooth talk and flattery they deceive the minds of naive people. 19Everyone has heard about your obedience, so I am full of joy over you; but I want you to be wise about what is good, and innocent about what is evil...

25Now to him who is able to establish you by my gospel and the proclamation of Jesus Christ, according to the revelation of the mystery hidden for long ages past, 26but now revealed and made known through the prophetic writings by the command of the eternal God, so that all nations might believe and obey him— 27to the only wise God be glory forever through Jesus Christ! Amen.

Questions
1. What do you do when someone teaches from a scripture, but what they're saying still sounds wrong?
2. What are some other ways knowing scripture helps?
3. Can you think of any teaching you've heard that sounds more like "smooth talk"?
4. What's encouraging about this passage?
5. What will stick with you today from this passage?

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