You can read the verses around this Bible passage from the Internet Bible: - in English, and many other languages
Paul has just commended a large number of people who shared his ministry vision and built up the church in Rome (Romans 16:1-16). Now he puts the church on alert to beware of people who do not have the true gospel at the centre of their motivation. They are in the church but cannot stop causing divisions or obstructing the mission of the church.
The reason is that, although they may have been attracted to Jesus, they do not serve Him as Lord or honour Him as God's anointed one. Instead, their motivation is their own fleshly appetites. To be blunt, they want to be the 'lord' and they believe that God has 'anointed' them to set the agenda for the church. The way they do it is by smooth talk and flattery. They make people feel good about themselves so that they can take a position of power. They may well be sincere to themselves, but actually they are pulling the church off track and deceiving people who are unable to discern any better.
Unfortunately, it is rare to find a church without any people like this. They present themselves as kind, caring, and compassionate. They listen to people and sympathise with their hurts and complaints. But it is sad to see that such apparently 'loving' Christians enable divisions to develop under the surface. The Apostle's advice is to be alert and watch out for such people; and when they are identified, to keep away from them. It is the responsibility of church leaders not to be naïve and to disciple those who allow themselves to be instructed. It is the responsibility of church members not to be seduced by flattery or encouraged to join a party spirit; because the greatest enemy of the church is not from the outside but from those who are inside but not serving Lord - even though they think that they are.
Prayer: Sovereign Lord. Thank You for welcoming, into Your church, all who submit to Jesus Christ as Lord. I am sorry that, sometimes, I have been flattered by people to take sides and potentially disturb the unity of the church. Please help me to be alert and discerning so that I do not encourage such people. Please help the leaders of the church to take whatever discipling action is needed to enable us to worship and serve You together with a united and glad heart. In Jesus' Name. Amen.
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