16:17–20 Reflection on his knowledge of these believers, their problems in Rome (ch. 14), and the divisive activity of Satan (v. 20), evokes an urgent summons to guard their unity (Eph. 4:3). They are to avoid those “who cause divisions . . . contrary to the doctrine that you have been taught.” Bluntly he indicates that their divisive spirit is sinful, a mark of life in the flesh, and a form of self-indulgence (Gal. 5:19, 20). Christians must learn not to be deceived by “smooth talk and flattery” (v. 18).