Warning against Divisive People

17 Now I urge you, brothers and sisters, to watch out for those who create divisions and obstacles contrary to the teaching that you learned.(A) Avoid them,(B) 18 because such people do not serve our Lord Christ(C) but their own appetites.[a](D) They deceive the hearts of the unsuspecting with smooth talk and flattering words.(E)

Paul’s Gracious Conclusion

19 The report of your obedience has reached everyone.(F) Therefore I rejoice over you, but I want you to be wise about what is good, and yet innocent about what is evil.(G) 20 The God of peace(H) will soon crush Satan(I) under your feet. The grace of our Lord Jesus be with you.(J)

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Footnotes

  1. 16:18 Lit belly

Final Instructions

17 I urge you, brothers and sisters, to keep an eye on those who create dissensions and hindrances, in opposition to the teaching that you have learned; avoid them.(A) 18 For such people do not serve our Lord Christ but their own appetites,[a] and by smooth talk and flattery they deceive the hearts of the simple-minded.(B) 19 For your obedience is known to all; therefore, I rejoice over you, but I want you to be wise in what is good and guileless in what is evil.(C) 20 The God of peace will shortly crush Satan under your feet. The grace of our Lord Jesus Christ be with you.[b](D)

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Footnotes

  1. 16.18 Gk their own belly
  2. 16.20 Other ancient authorities lack this sentence