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<!DOCTYPE html PUBLIC "-//W3C//DTD XHTML 1.0 Transitional//EN" "//www.w3.org/TR/xhtml1/DTD/xhtml1-transitional.dtd"><html xmlns="//www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><head><meta http-equiv="Content-Type" content="text/html; charset=utf-8" /><meta name="viewport" content="width=device-width, initial-scale=1" /><title>Romans 16:18 For such people are not serving our Lord Christ, but their own appetites. By smooth talk and flattery they deceive the hearts of the naive.</title><link rel="canonical" href="https://biblehub.com/romans/16-18.htm" /><link rel="stylesheet" href="/new9.css" type="text/css" media="Screen" /><meta property="og:image" content="https://biblehub.com/visuals/6/45_Rom_16_18.jpg" /><meta property="og:title" content="Romans 16:18 - Avoid Divisions" /><meta property="og:site_name" content="Bible Hub" /><meta property="og:description" content="For such people are not serving our Lord Christ, but their own appetites. 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By smooth talk and flattery they deceive the minds of naive people. <a href="/nlt/romans/16.htm">New Living Translation</a> Such people are not serving Christ our Lord; they are serving their own personal interests. By smooth talk and glowing words they deceive innocent people. <a href="/esv/romans/16.htm">English Standard Version</a> For such persons do not serve our Lord Christ, but their own appetites, and by smooth talk and flattery they deceive the hearts of the naive. <a href="/bsb/romans/16.htm">Berean Standard Bible</a> For such people are not serving our Lord Christ, but their own appetites. By smooth talk and flattery they deceive the hearts of the naive. <a href="/blb/romans/16.htm">Berean Literal Bible</a> For such do not serve our Lord Christ, but their own belly; and by smooth talk and flattery they deceive the hearts of the naive. <a href="/kjv/romans/16.htm">King James Bible</a> For they that are such serve not our Lord Jesus Christ, but their own belly; and by good words and fair speeches deceive the hearts of the simple. <a href="/nkjv/romans/16.htm">New King James Version</a> For those who are such do not serve our Lord Jesus Christ, but their own belly, and by smooth words and flattering speech deceive the hearts of the simple. <a href="/nasb_/romans/16.htm">New American Standard Bible</a> For such people are slaves, not of our Lord Christ but of their own appetites; and by their smooth and flattering speech they deceive the hearts of the unsuspecting. <a href="/nasb/romans/16.htm">NASB 1995</a> For such men are slaves, not of our Lord Christ but of their own appetites; and by their smooth and flattering speech they deceive the hearts of the unsuspecting. <a href="/nasb77/romans/16.htm">NASB 1977 </a> For such men are slaves, not of our Lord Christ but of their own appetites; and by their smooth and flattering speech they deceive the hearts of the unsuspecting. <a href="/lsb/romans/16.htm">Legacy Standard Bible </a> For such men are slaves, not of our Lord Christ but of their own stomach, and by their smooth and flattering speech they deceive the hearts of the unsuspecting. <a href="/amp/romans/16.htm">Amplified Bible</a> For such people do not serve our Lord Christ, but their own appetites and base desires. By smooth and flattering speech they deceive the hearts of the unsuspecting [the innocent and the naive]. <a href="/csb/romans/16.htm">Christian Standard Bible</a> because such people do not serve our Lord Christ but their own appetites. They deceive the hearts of the unsuspecting with smooth talk and flattering words. <a href="/hcsb/romans/16.htm">Holman Christian Standard Bible</a> for such people do not serve our Lord Christ but their own appetites. They deceive the hearts of the unsuspecting with smooth talk and flattering words. <a href="/asv/romans/16.htm">American Standard Version</a> For they that are such serve not our Lord Christ, but their own belly; and by their smooth and fair speech they beguile the hearts of the innocent. <a href="/cev/romans/16.htm">Contemporary English Version</a> They want to serve themselves and not Christ the Lord. Their flattery and fancy talk fool people who don't know any better. <a href="/erv/romans/16.htm">English Revised Version</a> For they that are such serve not our Lord Christ, but their own belly; and by their smooth and fair speech they beguile the hearts of the innocent. <a href="/gwt/romans/16.htm">GOD'S WORD® Translation</a> People like these are not serving Christ our Lord. They are serving their own desires. By their smooth talk and flattering words they deceive unsuspecting people. <a href="/gnt/romans/16.htm">Good News Translation</a> For those who do such things are not serving Christ our Lord, but their own appetites. By their fine words and flattering speech they deceive innocent people. <a href="/isv/romans/16.htm">International Standard Version</a> because such people are not serving the Messiah our Lord, but their own desires. By their smooth talk and flattering words they deceive the hearts of the unsuspecting. <a href="/msb/romans/16.htm">Majority Standard Bible</a> For such people are not serving our Lord Jesus Christ, but their own appetites. By smooth talk and flattery they deceive the hearts of the naive. <a href="/net/romans/16.htm">NET Bible</a> For these are the kind who do not serve our Lord Christ, but their own appetites. By their smooth talk and flattery they deceive the minds of the naive. <a href="/nheb/romans/16.htm">New Heart English Bible</a> For those who are such do not serve our Lord Christ, but their own belly; and by their smooth and flattering speech, they deceive the hearts of the innocent. <a href="/wbt/romans/16.htm">Webster's Bible Translation</a> For they that are such serve not our Lord Jesus Christ, but their own belly; and by good words and fair speeches deceive the hearts of the simple. <a href="/wey/romans/16.htm">Weymouth New Testament</a> For men of that stamp are not bondservants of Christ our Lord, but are slaves to their own appetites; and by their plausible words and their flattery they utterly deceive the minds of the simple. <a href="/web/romans/16.htm">World English Bible</a> For those who are such don’t serve our Lord Jesus Christ, but their own belly; and by their smooth and flattering speech they deceive the hearts of the innocent. <div class="vheading2">Literal Translations</div><a href="/lsv/romans/16.htm">Literal Standard Version</a> for such do not serve our Lord Jesus Christ, but their own belly; and through the good word and fair speech they deceive the hearts of the harmless. <a href="/blb/romans/16.htm">Berean Literal Bible</a> For such do not serve our Lord Christ, but their own belly; and by smooth talk and flattery they deceive the hearts of the naive. <a href="/ylt/romans/16.htm">Young's Literal Translation</a> for such our Lord Jesus Christ do not serve, but their own belly; and through the good word and fair speech they deceive the hearts of the harmless, <a href="/slt/romans/16.htm">Smith's Literal Translation</a> For such serve not our Lord Jesus Christ, but their own belly; and by specious language and praise completely deceive the hearts of the innocent.<div class="vheading2">Catholic Translations</div><a href="/drb/romans/16.htm">Douay-Rheims Bible</a> For they that are such, serve not Christ our Lord, but their own belly; and by pleasing speeches and good words, seduce the hearts of the innocent. <a href="/cpdv/romans/16.htm">Catholic Public Domain Version</a> For ones such as these do not serve Christ our Lord, but their inner selves, and, through pleasing words and skillful speaking, they seduce the hearts of the innocent. <a href="/nabre/romans/16.htm">New American Bible</a> For such people do not serve our Lord Christ but their own appetites, and by fair and flattering speech they deceive the hearts of the innocent. <a href="/nrsvce/romans/16.htm">New Revised Standard Version</a> For such people do not serve our Lord Christ, but their own appetites, and by smooth talk and flattery they deceive the hearts of the simple-minded.<div class="vheading2">Translations from Aramaic</div><a href="/lamsa/romans/16.htm">Lamsa Bible</a> For those who are such do not serve our LORD Jesus Christ, but their own belly; and by smooth words and fair speeches deceive the hearts of the simple people. <a href="/aramaic-plain-english/romans/16.htm">Aramaic Bible in Plain English</a> For those who are such are not serving our Lord Yeshua The Messiah, but their own belly, and with sweet words and with blessings they deceive the hearts of the pure.<div class="vheading2">NT Translations</div><a href="/anderson/romans/16.htm">Anderson New Testament</a> For such serve not our Lord Christ, but their own appetites; and, by good words and fair speeches, they deceive the hearts of the simple. <a href="/godbey/romans/16.htm">Godbey New Testament</a> For such do not serve our Lord Christ, but their own stomach; and through fair speeches and eulogies deceive the hearts of the innocent. <a href="/haweis/romans/16.htm">Haweis New Testament</a> For such are not servants to our Lord Jesus Christ, but to their own belly; and by smooth speeches and flattering commendations deceive the hearts of the guileless. <a href="/mace/romans/16.htm">Mace New Testament</a> for such as these serve not our Lord Jesus Christ, but their own selfishness; and by flourish and flattery, deceive the open-hearted simple. <a href="/wey/romans/16.htm">Weymouth New Testament</a> For men of that stamp are not bondservants of Christ our Lord, but are slaves to their own appetites; and by their plausible words and their flattery they utterly deceive the minds of the simple. <a href="/worrell/romans/16.htm">Worrell New Testament</a> For those who are such are not serving our Lord Christ, but their own belly; and, through their kind words and flattering speeches, they beguile the hearts of the simple. <a href="/worsley/romans/16.htm">Worsley New Testament</a> and avoid them; for such people serve not our Lord Jesus Christ, but their own belly; and by a soothing address and good words deceive the hearts of the innocent. <a href="/parallel/romans/16-18.htm">Additional Translations ...</a></div></div></div><div id="centbox"><div class="padcent"><a name="audio" id="audio"></a><div class="vheadingv">Audio Bible</div><iframe width="100%" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/KIZs4GUMn-g?start=4012" title="YouTube video player" frameborder="0" allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture; web-share" allowfullscreen></iframe> <div class="vheadingv">Context</div><a href="/bsb/romans/16.htm">Avoid Divisions</a> 17Now I urge you, brothers, to watch out for those who create divisions and obstacles that are contrary to the teaching you have learned. Turn away from them. 18<a href="/greek/1063.htm" title="1063: gar (Conj) -- For. A primary particle; properly, assigning a reason.">For</a> <a href="/greek/3588.htm" title="3588: hoi (Art-NMP) -- The, the definite article. Including the feminine he, and the neuter to in all their inflections; the definite article; the."></a> <a href="/greek/5108.htm" title="5108: toioutoi (DPro-NMP) -- (including the other inflections); from toi and houtos; truly this, i.e. Of this sort (to denote character or individuality).">such people</a> <a href="/greek/3756.htm" title="3756: ou (Adv) -- No, not. Also ouk, and ouch a primary word; the absolute negative adverb; no or not.">are not</a> <a href="/greek/1398.htm" title="1398: douleuousin (V-PIA-3P) -- To be a slave, be subject to, obey, be devoted. From doulos; to be a slave to.">serving</a> <a href="/greek/1473.htm" title="1473: hēmōn (PPro-G1P) -- I, the first-person pronoun. A primary pronoun of the first person I.">our</a> <a href="/greek/3588.htm" title="3588: tō (Art-DMS) -- The, the definite article. Including the feminine he, and the neuter to in all their inflections; the definite article; the."></a> <a href="/greek/2962.htm" title="2962: Kyriō (N-DMS) -- Lord, master, sir; the Lord. From kuros; supreme in authority, i.e. controller; by implication, Master.">Lord</a> <a href="/greek/5547.htm" title="5547: Christō (N-DMS) -- Anointed One; the Messiah, the Christ. From chrio; Anointed One, i.e. The Messiah, an epithet of Jesus.">Christ,</a> <a href="/greek/235.htm" title="235: alla (Conj) -- But, except, however. Neuter plural of allos; properly, other things, i.e. contrariwise.">but</a> <a href="/greek/1438.htm" title="1438: heautōn (RefPro-GM3P) -- Himself, herself, itself. ">their</a> <a href="/greek/3588.htm" title="3588: tē (Art-DFS) -- The, the definite article. Including the feminine he, and the neuter to in all their inflections; the definite article; the.">own</a> <a href="/greek/2836.htm" title="2836: koilia (N-DFS) -- From koilos; a cavity, i.e. the abdomen; by implication, the matrix; figuratively, the heart.">appetites.</a> <a href="/greek/2532.htm" title="2532: kai (Conj) -- And, even, also, namely. "></a> <a href="/greek/1223.htm" title="1223: dia (Prep) -- A primary preposition denoting the channel of an act; through.">By</a> <a href="/greek/3588.htm" title="3588: tēs (Art-GFS) -- The, the definite article. Including the feminine he, and the neuter to in all their inflections; the definite article; the."></a> <a href="/greek/5542.htm" title="5542: chrēstologias (N-GFS) -- A kind address; in a bad sense: plausible speaking. From a compound of chrestos and lego; fair speech, i.e. Plausibility.">smooth talk</a> <a href="/greek/2532.htm" title="2532: kai (Conj) -- And, even, also, namely. ">and</a> <a href="/greek/2129.htm" title="2129: eulogias (N-GFS) -- Adulation, praise, blessing, gift. ">flattery</a> <a href="/greek/1818.htm" title="1818: exapatōsin (V-PIA-3P) -- To deceive thoroughly. From ek and apatao; to seduce wholly.">they deceive</a> <a href="/greek/3588.htm" title="3588: tas (Art-AFP) -- The, the definite article. Including the feminine he, and the neuter to in all their inflections; the definite article; the.">the</a> <a href="/greek/2588.htm" title="2588: kardias (N-AFP) -- Prolonged from a primary kar; the heart, i.e. the thoughts or feelings; also the middle.">hearts</a> <a href="/greek/3588.htm" title="3588: tōn (Art-GMP) -- The, the definite article. Including the feminine he, and the neuter to in all their inflections; the definite article; the.">of the</a> <a href="/greek/172.htm" title="172: akakōn (Adj-GMP) -- Innocent, guileless, simple. Not bad, i.e. innocent or unsuspecting.">naive.</a> 19Everyone has heard about your obedience, so I rejoice over you. But I want you to be wise about what is good and innocent about what is evil.…<div class="cred"><a href="//berean.bible">Berean Standard Bible</a> · <a href="//berean.bible/downloads.htm">Download</a></div> <a name="crossref" id="crossref"></a><div class="vheading">Cross References</div><div id="crf"><a href="/philippians/3-18.htm">Philippians 3:18-19</a> For as I have often told you before, and now say again even with tears: Many live as enemies of the cross of Christ. / Their end is destruction, their god is their belly, and their glory is in their shame. Their minds are set on earthly things. <a href="/2_peter/2-1.htm">2 Peter 2:1-3</a> Now there were also false prophets among the people, just as there will be false teachers among you. They will secretly introduce destructive heresies, even denying the Master who bought them—bringing swift destruction on themselves. / Many will follow in their depravity, and because of them the way of truth will be defamed. / In their greed, these false teachers will exploit you with deceptive words. The longstanding verdict against them remains in force, and their destruction does not sleep. <a href="/matthew/7-15.htm">Matthew 7:15</a> Beware of false prophets. They come to you in sheep’s clothing, but inwardly they are ravenous wolves. <a href="/2_corinthians/11-13.htm">2 Corinthians 11:13-15</a> For such men are false apostles, deceitful workers, masquerading as apostles of Christ. / And no wonder, for Satan himself masquerades as an angel of light. / It is not surprising, then, if his servants masquerade as servants of righteousness. Their end will correspond to their actions. <a href="/galatians/1-6.htm">Galatians 1:6-7</a> I am amazed how quickly you are deserting the One who called you by the grace of Christ and are turning to a different gospel— / which is not even a gospel. Evidently some people are troubling you and trying to distort the gospel of Christ. <a href="/2_timothy/3-1.htm">2 Timothy 3:1-5</a> But understand this: In the last days terrible times will come. / For men will be lovers of themselves, lovers of money, boastful, arrogant, abusive, disobedient to their parents, ungrateful, unholy, / unloving, unforgiving, slanderous, without self-control, brutal, without love of good, ... <a href="/jude/1-4.htm">Jude 1:4</a> For certain men have crept in among you unnoticed—ungodly ones who were designated long ago for condemnation. They turn the grace of our God into a license for immorality, and they deny our only Master and Lord, Jesus Christ. <a href="/1_john/4-1.htm">1 John 4:1</a> Beloved, do not believe every spirit, but test the spirits to see whether they are from God. For many false prophets have gone out into the world. <a href="/colossians/2-8.htm">Colossians 2:8</a> See to it that no one takes you captive through philosophy and empty deception, which are based on human tradition and the spiritual forces of the world rather than on Christ. <a href="/titus/1-10.htm">Titus 1:10-11</a> For many are rebellious and full of empty talk and deception, especially those of the circumcision, / who must be silenced. For the sake of dishonorable gain, they undermine entire households and teach things they should not. <a href="/1_timothy/6-3.htm">1 Timothy 6:3-5</a> If anyone teaches another doctrine and disagrees with the sound words of our Lord Jesus Christ and with godly teaching, / he is conceited and understands nothing. Instead, he has an unhealthy interest in controversies and disputes about words, out of which come envy, strife, abusive talk, evil suspicions, / and constant friction between men of depraved mind who are devoid of the truth. These men regard godliness as a means of gain. <a href="/jeremiah/23-16.htm">Jeremiah 23:16</a> This is what the LORD of Hosts says: “Do not listen to the words of the prophets who prophesy to you. They are filling you with false hopes. They speak visions from their own minds, not from the mouth of the LORD. <a href="/ezekiel/13-10.htm">Ezekiel 13:10</a> Because they have led My people astray, saying, ‘Peace,’ when there is no peace, and whitewashing any flimsy wall that is built, <a href="/isaiah/30-10.htm">Isaiah 30:10</a> They say to the seers, “Stop seeing visions!” and to the prophets, “Do not prophesy to us the truth! Speak to us pleasant words; prophesy illusions. <a href="/micah/3-5.htm">Micah 3:5</a> This is what the LORD says: “As for the prophets who lead My people astray, who proclaim peace while they chew with their teeth, but declare war against one who puts nothing in their mouths:</div> <a name="tsk" id="tsk"><div class="vheading">Treasury of Scripture</div>For they that are such serve not our Lord Jesus Christ, but their own belly; and by good words and fair speeches deceive the hearts of the simple.serve.<a href="/matthew/6-24.htm">Matthew 6:24</a> No man can serve two masters: for either he will hate the one, and love the other; or else he will hold to the one, and despise the other. Ye cannot serve God and mammon.<a href="/john/12-26.htm">John 12:26</a> If any man serve me, let him follow me; and where I am, there shall also my servant be: if any man serve me, him will my Father honour.<a href="/galatians/1-10.htm">Galatians 1:10</a> For do I now persuade men, or God? or do I seek to please men? for if I yet pleased men, I should not be the servant of Christ.but.<a href="/1_samuel/2-12.htm">1 Samuel 2:12-17,29</a> Now the sons of Eli were sons of Belial; they knew not the LORD… <a href="/isaiah/56-10.htm">Isaiah 56:10-12</a> His watchmen are blind: they are all ignorant, they are all dumb dogs, they cannot bark; sleeping, lying down, loving to slumber… <a href="/ezekiel/13-19.htm">Ezekiel 13:19</a> And will ye pollute me among my people for handfuls of barley and for pieces of bread, to slay the souls that should not die, and to save the souls alive that should not live, by your lying to my people that hear your lies?by.<a href="/2_chronicles/18-5.htm">2 Chronicles 18:5,12-17</a> Therefore the king of Israel gathered together of prophets four hundred men, and said unto them, Shall we go to Ramothgilead to battle, or shall I forbear? And they said, Go up; for God will deliver it into the king's hand… <a href="/isaiah/30-10.htm">Isaiah 30:10,11</a> Which say to the seers, See not; and to the prophets, Prophesy not unto us right things, speak unto us smooth things, prophesy deceits: … <a href="/jeremiah/8-10.htm">Jeremiah 8:10,11</a> Therefore will I give their wives unto others, and their fields to them that shall inherit them: for every one from the least even unto the greatest is given to covetousness, from the prophet even unto the priest every one dealeth falsely… the simple.<a href="/romans/16-19.htm">Romans 16:19</a> For your obedience is come abroad unto all men. I am glad therefore on your behalf: but yet I would have you wise unto that which is good, and simple concerning evil.<a href="/psalms/19-7.htm">Psalm 19:7</a> The law of the LORD is perfect, converting the soul: the testimony of the LORD is sure, making wise the simple.<a href="/psalms/119-130.htm">Psalm 119:130</a> The entrance of thy words giveth light; it giveth understanding unto the simple.<div class="vheading">Jump to Previous</div><a href="/isaiah/56-11.htm">Appetites</a> <a href="/jeremiah/29-8.htm">Beguile</a> <a href="/john/7-38.htm">Belly</a> <a href="/romans/6-22.htm">Bondservants</a> <a href="/romans/16-16.htm">Christ</a> <a href="/romans/7-11.htm">Deceive</a> <a href="/romans/14-20.htm">Evil</a> <a href="/acts/27-8.htm">Fair</a> <a href="/ezekiel/12-24.htm">Flattering</a> <a href="/romans/16-1.htm">Good</a> <a href="/matthew/10-16.htm">Harmless</a> <a href="/romans/15-7.htm">Hearts</a> <a href="/acts/20-26.htm">Innocent</a> <a href="/romans/16-3.htm">Jesus</a> <a href="/colossians/2-4.htm">Plausible</a> <a href="/romans/13-6.htm">Servants</a> <a href="/romans/15-27.htm">Serve</a> <a href="/romans/15-25.htm">Serving</a> <a href="/acts/28-2.htm">Simple</a> <a href="/proverbs/1-22.htm">Simple-Minded</a> <a href="/romans/6-22.htm">Slaves</a> <a href="/luke/3-6.htm">Smooth</a> <a href="/acts/20-7.htm">Speech</a> <a href="/mark/3-28.htm">Speeches</a> <a href="/matthew/27-66.htm">Stamp</a> <a href="/amos/4-6.htm">Stomachs</a> <a href="/romans/1-30.htm">Talk</a> <a href="/romans/7-11.htm">Tricked</a> <a href="/romans/15-3.htm">Words</a><div class="vheading2">Jump to Next</div><a href="/galatians/5-24.htm">Appetites</a> <a href="/colossians/2-4.htm">Beguile</a> <a href="/1_corinthians/6-13.htm">Belly</a> <a href="/1_corinthians/7-23.htm">Bondservants</a> <a href="/romans/16-20.htm">Christ</a> <a href="/1_corinthians/3-18.htm">Deceive</a> <a href="/romans/16-19.htm">Evil</a> <a href="/1_corinthians/13-5.htm">Fair</a> <a href="/1_thessalonians/2-5.htm">Flattering</a> <a href="/romans/16-19.htm">Good</a> <a href="/philippians/2-15.htm">Harmless</a> <a href="/1_corinthians/4-5.htm">Hearts</a> <a href="/romans/16-19.htm">Innocent</a> <a href="/romans/16-20.htm">Jesus</a> <a href="/1_corinthians/2-4.htm">Plausible</a> <a href="/1_corinthians/3-5.htm">Servants</a> <a href="/1_corinthians/9-13.htm">Serve</a> <a href="/ephesians/4-12.htm">Serving</a> <a href="/romans/16-19.htm">Simple</a> <a href="/romans/16-19.htm">Simple-Minded</a> <a href="/1_corinthians/7-23.htm">Slaves</a> <a href="/genesis/27-11.htm">Smooth</a> <a href="/1_corinthians/1-5.htm">Speech</a> <a href="/1_corinthians/4-19.htm">Speeches</a> <a href="/2_corinthians/1-22.htm">Stamp</a> <a href="/amos/4-6.htm">Stomachs</a> <a href="/1_corinthians/4-19.htm">Talk</a> <a href="/1_corinthians/15-33.htm">Tricked</a> <a href="/1_corinthians/1-17.htm">Words</a><div class="vheading2">Romans 16</div>1. <a href="/romans/16-1.htm">Paul wills the brothers to greet many;</a> 17. <a href="/romans/16-17.htm">and advises them to take heed of those which cause dissension and offenses;</a> 21. <a href="/romans/16-21.htm">and after various salutations ends with praise and thanks to God.</a> </div></div><div id="mdd"><div align="center"><div class="bot2"><table align="center" width="100%"><tr><td><div align="center"> <script id="3d27ed63fc4348d5b062c4527ae09445"> (new Image()).src = 'https://capi.connatix.com/tr/si?token=51ce25d5-1a8c-424a-8695-4bd48c750f35&cid=3a9f82d0-4344-4f8d-ac0c-e1a0eb43a405'; </script> <script id="b817b7107f1d4a7997da1b3c33457e03"> (new Image()).src = 'https://capi.connatix.com/tr/si?token=cb0edd8b-b416-47eb-8c6d-3cc96561f7e8&cid=3a9f82d0-4344-4f8d-ac0c-e1a0eb43a405'; </script>  <div id='div-gpt-ad-1529103594582-2'> </div>  <div id='div-gpt-ad-1529103594582-0' style='max-width: 300px;'> </div>  <div id='div-gpt-ad-1529103594582-3'> </div>  <div id='div-gpt-ad-1529103594582-1' style='max-width: 300px;'> </div>  <div align="center" id='div-gpt-ad-1531425649696-0'> </div> <ins class="adsbygoogle" style="display:inline-block;width:200px;height:200px" data-ad-client="ca-pub-3753401421161123" data-ad-slot="3592799687"></ins> <script> (adsbygoogle = window.adsbygoogle || []).push({}); </script> </div> </td></tr></table></div></div></div><div id="combox"><div class="padcom"><a name="study" id="study"></a><div class="vheading"><table width="100%"><tr><td width="99%" valign="top"><a href="/study/romans/16.htm">Study Bible</a></td><td width="1%" valign="top"><a href="/study/romans/" title="Book Summary and Study">Book ◦</a> <a href="/study/chapters/romans/16.htm" title="Chapter summary and Study">Chapter </a></tr></table></div>For such people are not serving our Lord Christ This phrase addresses individuals within the church who are not genuinely committed to Christ's teachings. Historically, the early church faced challenges from false teachers and divisive individuals, as seen in other New Testament writings (e.g., <a href="/2_peter/2.htm">2 Peter 2:1</a>, <a href="/jude/1-4.htm">Jude 1:4</a>). These people often sought personal gain rather than the advancement of the Gospel. The phrase underscores the importance of discernment within the Christian community, as Jesus warned about false prophets in <a href="/matthew/7-15.htm">Matthew 7:15</a>.but their own appetites The term "appetites" refers to selfish desires and personal ambitions. In a cultural context, the Greco-Roman world was characterized by a pursuit of personal honor and status, which could infiltrate the church. This phrase echoes <a href="/philippians/3-19.htm">Philippians 3:19</a>, where Paul speaks of those whose "god is their stomach," indicating a focus on earthly desires rather than spiritual truths. It serves as a warning against prioritizing personal gain over spiritual integrity.By smooth talk and flattery This phrase highlights the methods used by deceptive individuals to manipulate others. In the ancient world, rhetoric and persuasive speech were highly valued skills, often used to sway public opinion. The Bible frequently warns against being misled by eloquent but deceitful speech, as seen in <a href="/proverbs/26-28.htm">Proverbs 26:28</a> and <a href="/colossians/2-4.htm">Colossians 2:4</a>. The emphasis here is on the seductive nature of such speech, which can lead believers away from sound doctrine.they deceive the hearts of the naive The "naive" refers to those who are unsuspecting or lacking in discernment. In biblical terms, the heart is often seen as the center of one's being, encompassing mind, will, and emotions. Deception of the heart implies a deep level of manipulation, affecting one's core beliefs and values. This warning is consistent with other scriptural admonitions to guard one's heart (<a href="/proverbs/4-23.htm">Proverbs 4:23</a>) and to be vigilant against spiritual deception (<a href="/ephesians/5-6.htm">Ephesians 5:6</a>). The phrase serves as a call to maturity and wisdom in the faith.<div class="vheading2">Persons / Places / Events</div>1. <a href="/topical/p/paul_the_apostle.htm">Paul the Apostle</a> The author of the letter to the Romans, providing guidance and warnings to the early Christian church in Rome. 2. <a href="/topical/t/the_roman_church.htm">The Roman Church</a> The recipients of Paul's letter, a diverse group of believers in Rome facing various challenges, including false teachings. 3. <a href="/topical/f/false_teachers.htm">False Teachers</a> Individuals within the church who are misleading believers by serving their own desires rather than Christ. 4. <a href="/topical/t/the_naive.htm">The Naive</a> Believers who are susceptible to deception due to a lack of discernment or maturity in their faith.<div class="vheading2">Teaching Points</div><a href="/topical/d/discernment_in_leadership.htm">Discernment in Leadership</a> Believers must be vigilant and discerning about who they follow, ensuring that leaders are serving Christ and not their own interests. <a href="/topical/g/guarding_against_deception.htm">Guarding Against Deception</a> Christians should be rooted in Scripture and sound doctrine to protect themselves from being misled by smooth talk and flattery. <a href="/topical/t/the_importance_of_spiritual_maturity.htm">The Importance of Spiritual Maturity</a> Growing in faith and understanding is crucial to avoid being naive and easily deceived. <a href="/topical/t/the_role_of_community.htm">The Role of Community</a> Engaging in a strong, biblically grounded community can provide accountability and support in recognizing and resisting false teachings. <a href="/topical/s/self-examination.htm">Self-Examination</a> Believers should regularly examine their own motives and desires to ensure they align with serving Christ rather than personal appetites.<div class="vheading2">Lists and Questions</div><a href="/top10/lessons_from_romans_16.htm">Top 10 Lessons from Romans 16</a> <a href="/q/what_is_the_bible's_view_on_flattery.htm">What is the Bible's view on flattery?</a> <a href="/q/how_to_unite_without_divisions.htm">What does the Bible say about sowing discord?</a> <a href="/q/what_defines_a_miracle.htm">What does 'speak life' mean?</a> <a href="/q/bible's_view_on_church_conflict.htm">What does the Bible say about church conflict?</a><a name="commentary" id="commentary"></a><div class="vheading2"><a href="/commentaries/ellicott/romans/16.htm">Ellicott's Commentary for English Readers</a></div>(18) Their own belly.--Compare the description in <a href="/context/philippians/3-18.htm" title="(For many walk, of whom I have told you often, and now tell you even weeping, that they are the enemies of the cross of Christ:">Philippians 3:18-19</a>, where the Apostle is also denouncing certain persons who made "a god of their belly." It is not, however, quite clear that the class of persons intended is precisely the same. There the Apostle is condemning Antinomian extravagances which professed to be based on his own teaching; here he would seem to have in view some more radical divergence of doctrine, "contrary to" that which they had learned. Selfish indulgence is unfortunately a common goal, to which many diverse ways of error will be found to lead.By good words and fair speeches.--The difference, perhaps, is between "insinuating" or "specious" address, and "fine phrases" in a rhetorical sense.Simple.--Literally, guileless. Those who have no evil intentions themselves, and do not readily suspect others of them.<div class="vheading2"><a href="/commentaries/pulpit/romans/16.htm">Pulpit Commentary</a></div>Verses 18-20. - For they that are such serve not our Lord Jesus Christ, but their own belly (cf. <a href="/philippians/3-18.htm">Philippians 3:18, 19</a>). Had St. Paul thought these people sincere though mistaken, he would doubtless have treated them with the tenderness he shows towards the weak brethren. But he regards them as self-interested, and of the flesh; and against such disturbers of the Church's peace he is, here as elsewhere, indignant (el. <a href="/galatians/1-7.htm">Galatians 1:7, 8</a>; <a href="/galatians/2-4.htm">Galatians 2:4</a>; <a href="/galatians/3-1.htm">Galatians 3:1</a>; <a href="/galatians/5-11.htm">Galatians 5:11, 12</a>). In speaking of them as serving, or being slaves to, their own belly, it cannot be concluded certainly that he attributed to them habits of sensuality. He may only mean that it is the gratification of the lower part of their nature that they have in view; and there may be allusion to the motive of such persons being the desire of eating and drinking at the cost of the Churches. In 'The Teaching of the Twelve Apostles' (alluded to under Romans 12:6, seq.) the desire to live without working at the cost of the Church is set down as one of the marks of a false apostle or a false prophet. And by good words and fair speeches deceive the hearts of the simple (rather, innocent, or harmless. So the word ἄκακος is translated in <a href="/hebrews/7-26.htm">Hebrews 7:26</a>. It is different from ἀκέραιος in ver. 19, though the Authorized Version makes no difference). For your obedience is come abroad unto all men. This is apparently adduced as a reason for his exhorting them to beware of those seducers, with a confidence that they will not be seduced by them, ver. 19 being thus dependent on ver. 17. I am glad therefore on your behalf: but yet I would have you wise unto that which is good, but simple (ἀκεραίους) concerning evil. And the God of peace shall bruise Satan under your feet shortly. The grace of our Lord Jesus Christ be with you all. Amen. <a href="/commentaries/romans/16-18.htm">Parallel Commentaries ...</a> <a name="lexicon" id="lexicon"></a><div class="vheading">Greek</div>For γὰρ (gar) Conjunction <a href="/greek/strongs_1063.htm">Strong's 1063: </a> For. A primary particle; properly, assigning a reason. such people τοιοῦτοι (toioutoi) Demonstrative Pronoun - Nominative Masculine Plural <a href="/greek/strongs_5108.htm">Strong's 5108: </a> (including the other inflections); from toi and houtos; truly this, i.e. Of this sort (to denote character or individuality). {are} not οὐ (ou) Adverb <a href="/greek/strongs_3756.htm">Strong's 3756: </a> No, not. Also ouk, and ouch a primary word; the absolute negative adverb; no or not. serving δουλεύουσιν (douleuousin) Verb - Present Indicative Active - 3rd Person Plural <a href="/greek/strongs_1398.htm">Strong's 1398: </a> To be a slave, be subject to, obey, be devoted. From doulos; to be a slave to. our ἡμῶν (hēmōn) Personal / Possessive Pronoun - Genitive 1st Person Plural <a href="/greek/strongs_1473.htm">Strong's 1473: </a> I, the first-person pronoun. A primary pronoun of the first person I. Lord Κυρίῳ (Kyriō) Noun - Dative Masculine Singular <a href="/greek/strongs_2962.htm">Strong's 2962: </a> Lord, master, sir; the Lord. From kuros; supreme in authority, i.e. controller; by implication, Master. Christ, Χριστῷ (Christō) Noun - Dative Masculine Singular <a href="/greek/strongs_5547.htm">Strong's 5547: </a> Anointed One; the Messiah, the Christ. From chrio; Anointed One, i.e. The Messiah, an epithet of Jesus. but ἀλλὰ (alla) Conjunction <a href="/greek/strongs_235.htm">Strong's 235: </a> But, except, however. Neuter plural of allos; properly, other things, i.e. contrariwise. their ἑαυτῶν (heautōn) Reflexive Pronoun - Genitive Masculine 3rd Person Plural <a href="/greek/strongs_1438.htm">Strong's 1438: </a> Himself, herself, itself. [own] τῇ (tē) Article - Dative Feminine Singular <a href="/greek/strongs_3588.htm">Strong's 3588: </a> The, the definite article. Including the feminine he, and the neuter to in all their inflections; the definite article; the. appetites. κοιλίᾳ (koilia) Noun - Dative Feminine Singular <a href="/greek/strongs_2836.htm">Strong's 2836: </a> From koilos; a cavity, i.e. the abdomen; by implication, the matrix; figuratively, the heart. By διὰ (dia) Preposition <a href="/greek/strongs_1223.htm">Strong's 1223: </a> A primary preposition denoting the channel of an act; through. smooth talk χρηστολογίας (chrēstologias) Noun - Genitive Feminine Singular <a href="/greek/strongs_5542.htm">Strong's 5542: </a> A kind address; in a bad sense: plausible speaking. From a compound of chrestos and lego; fair speech, i.e. Plausibility. and καὶ (kai) Conjunction <a href="/greek/strongs_2532.htm">Strong's 2532: </a> And, even, also, namely. flattery εὐλογίας (eulogias) Noun - Genitive Feminine Singular <a href="/greek/strongs_2129.htm">Strong's 2129: </a> Adulation, praise, blessing, gift. they deceive ἐξαπατῶσιν (exapatōsin) Verb - Present Indicative Active - 3rd Person Plural <a href="/greek/strongs_1818.htm">Strong's 1818: </a> To deceive thoroughly. From ek and apatao; to seduce wholly. the τὰς (tas) Article - Accusative Feminine Plural <a href="/greek/strongs_3588.htm">Strong's 3588: </a> The, the definite article. Including the feminine he, and the neuter to in all their inflections; the definite article; the. hearts καρδίας (kardias) Noun - Accusative Feminine Plural <a href="/greek/strongs_2588.htm">Strong's 2588: </a> Prolonged from a primary kar; the heart, i.e. the thoughts or feelings; also the middle. of the τῶν (tōn) Article - Genitive Masculine Plural <a href="/greek/strongs_3588.htm">Strong's 3588: </a> The, the definite article. Including the feminine he, and the neuter to in all their inflections; the definite article; the. naive. ἀκάκων (akakōn) Adjective - Genitive Masculine Plural <a href="/greek/strongs_172.htm">Strong's 172: </a> Innocent, guileless, simple. Not bad, i.e. innocent or unsuspecting. <div class="vheading">Links</div><a href="/niv/romans/16-18.htm">Romans 16:18 NIV</a> <a href="/nlt/romans/16-18.htm">Romans 16:18 NLT</a> <a href="/esv/romans/16-18.htm">Romans 16:18 ESV</a> <a href="/nasb/romans/16-18.htm">Romans 16:18 NASB</a> <a href="/kjv/romans/16-18.htm">Romans 16:18 KJV</a> <a href="//bibleapps.com/romans/16-18.htm">Romans 16:18 BibleApps.com</a> <a href="//bibliaparalela.com/romans/16-18.htm">Romans 16:18 Biblia Paralela</a> <a href="//holybible.com.cn/romans/16-18.htm">Romans 16:18 Chinese Bible</a> <a href="//saintebible.com/romans/16-18.htm">Romans 16:18 French Bible</a> <a href="/catholic/romans/16-18.htm">Romans 16:18 Catholic Bible</a> <a href="/romans/16-18.htm">NT Letters: Romans 16:18 For those who are such don't serve (Rom. Ro) </a></div></div></td></tr></table></div><div id="left"><a href="/romans/16-17.htm" onmouseover='lft.src="/leftgif.png"' onmouseout='lft.src="/left.png"' title="Romans 16:17"><img src="/left.png" name="lft" border="0" alt="Romans 16:17" /></a></div><div id="right"><a href="/romans/16-19.htm" onmouseover='rght.src="/rightgif.png"' onmouseout='rght.src="/right.png"' title="Romans 16:19"><img src="/right.png" name="rght" border="0" alt="Romans 16:19" /></a></div><div id="botleft"><a href="#" onmouseover='botleft.src="/botleftgif.png"' onmouseout='botleft.src="/botleft.png"' title="Top of Page"><img src="/botleft.png" name="botleft" border="0" alt="Top of Page" /></a></div><div id="botright"><a href="#" onmouseover='botright.src="/botrightgif.png"' onmouseout='botright.src="/botright.png"' title="Top of Page"><img src="/botright.png" name="botright" border="0" alt="Top of Page" /></a></div><div id="bot"><iframe width="100%" height="1500" scrolling="no" src="/botmenubhnew2.htm" frameborder="0"></iframe></div></td></tr></table></div></body></html>