What Does It Mean to Mark and Avoid?

We find the Scriptures commanding Christians, “Now I beseech you, brethren, mark them which cause divisions and offences contrary to the doctrine which ye have learned; and avoid them” (Romans 16:17).

To “mark” means to identify. In order to mark a person, it means to identify him. To mark one who causes divisions, we must place some identifying marks on him where others will recognize him. How? We do this by pointing out what he is doing wrong.

“Avoid them” is easily understood, but perhaps harder to practice. People have little trouble avoiding a rattlesnake, which can only take a physical life. Why should it be so hard for Christians to identify and avoid those who pose a threat to one’s eternal soul and to the souls of loved ones?

The poison of those causing divisions and offences in religion is much more dangerous than the poison of the rattlesnake. Will you obey this command, or will you like some politicians, seek peace with such people? Even little children know that marking means more than “noticing” and that avoiding means to stay away from.