Romans 16:19

For your obedience is come abroad unto all men.. rejoice therefore over you: but. would have you wise unto that which is good, and simple unto that which is evil.

'obedience' -i.e. to the doctrine. (Romans 16:17)

'come abroad unto all men' -'The news of the soundness of the faith of the Roman church has reached "all", namely all Christians in the congregations of other lands. The state of the church in the world's capital would naturally be reported far and wide.' (Lenski p. 921)

From this verse. infer that Paul doesn't consider it wrong for brethren to ask about the "soundness" of another congregation. We shouldn't be offended if someone asks us some pointed questions about the "doctrine", and where we stand in relation to it.

'I rejoice therefore over you' -Paul rejoiced over. congregation that stood for the truth.

'but' -seeing the dangers present (Romans 16:17-18), Paul still feels the need to warn them.

'wise unto that which is good' -'well versed in all that is good' (TCNT); 'to be experts in goodness' (NEB). Integrity of the moral nature is the best security.' (Gr. Ex. N.T. p. 722)

'simple' -185. akeraios ak-er'-ah-yos; from. (as. negative particle) and. presumed derivative of 2767; unmixed, i.e. (figuratively) innocent: -harmless, simple. (1 Corinthians 14:20; Matthew 10:16)

Points to Note:

1. 'People do not have to indulge in evil things in order to know what is evil..people who are wise unto the good know evil, only the person who knows what is good has. CLEAR IDEA of what is evil. (Hebrews 5:14)' (Whiteside pp. 297-298)

2. This verse has. lesson for those Christians who seem to want to walk as close to the line of sin as they can without sinning.

3. Too many Christians are "experts" in worldly things and ways and "ignorant" in the Word of God.