"...note those who cause divisions and offenses, contrary to the doctrine..."

Here is another example of Scripture that tells us that there are some people we shouldn't bother with.  We are told to avoid them which I take to mean we stop trying to save them as well.

Seems kind of harsh doesn't it?  Kinda goes against the belief that we are to always and continually try to save all.  Also requires us to make a judgment.  Take a look and then I'll share some thoughts.
 

Romans 16:17-18(NKJV)

17Now I urge you, brethren, note those who cause divisions and offenses, contrary to the doctrine which you learned, and avoid them. 

18For 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. 

OK here is the way I see this.  We are talking here about people who have already made a choice not to serve Jesus.  They are teaching things contrary to what Jesus taught.  They are being deceptive.   And who is the master of deception?  Satan! 

So we are talking about people who are on the other side who are not interested in honest inquiry and debate.  We are talking about people who are actively trying to destroy the faith of others. 

As I've pointed out in the past, even Jesus didn't play the game with people who weren't honestly seeking.  Here we are told to avoid them.  Don't waste any more precious resources on them.  They've already made their choice so the results are on them. 

Instead, spend those precious resources on reaching those who haven't been given a chance to make a choice for Jesus.  Does that mean the others are lost forever?  Nope.  Jesus left the door open for them to return and so should we.    But the first step is up to them.  They have to return, we shouldn't be chasing them.  Make sense?