CGrant

I think Paul made these comments on his own life to show how his life changed after Jesus showed mercy to him. This change came about by Paul being taught true doctrine, and believing the true doctrine, as opposed to the untruths of the false teachers. Once the proper center is shown to be true, the church can then concentrate on the true purpose of the church instead of all the controversy and upheaval caused by false doctrine.

False doctrine, or controversy concerning doctrine, causes the spirit of the Church to be directed towards that controversy and not toward worship and studying God's Word. It may cause strong believers to find somewhere else to worship, and visitors or new members to not return to church at all. It may cause members to spend time questioning their choice of a church and distract from studying the Bible. The Holy Spirit won't be felt in a congregation that isn't focused on God's work. It hurts any outreach or ministry, and keeps the church from it's mission: to spread God's word to all. False teachers cause such harm to those who are truly trying to learn God's plan for them.