Romans Chapter 12 Vs. 18

 

Marks of the True Christian

If it be possible, as much as lieth in you, live peaceably with all men. Rom 12:18

If it be... As far as it depends on you, live at peace with all people.

We see from the Scripture above, that it is not always possible to live in peace with all men. Paul found this to be very true. He was stoned, whipped, and even left for dead when all he was trying to do was good. Sometimes it seems the more good you do, the more you are attacked by your fellow men.

Although we should do everything possible to be at peace with others, it will not always come, because it also depends on others’ attitudes and responses.

Jesus is the King of Peace. If we are truly His followers, then we want to have peace as well. There is a peace that we can have and it is a peace in our heart that no one can take away from us.

Col. 3:15 “And let the peace of God rule in your hearts, to the which also ye are called in one body; and be ye thankful.” This is a peace that we have within when in the world around us there is no peace.

Paul then commanded believers, Live at peace with everyone (cf. “live in harmony with one another,” Rom. 12:16). But recognizing that limits exist, Paul included the words, If it is possible, as far as it depends on you. Harmony with others may not always be achievable, but believers should not be responsible for that lack of peace (cf. Mat. 5:9).