Follow peace with all [men], and holiness, without which no man shall see the Lord:
Follow {G1377} peace {G1515} with {G3326} all {G3956} men, and {G2532} holiness {G38}, without {G5565} which {G3739} no man {G3762} shall see {G3700} the Lord {G2962}:
Keep pursuing shalom with everyone and the holiness without which no one will see the Lord.
Pursue peace with everyone, as well as holiness, without which no one will see the Lord.
Follow after peace with all men, and the sanctification without which no man shall see the Lord:
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2 Corinthians 7:1
¶ Having therefore these promises, dearly beloved, let us cleanse ourselves from all filthiness of the flesh and spirit, perfecting holiness in the fear of God. -
1 Peter 1:15
But as he which hath called you is holy, so be ye holy in all manner of conversation; -
1 Peter 1:16
Because it is written, Be ye holy; for I am holy. -
1 Thessalonians 4:7
For God hath not called us unto uncleanness, but unto holiness. -
Matthew 5:8
Blessed [are] the pure in heart: for they shall see God. -
Matthew 5:9
Blessed [are] the peacemakers: for they shall be called the children of God. -
1 Peter 3:11
Let him eschew evil, and do good; let him seek peace, and ensue it.
Hebrews 12:14 delivers a powerful and direct exhortation to believers regarding the lifestyle required for true fellowship with God. It emphasizes two critical pursuits: peace in relationships and personal holiness, presenting them as non-negotiable for spiritual sight of the Lord.
Context
This verse is situated within a larger section of Hebrews (chapters 11-12) that encourages perseverance and endurance in the Christian faith. After recounting the "cloud of witnesses" (the heroes of faith in chapter 11) and exhorting readers to "run with patience the race" (Hebrews 12:1), the author transitions to practical instructions for living. The preceding verses discuss God's discipline as a loving Father, refining His children. Thus, the call to pursue peace and holiness is a natural outflow of having been disciplined and set apart by God, enabling believers to live worthy of their "heavenly calling".
Key Themes
Linguistic Insights
The Greek word for "holiness" here, hagiasmos (ἁγιασμός), is significant. It describes the process and result of being made holy or sanctified. It's distinct from God's intrinsic holiness (hagiotes) but refers to the believer's participation in and pursuit of that divine characteristic. The active pursuit implied by diōkō for both peace and holiness underscores that these are not static states but dynamic, ongoing efforts in the Christian walk.
Practical Application
Hebrews 12:14 calls believers to a life of intentional spiritual discipline and relational integrity. Practically, this means actively seeking reconciliation in conflicts, extending forgiveness, and living with integrity and purity in thought, word, and deed. It reminds us that our horizontal relationships (with others) and our vertical relationship (with God) are deeply interconnected. A genuine pursuit of peace and holiness is not merely a set of rules, but a heart posture that desires to honor God and experience His manifest presence both now and in eternity. It's a constant journey of relying on God's grace to transform us, enabling us to walk in His will for our sanctification.