Romans 12:18

Romans 12:18 is a powerful exhortation from the Apostle Paul, urging believers to actively pursue harmony in their relationships. It encapsulates a vital principle for Christian conduct, emphasizing personal responsibility in fostering peaceful coexistence amidst a complex world.

Context

This verse is part of the practical section of Paul's letter to the Romans, beginning in Romans chapter 12. After laying a deep theological foundation for salvation by grace through faith, Paul shifts to practical application, urging believers to live lives transformed by the renewing of their minds (Romans 12:2). The verses immediately preceding Romans 12:18 give instructions on how Christians should interact with both fellow believers and those outside the faith, including calls to repay no one evil for evil and to bless those who persecute them (Romans 12:14). Romans 12:18 serves as a summary principle for these relational commands.

Key Themes

• Personal Responsibility for Peace: The phrase "as much as lieth in you" places the onus squarely on the individual believer. It signifies that while we cannot control the actions or attitudes of others, we are fully accountable for our own efforts to promote peace. This is an active, diligent pursuit, not a passive hope.
• Universal Scope of Peace: "with all men" highlights that this command extends beyond the Christian community to include neighbors, colleagues, strangers, and even adversaries. It challenges believers to be agents of reconciliation and harmony in every sphere of life, reflecting a core aspect of Christ's teaching on peacemaking.
• Conditional Ideal: "If it be possible" acknowledges that perfect peace is not always attainable. There will be times when, despite a believer's best efforts, others refuse to live peaceably, or conflict is unavoidable due to unrighteousness. This clause provides a realistic perspective without excusing the effort. It recognizes the fallen nature of the world, where perilous times and strife exist.

Linguistic Insights

The Greek word translated "peaceably" is eireneuontes (εἰρηνεύοντες), a participle derived from eirene (εἰρήνη), meaning "peace." This word emphasizes an active state of being a peacemaker, not merely the absence of conflict. It suggests working towards harmony and reconciliation. The concept of "peace" in the biblical sense (akin to the Hebrew shalom) implies wholeness, well-being, and right relationship, not just quietness.

The phrase "as much as lieth in you" translates the Greek to ex hymōn (τὸ ἐξ ὑμῶν), literally "the part from you" or "as far as it depends on you." This strongly underscores the personal initiative and maximum effort required from the believer.

Practical Application

Romans 12:18 is a profound guide for Christian conduct in a world often marked by division and conflict. It calls believers to:

• Be Proactive: Do not wait for others to initiate peace. Take the first step in resolving disputes, offering forgiveness, and seeking common ground, even when it is difficult.
• Exercise Self-Control: In disagreements, manage your own reactions, words, and emotions. Avoid returning insult for insult or aggression for aggression. Remember the instruction to not render evil for evil.
• Understand Limitations: While striving for peace, recognize that you cannot force another person to be peaceful. Your responsibility is your effort, not the outcome of others' choices. This allows for grace when peace cannot be achieved, without sacrificing personal diligence.
• Reflect Christ: Living peaceably, even with those who are hostile, is a powerful testimony to the transforming power of the Gospel. It demonstrates the love and character of God to a watching world, inviting them to see your good works and glorify your Father in heaven.

This verse serves as a constant reminder that the pursuit of peace is a core aspect of Christian discipleship, demanding intentional effort and a heart aligned with God's desire for reconciliation.