The Meaning and Message of Romans 12:18
The message of Romans 12:18 admonishes believers to maintain peace with all men.
Apostle Paul urges Christians to cultivate peaceful relationships with others whenever possible.
The message resonates deeply with biblical teachings that emphasize love, forgiveness, and reconciliation. In the story of Joseph and his brothers in the Old Testament (Genesis 37:12-28 and 42:1-28), despite being sold into slavery by his brothers, Joseph eventually forgave them and was instrumental in saving his family during a time of famine. Joseph’s willingness to let go of bitterness and seek reconciliation reflects the spirit of peace.
As followers of Christ, we must embrace the spirit of peace that flows from the wellsprings of tolerance and forgiveness. Christianity is inherently a faith grounded in the principles of peace, and we are called to stand as ambassadors of peace and unity. Our duty is to cultivate and radiate this spirit of peace in all that we do.
In our journey as Christians, we must recognize that the essence of peace is intertwined with our capacity to tolerate and forgive. Not everyone we encounter will readily embrace the doctrine of peace; some may intentionally or unintentionally challenge our commitment to our peace with their words and deeds.
These interactions can become tests of our faith, urging us to demonstrate the resilience of our convictions. However, in the face of such trials, our role as believers is never to yield to the allure of retaliation. Instead, we are advised to hold fast to the teachings of our faith, which are anchored in the pursuit of peace.
When confronted with provocations or temptations to react negatively, we must stand firm in our dedication to the way of Christ, who exemplified peace in every facet of His existence.
Tolerance, as an expression of a state of peace, teaches us to coexist harmoniously with those whose perspectives might differ from ours. It reminds us that our mission is not to impose our beliefs but to showcase the power of Christ’s love through our conduct.
Through our tolerance, we extend a hand of acceptance and create an environment where understanding and dialogue can flourish.
Forgiveness, too, is a cornerstone of our commitment to peace. Just as Christ forgave us, we are called to extend that same forgiveness to others. In doing so, we break the cycle of resentment and animosity, creating space for healing and reconciliation.
Forgiveness allows us to free ourselves from the burdens of bitterness and vindictiveness, paving the way for a heart that is receptive to God’s grace.
Our lives should be living testimonies to the peace that our faith imparts. In our words, actions, and responses to situations, we should be guided by the precepts of peace. By consistently choosing the path of peace, even when faced with challenges, we become vessels of God’s love, radiating His light in a world that often struggles with division and strife.
In the midst of adversity, we must remember that our ultimate allegiance is to Christ, who left us with the gift of peace, which transcends worldly understanding.
Jesus said in John 14 verse 27,
“Peace I leave with you, My peace I give to you; not as the world gives do I give to you. Let not your heart be troubled, neither let it be afraid.”
Similarly, Jesus’ teachings in the Sermon on the Mount reiterate this message of peace. He said,
“Blessed are the peacemakers, for they shall be called sons of God” (Matthew 5 verse 9).
Jesus’ emphasis on being peacemakers underscores the importance of actively pursuing peace and resolution in our relationships. We should always be mediators of peace in every dispute.
In Acts 15 verses 1 to 41, a dispute arose in the early Church regarding circumcision for Gentile believers. The Apostles and Elders came together to discuss this issue, ultimately leading to a peaceful resolution that preserved unity among believers.
This story illustrates the importance of seeking peace within and outside the Church and resolving conflicts through dialogue and understanding. It serves as a reminder that, as Christians, we are called to be agents of peace and unity in the world.
We are encouraged to reflect the character of Christ in our interactions, fostering an atmosphere of love and understanding that glorifies God.
Through our steadfast commitment to the teachings of peace, we contribute to the fulfillment of Christ’s prayer, which states that His followers be known by their unity and love.
“A new commandment I give to you, that you love one another; as I have loved you, that you also love one another. By this all will know that you are My disciples, if you have love for one another.” (John 13 verses 34 to 35).
“If it is possible, as much as depends on you” meaning
“If it is possible, as much as depends on you,” means achieving peace might not always be within our complete control, but we should strive to achieve it.
In the context of the message, this verse is a call to action, urging believers to prioritize peace while recognizing the limitations of control and the unpredictability of circumstances.
This phrase conveys the message that, as believers, we should make every effort to maintain peace in our relationships and interactions. It acknowledges that achieving peace might sometimes be impossible due to various external factors; however, it encourages us to do our part and make sincere attempts to keep the peace.
The statement reflects the heart of a believer’s responsibility in pursuing peace. It speaks to the concept of stewardship—recognizing that we’re entrusted with the duty to promote peace in our interactions. While circumstances can be complex and others might not always reciprocate, the verse challenges us to evaluate our actions and attitudes.
It calls us to be proactive, putting in our best effort to bridge divides and mend relationships, even when the outcome isn’t guaranteed.
Likewise, the statement underscores that our intent and effort to maintain peace matter. Even if external circumstances prevent complete resolution, God sees our hearts and our sincere attempts to pursue harmony.
Furthermore, the statement encourages a Christ-centered outlook. Jesus himself endured hostility and persecution, yet his commitment to peace never wavered. In the face of injustice, he showed us how to respond with love and forgiveness.
In Matthew 5 verses 23 to 24, Jesus emphasized the need for reconciliation.
“Therefore if you bring your gift to the altar, and there remember that your brother has something against you, leave your gift there before the altar, and go your way. First be reconciled to your brother, and then come and offer your gift.”
This verse highlights the value of maintaining healthy relationships with others. Ultimately, this verse is a reminder that, while we cannot control every outcome, we can control our responses.
“Live peaceably with all men” meaning
“Live peaceably with all men” means believers should be at peace with all men without prejudice.
This part of the verse emphasizes tolerance and recognizes our shared humanity. It encourages believers to maintain peaceful relationships and interactions with everyone, regardless of their backgrounds, beliefs, or cultures.
We are all human beings, products of God’s creation. We should learn to see one another as such, despite our differences. This resonates with the concept of loving our neighbors as ourselves, regardless of their backgrounds.
In Matthew 22 verse 39, Jesus clearly stated this second greatest commandment thus:
“You shall love your neighbor as yourself.”
This commandment extends beyond our immediate circles to encompass all humanity. It encourages us to treat others with kindness, respect, and tolerance.
Similarly, this statement of the verse highlights the importance of fostering understanding and cooperation among people from diverse walks of life. It advocates for avoiding conflicts, disputes, and animosities that might arise due to differences. It is a call to transcend prejudices and biases that might hinder genuine connections.
In the parable of the Good Samaritan in Luke 10 verses 25 to 37, Jesus challenged the limitations of societal norms and prejudices. The Samaritan, despite cultural differences and historical enmity, extended compassion and assistance to the wounded man. This story teaches us to look beyond cultural boundaries and extend love to all, just as Jesus did.
Colossians 3 verse 11 says,
“Where there is neither Greek nor Jew, circumcised nor uncircumcised, barbarian, Scythian, slave nor free, but Christ is all and in all.”
This verse underscores that in Christ, these societal divisions lose their significance. We are united by our faith in Christ, and this unity is a powerful platform for fostering peace and understanding.
Another notable reference is Peter’s vision in Acts 10 verse 34.
“Then Peter opened his mouth and said: In truth I perceive that God shows no partiality.”
Peter learned that God shows no partiality and that people of all nations are acceptable to Him; hence, this challenged his own biases and opened his heart to Cornelius, a Roman centurion, leading to a significant moment of unity and understanding.
Therefore, this part of the verse is a reminder of our shared humanity and the call to transcend biases and differences. Our faith challenges us to break down walls of division and treat others with compassion and understanding. May we embrace a mindset of tolerance and love that reflects the heart of Christ?
What does it mean for us?
Undoubtedly, Christianity functions as a religion of peace and love, as its very foundation comes from Jesus Christ, the Prince of Peace. It is a faith that not only connects us to Jesus but also shapes us into bearers of the peaceful characteristics of heaven.
In the same way that Christ built His teachings upon the bedrock of love, compassion, and selflessness, He also firmly set the cornerstone of peace.
The holy bible portrays heaven as a realm brimming with peace and unity. This portrayal is evident in Revelation 5 verses 11 to 12, which describe a multitude of angels encircling the throne of God. In unison, they declare with one voice thus: ”
“Worthy is the Lamb who was slain to receive power and riches and wisdom, and strength and honour and glory and blessing!”
Their unified praise is a symphony of peace that resounds eternally in heaven.
This is why Satan, who attempted to disrupt this peace and order in heaven, was cast out. This story of satan’s prideful rebellion and eventual downfall was revealed to Isaiah in his vision. (Isaiah 14 verses 12 to 21)
Essentially, God, the Father of peace, does not tolerate conflict, especially in His dwelling place. Hence, the lesson is clear: peace and harmony are important to the divine nature of Christianity.
As followers of Christ, we are therefore not only recipients of His grace but also stewards of His teachings.
Romans 14 verses 17 to 18 admonish,
“for the kingdom of God is not eating and drinking, but righteousness and peace and joy in the Holy Spirit. For he who serves Christ in these things is acceptable to God and approved by men.”
We are called into a journey that prepares us for the eternal kingdom of heaven. A kingdom not based on the merry things of the world but on righteousness, peace, and joy in the Holy Spirit.
We are tasked with fostering peace in our hearts, families, communities, and the world at large. It is a clear statement from Paul, “If it is possible, as much as depends on you, live peaceably with all men.”
Our role is to carry the torch of peace that Christ ignited, shining it brightly in a world filled with enmity.
As we explore this message, let us always remember that peace is not only a fruit of the Spirit but a testament to a heart aligned with God’s will.
Who wrote Romans 12:18 and when was it written?
The book of Romans was written by Apostle Paul. It was written around AD 56-60 during Paul’s third missionary journey, while he was in Corinth.
What is the context of Romans 12?
The context of Romans 12 serves as a practical guide for believers on how to live their faith in a Christlike manner.
The Book of Romans is a letter written to the Christian community in Rome. Paul wrote this letter to build a solid Christian community, address the need for unity in a diverse community, and address the challenges of living the Christian faith amidst conflicts and persecution.
Paul began this letter by urging Christians to offer themselves as a living sacrifice to God which is their reasonable service. He admonished them not to be conformed to this world.
“And do not be conformed to this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind, that you may prove what is that good and acceptable and perfect will of God.” ( Romans 12 verse 2)
This means dedicating our entire lives to God’s service as a response to His mercy. Just as animals were offered in the Old Testament, we are called to offer our lives willingly to God, not as a ritualistic sacrifice but as an act of worship. This means allowing God to guide our thoughts, desires, and actions.
Paul stressed the importance of not conforming to the patterns of this world. The transformation to living according to the standards of God and not the world comes through the power of the Holy Spirit and the Word of God. Our minds are shaped when we immerse ourselves in Scripture and allow the Spirit to convict and guide us.
This transformation leads to a deeper understanding of God’s will, allowing us to discern what is good, acceptable, and perfect.
This passage reminds us that every believer has been given a measure of faith by God. Apostle Paul warned against pride and encouraged humility. We are to think of ourselves with humility, recognizing that our different gifts and abilities are given by God for the benefit of the body of Christ in different ways.
Just as the human body has different parts with unique functions, the Church is also made up of diverse individuals with various spiritual gifts.
These spiritual gifts are to be used to build up the body of Christ. Some have the gift of teaching, some of serving, and others of encouraging. When each member uses their gifts, it leads to the harmonious and effective functioning of the Church.
This highlights the importance of valuing and appreciating one another’s contributions, even if they are different from our own.
1 Corinthians 12 verses 4 to 6 says,
“There are diversities of gifts, but the same Spirit. There are differences of ministries, but the same Lord. And there are diversities of activities, but it is the same God who works all in all.”
The text above underscores the principle of unity in diversity regarding gifts within the church.
Further in the passage, Paul emphasized the essential role of true love in the Christian life. He described genuine love as sincere and without hypocrisy. This love is characterized by a hatred for evil and a commitment to what is good. It is not superficial but comes from a good heart that genuinely cares for others.
The passage provides practical guidance for living out this love. It encourages believers to be devoted to one another in brotherly love, showing honor and preference for others. Christians are also called to be diligent and fervent in spirit, serving the Lord with enthusiasm.
Hospitality is another expression of love; believers are encouraged to welcome strangers and care for those in need.
Romans 12 verses 9 to 13 says,
“Let love be without hypocrisy. Abhor what is evil. Cling to what is good. Be kindly affectionate to one another with brotherly love, in honor giving preference to one another; not lagging in diligence, fervent in spirit, serving the Lord; rejoicing in hope, patient in tribulation, continuing steadfastly in prayer; distributing to the needs of the saints, given to hospitality.”
Paul acknowledged that living a transformed life doesn’t shield us from difficulties, including persecution. He instructs believers on how to respond to mistreatment and hostility. Instead of seeking our own revenge, we are called to bless those who persecute us and to pray for their well-being.
This counter-cultural response reflects the example of Christ, who forgave His enemies even as He was crucified.
Similarly, the passage reminds believers that God is the ultimate judge and avenger. Hence, we are to leave room for God’s wrath and not take matters into our own hands. Rather than seeking vengeance, we are to overcome evil with good. By doing so, we demonstrate the power of God’s love, which has the potential to change hearts and bring about reconciliation.
The concluding verses of the passage emphasize the way believers should conduct themselves.
“If thine enemy is hunger, feed him; If he is thirsty, give him a drink;
For in so doing you shalt heap coals of fire on his head.” Do not pay evil for evil, but show a good work by repaying good for every evil rendered unto you.” (Romans 12 verses 20 to 21)
Hence, today’s passage serves as a guidebook for believers, emphasizing the change that should occur in our hearts and actions as a result of our relationship with Jesus Christ.
What is the difference in biblical translations of Romans 12:18 (NKJV, KJV, NIV & ESV)?
Romans 12:18 New King James Version (NKJV) biblical translation:
“If it is possible, as much as depends on you, live peaceably with all men.”
Romans 12:18 King James Version (KJV) biblical translation:
“If it be possible, as much as lieth in you, live peaceably with all men.”
Romans 12:18 New International Version (NIV) biblical translation:
“If it is possible, as far as it depends on you, live at peace with everyone.”
Romans 12:18 English Standard Version (ESV) biblical translation:
“If possible, so far as it depends on you, live peaceably with all.”
There is no significant difference between the NKJV, KJV, ESV, and NIV translations. The four translations are written almost the same way. While there are slight differences in wording, the meaning remains consistent across these translations.
How do I apply Romans 12:18 to my Life?
Applying the teachings of Romans 12:18 to your life requires being at peace with everyone.
To begin with, you should always make a conscious choice to pursue peace when conflicts arise. This means setting aside anger and resentment and seeking common ground with others. It might involve having calm conversations, listening with empathy, and finding solutions that honor both sides.
Applying this teaching involves letting go of grudges. When you hold onto grudges, it adds stress to your life and strains relationships. Instead, let go of past offenses and forgive. As a believer, you must be quick to forgive, like Christ. It frees you from the burden of anger and allows healing to take place.
Also, Admitting your mistake isn’t a weakness but a vital step to maintaining peace. Be willing to admit when you’re wrong. Humility opens the door for peaceful resolutions. It’s okay to disagree, but approach disagreements with respect and a desire to understand the other person’s point of view.
As a believer, when you are faced with rudeness or hostility, always respond with kindness.
Proverbs 15 verse 1 says,
“A soft answer turns away wrath, But a harsh word stirs up anger.”
Showing kindness even in the face of negativity can often diffuse tension. You should refrain from engaging in gossip or speaking ill of others, as it can fuel conflicts. Instead, choose to speak positively about people, even if you disagree with them. This fosters an atmosphere of peace and unity.
If there’s a strained relationship, take the initiative to reconcile. Reach out and express your desire to mend the relationship. This doesn’t mean you have to agree on everything, but it demonstrates your commitment to peace. You should look for opportunities to bring people together rather than drive them apart.
Always encourage open dialogue and understanding. Your role as a peacemaker can have a huge impact on others. Sometimes, maintaining peace means setting boundaries with people who consistently cause conflict. It’s okay to distance yourself from toxic situations while still harboring no ill will.
Let your peaceful attitude and actions be a witness to your faith. When others see your commitment to living peaceably, it can inspire them to do the same, by so doing you can win more people to Christ.
In situations where tension seems inevitable, pray for peace. Ask God to guide your words and actions and to work in the hearts of those involved to bring about harmony.
Remember, living out the teachings of this message is a journey, and it might not always be easy. But with God’s help, choosing peace and unity can be achieved.
What is Romans 12:18 prayer?
Heavenly Father, I come before you with open hearts, seeking the guidance of your Spirit. I pray, Lord, that you grant me a tolerant spirit, one that embraces the teaching of peace. Help me walk in the footsteps of Christ, showing compassion and understanding to all that I encounter.
In moments of tension, give me the strength to resist the impulse to pass judgment and instead help me to extend grace and empathy.
Help me to navigate the challenges of relationships with humility, tolerance, and patience, striving to live at peace with all individuals. May my life be a reflection of the peace that Christ embodies. May your abiding peace be a constant presence within me, guiding my words, actions, and decisions, this I pray in Jesus’ name, Amen.
Conclusion
In Matthew 5 verse 39, Jesus counseled us against resisting an evil individual, urging instead that we offer the other cheek to anyone who slaps our right cheek. Turning the other cheek doesn’t equate to tolerating abuse; rather, it prompts us to disrupt the cycle of retaliation that can lead to conflict.
This teaching reinforces Jesus’ message of peace, compelling us to actively pursue peace and counter hostility with grace. It calls on us to forsake our instinctual urge for retaliation, replacing it with a Christlike demeanor of humility, forgiveness, and love.
As Christians, the best way and most practical ways to show our mutual love are our utmost endeavors in renewing our minds with a bond of peace in our hearts. We are called to put in our best efforts in pursuing peace. Your conscious effort in the renewal of your mind is a true reflection of your identity in Christ which also serves as an edification of others.
Although we cannot control the actions of others, we can certainly control our responses.
Let us always remember the powerful message of this verse and Jesus’ call to turn the other cheek. The good news is as we embody these principles, we embody the life-changing love of Christ in this present time.
May the message of peace be imprinted in our hearts, reminding us to seek harmony and unity in every situation.