Be at Peace with Men

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

Romans 12:18

When Adam and Eve were created, there was world peace. There was only two of them; they were one with each other and they were one with God. Everything they did was in unison and harmony and there was no strife, dissension and problem. However when they sinned against God, the unity was broken and strife entered into this world. Yet, through the death of the Lord Jesus and His resurrection and with the power in us to have the peace of God in our hearts and the ability to preserve the peace God intended, Paul instructed the believers in Rome and the world over to live peaceably with all men. There are enough conflict situations in this world to warrant a clear teaching of scripture on this for churches, families and all social situations.

Notice firstly, this peace is only a possibility. To say we will have peace in all situations as we act is to be idealistic and wrong. There will be conflicts, even among family and brethren. Even if we ourselves want to do the right thing, it takes two hands to clap so that peace can be maintained. When one aims to do right but the other in pride resists, then peace cannot be assured.

Notice secondly, the point for peace begins with the believer.  When we become Christians, there is always still the possibility of strife but when at all possible, let not the strife begin or originate with us. As much as we have control over the situation or to any point, Paul’s instruction is to do all we can to prevent if possible a conflict. It is written that we be always be endeavouring to keep the unity of the Spirit in the bond of peace (Ephesians 4:3). If there is a power, a possibility, as much as you are in control of the situation, be at peace, be calm with every man. It must never be in the character of Christians to initiate strife and contention because the Bible says that only by pride cometh contention: but with the well advised is wisdom (Proverbs 13:10).

Notice thirdly, we are to live at peace with all men. This includes our family, church friends, school friends and others. We are to ensure that we are able to be quick to maintain harmonious and good relationships with all men, without compromising Bible truth. Yes, this passage means even our enemies. It is God’s will when He sent His son to establish peace on earth that when a man’s ways please the Lord, He can live even at peace with His enemies (Proverbs 16:7).

Dear friend, is there strife in your heart or with men? May we live peaceably with all men, doing all we can to ensure that peace is maintained for the glory of God and the serenity of men.

Written by: Pastor Johnny Tan
Edited by: Timothy Lee
Image credit: Alan Turkus, Flickr.