Romans 12:18 Meaning and Explanation
“If it be possible, as much as lieth in you, live peaceably with all men.”
King James Version (KJV)
Read this verse in context with translation switching:
Read Full Chapter →We are called to do our own full part toward peace, even when peace is not fully in our hands.
The Context of Romans 12:18
Paul is closing a section on how love behaves in a hostile world, even toward enemies. Here he gives a remarkably honest and gentle instruction about peace.
What Does Romans 12:18 Mean?
Paul writes with great realism. He stops short of saying peace will always be achieved; he says, "if it be possible, as much as lieth in you." He knows that peace takes two, and the other person may refuse it. So he draws the line exactly where it belongs: at our own doorstep. We are responsible for our side of the relationship, for whatever lies within our reach to do. That is freeing. It lifts the impossible burden of controlling everyone else, and it also leaves no room for excuses. Our part, as far as it depends on us, is to be a peacemaker.
This is the very heart of Jesus, who blessed the peacemakers and made peace at the deepest level by reconciling us to God at the cost of Himself. We will not always succeed; some people will not be at peace with us no matter what we do. But we can still hold out an open hand. Following Christ means owning our half of every broken bridge and doing all that is genuinely ours to do, then trusting the rest to God. The peace Jesus brings begins to spread through people willing to carry their own part of it.
Romans 12:18 in the Original Language
eireneuo (εἰρηνεύω), 'live peaceably' -- to keep peace, to be at peace with others.
How to Apply Romans 12:18 Today
When a relationship is strained, this verse keeps the focus on the part that is actually ours: doing all we genuinely can toward peace, and entrusting the rest to God. We cannot make another person choose peace, but we can make sure the refusal never starts with us.
Frequently Asked Questions About Romans 12:18
What does Romans 12:18 mean?
We are called to do our own full part toward peace, even when peace is not fully in our hands.
What is the context of Romans 12:18?
Paul is closing a section on how love behaves in a hostile world, even toward enemies. Here he gives a remarkably honest and gentle instruction about peace.
How can I apply Romans 12:18 today?
When a relationship is strained, this verse keeps the focus on the part that is actually ours: doing all we genuinely can toward peace, and entrusting the rest to God. We cannot make another person choose peace, but we can make sure the refusal never starts with us.