Live Peaceably With All Men

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Among the countless sad realities of life dwells conflict. It is a condition as old as time itself. Yet, in thousands of years of world history man, on a mass level, still has not figured out not only the sense, but the joy found in peace. Society has engrained within the minds of virtually the entirety of earth’s population that we must “look out for number one.” Our foremost thought should always be to act out of nothing more than self-interest; and when the interests of another is found in conflict with our own interest, then we should act out, often irrationally, and we can feel perfectly justified in such. And what’s even sadder than the degradation of peaceful living among the selfish is the pacifist attitude among the innocent. The distasteful attitude displayed by many is merely passed off with the simple thought, “there’s one in every crowd,” as though that sad norm is justification for the disgusting displays of pride. Paul, though, would have somewhat to say about such a concept.

In Romans 12, Paul discusses the necessity of displaying a life contrary to the norms of society with hopes of making an impact among the lost. Specifically, in verses nine through twenty-one, Paul lists a number of practical principles revolving around the need to overcome evil with good (vs. 21). One principle stands out in particular with regard to our thoughts thus far: “If it be possible, as much as lieth in you, live peaceably with all men” (vs. 18). In that short and concise verse, Paul makes the universally applicable point that peaceable living is the greatest life we can have. Paul would be troubled to see not only the continuance, but the escalation since even his time, of individuals and groups of people who not only desire but seem to thrive on conflict. It is something they pursue, feed upon, and perpetuate through their actions. He was familiar in the first century with some of a like persuasion, but I believe he would be surprised at how deeply it has been engrained in the lives of the populace. Today the plea must be escalated, let us live peaceably with all men if at all possible. What, though, can we gather from that statement in application to our lives?

First, Paul implies the basis of peace. The world’s perception of peace is founded on the thought “if we are not fighting, we are at peace.” It does not matter if the heart projects pure hatred, spite, or wrath, as long as those feelings do not materialize in action then peace is claimed. The Bible, though, makes the basis of peace an inward matter. Notice Paul’s statement that if it is possible, “as much as lieth in you” peace should be sought. Those words indicate that peace is an inner working of the heart that is the result of true brotherly love. This does not mean that all parties must be in complete agreement in order for peace to be achieved (peace and unity are not totally parallel), but it does mean that there is a degree of mutual respect even though differences may exist. I believe you see this principle exemplified in the life of Jesus Christ. Though the Jews were anything but civil with Him in their differences, Jesus always maintained a proper decorum and dealt with them respectfully. Such should be the case among all people, whether its brethren dealing with one another, Christians dealing with the world, or the world dealing with New Testament Christians. The basis of peace is a matter of the heart, and if I am not seeking to live in peace among men, what does that say about my heart?

Second, Paul warns against the betrayal of peace. Keep in mind the contextual rationale for the peace of which Paul is speaking. As Christians, we should be seeking to impact the world and “overcome evil with good.” Therefore, peace stands as a means of distinguishing ourselves from the world and changing hearts. However, what if I betray that plea for peace? I then am directly impacting the cause of Christ in a negative fashion. How many hot heads among God’s people have left an indelibly blemished mark on the Lord’s church among those familiar with him/her? Diotrophes (3 John 9ff) was likely known as an enemy of peace not only by fellow Christians, but by local acquaintances as well. How many hearts were turned from ever desiring to know more about the church of Christ because of the irrational and unmerciful actions toward his own brethren? When we betray the advancement of peace we directly betray the cause of Christ itself.

Third, Paul defends his belief in peace. Paul viewed peace as the greatest life he could pursue that would result in the greatest harvest of souls. 1 Corinthians 9:19-22 stands as a prime example of his belief in the advancement of peace being necessary to the advancement of the gospel. If we are truly as concerned with the salvation of souls and the propagation of the gospel as was Paul, then our lives will be a reflection of the desire to, if at all possible, live peaceably with all men. If, though, I act often times in betrayal of peace, what does that say about my concern for the salvation of souls and the propagation of the gospel?

Peaceful living is the only option for true Christians as we live and interact with one another and with those in the world; and whether or not peace is sought directly reflects back not only on us, but on the God whom we claim to serve. If my intentions are pure and my heart is right, then it will be immediately assumed that in my life, if it be possible, as much as lieth in me, I will live peaceably with all men.

-Andy Brewer

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