Romans 12:18
If it be possible, as much as lieth in you, live peaceably with all men.
Original Language Analysis
δυνατόν
it be possible
G1415
δυνατόν
it be possible
Strong's:
G1415
Word #:
2 of 9
powerful or capable (literally or figuratively); neuter possible
τὸ
G3588
τὸ
Strong's:
G3588
Word #:
3 of 9
the (sometimes to be supplied, at others omitted, in english idiom)
ἐξ
as much as lieth in
G1537
ἐξ
as much as lieth in
Strong's:
G1537
Word #:
4 of 9
a primary preposition denoting origin (the point whence action or motion proceeds), from, out (of place, time, or cause literal or figurative; direct
Cross References
Hebrews 12:14Follow peace with all men, and holiness, without which no man shall see the Lord:Romans 14:19Let us therefore follow after the things which make for peace, and things wherewith one may edify another.Matthew 5:9Blessed are the peacemakers: for they shall be called the children of God.2 Corinthians 13:11Finally, brethren, farewell. Be perfect, be of good comfort, be of one mind, live in peace; and the God of love and peace shall be with you.Galatians 5:22But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, longsuffering, gentleness, goodness, faith,Mark 9:50Salt is good: but if the salt have lost his saltness, wherewith will ye season it? Have salt in yourselves, and have peace one with another.Proverbs 12:20Deceit is in the heart of them that imagine evil: but to the counsellors of peace is joy.1 Peter 3:11Let him eschew evil, and do good; let him seek peace, and ensue it.2 Timothy 2:22Flee also youthful lusts: but follow righteousness, faith, charity, peace, with them that call on the Lord out of a pure heart.Psalms 34:14Depart from evil, and do good; seek peace, and pursue it.
Historical Context
Rome prided itself on the Pax Romana (Roman Peace), maintained through military dominance and political coercion. Paul envisions a different peace—gospel-shaped reconciliation flowing from hearts transformed by Christ. Jewish-Gentile tensions simmered in the Roman church over dietary laws and holy days (Romans 14-15). Believers needed to pursue peace across ethnic and theological differences without sacrificing truth. Martyrdom was approaching under Nero, yet Paul called Christians to peacemaking, not violent resistance or passive resentment.
Questions for Reflection
- In which relationships have you given up on peace prematurely, and where is God calling you to fresh peacemaking initiative?
- How do you balance 'living peaceably' with speaking necessary truth that may provoke conflict?
- What does it mean that peace is 'as much as lieth in you'—where are you responsible, and where must you entrust outcomes to God?
Related Resources
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Analysis & Commentary
If it be possible, as much as lieth in you, live peaceably with all men. This verse balances realism with responsibility. If it be possible (εἰ δυνατόν, ei dynaton) acknowledges that peace isn't always achievable—some people refuse reconciliation, some conflicts can't be resolved this side of glory. Jesus warned, 'I came not to send peace, but a sword' (Matthew 10:34), meaning gospel truth sometimes divides. Yet Paul qualifies: as much as lieth in you (τὸ ἐξ ὑμῶν, to ex hymōn), literally 'the part from you'—your responsibility is to pursue peace to the limit of your ability. You can't control others' responses, but you can control your own peacemaking initiative.
The goal is live peaceably with all men (μετὰ πάντων ἀνθρώπων εἰρηνεύοντες, meta pantōn anthrōpōn eirēneuontes). Eirēnē (peace) in Hebrew thought (shalom) means comprehensive flourishing, not merely absence of conflict. 'All men' includes fellow believers (verse 16), persecutors (verse 14), and everyone in between. This doesn't mean compromise on gospel truth or passive tolerance of evil, but relentless pursuit of reconciliation where conscience allows. Jesus is our model: he lived at peace with all people while speaking prophetic truth and enduring their hostility.