Romans 12:18
What does Romans 12:18 mean?
A plain-English look at Romans 12:18 in WEB alongside six other public-domain English translations, with cross-references and chapter context.
What Romans 12:18 means
Christians are to pursue peace with everyone as far as it depends on them. This recognizes that peace is sometimes refused by others, but believers should not be the obstacle. Proactive peacemaking—seeking reconciliation, clarifying misunderstandings, refusing needless quarrels—reflects confidence in God and love for neighbor. It does not mean compromising truth or enabling harm, but it does mean exhausting righteous means to live peaceably. Such a posture reduces occasions for conflict and keeps the conscience clear when strife persists despite efforts. The command is realistic and hopeful: strive for peace where you can, trusting God with what lies beyond your control.
Parallel translations
WEB
World English Bible · 2000If it be possible, as much as in you lieth, be at peace with all men.
KJV
King James Version · 1611If it be possible, as much as lieth in you, live peaceably with all men.
ASV
American Standard Version · 1901If it be possible, as much as in you lieth, be at peace with all men.
BBE
Bible in Basic English · 1949As far as it is possible for you be at peace with all men.
YLT
Young's Literal Translation · 1862If possible--so far as in you--with all men being in peace;
DRA
Douay-Rheims (Challoner) · 1752If it be possible, as much as is in you, have peace with all men.
DBY
Darby Bible · 1890if possible, as far as depends on you, living in peace with all men;
Context
Building on the call to honorable conduct, Paul urges believers to take responsibility for pursuing peace. This sets up the stronger prohibition in verse 19 against taking vengeance, reminding readers that peacemaking is their calling while judgment belongs to God. Verses 20–21 will then show the active good we can do even toward enemies. The progression is deliberate: seek peace first, refuse revenge second, and practice beneficence third. Together they form a Christian approach to hostility.
Cross references
Related passages from across Scripture, drawn from the Treasury of Scripture Knowledge.
- 1 Thessalonians 5:13
and to esteem them exceeding highly in love for their work’s sake. Be at peace among yourselves.
- Matthew 5:9
Blessed are the peacemakers: for they shall be called sons of God.
- Romans 14:19
So then let us follow after things which make for peace, and things whereby we may edify one another.
- Colossians 3:14
and above all these things put on love, which is the bond of perfectness.
- Psalms 120:5
Woe is me, that I sojourn in Meshech, That I dwell among the tents of Kedar!
- Hebrews 12:14
Follow after peace with all men, and the sanctification without which no man shall see the Lord:
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