Paul strongly advocated being a peacemaker (cf. Matthew 5:9), but he did not promote peace at any price. In some situations, peace might give way to conflict if, for example, the truth is at stake (cf. Galatians 2:11). Notwithstanding the believer should not be the instigator of trouble under normal circumstances. Note Paul"s two qualifiers regarding living at peace in this verse. [source][source][source]
Context Summary
Romans 12:9-21 - Living As A Christian
In this section the Apostle shows how the great principle of consecration must affect the details of conduct. It is most necessary to insist on these practical issues. At some impressive religious convention, where the vision of a surrendered and transfigured life is presented, sensitive souls are led to make the vows and claim the plane of life which have been presented; but on their return to the commonplaces, there is no perceptible improvement in their speech, or tone, or attitude. This induces shame and contempt. Hence the great wisdom of the Apostle's particular teaching in this and the following chapters.
The lumbering wagon must be hitched to a star. We must not be star-gazers only. God has endowed us with faith as the receptive faculty, through which we may receive His blessed help. In the power of the Holy Spirit let us set ourselves to our common tasks, thinking humbly and soberly of ourselves, lovingly of our associates, and reverently of God. We are inspired to fulfill the obligations of our position, whether in giving money or in teaching the ignorant; whether in showing mercy or in exercising authority, because all is done as under the eye of the great Master of the household. [source]
Chapter Summary: Romans 12
1God's mercies must move us to offer ourselves 3No man must think too well of himself; 6but everyone attend to the calling wherein he is placed 9Love, and many other duties are required of us 19Revenge is especially forbidden
Greek Commentary for Romans 12:18
As much as in you lieth [το εχ υμων] Accusative of general reference, “so far as what proceeds from you” (“the from you part”). See το κατ εμε to kat' eme in Romans 1:15. This phrase explains “if it be possible” “All your part is to be peace” (Alford). For “be at peace” (ειρηνευοντες eirēneuontes) see 2 Corinthians 13:11. [source]
If it be possible [] Not if you can, but if others will allow. The phrase is explained by as much as lieth in you ( τὸ ἐξ ὑμῶν ), lit., as to that which proceeds from you, or depends on you. “All your part is to be peace” (Alford). [source]
Romans 12:16Be of the same mind [το αυτο προνουντες] Absolute or independent use of the participle again as with all the participles through Romans 12:18, “thinking the same thing.” [source]
Greek Commentary for Romans 12:18
Accusative of general reference, “so far as what proceeds from you” (“the from you part”). See το κατ εμε to kat' eme in Romans 1:15. This phrase explains “if it be possible” “All your part is to be peace” (Alford). For “be at peace” (ειρηνευοντες eirēneuontes) see 2 Corinthians 13:11. [source]
Not if you can, but if others will allow. The phrase is explained by as much as lieth in you ( τὸ ἐξ ὑμῶν ), lit., as to that which proceeds from you, or depends on you. “All your part is to be peace” (Alford). [source]
Reverse Greek Commentary Search for Romans 12:18
Literally, “Thus the according to me affair is ready” It is an awkward idiom like to τα κατ εμε ex humōn in Romans 12:18. The plural ta kat' eme we find in Philemon 1:12; Colossians 4:7; Ephesians 6:21. [source]
Absolute or independent use of the participle again as with all the participles through Romans 12:18, “thinking the same thing.” [source]
Rend. “may be able both to exhort in the sound teaching.” For δυνατὸς ableor powerful, see on 2 Timothy 1:12. Used by Paul in the phrase εἰ δυνατόν ifit be possible, Romans 12:18; Galatians 4:15: τὸ δυνατόν thatwhich is possible, Romans 9:22: of God, Romans 4:21; Romans 11:23: of men, in the ethical sense, Romans 15:1; 2 Corinthians 12:10; 2 Corinthians 13:9. [source]