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Romans 12:18
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Summary
Commentary
- Adam Clarke
- Jamieson-Fausset-Brown
- John Gill
- Tyndale
Adam Clarke Bible Commentary
If it be possible - To live in a state of peace with one's neighbors, friends, and even family, is often very difficult. But the man who loves God must labor after this, for it is indispensably necessary even for his own sake. A man cannot have broils and misunderstandings with others, without having his own peace very materially disturbed: he must, to be happy, be at peace with all men, whether they will be at peace with him or not. The apostle knew that it would be difficult to get into and maintain such a state of peace, and this his own words amply prove: And if it be possible, as much as lieth in you, live peaceably. Though it be but barely possible, labor after it.
Jamieson-Fausset-Brown Bible Commentary
If it be possible--that is, If others will let you. as much as lieth in you--or, "dependeth on you." live peaceably--or, "be at peace." with all men--The impossibility of this in some cases is hinted at, to keep up the hearts of those who, having done their best unsuccessfully to live in peace, might be tempted to think the failure was necessarily owing to themselves. But how emphatically expressed is the injunction to let nothing on our part prevent it! Would that Christians were guiltless in this respect!
John Gill Bible Commentary
If it be possible, as much as lieth in you, live peaceably,.... Or be at peace, seek after peace, pursue it, and cultivate it: with all men; with those that we are immediately concerned with, in a natural relation; so husbands should live peaceably with their wives, and wives with their husbands; parents with their children, and children with their parents; masters with their servants, and servants with their masters; and one brother, relation, and friend, with another: and so with all we are concerned with in a spiritual relation, as members of Christ, and in the same church state; such should be at peace among themselves, Th1 5:13; peace should rule in their hearts, Col 3:15, and they should study to keep "the unity of the Spirit, in the bond of peace", Eph 4:3, yea, with all we are concerned in a civil sense; saints should live peaceably in the neighbourhood, towns, cities, and countries, where they dwell, and show themselves to be the quiet in the land; should pray for the peace of the place where they are; and do all that in them lies to promote it, by living themselves peaceably and quietly, in all godliness and honesty; yea, they should live peaceably with their very enemies, "if it be possible"; which is rightly put, for there are some persons of such tempers and dispositions, that it is impossible to live peaceably with; for when others are for peace, they are for war; and in some cases it is not only impracticable, but would be unlawful; as when it cannot be done consistent with holiness of life and conversation, with the edification of others, the truths of the Gospel, the interest of religion, and the glory of God; these are things that are never to be sacrificed for the sake of peace with men: the apostle adds another limitation of this rule, "as much as lieth in you"; for more than this is not required of us; nothing should be wanting on our parts; every step should be taken to cultivate and maintain peace; the blame should lie wholly on the other side; it becomes the saints to live peaceably themselves, if others will not with them.
Tyndale Open Study Notes
12:18 Do all that you can: Paul recognizes that our efforts to live at peace with others will sometimes be frustrated by our own moral constraints or by other people’s unwillingness to be reconciled to us.
Romans 12:18
Forgiveness
17Do not repay anyone evil for evil. Carefully consider what is right in the eyes of everybody.18If it is possible on your part, live at peace with everyone.
- Scripture
- Sermons
- Commentary
Bitterness
By K.P. Yohannan5.5K48:21BitternessPRO 4:23MAT 6:14ROM 12:18EPH 4:31HEB 12:14JAS 3:14In this sermon, the preacher addresses the issue of bitterness in people's lives. He highlights how some individuals are constantly discontent and find fault in everything, whether it be the length of a sermon or the liveliness of worship. The preacher emphasizes that the problem lies within these individuals and their own bitterness, which stems from past hurts and misunderstandings. He shares stories of people who have been deeply affected by bitterness, including a maid who stabbed her rapist multiple times and a young man who stabbed a stranger out of his own bitterness. The preacher concludes by urging listeners to guard against bitterness and not let it defile their lives, referencing Hebrews 12:15.
1 Peter 3:1
By A.W. Tozer3.8K15:54Wives and HusbandsMAT 22:37ROM 12:181CO 1:181TI 2:4HEB 10:252PE 3:9JUD 1:22In this sermon, the preacher emphasizes the importance of preserving truth while showing love to both friends and enemies. He urges believers to build themselves up in their faith by reading the Bible, memorizing scripture, and seeking to know God personally. The preacher highlights the mercy of Jesus Christ, both on the cross and in receiving sinners, and encourages Christians to show compassion and fear in their efforts to bring others to Christ. He warns against false teachings and emphasizes the need to have a correct understanding of God and ourselves based on the study of the Bible.
Wrong Revival Principles - Part 3
By Jonathan Edwards2.0K48:00Audio BooksMRK 4:33ACT 16:3ROM 12:18ROM 14:19ROM 15:11CO 3:11CO 9:19HEB 5:11In this sermon, the speaker emphasizes the importance of prudence and caution when introducing new things into the church. He warns against being influenced by indiscreet zeal and rushing into actions without proper preparation. The speaker uses the analogy of a farmer preparing his field and a wise builder planning a structure to illustrate the need for a comprehensive view and orderly approach in the work of the ministry. He also highlights the significance of unity and order in the visible church, drawing references from 1 Corinthians 12 and Romans 12. The speaker suggests that if the rules of Christian charity, meekness, gentleness, and prudence had been observed more diligently, the progress of the church would have been greater.
c.j. Mahaney: Faith Works in Humility
By Adrian Warnock1.9K1:04:17InterviewPRO 15:1PRO 17:14MAT 6:33ROM 12:18EPH 4:29HEB 3:12JAS 4:1In this sermon, CJ Mahaney introduces himself and expresses his gratitude for the support and prayers of the congregation. He emphasizes the importance of peacemaking and resolving relational conflicts. Mahaney encourages the congregation to connect the dots between their participation and the growth of a sovereign grace church in Sydney, Australia. The sermon then transitions to a discussion of James chapter 4, focusing on the power of words and the need to put faith into action in our speech.
Bitterness
By Harold E. Schmul1.5K57:42BitternessDEU 29:18DEU 32:32MAT 18:15ACT 8:23ROM 12:18EPH 4:31HEB 12:14In this sermon, the preacher begins by expressing his dissatisfaction with a fellow believer whom he considers a compromiser and a danger to their movement. He then discusses the destructive consequences of bitterness in a person's soul, leading to foolish decisions and ultimately backsliding. The preacher emphasizes that bitterness can manifest in various areas of life, causing rivalries and conflicts at every level of society. He concludes by recounting the story of Saul's jealousy towards David, highlighting the negative consequences of envy and rage.
The Gospel for the Days of Noah
By Rolfe Barnard1.5K44:08Days Of NoahMAT 6:33MAT 24:32JHN 3:7ROM 12:182CO 5:171PE 3:18REV 21:21In this sermon, the preacher reflects on the current state of violence and riots happening in various places, including America. He mentions being present during the riots between white and colored people in Detroit, Michigan. The preacher emphasizes the importance of complete submission to the rule of King Jesus as the only way to endure the judgment on the earth. He also references the story of Noah and the ark, highlighting the moment when God shut the door and locked it from the inside. The sermon concludes with a plea for the audience to seek refuge in the house of God and to hold onto the eternal word of God.
Anabaptist History (Day 13) the Birth of the Hutterites-Part 1
By Dean Taylor1.4K1:24:18PRO 4:7MAT 18:15ROM 12:181CO 1:101CO 13:4GAL 6:2HEB 13:17JAS 1:191PE 4:12This sermon delves into the history of the Hutterites, tracing their origins from the Moravian Anabaptists and the zeal that characterized their faith. It emphasizes the importance of understanding the context and spirit behind historical events and scriptures, cautioning against misinterpretation from isolated quotes or verses. The narrative includes conflicts over beliefs within the community, showcasing the challenges faced by early leaders like Wilhelm Rublin. Additionally, a poignant story is shared about a leader returning to find his community vanished, highlighting the sacrifices and struggles endured by the Hutterites as depicted in the Chronicles and Martyr's Mirror.
(Genesis) 42 - Isaac - the Passive and Patient Patriarch
By S. Lewis Johnson1.3K51:20IsaacGEN 26:1ROM 12:18In this sermon, the preacher focuses on the story of Isaac and how believers face difficulties in their daily lives. Despite Isaac's lies about his wife, God blesses him abundantly, illustrating the sovereignty of God's grace. The sermon also emphasizes the importance of meekness, as Isaac demonstrates a humble and gentle spirit. The preacher uses examples from Scripture and real-life situations to highlight the significance of experiencing and learning from challenges.
Overcoming Barriers to Spiritual Awakening in the Church
By Don Currin1.2K36:14Spiritual AwakeningGEN 32:29ISA 61:1MAT 6:33MAT 18:21JHN 13:34ROM 12:18EPH 4:3In this sermon, the preacher shares a story about Billy Sunday, an American evangelist, who held a crusade in a town in the Midwest. Despite preaching the gospel from Isaiah 61-1, no one responded to the invitation all week. It was later discovered that there were many lost people present, but they did not respond due to the resentment and ill feelings between two pastors supporting the crusade. After the pastors embraced and asked for forgiveness, over 100 people received Christ as Savior. The sermon emphasizes the importance of personal holiness and unity in the body of Christ, and highlights the need to overcome traditions that hinder revival.
Love Reconciles
By Elizabeth Alliman1.2K33:27LovePRO 10:19MAT 5:23MAT 18:15ROM 12:181CO 12:25EPH 4:32COL 3:13In this sermon, the speaker reflects on the importance of reconciliation and unity within the body of Christ. They emphasize the need for believers to walk and work together, spreading the news that God is present among them. The speaker acknowledges that while the Bible calls for loving relationships and compassionate behavior, this is not always seen in the church. They share personal experiences of pain and tension within the church, highlighting the significance of forgiveness and the promise of a peaceful and encouraging community when forgiveness is practiced.
Peacemakers
By George Verwer1.0K35:48PeacemakersPRO 11:14MAT 5:9JHN 4:23ROM 12:18EPH 4:15PHP 2:31TH 5:11In this sermon, the speaker emphasizes the importance of tailoring the message of the word of God to different cultures. He mentions the Prosperity Code and extremism in America, contrasting it with the mentality in India where the focus is on accomplishing the work without seeking credit. The speaker also discusses the tension between Mr. Hard Work and Mr. Work is Hard, highlighting the need for teamwork and allowing others to share in speaking. Lastly, he mentions the importance of consolidation and prioritizing goals in order to avoid unnecessary stress and tension.
The Main Thing, Part Ii, Divine Counterparts
By Devern Fromke9771:20:55Christian LifeMAT 6:33ROM 12:18HEB 12:1HEB 12:5HEB 12:14In this sermon, the speaker discusses the concept of the "main thing" in the universe. He emphasizes the importance of staying focused on the main thing and not getting distracted by other aspects. The speaker shares his personal experience of being focused on soul-winning, evangelism, and missions, and how consecration was the main thing for him during that period of his life. He then moves on to discuss the importance of discipline and hardships in our lives, and how they shape us for God's purposes. The sermon is based on Hebrews chapter 12 and encourages listeners to stay focused on the main thing and trust God's disciplining process.
Proverbs 25- Anger Destroys Families"
By Nofo Eletise9551:03:36PRO 15:1PRO 16:32PRO 17:14PRO 25:28MAT 5:5ROM 12:18GAL 5:22EPH 4:26JAS 1:5REV 3:20This sermon emphasizes the importance of key virtues in the Christian life, focusing on patience, privacy, wisdom, gentleness, kindness, and self-control. It highlights the need for believers to exhibit these qualities in their interactions with others, showing love, grace, and wisdom in their words and actions. The message also calls for self-reflection and surrender to Jesus Christ, inviting listeners to open their hearts to Him and allow Him to transform their lives.
42 - Language Questions for North Korea Opening
By Ben Torrey66407:51North KoreaMAT 28:19ROM 12:18In this sermon, Ben Torrey discusses the language barriers that will need to be overcome when sharing the love of Jesus Christ in North Korea. He highlights the significant differences between the North Korean and South Korean languages, which are greater than most people realize. Torrey also mentions the use of language in official propaganda and ideological statements, and how it may affect the perception and response of North Koreans to preaching about Christ. He concludes by emphasizing the importance of understanding and respecting cultural differences in language to build relationships and extend the love of Christ.
The Revolving Stage!
By Basilea Schlink62404:30Radio ShowPSA 51:17PRO 28:13MAT 5:23LUK 18:13ROM 12:18JAS 5:161JN 1:9In this sermon, Bess Alia Schlenk emphasizes the power of taking responsibility for our actions and admitting our faults. She shares personal experiences of how strained relationships and difficulties in life were resolved when she and her sisterhood said the words, "It was my fault." She explains that these words bring about positive changes, such as unity, peace, and God's presence. Schlenk also highlights the importance of humbling ourselves before God, seeking His forgiveness, and finding joy and peace in His love.
Cd Gv112 7 Words for the New Millennium
By George Verwer59400:00ISA 6:1MAT 6:33ACT 12:5ACT 13:5ROM 12:18PHP 4:7In this sermon, the speaker emphasizes the importance of transformation in the lives of believers and their communities. He mentions a popular Christian video called "Transformation" that showcases five cities that have experienced transformation. The speaker also discusses the need for a biblical and balanced view on the topic. He shares seven words of grace, with the first word being "vision." The sermon highlights the power of God's work in transforming individuals and communities, drawing inspiration from real-life examples like Nelson Mandela's reconciliation efforts in South Africa.
The Key to Forgiveness
By Basilea Schlink58204:35Radio ShowMAT 6:14ROM 12:18In this sermon, the speaker shares a story about a woman who attended a retreat and was struggling to forgive her controlling mother. Feeling depressed and unable to solve her problem, she cried out to the Lord for guidance. As she reflected on the lesson of loving our brothers and neighbors, a miracle occurred in her heart. She realized her own guilt and the guilt of her mother, and through this realization, she was able to forgive and reconcile with her mother. The speaker emphasizes the importance of recognizing our own guilt and forgiving others, as it brings about reconciliation, peace, and a deeper understanding of God's love.
Righteous Behavior
By Robert B. Thompson53653:10PSA 1:1PSA 119:97PRO 1:7MAT 5:44MAT 6:33MAT 22:37ROM 12:18In this sermon, the speaker emphasizes the importance of water baptism as a symbol of laying one's life down at the cross of Christ and starting a new life in God. He explains that baptism signifies a change in behavior and a supernatural transformation that can only be achieved through belief in Christ and obedience to God's commandments. The speaker also warns that failure to keep God's commandments will result in severe punishment for the nation. He urges the American church to repent and live according to God's standards, abandoning sinful behaviors such as lying, anger, gossiping, and sexual perversions.
Normal Life?
By Mike Mollman48100:00MAT 5:23MAT 7:13MAT 18:21ROM 12:18EPH 4:32COL 3:12In this sermon, the speaker shares a personal story about herding cows and relates it to the journey of God's people. He emphasizes the importance of the word of God, comparing it to a surgical tool that brings transformation. The speaker also highlights the reality that believers may make mistakes along their journey but encourages them to seek God's guidance. He concludes by sharing a touching anecdote about his father calming fighting bulls with his voice, illustrating the power of God's voice to bring peace.
3 - Trallians
By Ignatius of Antioch48109:18Audio BooksROM 12:181CO 15:3EPH 5:22PHP 2:141TI 3:81TI 3:151PE 5:1In this sermon, Ignatius addresses the believers in the Epistle of Ignatius to the Trollians. He emphasizes the importance of true life in Christ Jesus, stating that apart from Him, there is no true life. Ignatius refutes the claims of unbelievers who deny the suffering of Christ, asserting that he is willing to endure imprisonment and even death for his faith. He warns the believers to avoid false teachings and heresies, comparing them to deadly fruit that leads to spiritual death. Ignatius commends the believers for their love and loyalty to their bishop, urging them to remain united with Jesus Christ and their spiritual leaders.
How to Restore a Wounded Relationship, Part 3
By Mike Bickle2347:08RestorationPersonal ResponsibilityPRO 4:23MAT 5:23MAT 18:15ROM 12:18GAL 5:15EPH 4:31PHP 2:3COL 3:13JAS 3:13Mike Bickle emphasizes the importance of taking personal responsibility in restoring wounded relationships, drawing from Matthew 5 and 18, which instruct believers to initiate reconciliation regardless of their role in the conflict. He highlights James 3, which delves deeper into the motives behind our actions, urging individuals to recognize how their responses contribute to their own bitterness. Bickle explains that while we may be victims of mistreatment, we also act as agents of our own wounding through jealousy and selfish ambition. He encourages believers to adopt a heavenly perspective, focusing on their own contributions to conflicts rather than solely on the injustices they face. Ultimately, he calls for a commitment to respond with gentleness and wisdom to foster healing and peace in relationships.
How to Restore a Wounded Relationship, Part 5
By Mike Bickle1846:42RestorationHealthy RelationshipsPSA 16:3PRO 15:1PRO 19:13PRO 21:19MAT 5:44MAT 7:1ROM 12:18GAL 6:1EPH 4:32JAS 3:17Mike Bickle emphasizes the importance of cultivating healthy relationships, not just repairing broken ones, by focusing on the principles outlined in James 3:17. He highlights eight key responses that contribute to building godly relationships, including being pure, peaceable, gentle, willing to yield, full of mercy, and more. Bickle stresses that while we have a responsibility to foster peace, not all relationships can be restored, as healing requires cooperation from both parties. He encourages believers to approach conflicts with a spirit of humility and trust in God's timing for resolution. Ultimately, the tone and spirit of our communication are crucial for nurturing and healing relationships.
How to Restore a Wounded Relationship, Part. 2
By Mike Bickle1343:19RestorationHealthy RelationshipsPRO 18:19MAT 5:9JHN 13:34ROM 12:182CO 5:19GAL 6:1EPH 4:29JAS 5:16Mike Bickle emphasizes the importance of restoring wounded relationships, drawing parallels between the dynamics of the Trinity and our relationships within the body of Christ. He highlights that healing relationships is a priority for God, as it reflects His love and joy. Bickle encourages believers to actively pursue reconciliation, whether they are the offended or the offender, and to communicate with grace and humility. He stresses the significance of Ephesians 4:29, urging individuals to avoid corrupt speech and instead impart grace through their words. Ultimately, Bickle calls for a commitment to excel in love and maintain healthy relationships, reflecting the unity and joy found in the Godhead.
Finding Unity in the Midst of Uncertainty
By Shane Idleman1138:25RacismUnityPRO 10:12MAT 5:9ROM 12:182CO 5:17GAL 3:28EPH 4:3COL 3:11JAS 2:11PE 2:91JN 4:20Shane Idleman, alongside Pastor Abram Thomas, addresses the pressing issues of racism and unity in America, particularly in light of recent events surrounding George Floyd's death. They emphasize the importance of understanding different perspectives and the need for believers to come together in love and truth, rather than allowing division to take root. The discussion highlights the reality of racism as a sin issue rather than a skin issue, urging Christians to reflect on their hearts and actions. They call for repentance and a commitment to fostering unity within the church and society, recognizing that true change comes through the gospel of Jesus Christ.
The Peacemaker: Resolving Conflict
By Shane Idleman336:09Conflict ResolutionPeacemakingMAT 5:9ROM 12:18EPH 4:31Shane Idleman emphasizes the role of a peacemaker in resolving conflicts, highlighting that while truth may bring division, our attitudes should reflect grace and love. He stresses the importance of actively pursuing peace in our homes and workplaces, as conflict is a natural part of life. Idleman encourages individuals to take the initiative in peacemaking, reminding us that forgiveness and grace are essential in overcoming bitterness and anger. He also points out that true peace requires effort and cannot be achieved passively. Ultimately, he calls for a commitment to fight for peace and embody the character of Christ in our interactions.
- Adam Clarke
- Jamieson-Fausset-Brown
- John Gill
- Tyndale
Adam Clarke Bible Commentary
If it be possible - To live in a state of peace with one's neighbors, friends, and even family, is often very difficult. But the man who loves God must labor after this, for it is indispensably necessary even for his own sake. A man cannot have broils and misunderstandings with others, without having his own peace very materially disturbed: he must, to be happy, be at peace with all men, whether they will be at peace with him or not. The apostle knew that it would be difficult to get into and maintain such a state of peace, and this his own words amply prove: And if it be possible, as much as lieth in you, live peaceably. Though it be but barely possible, labor after it.
Jamieson-Fausset-Brown Bible Commentary
If it be possible--that is, If others will let you. as much as lieth in you--or, "dependeth on you." live peaceably--or, "be at peace." with all men--The impossibility of this in some cases is hinted at, to keep up the hearts of those who, having done their best unsuccessfully to live in peace, might be tempted to think the failure was necessarily owing to themselves. But how emphatically expressed is the injunction to let nothing on our part prevent it! Would that Christians were guiltless in this respect!
John Gill Bible Commentary
If it be possible, as much as lieth in you, live peaceably,.... Or be at peace, seek after peace, pursue it, and cultivate it: with all men; with those that we are immediately concerned with, in a natural relation; so husbands should live peaceably with their wives, and wives with their husbands; parents with their children, and children with their parents; masters with their servants, and servants with their masters; and one brother, relation, and friend, with another: and so with all we are concerned with in a spiritual relation, as members of Christ, and in the same church state; such should be at peace among themselves, Th1 5:13; peace should rule in their hearts, Col 3:15, and they should study to keep "the unity of the Spirit, in the bond of peace", Eph 4:3, yea, with all we are concerned in a civil sense; saints should live peaceably in the neighbourhood, towns, cities, and countries, where they dwell, and show themselves to be the quiet in the land; should pray for the peace of the place where they are; and do all that in them lies to promote it, by living themselves peaceably and quietly, in all godliness and honesty; yea, they should live peaceably with their very enemies, "if it be possible"; which is rightly put, for there are some persons of such tempers and dispositions, that it is impossible to live peaceably with; for when others are for peace, they are for war; and in some cases it is not only impracticable, but would be unlawful; as when it cannot be done consistent with holiness of life and conversation, with the edification of others, the truths of the Gospel, the interest of religion, and the glory of God; these are things that are never to be sacrificed for the sake of peace with men: the apostle adds another limitation of this rule, "as much as lieth in you"; for more than this is not required of us; nothing should be wanting on our parts; every step should be taken to cultivate and maintain peace; the blame should lie wholly on the other side; it becomes the saints to live peaceably themselves, if others will not with them.
Tyndale Open Study Notes
12:18 Do all that you can: Paul recognizes that our efforts to live at peace with others will sometimes be frustrated by our own moral constraints or by other people’s unwillingness to be reconciled to us.