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Romans 12 · a question people ask

"be at peace with all men" (12:18). What if peace isn't possible?

In the text

The verse sets its own limits: "If it is possible, as much as it is up to you, be at peace with all men." (12:18). It says no more about when peace isn't possible. These notes don't apply the verse to any wrong anyone has suffered, or say what anyone should do about one. If it touches anyone's own life, make room to talk, and help them find someone they trust to talk to further, such as a pastor or a counselor.

The verses

“If it is possible, as much as it is up to you, be at peace with all men.”
Romans 12:18 · World English Bible

From Favor's study of Romans 12

Romans 12: A living sacrifice

After the praise that closes chapter 11, Romans 12 urges "by the mercies of God" (12:1). The whole chapter names Christ in one verse: "we, who are many, are one body in Christ, and individually members of one another" (12:5). And it speaks twice of "the grace that was given" (12:3, 12:6).

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Last reviewed October 7, 2026. Scripture quotations are from the World English Bible, which is in the public domain. Every answer cites the verses it rests on. What we believe · All Bible questions