Pursue peace with all people, and holiness, without which no one will see the Lord: Hebrews 12:14
The ultimate desire every human should have is to see God, however, there are criteria to it and that is to strive for peace with everyone and for holiness. These two virtues are inseparable and indispensable qualities that define the people of God. The peace of God is more than a state of inner tranquility; it’s a state of wholeness and completeness, it is heartfelt peace, selfless and genuine. Holiness has to do both with our devotion to the Lord as well as our subsequent separation from the sinful world. Peace without holiness means that we get along with each other only because no one is allowed to say, this is right or wrong. It’s merely tolerance.
Jesus is our peace with God and others. In Him, we have reconciliation with others, live at peace with others, have fellowship with one another, and can live with others in unity through the bonds of peace. God’s Word admonishes us to strive to be at peace with everyone fitting in the Lord. Many nations and denominations will be at peace at the cost of holiness which is sinful in the sight of God. We are not a truly unified church unless we affirm peace and holiness. Our devotion to the Lord leads us to a holy life and His truth to a holy doctrine, in which we unite ultimately.
Quote: If peace without holiness is tolerance, then holiness without peace is legalism.