Romans 3:17
And the way of peace have they not known:
Romans 3:17
“And the way of peace have they not known” follows the description of a life marked by destruction and misery. The objective standard of peace here is not merely absence of conflict but a holistic shalom—right relationships with God, self, others, and creation. In a world where religions and philosophies promised harmony, Paul asserts that without God’s righteousness, the true way of peace remains unknown. This claim resonates with Jewish expectations of the Messiah bringing peace and with Gentile longing for a stable life; yet, apart from God’s intervention, true peace remains elusive. The verse highlights human attempts at peace (political treaties, social reforms) that fail to address the root cause: sin in the human heart.
This verse underscores the theological necessity of divine action to restore peace. It points to the insufficiency of human schemes to achieve true shalom. The cross and resurrection become the climactic answer to humanity’s longing for peace, providing reconciliation with God and with others. It also foreshadows the Pauline emphasis on righteousness that brings peace—peace with God as the foundation for peaceful living with neighbors and even within one’s own conscience.
In modern life, peace often means smoother surfaces rather than transformed hearts. This verse invites us to seek the peace that only God provides: reconciliation in broken relationships, inner serenity amid anxiety, and societal justice rooted in love. Practical steps: pursue mediation in conflicts, foster environments where differing voices are heard, and cultivate inner life through prayer and Scripture to resist fear-driven reactions. If you feel tension in relationships or work, ask, “Am I seeking peace in God’s way, or am I engineering shortcuts?” The transformation of heart yields real, lasting peace that outlasts politics and trends.
Cross-References: Isaiah 9:6–7; Isaiah 53:5; Colossians 1:20; Ephesians 2:14–17; Romans 5:1