Hebrews 12:14 “Follow peace with all men, and holiness, without which no man shall see the Lord:”
It is certainly true that there are “unreasonable and wicked men: for all men have not faith” (II Thessalonians 3:2), these are the same as those that the Lord “never knew” who perpetually “work iniquity” (Matthew 7:23). Paul also teaches us to, “If it be possible, as much as lieth in you, live peaceably with all men.” (Romans 12:18). We are Commanded to “Follow peace with all men”; but, some “men” simply will not allow it, their minds and hearts seem to thrive on strife and trouble, especially against those who strive to live according to our God’s laws for morality and integrity and brotherly kindness. But, among the Children of God, we can certainly “Follow peace” and “live peaceably”, even if we do not agree on every point of doctrine. The differences in religious doctrine and practice should be lovingly debated among God-Fearing Peoples (II Corinthians 7:1), but not to the point that it breaks civil peace. Churches have the right to remain true to their faith, and only hold members that have like believes and behave according to the Bible’s Commandments for morality and integrity, as the Church understands it. We are blessed to live in a Country in which we are free to worship according to the dictates of our heart, not according to institutional or government mandates. Free civil discourse includes discussing religious beliefs, explaining why we believe the way we do, even in hopes of persuading others to believe the way we do. But, we should never seek to impose our religious beliefs on others. On a civil level, to “Follow peace with all men” is to not fuss and fight and do not say mean and harsh things to each other. But, we should treat one another as greater Brethren, showing love to one another, helping one another, being kind and gracious to one another, etc. I greatly rejoice in the simple and sincere beliefs and practices of the Primitive Baptists, but I also rejoice to have civil fellowship with good folks from many religious backgrounds. Of course, I would like for them all to be faithful Primitive Baptists!