October is the month we Lutherans celebrate the Reformation, ignited by Martin Luther, on October 31, 1517.  Throughout the month we’ll consider some of Luther’s famous quotes, the first of which, most likely taken from Romans 12:18, is “Peace if possible, truth at all costs.”

Consider the following Bible passages: John 8:31-32; 17:17; 14:6, 27; Isaiah 9:6.

The Greek word most often translated in the New Testament as “truth” is aletheia, which literally means “reality.”  A position which is not truth-based is a position based not in reality.  And apart from reality there is no true peace, only fantasy.  A culture without any grasp of truth is a culture without any connection to reality, and is thus doomed to die.

Luther’s quote suggests that we should always strive for peace, but not at the expense of sacrificing truth; for the only peace worth having in the first place is true peace.  When we subordinate truth to peace, we lose not only truth but peace as well; for genuine peace cannot be founded on lies, fallacy, or deceit.

Luther’s quote enlightens us to the importance of maintaining and upholding truth as an indispensable foundation for lasting peace.  Upholding truth in all matters of faith and life will no doubt place us in opposition with the current culture, and may very well bring with it persecution and division, but it is our only hope for peaceful relationships within both Church and State.

Luther’s statement reflects his belief that truth (rooted in the gospel and the Word of God) is non-negotiable and must be upheld, even when it leads to conflict and challenges.  Truth must never be compromised, even for the sake of political or social peace.  Like Luther (Bonhoeffer and others) we must stand boldly in the truth, refusing to stay silent in the face of cultural collapse.

Though upholding truth at all costs calls us out of our muteness and silence, it is not a call to caustic confrontation and combativeness.  Rather, in standing firm we are to speak the truth in love (Ephesians 4:15).

Luther’s quote, “Peace if possible, truth at all costs,” resonates with timeless wisdom and serves as an essential reminder in our quest for peace and harmony with one and all.