“If it be possible, as much as lieth in you, live peaceably with all men.” (Romans 12:18)

How are we who are elect, redeemed and called out sinners, to live among the unbelieving in the world?

1.) We are to testify of the LORD’s Grace to us as sinners in Christ: “And he said unto them, Go ye into all the world, and preach the gospel to every creature.” (Mark 16:15) “Ye are the light of the world. A city that is set on an hill cannot be hid. Neither do men light a candle, and put it under a bushel, but on a candlestick; and it giveth light unto all that are in the house. Let your light so shine before men, that they may see your good works, and glorify your Father which is in heaven.” (Matthew 5:14-16)

2.) Show them what it is to forgive as we have been forgiven: “Not rendering evil for evil or railing for railing: but contrariwise blessing; knowing that ye are thereunto called, that ye should inherit a blessing.” (1 Peter 3:9)

3.) Pray for those for whom the LORD directs us to pray: “Brethren, my heart's desire and prayer to God for Israel is, that they might be saved. For I bear them record that they have a zeal of God, but not according to knowledge. For they being ignorant of God's righteousness, and going about to establish their own righteousness, have not submitted themselves unto the righteousness of God.” (Romans 10:1-3) “I exhort therefore, that, first of all, supplications, prayers, intercessions, and giving of thanks, be made for all men...” (1 Timothy 2:1)

4.) Be gracious toward them even as God is gracious toward us: “Walk in wisdom toward them that are without, redeeming the time. Let your speech be always with grace, seasoned with salt, that ye may know how ye ought to answer every man.” (Colossians 4:5-6)