“Peace if possible, truth at all costs.”
- November 10, 1483 – February 18, 1546
- Born in the Holy Roman Empire (Germany)
- Reformer, theologian
- Promoted the Protestant Reformation and published the Ninety-five Theses
table of contents
Quote
“Peace if possible, truth at all costs.”
Explanation
In this quote, Martin Luther highlights the delicate balance between peace and truth, asserting that while it is desirable to live in peace and harmony, the pursuit of truth must always come first, even if it disrupts that peace. Luther’s statement reflects his belief that truth, particularly spiritual truth, is non-negotiable and must be upheld, even when it leads to conflict or challenges. For Luther, truth was rooted in the gospel and the Word of God, which he believed could not be compromised, even for the sake of political or social peace. This perspective was central to his Protestant Reformation efforts, where he boldly challenged the authority and practices of the Catholic Church, even though it created significant turmoil and strife within the Church and society.
Luther’s words underscore the idea that peace should not come at the expense of integrity or faithfulness to what is true. While peace is a noble goal, it should never be pursued by sacrificing what is right and just. This principle guided Luther’s actions during the Reformation, as he sought to reform the Church according to what he understood as biblical truth, even though it led to division and persecution. For Luther, peace without truth is hollow, and it is better to endure strife for the sake of holding to the truth.
In modern contexts, this quote serves as a reminder that there are times when standing for truth—whether in matters of morality, ethics, faith, or justice—may bring conflict or challenge the status quo. However, it encourages individuals to prioritize truth over avoiding discomfort or confrontation. Whether in personal relationships, social justice movements, or religious convictions, peace should not be achieved by compromising core values or beliefs. Instead, Luther’s words remind us that lasting peace is founded on a commitment to what is true and just, even when it requires courage to stand firm in the face of opposition.
