The Exegetical Significance of the Phrase “Εἰρήνην διώκετε μετὰ πάντων” (pursue peace with all men) Towards Religious Mutual Respect in Nigeria

Abstract

The state of peace, oneness, harmony and political stability of Nigerian nation is dwindling as a result of conflicts among the various religious adherents, especially the Christians and Muslims. This pandemonium has grown into extremism and intolerance. Hence, the need for political stability in Nigeria cannot be overemphasized. The purpose of this paper was to give a concise insight into the exegetical significance of the phrase “Εἰρήνην διώκετε μετὰ πάντων” (Pursue peace with all men” and the roles of Inter faith dialogue towards religious mutual respect in Nigeria. The writer adopts the use of analytical exegesis of the relevant scriptural passages, using the Greek texts of the New Testament and interpretation of such selected passages; to give room for sound understanding of the subject matter, historical and descriptive methods is equally employed in this paper. The findings reveal that, a careful look at the society reveals pathetic situation as a result of lack of peace; there was no positive understanding and interaction among all religions. In conclusion, religious peace has remained elusive and Intractable in many parts of the world. The writer recommended that there was need for integration which involves subsuming all physical, social, linguistic, economic, religious, political, regional and cultural differences and promoting the spirit of oneness, brotherhood and good neighbourliness among the people living in a particular geographical environment.