1)
Is there a difference between "Tifsum Chayim" and "Chayim Tifsum"?
1.
Radak: They are the same. The order is changed due to the repetition - whether they are for Shalom or for war. He said so amidst haughtiness; he was sure that they could seize them alive, for a small amount of men would not fight against the large number he sent against them.
2.
Malbim: He put first the Chidush. If they are for Shalom, it is a Chidush that they should seize them. If they are for war, it is a Chidush that they should keep them alive.