1 Thessalonians 5:15 Commentary and Bible Study

This goes right outside the brethren now. It is for Christians and non-Christians. See that no one renders evil for evil. In our translation ‘see’ is a little word, three letters. It would be better if it were translated by a longer word because the Greek is forceful. Be very watchful is the sense. Do not do it yourself, and discourage them from doing it. We do not like to face it, but to have a vengeful spirit is human nature. This is a great test – never have a vengeful spirit. Not in deed nor in thought. Suppress vengeful thoughts. I wish that person could suffer the same as he has made me suffer. Suppress it. This is the sixth duty. Of course, it comes from the Sermon on the Mount. ‘See that none render evil for evil unto any man.’ It was especially difficult for the Thessalonians because they were subject to persecution for the faith. We are barely subject to persecution, but no retaliation under any circumstances.Of course, we are not talking here of the problem of somebody rushes up and offers violence to your wife or child in the street, would you do anything to defend them? I am not discussing those situations. We are talking about situations in which you need not retaliate at all and never show a vengeful spirit.And then this is followed by a seventh duty which is positive. ‘Ever follow that which is good, both among yourselves [as believers], and to all men.’ Again, it is extended. ‘Ever follow.’ It is not so much referring to time; it is referring to all circumstances. ‘Follow’ is a term which conveys effort. Of course, follow need not cost anything, but the Greek word translated here follow is against all the odds, against all difficulties. Strenuously follow, with great effort follow, that which is good, because it is not natural in this fallen human nature to be looking for what good you can do, to be sensitive to other people’s needs or difficult situations, ever ready to respond. So it takes a big effort.