1 Thessalonians 5:15

KJV

See that none render evil for evil unto any [man]; but ever follow that which is good, both among yourselves, and to all [men].

KJV (with Strong's)

See {G3708} that none {G3361}{G5100} render {G591} evil {G2556} for {G473} evil {G2556} unto any {G5100} man; but {G235} ever {G3842} follow {G1377} that which {G3588} is good {G18}, both {G2532} among {G1519} yourselves {G240}, and {G2532} to {G1519} all {G3956} men.

Complete Jewish Bible

See that no one repays evil for evil; on the contrary, always try to do good to each other, indeed, to everyone.

Berean Standard Bible

Make sure that no one repays evil for evil. Always pursue what is good for one another and for all people.

American Standard Version

See that none render unto any one evil for evil; but always follow after that which is good, one toward another, and toward all.

Commentary

### SUMMARY
First Thessalonians 5:15 delivers a pivotal ethical exhortation, calling believers to actively reject the natural human impulse to retaliate evil with evil. Instead, it commands a proactive and persistent pursuit of good, extending this benevolent conduct not only within the Christian community but also universally to all people, thereby establishing a foundational principle for Christian interaction and witness in the world.

### CONTEXT
* **Literary Context:** This verse is situated within the concluding section of Paul's First Letter to the Thessalonians, specifically within a series of rapid-fire, practical exhortations (1 Thessalonians 5:12-22) that follow his theological discussions on the Lord's return (1 Thessalonians 4:13-5:11). After addressing matters like respect for church leaders (1 Thessalonians 5:12-13) and care for various groups within the community (1 Thessalonians 5:14), Paul shifts to a broader, more encompassing command regarding interpersonal conduct. Verse 15 serves as a crucial bridge, moving from internal church dynamics to the believer's interaction with the wider world, setting the stage for subsequent commands about rejoicing, praying, and giving thanks (1 Thessalonians 5:16-18) and discerning spiritual gifts (1 Thessalonians 5:19-22). It underscores the practical outworking of their faith in daily life, demonstrating how eschatological hope should translate into ethical living.
* **Historical & Cultural Context:** The Thessalonian church was a relatively young community, largely composed of Gentile converts (1 Thessalonians 1:9) who had turned from idolatry to serve the living God. They faced significant opposition and persecution from both their pagan neighbors and, likely, from some Jewish communities (1 Thessalonians 2:14-16). In the Greco-Roman world, the concept of honor and shame was paramount, and retaliation for perceived wrongs was often expected and even glorified as a demonstration of strength and status. The principle of "lex talionis" (law of retaliation – "an eye for an eye") was also a recognized legal and social norm in many ancient societies, though often intended to limit vengeance rather than promote it. Paul's command in 1 Thessalonians 5:15 directly challenges these prevailing cultural norms, urging believers to adopt a counter-cultural ethic rooted in Christ's teaching. This radical call for non-retaliation and active benevolence would have been a stark contrast to the societal expectations and a powerful witness to the transformative power of the Gospel in a hostile environment.
* **Key Themes:** First Thessalonians 5:15 contributes significantly to several key themes woven throughout Paul's letters and the broader New Testament. Foremost is the theme of **Christian Ethics and Conduct**, specifically the call to **non-retaliation** and the **active pursuit of good**. This principle echoes the teachings of Jesus, particularly in the Sermon on the Mount, where He elevates the standard of righteousness beyond mere legalistic adherence to a transformative love that extends even to enemies (e.g., [Matthew 5:38-48](/matthew/5-38-48 "Matthew 5:38-48 - Love Your Enemies")). It also reinforces the theme of **Christian Community and Unity**, as the command applies "among yourselves," fostering an environment of peace and mutual care. Furthermore, by extending the command "to all men," the verse highlights the theme of **Christian Witness and Evangelism**. The ethical behavior of believers, characterized by goodness and non-retaliation, serves as a powerful testimony to the transforming power of God's love, inviting outsiders to consider the Gospel. This aligns with Paul's consistent emphasis on living a life "worthy of the gospel of Christ" (e.g., [Philippians 1:27](/philippians/1-27 "Philippians 1:27 - Live Worthy of the Gospel")).

### EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS

#### Key Word Analysis
* **See (Greek, _horáō'_):** This word, often translated as "see" or "behold," implies a watchful, discerning attention. It's not merely a passive observation but an active, vigilant awareness. In this context, it functions as an imperative, urging the Thessalonians to be deliberate and intentional in their conduct, ensuring that the prohibited action (rendering evil for evil) does not occur, and the commanded action (following good) is diligently pursued. It calls for a conscious choice and ongoing vigilance.
* **Evil (Greek, _kakós'_):** This term describes something intrinsically worthless, bad, or harmful. It refers to moral evil, wickedness, or that which causes injury or suffering. When Paul uses it twice in the phrase "evil for evil," he emphasizes the nature of the action being prohibited: a reciprocal act of harm or malice. It's not merely an unpleasant experience, but something fundamentally contrary to God's character and destructive to human relationships.
* **Follow (Greek, _diṓkō'_):** This verb denotes an active, persistent pursuit, chase, or even a strenuous effort to attain something. It carries a sense of urgency and determination. In contrast to merely avoiding evil, believers are called to energetically "follow" or "pursue" good. This is not a passive waiting for good to happen but an intentional, continuous, and even zealous endeavor to seek out, practice, and promote what is beneficial, righteous, and inherently "good" (Greek, _agathós_).

#### Verse Breakdown
* **"See that none render evil for evil unto any [man];"**: This opening clause is a strong prohibition, an imperative warning against the natural human inclination to retaliate. The phrase "render evil for evil" (Greek: _apodidōmi kakon anti kakou_) literally means "to pay back evil in exchange for evil." It directly forbids the practice of retribution, revenge, or any form of reciprocal harm, whether physical, verbal, or emotional. The inclusion of "unto any man" underscores the universal scope of this command, extending beyond fellow believers to include all people, even those who may have caused harm. It calls for breaking the cycle of vengeance.
* **"but ever follow that which is good,"**: This clause introduces a powerful contrast ("but") and a positive command. It moves beyond mere abstinence from evil to an active, continuous pursuit of goodness. The adverb "ever" (Greek: _pántote_) emphasizes the constant, unceasing nature of this pursuit. "That which is good" (Greek: _to agathos_) refers to what is inherently beneficial, righteous, and morally excellent. The verb "follow" (Greek: _diṓkō_) implies an energetic, intentional, and persistent effort, suggesting that goodness is not a passive state but a virtue to be tirelessly sought after and practiced.
* **"both among yourselves, and to all [men]."**: This final phrase specifies the comprehensive scope of the command. "Among yourselves" refers to the internal dynamics of the Christian community, emphasizing the importance of peace, love, and constructive interaction within the church family. "And to all men" broadens the application to include everyone outside the church – neighbors, strangers, even enemies. This universal application demonstrates the expansive nature of Christian love and serves as a powerful witness to the world, showing that believers are called to be agents of good in every sphere of life.

#### Literary Devices
The verse employs several impactful **Literary Devices**. The most prominent is **Antithesis** or **Contrast**, juxtaposing "evil for evil" with "follow that which is good." This stark opposition highlights the radical nature of the Christian ethic, moving beyond mere non-retaliation to an active pursuit of benevolence. The use of the **Imperative Mood** ("See," "follow") conveys direct, authoritative commands, emphasizing the non-negotiable nature of these principles for Christian living. Furthermore, the verse demonstrates **Universalism** or **Inclusivity** through the phrases "unto any [man]" and "to all [men]," underscoring that the principles of non-retaliation and active goodness are not limited to the Christian community but are to be applied broadly to humanity. This broad scope reflects the expansive love of God.

### THEOLOGICAL AND THEMATIC CONNECTIONS
The theological heart of 1 Thessalonians 5:15 beats in rhythm with the very character of God, who is good and whose love extends even to those who are hostile towards Him. This command to refuse retaliation and actively pursue good is a direct reflection of divine attributes and a core tenet of New Testament ethics. It challenges the natural human impulse for vengeance, elevating the believer to a higher standard of conduct modeled after Christ Himself. The pursuit of good, both within the community and towards outsiders, is not merely a moral guideline but a spiritual discipline that cultivates peace, fosters reconciliation, and powerfully testifies to the transforming power of the Gospel in a world often consumed by cycles of hatred and retribution. It aligns with the call for believers to be "children of light" (1 Thessalonians 5:5), demonstrating God's nature in their interactions.

* [Proverbs 20:22](/proverbs/20-22 "Proverbs 20:22 - Do Not Say, 'I Will Repay Evil'")
* [Matthew 5:44](/matthew/5-44 "Matthew 5:44 - Love Your Enemies")
* [Romans 12:17-21](/romans/12-17-21 "Romans 12:17-21 - Overcome Evil with Good")

### REFLECTION AND APPLICATION
For believers today, 1 Thessalonians 5:15 serves as a profound and challenging call to embody a counter-cultural ethic in every facet of life. In a world where immediate retaliation, digital shaming, and tribalistic divisions are commonplace, this verse compels us to pause and intentionally choose a different path. It demands a proactive stance against the temptation to repay insult with insult, injury with injury, or negativity with negativity. Practically, this means cultivating a spirit of forgiveness and understanding, even when wronged. It calls us to seek opportunities to bless those who curse us, to speak kindly to those who speak harshly, and to extend grace where judgment is expected. This principle applies not only in personal relationships but also in our interactions in the workplace, on social media, and within broader societal discourse, encouraging us to consistently demonstrate the transformative power of God's love through our actions, thereby becoming agents of reconciliation and goodness in a broken world.

#### Questions for Reflection
* **What does "rendering evil for evil" look like in my daily life, especially in modern contexts like social media or workplace conflicts?**
* **How can I actively and consistently "follow that which is good" when faced with provocation or injustice?**
* **In what specific ways can I extend goodness "to all men," including those outside my immediate circle or who hold different beliefs?**
* **What spiritual disciplines or practices can help me cultivate a heart that is quick to forgive and slow to retaliate?**

### FAQ

**What does it mean to "render evil for evil"?**

Answer: To "render evil for evil" means to repay an injury, insult, or wrong with a similar act of harm or malice. It's the principle of retaliation or vengeance, where one responds to negative treatment by inflicting negative treatment in return. The verse explicitly forbids this practice, calling believers to break the cycle of retribution. This concept is often contrasted with the "eye for an eye" principle (lex talionis), which, while intended to limit excessive vengeance in ancient law, is superseded by Christ's higher call to love and non-retaliation (e.g., [Matthew 5:38-39](/matthew/5-38-39 "Matthew 5:38-39 - Turn the Other Cheek")).

**Is this command always practical or even possible in a fallen world?**

Answer: While challenging, this command is presented as a non-negotiable ethical standard for believers, empowered by the Holy Spirit. It acknowledges the difficulty but insists on the possibility through divine grace. It doesn't mean passively allowing oneself to be harmed or abandoning justice, but rather that the *motive* for action should not be personal revenge. Christians are called to pursue good and seek peace, leaving ultimate justice to God (e.g., [Romans 12:19](/romans/12-19 "Romans 12:19 - Vengeance is Mine, I Will Repay, Says the Lord")). In situations requiring self-defense or societal justice, the principle still guides the *spirit* in which such actions are taken – not out of personal malice, but for protection or the upholding of righteous order.

### CHRIST-CENTERED FULFILLMENT
First Thessalonians 5:15 finds its ultimate fulfillment and perfect embodiment in the person and work of Jesus Christ. He is the supreme example of one who did not "render evil for evil." When reviled, He did not revile in return; when He suffered, He made no threats (e.g., [1 Peter 2:23](/1_peter/2-23 "1 Peter 2:23 - Christ's Example of Suffering")). Instead, in the face of humanity's greatest evil – sin and rebellion against God – Jesus pursued "that which is good" with ultimate self-sacrifice. His death on the cross was not an act of retaliation against a fallen world, but the quintessential act of overcoming evil with good, offering forgiveness and reconciliation to His enemies (e.g., [Romans 5:8](/romans/5-8 "Romans 5:8 - God Demonstrates His Own Love")). Through His atoning work, He broke the cycle of sin and death, demonstrating God's perfect love and justice. As believers, we are called to imitate Christ's example, empowered by the Holy Spirit who indwells us, enabling us to live out this radical ethic of non-retaliation and active benevolence, reflecting the very character of the Lamb of God who takes away the sin of the world (e.g., [John 1:29](/john/1-29 "John 1:29 - Jesus, the Lamb of God")). Our ability to "follow that which is good" is a direct result of His transformative work within us, allowing us to participate in His mission of bringing light into darkness.

Note: Commentary is generated by AI with a directive for Biblical fidelity. Always rely on the Holy Spirit for discernment. The Scripture text and cross-references are from verified, non-AI sources.

Cross-References

1 Peter 3:9

Not rendering evil for evil, or railing for railing: but contrariwise blessing; knowing that ye are thereunto called, that ye should inherit a blessing.

Galatians 6:10

As we have therefore opportunity, let us do good unto all [men], especially unto them who are of the household of faith.

3 John 1:11

Beloved, follow not that which is evil, but that which is good. He that doeth good is of God: but he that doeth evil hath not seen God.

Leviticus 19:18

Thou shalt not avenge, nor bear any grudge against the children of thy people, but thou shalt love thy neighbour as thyself: I [am] the LORD.

Romans 12:17

Recompense to no man evil for evil. Provide things honest in the sight of all men.

Romans 12:21

Be not overcome of evil, but overcome evil with good.

Hebrews 12:14

Follow peace with all [men], and holiness, without which no man shall see the Lord: