1 Thessalonians 5:15

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

1 Thessalonians 5:15 (KJV)

Context

The Apostle Paul wrote the first letter to the Thessalonians to encourage and instruct them in their faith. In chapter 5, he gives practical instructions for Christian living, addressing how believers should conduct themselves in various situations.

Meaning

This verse begins with a command to the Thessalonian believers: they are not to retaliate with evil when wronged or treated poorly. Instead of responding with revenge, they are called to choose a different path. The phrase “unto any man” emphasizes the universal scope of this command; it applies to all people, regardless of their actions or treatment toward believers. Christians are to demonstrate a Christlike attitude toward everyone, not just fellow believers.

The second part of the verse instructs believers to “ever follow that which is good.” The Greek word for “follow” (diōkō) conveys the idea of pursuing or striving after something with intensity. This is not a passive wish but an active, continual pursuit of what is good. The command extends “both among yourselves, and to all men,” meaning the pursuit of good is to characterize relationships within the Christian community and also interactions with those outside the faith.

Biblical connections

This teaching aligns with Jesus’ command to love one’s enemies and to do good to those who persecute you (Matthew 5:44). Paul’s instruction is a practical outworking of that principle in the life of the church.

Application

The command is given in the plural, indicating that the whole community is responsible for ensuring that no one among them repays evil for evil. Believers are to watch over one another and encourage each other in this pursuit of good. This twofold ethical standard—non-retaliation and active goodness—calls Christians to resist the temptation to respond to evil with evil. Instead, they are to actively pursue good, both among fellow believers and to everyone else. By doing so, Christians can be a shining example of Christ’s love and character in the world.