Keraia
1 Thessalonians 5

1 Thessalonians 5:15

Christian Living · 1 Thessalonians 5:12–22
Read 1 Thessalonians 5

Translations

Modern
Make sure that no one repays evil for evil. Always pursue what is good for one another and for all people.
Traditional
See that none render evil for evil unto any man; but ever follow that which is good, both among yourselves, and to all men.
Literal
See that no one shall repay to anyone evil for evil, but always pursue the good also to one another and to all.
Latin
Videte ne quis malum pro malo alicui reddat: sed semper quod bonum est sectamini in invicem, et in omnes.

Original

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

Notes

1 Thessalonians 5:15

Jesus and the apostles advised against revenge (Matthew 5:38–48; Luke 6:27–36; Romans 12:17–21; 1 Peter 3:9). In contrast, the Roman author Seneca believed revenge was necessary to restore lost social honor. Paul urged Christians to do good to everyone, including church members and those outside the Christian community, even those who persecuted them (1 Thessalonians 2:14; see 3:12; Galatians 6:10).

1 Thessalonians 4:1–5:22

The second part of the letter discusses Timothy's news about the church and the questions the Christians had for Paul.

Paul addresses:

  • the problem of sexual immorality (4:3–8) before responding to the Thessalonians’ questions about love for other Christians (4:9–12),

  • the fate of Christians who have died (4:13–18), and

  • the timing of "the Day of the Lord" (5:1–11).

Paul offers advice on topics such as leadership and community relations, the relationship with the Lord, and prophecy (5:12–22).

Theme notes and profiles

Paul (Saul)

Glossary

Bible, Manuscripts and Text of the (New Testament) Biblical Concept of Law First Letter to the Thessalonians

Topics

Christian Conduct: Following After That Which is Good Commandments: Precepts of Paul--Explicitly Stated or Implied in Didactic Epistles Difficult People God's Vengeance Malice: General Scriptures Concerning Meekness: General Scriptures Concerning Payback Religion: True Retaliation: General Scriptures Concerning Revenge: Forbidden Revenge: Forbidden by Our Lord Seeking Revenge