1 Thessalonians 5:15
Verse
Context
Sermons






Summary
Commentary
- Adam Clarke
- Jamieson-Fausset-Brown
- John Gill
- Tyndale
Adam Clarke Bible Commentary
See that none render evil for evil - Every temper contrary to love is contrary to Christianity. A peevish, fretful, vindictive man may be a child of Satan; he certainly is not a child of God. Follow that which is good - That by which ye may profit your brethren and your neighbors of every description, whether Jews or Gentiles.
Jamieson-Fausset-Brown Bible Commentary
(Rom 12:17; Pe1 3:9.) unto any man--whether unto a Christian, or a heathen, however great the provocation. follow--as a matter of earnest pursuit.
John Gill Bible Commentary
See that none render evil for evil unto any man,.... Not an ill word for an ill word, railing for railing, nor an ill action for an ill action; no, not to any man whatever, not to an enemy, a persecutor, a profane person, as well as not to a brother, a believer in Christ; and this the saints should not only be careful of, and guard against in themselves, but should watch over one another, and see to it, that no such practice is found in each other. But ever follow that which is good; honestly, morally, pleasantly, and profitably good; even every good work, which is according to the will of God, is done in faith, from love, and to the glory of God; and particularly acts of beneficence and liberality to the poor; and which are not to be once, or now and then done, but to be followed and pursued after, and that always; both among yourselves, and to all men; not only to the household of faith, though to them especially, and in the first place, but to all other men, as opportunity offers, even to our enemies, and them that persecute us, and despitefully use us; do good to their bodies, and to their souls, as much as in you lies, by feeding and clothing the one, and by praying for, advising, and instructing the other.
Tyndale Open Study Notes
5:15 Jesus and the apostles warned against retaliation (Matt 5:38-48; Luke 6:27-36; Rom 12:17-21; 1 Pet 3:9). The Roman author Seneca, by contrast, considered revenge legitimate and necessary as a way of restoring social honor lost because of ill treatment from others. Paul calls Christians to do good—both to members of the church (each other) and to those outside the Christian community (to all people), including their persecutors (1 Thes 2:14; see 3:12; Gal 6:10).
1 Thessalonians 5:15
Christian Living
14And we urge you, brothers, to admonish the unruly, encourage the fainthearted, help the weak, and be patient with everyone.15Make sure that no one repays evil for evil. Always pursue what is good for one another and for all people.
- Scripture
- Sermons
- Commentary
Overcoming Evil With Good
By Vernon Helmuth6951:13:03Christian LifePRO 25:21MAT 5:44LUK 6:27ROM 12:9ROM 12:211TH 5:151PE 3:9The sermon titled "Overcome Evil with Good" discusses the principle of responding to evil with good in our lives. The speaker shares that as we grow in our Christian life, God often brings harder challenges into our lives to teach us this principle. He uses the example of a familiar saint, Dirk Williams, who was fleeing for his life and encountered a thief catcher chasing him. Despite the danger, Williams chose to help the thief catcher when he cried out for help, demonstrating the principle of overcoming evil with good. The sermon emphasizes that we can be more than conquerors through Christ and encourages the audience to continually strive to overcome evil with good in their lives.
On Zeal
By John Wesley0Love in ActionChristian ZealMAT 5:16ROM 12:91CO 13:1GAL 4:18EPH 4:2COL 3:141TH 5:15JAS 3:171PE 4:81JN 4:8John Wesley emphasizes the critical importance of true Christian zeal, distinguishing it from the destructive zeal that has historically caused harm in the name of religion. He argues that genuine zeal is rooted in love and humility, and it should be directed towards good works, particularly those that benefit others. Wesley warns against the counterfeit forms of zeal that lead to anger, pride, and division, urging believers to focus on love as the highest expression of their faith. He encourages a balanced approach to zeal, prioritizing works of mercy and holy tempers over mere religious observance. Ultimately, Wesley calls for a fervent love for God and neighbor as the essence of true Christian zeal.
On War - Effects of War.
By Jonathan Dymond0PRO 3:30ISA 2:4MAT 5:9MAT 26:52ACT 5:29ROM 12:18ROM 14:191TH 5:15JAS 3:181PE 3:11Jonathan Dymond preaches about the devastating effects of war, highlighting the intense sufferings, irreparable deprivations, and moral consequences it brings upon society. He emphasizes the immense loss of human life, the financial distress, and the moral degradation that war inflicts on individuals, particularly soldiers. Dymond condemns the immorality, servility, and slavery inherent in military obedience, urging Christians to refuse to participate in war as it goes against the principles of Christianity. He calls for passive resistance and non-compliance with unjust orders, emphasizing the importance of upholding moral agency and rejecting the iniquity of war.
The Blessing of Simple Goodness
By J.R. Miller0Simple GoodnessInfluence of CharacterPRO 11:17MAT 5:16ROM 12:21GAL 6:9EPH 2:10PHP 2:15COL 3:231TH 5:15JAS 1:221PE 2:12J.R. Miller emphasizes the profound impact of simple goodness in serving Christ, arguing that while eloquence and wealth may attract attention, it is the quiet influence of goodness that leaves a lasting impression on lives. He encourages those who feel inadequate or ungifted to recognize that even the smallest acts of kindness and a life of integrity can be a powerful ministry. Miller illustrates this through the life of an ordinary Christian woman whose humble goodness inspired her family and community over decades. He asserts that every believer can embody this simple goodness, which is essential in a world that often values showiness over sincerity. Ultimately, the sermon calls for Christians to cultivate a spirit of Christ-like goodness in their daily lives.
Stephen's Fullness (Acts Vi. 5)
By Seth Rees0MAT 5:44MRK 9:23ACT 6:5ROM 10:171CO 2:51CO 2:131TH 5:15JAS 1:61PE 3:9Seth Rees preaches about the life and blessings of Stephen, a man full of faith and the Holy Ghost. Stephen's Christian experience is highlighted as the most important aspect in the eyes of heaven, emphasizing the importance of being filled with faith and the Holy Spirit. Rees encourages believers to cultivate faith, believe for larger things, and trust in God's power for all aspects of life, including salvation, sanctification, and divine healing. He stresses the significance of being right in faith intellectually, experimentally, and practically, and the need for courage, wisdom, and love in the Christian walk.
1 Peter 2:23
By John Gill0Patience in SufferingTrusting GodPSA 37:5PRO 20:22ISA 53:7MAT 5:39LUK 23:34ROM 12:191TH 5:15HEB 10:301PE 2:231PE 3:9John Gill emphasizes the profound example set by Jesus in 1 Peter 2:23, illustrating how Christ, when reviled and mistreated, chose not to retaliate but instead responded with patience and grace. He highlights that Jesus endured false accusations and physical abuse without threatening or seeking revenge, ultimately committing His cause to God, the righteous Judge. This act of entrusting Himself to God serves as a powerful lesson for believers to refrain from retaliation and to leave their grievances in God's hands, who will judge righteously.
To Believers in the Doctrine of Entire and Continued Sanctification in This Life #1
By Charles Finney0PatienceHoliness in CommunityMAT 5:16ROM 12:21GAL 5:22EPH 4:2PHP 2:14COL 3:121TH 5:15HEB 12:14JAS 1:41PE 2:23Charles Finney emphasizes the importance of patience and love among believers, especially during trials and opposition. He reflects on the early Methodists' perseverance within the church despite facing criticism, urging believers to remain in their congregations to promote holiness and understanding. Finney advises against speaking ill of ministers and encourages a charitable view towards those who oppose them, highlighting the need for humility and kindness. He warns against the dangers of withdrawing from the church and stresses the significance of maintaining a spirit of meekness and charity, regardless of external opposition. Ultimately, he calls for believers to embody the love of Christ in their interactions, ensuring their holiness is reflected in their actions.
- Adam Clarke
- Jamieson-Fausset-Brown
- John Gill
- Tyndale
Adam Clarke Bible Commentary
See that none render evil for evil - Every temper contrary to love is contrary to Christianity. A peevish, fretful, vindictive man may be a child of Satan; he certainly is not a child of God. Follow that which is good - That by which ye may profit your brethren and your neighbors of every description, whether Jews or Gentiles.
Jamieson-Fausset-Brown Bible Commentary
(Rom 12:17; Pe1 3:9.) unto any man--whether unto a Christian, or a heathen, however great the provocation. follow--as a matter of earnest pursuit.
John Gill Bible Commentary
See that none render evil for evil unto any man,.... Not an ill word for an ill word, railing for railing, nor an ill action for an ill action; no, not to any man whatever, not to an enemy, a persecutor, a profane person, as well as not to a brother, a believer in Christ; and this the saints should not only be careful of, and guard against in themselves, but should watch over one another, and see to it, that no such practice is found in each other. But ever follow that which is good; honestly, morally, pleasantly, and profitably good; even every good work, which is according to the will of God, is done in faith, from love, and to the glory of God; and particularly acts of beneficence and liberality to the poor; and which are not to be once, or now and then done, but to be followed and pursued after, and that always; both among yourselves, and to all men; not only to the household of faith, though to them especially, and in the first place, but to all other men, as opportunity offers, even to our enemies, and them that persecute us, and despitefully use us; do good to their bodies, and to their souls, as much as in you lies, by feeding and clothing the one, and by praying for, advising, and instructing the other.
Tyndale Open Study Notes
5:15 Jesus and the apostles warned against retaliation (Matt 5:38-48; Luke 6:27-36; Rom 12:17-21; 1 Pet 3:9). The Roman author Seneca, by contrast, considered revenge legitimate and necessary as a way of restoring social honor lost because of ill treatment from others. Paul calls Christians to do good—both to members of the church (each other) and to those outside the Christian community (to all people), including their persecutors (1 Thes 2:14; see 3:12; Gal 6:10).