What does 1 Thessalonians 5:15 teach about responding to personal wrongs? The Verse at a Glance “Make sure that no one repays evil for evil. Always pursue what is good for one another and for all people.” — 1 Thessalonians 5:15 Key Observations • “Make sure” – a direct command, not a suggestion. • “No one” – applies universally to every believer. • “Repays evil for evil” – forbids retaliation in any form. • “Always pursue” – calls for constant, proactive effort. • “What is good” – actively seek the other person’s benefit. • “For one another and for all people” – extends beyond fellow believers to everyone. How to Handle Personal Wrongs • Refuse revenge: when wronged, consciously reject the instinct to strike back. • Return good: look for tangible ways to bless the offender (Romans 12:20). • Guard your words: speak truth in love, not in anger (Ephesians 4:29). • Keep a wide lens: remember God’s justice; He will repay (Romans 12:19). • Stay consistent: “always” means in minor slights and major offenses alike. Supported by the Rest of Scripture • Romans 12:17-21 echoes the same call: “Do not be overcome by evil, but overcome evil with good.” • Matthew 5:39-44: Jesus teaches turning the other cheek and loving enemies. • 1 Peter 3:9: “Do not repay evil with evil or insult with insult, but with blessing.” • Proverbs 20:22: “Do not say, ‘I will repay evil’; wait for the LORD, and He will save you.” Practical Steps for Today • Pray immediately for the person who hurt you. • Respond with kindness—an encouraging text, a helping hand, a calm tone. • Set healthy boundaries without bitterness; protect, but do not retaliate. • Remember the cross: Christ bore unjust wrongs and extended grace (1 Peter 2:23). • Keep short accounts—confess vengeful thoughts to God and surrender them quickly. |
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