1 Thessalonians 5:14-15

14 Now we exhort you, brethren, warn those who are unruly, comfort the fainthearted, uphold the weak, be patient with all.

15 See that no one renders evil for evil to anyone, but always pursue what is good both for yourselves and for all.

warn (v.14) — same word translated “admonish” in v.12

unruly (v.14) — a military term for those who break rank or are insubordinate — Perhaps referring to those who had given up working in anticipation of the Lord’s return (2 Thessalonians 3:11). If that’s the case, unruliness involves idleness, officiousness and excitability.

comfort (v.14) = from Greek words meaning “from close-beside,” “soothing speaking” — properly, comforting that shows sympathy (encouragement), cheering someone up by soothing speech with a “personal touch,” as in 1 Thessalonians 2:11.

fainthearted (v.14) = lit. “small-souled” — despondent, overly sensitive, apprehensive

uphold (v.14) = support, keep close to

weak (v.14) — perhaps from lack of knowledge, lack of courage, lack of stability, or lack of discipline (1 Corinthians 9:22).

patient (v.14) = lit. “long-tempered” — self-restraint in the face of provocation

see (v.15) — keep watchful

renders (v.15) = gives back

evil (v.15) = that which causes injury or works mischief of any kind

always (v.15) — without exception

pursue (v.15) = earnestly follow, as a hunter after his quarry

good (v.15) = useful, helpful, of benefit

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