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