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