Charles Ellicott Commentary 1 Thessalonians 5:15

"See that none render unto any one evil for evil; but always follow after that which is good, one toward another, and toward all." — 1 Thessalonians 5:15 (ASV)

See that.—The exhortation is given to those who have the authority to oversee the Church (Acts 19:28; 1 Peter 5:2).

None render evil for evil.—Like the prohibition of fornication, abstinence from revenge is practically a new thought for Greeks, among whom feuds were frequent and undying (Titus 3:3).

That which is good—i.e., that which is kind. (See Note on 1 Thessalonians 3:6.) This duty is to be followed, i.e., made an object to be pursued eagerly, toward all men. There is not one standard of morals towards the brethren and another towards the world.