It is striking how far and wide our perspective must be. Here “pantas” (everyone
) is the last word, just like in the previous verse (1 Thessalonians 5:14)! Thus, it is used twice. First negatively and then positively. It never befits a Christian to return evil for evil. On the contrary, he or she should pursue the good for everyone.
This is very far-reaching. Is this feasible for people of flesh and blood? And still… it is asked of us. That is what Jesus does in Matthew 5:44: But I say to you, Love your enemies and pray for those who persecute you.
What he said immediately after that is very significant and at the same time encouraging: so that you may be sons of your Father who is in heaven. For he makes his sun rise on the evil and on the good, and sends rain on the just and on the unjust
(Matthew 5:45). That is who God is, and that is a good thing. This is how he wants his children to live on earth. The world will benefit from that. We can be convinced that this generous heavenly Father gives his children the strength to bless so many in this world even in difficult circumstances.
15 See that no one repays anyone evil for evil, but always seek to do good to one another and to everyone.