1 Thessalonians 5:15

Arabic 2018 (الترجمة الكاثوليكيّة (اليسوعيّة))

إِحتَرِسوا أَن يُجازِيَ أَحَدٌ شَرًّا بِشَرّ، بل لِيَطلُبِ الخَيرَ دائِمًا بَعضُكم لِبَعْض وٱطلُبوه لِجَميعِ النَّاس.

What Does This Mean?

This verse from the Bible says that no one should respond to bad things with more bad things. Instead, we should always do good things towards others and among ourselves. It was written by Paul reminding the Thessalonians of this important lesson.

Explained for Children

Imagine if you were playing a game and someone pushed you down. This verse says that instead of pushing them back, which would make everyone upset, you should try to be kind even when others aren't being nice. It's like choosing to share your toys rather than keeping them all to yourself.

Historical Background

This verse was written by the Apostle Paul around 50-52 AD in his first letter to the Thessalonians. The audience were early Christians living in a Roman city, where conflict and misunderstanding of Christianity were common. The cultural setting included a mix of Greek, Roman, and Jewish influences.

Living It Out Today

In today's world, this verse can guide how we respond to negative comments on social media. Instead of firing back with more negativity, we can choose to engage positively or not at all, promoting peace rather than conflict.

Topics

• love
• forgiveness
• peace
• kindness
• response to evil
• good behavior

Related Verses

• Romans 12:20-21
• Proverbs 25:21-22
• Matthew 5:43-48
• Ephesians 4:31-32
• 1 Peter 3:9

Frequently Asked Questions

Why is it important not to respond with evil?

Responding with good instead of evil breaks cycles of negativity and promotes peace, aligning with Jesus' teachings on love and forgiveness.

How can I teach children about this verse?

Use simple examples from their daily life to show how choosing kindness over retaliation leads to happier relationships and better outcomes.

What if someone keeps doing evil to me, should I still be good to them?

Yes, according to this verse. Responding with goodness can sometimes lead the other person to change their behavior or at least keep your heart pure in difficult situations.

Can you give a real-life example of applying this verse?

If someone insults you online, instead of responding with more insults, you could choose not to engage or respond kindly if possible, showing them what it means to act well even when provoked.