1 Thess. 5:15-18; Rom. 12;17-21, Goodness

We are still in a context of the “body life” of the local church.  Note that Paul says, see that no one renders evil for evil to anyone.  We would see this as one of those places where no one refers to “not one of the believers” while anyone refers to “anyone, anywhere, Christian or not”.  But while it fits the body life theme v15-18 presents personal character qualities that are general and fitting in every situation of life.  This is clear from the terms in each command, words like always, anyone, without ceasing and in everything.  Thus, let us consider these all-the-time commands.

I. Aspire to the good always (v15).

In v15 and v21 the NKJV has the English word twice.  But in Greek there is a difference.  In v15 the term is for beneficial goodness, that which is good because it is beneficial, because of the effect of an action or word or attitude.  Thus we pursue what is good both for ourselves and for everyone.  In v21 the term refers to intrinsic goodness, that which is good in and of itself regardless of how we perceive the effect of the action or word or attitude.  We hold to the prophecies that are true and right in and of themselves.  Thus in v15 we are being called to a lifestyle that is good and kind and that takes into account the effect of our words and actions on others.

This goodness is contrasted with retribution.  Think about this.  We are called to a lifestyle that is good to others even if they have been evil to us.  We are not to live according to how we are treated (returning evil to those who are evil to us) but to live according to what is good.  This is part of the command of Christ to love your enemies (Mt. 5:43-48).  And it acknowledges that we are not knowledgeable nor sufficiently disciplined to be in charge of vengeance; only an infinitely righteous God is able to be Judge of all men (Rom. 12:19).  Thus our calling and privilege is to be like our infinitely patient God and Father and overcome evil with good (Rom. 12:21).

Here are some practical particulars of goodness (again, not a complete list, not the 10 Commandments of Goodness) that are illustrations as we walk in the Spirit.

* Rom. 12:13: hospitality.

* Rom. 14:19: things that bring peace.

* Rom. 14:19: things that build others up.

* 1 Cor. 14:1: love.

* 1 Tim. 6:11; 2 Tim. 2:22: righteousness, goodness, faith, patience, meekness.

This is such an important matter for believers.  We do not want our crankiness or obnoxious attitude towards sinners to get in the way of letting our light shine before men.  This helps keep the name of God and His doctrine from being blasphemed and in fact dresses up the gospel (1 Tim. 6:1; Titus 2:1,5,10; 1 Peter 2:15).  Let your light so shine before men, that they may see your good works and glorify your Father in heaven (Mt. 5:16).