When it comes to political division, often we as Christians celebrate those who align with us and tolerate those who do not. But we are to find our alignment with another kingdom and allegiance to our anointed Lord, something comprehensive and continual.

See that no one renders evil for evil to anyone…
1 Thessalonians 5:15, NKJV

We live in politically contentious times. Demonization of the “other” party has cast civil discourse to the wayside. There no longer seems any room for nuanced discussion. A party label tells us all we need to hear. It would be one thing for this animosity to exist outside the church but it thrives within to create division and devotion to another kingdom.

Yet we as Christ’s disciples are to march to the beat of a different drum.

Paul has just urged the Thessalonians not to run roughshod over others. He calls for warmth and winsomeness with those who are struggling. “Comfort the fainthearted, uphold the weak, be patient with all” (1 Thess. 5:14).

Now he goes on to call for a decorum of discipleship in keeping with their allegiance to the kingdom of their Lord Jesus Christ. He begins on a serious note: “See that.” In other words, they are to pay close attention to themselves and to others. The apostle’s admonition reminds us that we are to be aware, engaged, and on guard against destructive influences and practices that can creep in and cause damage.

In this case, Paul says that we must be careful not to render “evil for evil to anyone.” The apostle provides a lesson plan for this in his letter to the Romans (12:14-21), where he says that we are not to repay evil for evil (v. 17). Instead, we are to bless those who curse us (v. 14) and endeavor to live peaceably with all men (v. 17). The only weapon in our kingdom armory is “good” (v. 21).

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