4:5 {4} Walk {b} in wisdom toward them that are without, redeeming the {c} time.
(4) In all parts of our life, we ought to have good consideration even of those who are outside of the Church.
(b) Advisedly and cautiously.
(c) Seek occasion to win them, even though you lose something of your own by it.
4:5 Walk in wisdom toward them that are without. Let your conduct be prudent and sagacious. Do not provoke persecution.
Redeeming. Buying by giving up your own pleasure.
Redeeming the time. Using every opportunity and seeking time to do them good.
4:2-6 No duties can be done aright, unless we persevere in fervent prayer, and watch therein with thanksgiving. The people are to pray particularly for their ministers. Believers are exhorted to right conduct towards unbelievers. Be careful in all converse with them, to do them good, and recommend religion by all fit means. Diligence in redeeming time, commends religion to the good opinion of others. Even what is only carelessness may cause a lasting prejudice against the truth. Let all discourse be discreet and seasonable, as becomes Christians. Though it be not always of grace, it must always be with grace. Though our discourse be of that which is common, yet it must be in a Christian manner. Grace is the salt which seasons our discourse, and keeps it from corrupting. It is not enough to answer what is asked, unless we answer aright also.
