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Author: Will

1 Thessalonians 3:6 – Fond Memories

Posted on June 14, 2012 by Will

But now that Timothy has come to us from you, and brought us good news of your faith and love, and that you always have good remembrance of us, greatly desiring to see us, as we also to see you—

Truth to Learn

Remember those who have helped you in your faith walk.

Behind the Words

The word “now” is translated from the Greek adverb arti, meaning “now, just now, or the present time.”

“Has come” is from the verb erchomai, meaning “to come” or “to go.” It is expressed here as an aorist participle, so it could be translated as “having come.”

The words “brought … good news” are from euangelidzō, which means “to announce good news.” It is the word from which we get our English word “evangelize.” Most often in the New Testament it is a reference to the good news of the gospel of Christ. Here, however, it refers to the good news about the firm faith of the Thessalonians.

“Remembrance” is translated from mneia, which refers to “a recollection” or “a specific memory about someone or something.”

Epipotheō is the Greek word translated “greatly desiring.” It is made up of epi, used as an intensifier and potheō, meaning “to desire or yearn for something.” Thus, epipotheō refers to a strong yearning or a strong desire.”

Meaning Explained

Before commenting on today’s verse, let’s look at the end of yesterday’s verse. Paul expressed concern that his labor among the Thessalonians might have been empty, or in vain. Some might interpret this as his concern that they had “lost their salvation.” This cannot be, since Paul teaches elsewhere that salvation is “eternal” and secure. Remember that the Thessalonians had been undergoing persecution, which tends to have a “weeding-out” effect on those who profess faith in Christ. Those lacking genuine faith will turn back in the face of such opposition, but true believers will grow and become stronger as a result of trials.

Today’s verse gives a clue regarding when and where this letter was written. Paul says that Timothy has just returned to him. If we look at Acts 18:5, we see that Paul was in Corinth when Timothy and Silvanus (Silas) returned to him from Macedonia. Since it was shortly after their return that Paul was taken before the proconsul Gallio, and we know from historical documents that Gallio was proconsul between AD 51 and AD 52, this letter must have been written around AD 50 or 51.

Upon his return, Timothy reported to Paul the wonderful news that not only has the Thessalonian persecution not driven people from the church, it seems to have solidified their faith. We also learn that they remembered Paul and his companions with good thoughts. This is particularly significant given the accusation that had been made against Paul.

Application

For those of you who have been Christians for a long time, do you remember the people who were significant in your conversion and early grounding in the faith? How often have you given thanks to God for their faithfulness and dedication?

In God's service, for His glory,

1 Thessalonians 3:5 – Faith Strengthening Trials

Posted on June 12, 2012 by Will

For this reason, when I could no longer endure it, I sent to know your faith, lest by some means the tempter had tempted you, and our labor might be in vain.

Truth to Learn

Trials and temptations can be good for us.

Behind the Words

“No longer” is translated from the Greek word mēketi, which is made up of mē, a particle of negation and eti, meaning “still” or “yet.” This word primarily means “not anymore.”

The word translated “endure” is stegō, which we saw in the first verse of this chapter literally means “to cover.” It can also mean “to forbear” or “to endure.”

Mēpōs is the Greek word translated “lest by some means.” It is made up of mē, a particle of negation and pōs, meaning “somehow” or “by some means.”

The word “tempter” is based on the verb peiradzō, which is derived from peira, meaning “a test, temptation, or trial.” In the Greek this is written as ho pairadzōn, which literally means “the tempting one.”

“Had tempted” is from the same verb, peiradzō. It is expressed here in the imperfect tense, indicating past continuous or repeated action.

Meaning Explained

Earlier in this chapter Paul told the Thessalonian Christians that he could no longer endure his forced separation from them and his inability to personally return to them. As a result, he said that he stayed in Athens and sent Timothy there to ensure that they were firmly grounded in the faith and to act as a coach to help them succeed in the building of their faith.

Now he tells them another reason for his sending Timothy. He says he wanted to know for sure how strong their faith was. You may recall that the Thessalonian Christians were being persecuted by their fellow countrymen in the same manner as Paul. Paul was well aware that Christians suffering persecution will either grow stronger in their faith or weaker in their faith.

Whenever we are suffering persecution for exhibiting our faith in God, our enemy Satan knows that we are very vulnerable to temptations. The most destructive temptations we face at times like these involve thinking that God has deserted us or doesn’t care about us. This is particularly true of young Christians who haven’t yet learned the value of difficulties. These difficulties force us to rely on faith to get through; they make us stronger.

In 1 Thessalonians 2:18 we learned that the name Satan means “accuser” or “adversary.” We also learned that one of his actions against us is to “hinder” us from doing the work of our ministry. Now we learn that Satan also tempts us in order to weaken our faith. The more we learn about him and his methods, the better prepared we are to resist him. Keep in mind what James said:

“My brethren, count it all joy when you fall into various trials, knowing that the testing of your faith produces patience” (James 1:2, 3)

Application

Don’t despair when you encounter opposition to your ministry. God allows this to strengthen you. Also, don’t think that because you are tempted to sin when you are weak that God doesn’t care. God loves His children and wants us to grow stronger. Remember that trials and testing can be good for us!

In God's service, for His glory,

1 Thessalonians 3:4 – Faithfully Suffering Servants

Posted on June 11, 2012 by Will

For, in fact, we told you before when we were with you that we would suffer tribulation, just as it happened, and you know.

Truth to Learn

Effective ministers of God will suffer opposition and trouble.

Behind the Words

The words “we told … before” are translated from the verb prolegō, which is made up of pro, meaning “before in time or position” and lego, meaning “to relate in words” or “to say.” Therefore, prolegō means “to say something ahead of time,” that is, “to foretell.” It is expressed here in the imperfect tense which indicates past continuous or repeated action. It could be translated as “we began telling you,” “we were telling you,” or “we used to tell you.”

“We were” is from the verb eimi, the verb of “being,” meaning “to exist.” It, too, is expressed in the imperfect tense, indicating past continual action.

The words “we would” are from the verb mellō, meaning “about to be.” It is expressed in the present tense and indicative mood, so it could be translated as “we are about to be.”

Thilbō is the Greek verb translated “suffer tribulation.” It is closely related to the word thlipsis, which we saw in the previous verse, meaning “pressure, stress, trouble, or affliction.” Thilbō means “to afflict” or “to cause to suffer tribulation.” It is expressed in the passive voice, indicating action happening to the subject.

Meaning Explained

Paul had sent Timothy to the Thessalonians to strengthen and encourage them in the face of the afflictions that Paul and his companions have been suffering. Paul was shown years before that he would suffer as a result of his ministry for God. Now that he is undergoing such tribulation, it appears it was causing the Thessalonians to be shaken in their faith. They must have thought that Paul and his companions had lost God’s blessing on their ministry because He allowed such things to happen.

In defense of the fact that he was still doing God’s work, with God’s blessing, Paul now tells his fellow Christians that he had forewarned them about it. He says, “Even when we were with you, we repeatedly told you ahead of time that these things would happen.” He knew that opposition, stress, troubles, and suffering are all part of an effective ministry. Notice that according to John’s gospel, Jesus even told His disciples,

… In the world you will have tribulation; but be of good cheer, I have overcome the world. (John 16:33b)

Paul knew that the forces of evil are powerful and will do anything to oppose God’s ministers and discourage them. He also told the Philippians that suffering was part of serving:

For to you it has been granted on behalf of Christ, not only to believe in Him, but also to suffer for His sake, (Philippians 1:29)

Application

Are you working hard to serve God faithfully? Does it seem that God has deserted you because you are facing opposition and anguish as a result? Don’t despair! God has not taken His blessing from you. He may not take you out of the storm, but he will give you peace in the midst of it. God is faithful!

In God's service, for His glory,

1 Thessalonians 3:3 – Suffering From God

Posted on June 8, 2012 by Will

that no one should be shaken by these afflictions; for you yourselves know that we are appointed to this.

Truth to Learn

Some of our suffering is because God has determined it.

Behind the Words

“No one” is translated from mēdeis. This word is made up of mē, which is a conditional negative particle meaning “not,” de, meaning “but” or “and,” and heis, the numeral “one.” Thus, this word literally means “and not one” or “no one.”

The words “should be shaken” are from the verb sainō, meaning “to move back and forth as a dog wags its tail." Figuratively, this word means “to move back and forth in the mind,” that is, “to be mentally agitated.”

“Afflictions” is from the Greek word thlipsis, which is based on the verb thilbō, meaning “to squeeze” or “to crush.” Thus, thlipsis refers to “pressure, stress, trouble, or affliction.”

The word translated “appointed” is keimai, which literally means “to lie down” or “to set in place.”

Meaning Explained

In the previous verse Paul told the Thessalonians that he had sent Timothy to them, since he was hindered from going there himself. And, he says that he sent Timothy with the expressed purpose of helping them to become firmly established and grounded in their faith. Since Paul had spent such a short time in Thessalonica, he had not been able to instruct them completely in the foundational doctrines of the Christian faith. Knowing how critical good doctrine is to a sound Christian faith and a victorious Christian life, Paul wanted to ensure that the Thessalonians began their faith walk on firm footing.

The other reason that Paul had sent Timothy was to comfort and encourage them. In today’s verse we get a hint of why Paul wanted the Thessalonians to be grounded and comforted. It was because of “these afflictions.” Now the question we have to ask ourselves is, “What afflictions is Paul talking about?” Some people may mistakenly think he’s talking about the persecution the Thessalonian Christians are going through at the hands of their countrymen. However, based on the rules of grammar and the context of surrounding verses, it is apparent that Paul is talking about the affliction that he and his companions were suffering in being hindered from returning themselves.

Paul now makes an interesting statement. He says that the Thessalonians were fully aware that these afflictions had been laid out for them. What does he mean by that? From the book of Acts we learn that at the time of Paul’s (Saul’s) conversion, the Lord told Ananias this about Paul:

For I will show him how many things he must suffer for My name's sake. (Acts 9:16)

The obvious conclusion, therefore, is that Jesus Himself determined ahead of time that Paul was going to suffer in his ministry for God.

Application

I.ve heard a number of Christians say, “Why is God allowing this to happen to me? I’m being faithful. I’m following His leading. I’m being obedient.” The reason for these afflictions (some of them at least) is not because of rebellious sinfulness, but because God determined ahead of time that they would happen. Why? So that we will get stronger and so He will get all the glory for everything we do in His name.

In God's service, for His glory,

1 Thessalonians 3:2 – Growth and Service

Posted on June 7, 2012 by Will

and sent Timothy, our brother and minister of God, and our fellow laborer in the gospel of Christ, to establish you and encourage you concerning your faith,

Truth to Learn

Christians are called both to grow in faith and to serve God through faith.

Behind the Words

The verb “sent” is from pempō, which means “to send.” The emphasis of this verb is on the point of departure, rather than the destination.

“Minister” is translated from diakonos (from which we get our English word “deacon”). This word is probably derived from diakō, meaning “to run an errand.” Therefore, diakonos refers to “a helper” or “an assistant.”

The words “fellow laborer” are from the Greek word sunergos, which is made up of sun, meaning “with” or “together with” and ergon, meaning “work” or “labor.” Thus, sunergos refers to “someone who labors together with someone else.”

Stēridzō is the word translated “establish.” It is based on the word histēmi, meaning “to stand” or “to set in place.” Stēridzō means “to set firmly in place” or “to firmly establish.”

“Encourage” is from the Greek verb parakaleō. This word is made up of para, meaning “to the side of” and kaleō, meaning “to call.” Thus, parakaleō means “to call alongside.” It is a picture of a coach or mentor who comes alongside an athlete to give advice, to comfort, to challenge, and to encourage.

Meaning Explained

We learned in yesterday’s verse that Paul endured his separation from the saints in Thessalonica as long as he could. Since he had been prevented from returning there himself, he sent Timothy to them. He refers to Timothy as a “brother” in the faith and as “an assistant.” Notice, however, that Paul does not refer to Timothy as “his” assistant, but as God’s assistant. Paul recognizes that he is not working for himself, but for God. He also recognizes that everything that he has, in terms of all things necessary for him to accomplish his task, are supplied by God. Therefore, even the people who work alongside him and assist him are not working for Paul, bur for the One who calls each one of us to our ministry. He refers to Timothy as “our fellow laborer” because he works “with” not “for” Paul.

In today’s verse Paul explains what Timothy’s assigned task is. It is two-fold: to ensure that the believers in Thessalonica are firmly grounded in the faith, and to be a coach for them. It was Timothy’s job to instruct and challenge these Christians to become more Christ-like as they grow in their faith. However, it was also his responsibility to encourage and comfort them through the growing pains and difficult times of their Christian walk.

It’s also important to note that Paul’s concern for the young Christians in Thessalonica did not focus on health, wealth, ease of life, or even self-esteem. Instead, he focused on the spiritual quality of their lives.

Application

We see two aspects of the Christian life in this verse, growing and serving. Any Christian who is not doing both of these is not being obedient to his or her Lord and Master. When you stand before Him will you be ashamed or rewarded?

In God's service, for His glory,

1 Thessalonians 3:1 – Family Ties

Posted on June 6, 2012 by Will

Therefore, when we could no longer endure it, we thought it good to be left in Athens alone,

Truth to Learn

Christians are all part of the same loving family.

Behind the Words

The words “we could no longer endure it” are translated from the Greek verb stegō. This word literally means “to cover.” It can mean “to conceal” or “to cover with silence,” that is, “to forbear” or “to endure.”

“We thought it good” is the translation of the verb eudokeō, which is made up of eu, meaning “good” or “well” and dokeō, meaning “to think.” Thus, this word means “to think good of.”

Kateleipō is the word translated “to be left.” It is composed of kata, meaning “down” but used here as an intensifier and leipō, meaning “to leave” or “to forsake.” Thus, kataleipō means “to utterly leave behind.”

“Alone” is translated from monos, which means “without others” or “alone.”

Meaning Explained

In chapter two of this letter to the Christians in Thessalonica, Paul spent considerable time and effort defending what appears to be accusations leveled against him and his companions. One of those accusations was that Paul had abandoned the Thessalonian church and that he had made no attempts to return there.

You may recall in our discussion of verse seventeen that we alluded to the fact that Paul had to be secretly ushered out of town as a result of the turmoil that was caused by people who had come from Philippi. Paul has already explained that he had repeatedly planned on returning to Thessalonica but that he had been hindered by Satan.

He has used fatherly and motherly metaphors to explain to these dear Christian brothers and sisters the anguish he had experienced as a result of his separation from them. He even referred to such separation as being like that of an orphan deprived of his or her father and mother. Therefore, because he had been prevented from returning to Thessalonica, Paul tells his beloved friends there what he did instead.

He tells them here that he endured the pain of separation as long as he could. This is a very revealing comment from the Apostle. After all, we know from his letter to the church in Philippi, written some ten or twelve years after this letter, that Paul learned to be content with whatever God provided for him. He told the Philippians:

Not that I speak in regard to need, for I have learned in whatever state I am, to be content: (Philippians 4:11)

Now he tells the Thessalonians that he was not content; he could no longer endure the separation from them and the lack of news about them. Therefore, he tells them that his plan is to be left alone at Athens and (as we learn in the next verse) to send Timothy to them.

Application

One of the wonderful aspects of the Christian life is that we get to make friends with people from all walks of life, who share our love for the Lord. And, since we are all children of our Heavenly Father, they often become as dear as brothers and sisters. Are you involved enough in your church to make close friends like this? If not, you’re missing out on a rich blessing.

In God's service, for His glory,

1 Thessalonians 2:20 – A Joyful Coming

Posted on June 5, 2012 by Will

For you are our glory and joy.

Truth to Learn

There will be rejoicing for Christians when Christ returns.

Behind the Words

The word “glory” is translated from the Greek word doxa. This word primarily means “thought” or “opinion,” especially a favorable opinion. In a secondary sense it means “reputation, praise, honor, splendor, or light.” Thus, the word doxa, as Paul uses it here, probably refers to the glory we receive as a result of God’s favorable opinion about our faithfulness in serving Him.

“Joy” is from chara, which is based on the verb chairō, meaning “to rejoice.” Chara refers to rejoicing or joy.

Meaning Explained

In the previous verse we were introduced to the idea of the “coming” of the Lord. This is not to be seen simply as a singular event, but as a period of time. This “coming” is one of the major themes of this letter to the Thessalonians. It really has several aspects with respect to Christians and to the unbelieving world.

The first aspect of Christ’s “coming” applies only to the church. It is referenced in 1 Corinthians 15:22, 23; 1 Thessalonians 4:13-18; 2 Thessalonians 2:1; and 1 John 2:28. This is Christ’s coming at the rapture, when Christians who “sleep in Jesus” will be resurrected and those of us who are alive and remain will be “caught up together” to eternally be with the Lord. Once we have been raptured, we will appear before the Judgment Seat of Christ where we will receive our rewards (in the form of crowns) for the works we have done in His name. The crown mentioned in the previous verse is sometimes referred to as the “soul winner’s crown,” since Paul seems to imply that he anticipates this reward for the gospel work he did in Thessalonica. This aspect of the “coming” is probably what Paul is describing in this verse and the previous one. It is a time when there will be glory and joy for all who have faithfully served God, even in the midst of persecution.

The second aspect of Christ’s “coming” applies to His coming to the earth in judgment of the unbelieving world. This “coming” will occur at the end of the seven year Tribulation period. References to this “coming” include Matthew 24:3, 27; 1 Thessalonians 3:13; and 2 Thessalonians 2:8. At this event Christ, as the conquering King, will come mounted on a white horse to defeat the armies who have mounted one final attack against Israel. This victorious coming is described in Revelation 19:11-15. This passage indicates that His armies are clothed in fine linen, white and clean, riding on white horses. Also, 1 Thessalonians 3:13 indicates that He will be accompanied by “all His saints.” So, the army referenced in Revelation 19:14 probably includes all who have believed in Jesus Christ as Lord and Savior (both Christians and Jews).

The final aspect of Christ’s “coming” includes our eternal presence with the Lord. This aspect of His “coming” is referred to in 1 Corinthians 15:22, 23 and 1 Thessalonians 5:23.

Application

For Christians, the “coming” of our Lord is repeatedly portrayed as a time of joyful rejoicing, of victory over sin and death, and eternally being in the physical presence of our Lord. Keep these things in mind when you suffer in this life for being a Christian and for proclaiming His word.

In God's service, for His glory,

1 Thessalonians 2:19 – Present Suffering or Future Glory?

Posted on June 4, 2012 by Will

For what is our hope, or joy, or crown of rejoicing? Is it not even you in the presence of our Lord Jesus Christ at His coming?

Truth to Learn

Keep your focus on eternity when you suffer as a Christian.

Behind the Words

Elpis is the Greek word translated “hope.” This word signifies more than just a wish that something good will happen. It also implies a full expectation of obtaining that good thing. It could be paraphrased as “hopeful expectation.”

The word “crown” is translated from stephanos, which refers to the crown or wreath awarded to the winner of an athletic event. It is distinctly different than a diadēma, which refers to a crown of royal dignity.

“Rejoicing” is from kauchēsis, meaning “to boast” or “to brag.” Kauchēsis refers to “boasting” or “glorying” in some achievement, either of self or of others.

The words “in the presence” are translated from emprosthen, which is made up of en, meaning “in,” pros, meaning “to” or “toward,” and then, denoting a direction or a place. Thus, emprosthen indicates “the place directly in front of someone.”

The word “coming” is from parousia. This word is derived from pareimi, meaning “to be present.” Parousia can refer either to the presence of something or it can refer to the coming of someone into our presence.

Meaning Explained

Apparently, the Apostle Paul had been accused of having deserted the Christians in Thessalonica and not trying to return there. In the previous couple of verses he expressed his heart wrenching separation from as having been orphaned. He also expressed the fact that he had repeatedly planned on returning there but was hindered from doing so by our adversary.

During times of persecution it is important to keep the future in view. Instead of continuing to focus on the current persecution that he and the Thessalonians were facing, Paul reminds them of the coming rewards for their persistence. He reminds them (and us) of our future hope we have in the coming of our Lord. He reminds them (and us) of the boasting, or glorying, that we will have at His coming. And, he reminds them (and us) of the eternal rewards we will receive when He comes back for us.

When Christ returns, all Christians will stand before the Judgment Seat of Christ. This is a time when our works will be judged for the purpose of finding good (1 Corinthians 3:10-15), and rewards in the form of crowns will be awarded. These rewards, and this rejoicing, will not be temporal like things in this life; these things will be eternal. Also, in recognition of the real source of all our accomplishments, we will be able to cast our crowns at His feet, proclaiming that He is the one worthy of all glory and honor (Revelation 4:10).

Application

Don’t be discouraged, my dear Christian friends, when you suffer from opposition and persecution for your Christian witness. One day we will receive rewards for our good works done in faith. And, we will be able to give recognition and glory to our Lord for His faithfulness and empowering Spirit.

In God's service, for His glory,

1 Thessalonians 2:18 – Opposition to Ministries

Posted on May 31, 2012 by Will

Therefore we wanted to come to you—even I, Paul, time and again—but Satan hindered us.

Truth to Learn

Christians’ plans may be hindered by God – or by Satan.

Behind the Words

“We wanted” is translated from a form of the verb thelō, meaning “to wish” or “to will.” However, this word implies more than just a desire. It implies purpose and determination. Therefore, we could translate this as “we determined.”

The words “time and again” are from the phrase kai hapax kai dis, which literally means “both once and twice.” This is an idiomatic phrase meaning “several times.”

“Satan” is transliterated from the word satanas, which is originally of Chaldean origin, appearing in the Old Testament as sawtawn. The word literally means “accuser” or “adversary.” In the Septuagint (the Greek translation of the Old Testament) it is often translated as diabolos (devil) and these two words are often used interchangeably.

Engkoptō is the verb translated “hindered.” It is made up of en, meaning “in” or “into” and koptō, meaning “to strike” or “to cut.” This word was used to describe the cutting of a trench in a road as a hindrance to the progress of an advancing army.

Meaning Explained

In the previous verse Paul expressed his eagerness to return to Thessalonica to be with the people there whom he considered to be his spiritual children. He now tells them that he and his co-workers were determined to return there. He makes a point here that it was not just his companions who wanted to return, but that he specifically wanted to see them in person.

We also see here that it was not just a one-time plan to return, but something they determined to do over and over again. We see from 1 Thessalonians 3:1, 2 that he had already sent Timothy back there, and probably Silvanus as well, with the purpose of encouraging and strengthening them.

Therefore, when we could no longer endure it, we thought it good to be left in Athens alone, and sent Timothy, our brother and minister of God, and our fellow laborer in the gospel of Christ, to establish you and encourage you concerning your faith, (1 Thessalonians 3:1, 2)

The reason that Paul gives for his not having personally returned to Thessalonica is hindrance from Satan. We know from the book of Acts that the Holy Spirit had prevented him from carrying out some of his plans previously (see Acts 16:6, 7). This time, however, he perceives that it was the direct opposition of our adversary which thwarted his plans. We are not told how Paul knew that it was Satan rather than the Holy Spirit, but he seems certain as to the source of the opposition.

In some Christian circles it is common to blame Satan for any and all opposition to Christian ministry. Keep in mind, however, that Satan is not omnipresent like God. He can’t be in more than one place at a time. More often than not, satanic attack comes from one of his hoards rather than Satan himself.

Application

When we face opposition in our ministries, we need to prayerfully consider whether it is the Spirit of God or our enemy who is standing in our way. If it is God, we need to make other plans. If it is our enemy, however, we need to prayerfully decide whether or not we need to stand and fight.

In God's service, for His glory,

1 Thessalonians 2:17 – Orphaned Christians

Posted on May 30, 2012 by Will

But we, brethren, having been taken away from you for a short time in presence, not in heart, endeavored more eagerly to see your face with great desire.

Truth to Learn

Persecution of Christians occurs world-wide today.

Behind the Words

The words “having been taken away” are translated from the Greek verb aporphanidzō. This word is made up of apo, meaning “from” or “away from” and orphanos (from which we get our English word orphan). Orphanos means “obscure” or “dark,” like an orphan who, without parents, was often forced to wander in obscurity and darkness. Thus, aporphanidzō means to be made alone and helpless, without parents.

“For a short time” is from the Greek words kairon horas. Kairon refers to a period of time or “a season,” and horas means “an hour.” Therefore, kairon horas literally means “a season of an hour.” Metaphorically, it means “for a short time.”

“Endeavored” is from spoudadzō, which is based on spoudē, meaning “speed, haste, or diligence.” Spoudadzō, therefore, means “to be eager, diligent, or earnest.”

The word “more” is translated from perissōs, which means “abundantly” or “exceedingly.” It implies a much greater amount than just “more.”

Both of the words “presence” and “face” are translated from prosōpon, which literally means “before your eyes.” It is the word that refers to a person’s face, but it also means “in someone’s presence” (just as we might refer to close proximity as “being in your face”).

Meaning Explained

In the last few verses Paul has been telling the Christians in Thessalonica how he, and they, have been persecuted by their fellow countrymen. They were hindered from witnessing the Gospel truth because of it. Paul and his companions even suffered physical persecution. In fact, the opposition was so great that Paul and Silas had to be scurried out of town at night:

Then the brethren immediately sent Paul and Silas away by night to Berea. (Acts 17:10a)

Paul has used the personal family metaphors of a nursing mother and a father to describe his relationship with, and love for, the Thessalonians. Now he uses even more emotional words to describe his separation from these dear people. He says, “having been taken away from you,” that is, “having been orphaned from you.” This is very descriptive of the heart wrenching pain of their sudden separation from each other.

However, Paul informs his children in the Lord that this separation is only for a short time. We don’t know for sure how long he had been gone from Thessalonica when he wrote this letter; it may have only been a few months. And we will learn in this verse and the next verse that Paul had already tried to return to Thessalonica, but he wasn’t able to. He tells his readers that he had tried very hard to return to them so that he could at least see their faces again.

Application

In some countries of the world today Christians are under heavy persecution, being imprisoned or even killed because of their desire to be obedient to God. Let’s all take a few minutes right now to pray to our Heavenly Father for protection and comfort for Christians everywhere who suffer for their faith.

In God's service, for His glory,