1 Thessalonians 2:17-3:5

Evangelical Heritage Version

Paul’s Desire to See the Thessalonians

¹⁷ As for us, brothers, after we were separated from you like orphans for just a short time (in person, not in our heart), it was with great desire that we made every effort to see you again in person. ¹⁸ For we wanted to come to you (I, Paul, wanted this, not just once, but twice), but Satan hindered us. ¹⁹ Indeed, who is our hope or joy or crown about which we boast before our Lord Jesus when he returns? Is it not you? ²⁰ Yes, you are our glory and our joy.

Timothy’s Mission and Good Report

3 So, when we could not stand it any longer, we thought it best to remain behind in Athens alone, ² and we sent Timothy, our brother and coworker for God in the gospel of Christ.^[a] We sent him to strengthen and encourage you in your faith, ³ so that no one will be shaken by these trials, for you know well that we are destined for this. ⁴ In fact, even when we were with you, we told you ahead of time that we were going to suffer, and it happened just that way, as you know. ⁵ This is why, when I could not stand it any longer, I sent to find out about your faith, because I was afraid that somehow the Tempter had tempted you and our labor might have been for nothing.