1 Thessalonians 2:17-20
New English Translation
Forced Absence from Thessalonica
17 But when we were separated from you, brothers and sisters,[a] for a short time (in presence, not in affection)[b] we became all the more fervent in our great desire[c] to see you in person.[d] 18 For we wanted to come to you (I, Paul, in fact tried again and again)[e] but Satan thwarted us. 19 For who is our hope or joy or crown to boast of[f] before our Lord Jesus at his coming? Is it not of course you? 20 For you are our glory and joy!
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- 1 Thessalonians 2:17 tn Grk “brothers.” See note on the phrase “brothers and sisters” in 1:4.
- 1 Thessalonians 2:17 tn Grk “in face, not in heart.”
- 1 Thessalonians 2:17 tn Grk “with great desire.”
- 1 Thessalonians 2:17 tn Grk “to see your face.”
- 1 Thessalonians 2:18 tn Or “several times”; Grk, “both once and twice.” The literal expression “once and twice” is frequently used as a Greek idiom referring to an indefinite low number, but more than once (“several times”); see L&N 60.70.
- 1 Thessalonians 2:19 sn Crown to boast of (Grk “crown of boasting”). Paul uses boasting or exultation to describe the Christian’s delight in being commended for faithful service by the Lord at his return (1 Cor 9:15-16; 2 Cor 1:12-14; 10:13-18; Phil 2:16; and 1 Cor 3:14; 4:5).
1 Thessalonians 2:17-20
New Revised Standard Version Updated Edition
Paul’s Desire to Visit the Thessalonians Again
17 As for us, brothers and sisters, when for a short time we were made orphans by being separated from you—in person, not in heart—we longed with great eagerness to see you face to face.(A) 18 For we wanted to come to you—certainly I, Paul, wanted to again and again—but Satan blocked our way.(B) 19 For what is our hope or joy or crown of boasting before our Lord Jesus at his coming? Is it not you?(C) 20 Yes, you are our glory and joy!
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