Keraia
1 Thessalonians 2

1 Thessalonians 2:18

Paul’s Longing to Visit · 1 Thessalonians 2:17–20
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Translations

Modern
For we wanted to come to you—indeed I, Paul, tried again and again—but Satan obstructed us.
Traditional
Wherefore we would have come unto you, even I Paul, once and again; but Satan hindered us.
Literal
Therefore we wanted to come to you—indeed I, Paul, both once and twice—and Satan obstructed us.
Latin
…quoniam voluimus venire ad vos, ego quidem Paulus, et semel, et iterum: sed impedivit nos Satanas.

Original

Greek
English
For we wanted to come to you—indeed I, Paul, tried again and again—but Satan obstructed us.

Notes

1 Thessalonians 2:18

Paul tried to return to the Thessalonian church many times. Despite Satan's opposition, both Timothy and Paul eventually visited the church again (see Romans 16:20; 2 Corinthians 2:11; Ephesians 6:10–12; 1 Thessalonians 3:2, 5; Acts 20:1–3).

1 Thessalonians 2:1–3:13

The letter begins by discussing the character of Paul and his associates, as well as how the Thessalonians accepted the good news (2:1–12; 13–16).

It emphasizes Paul’s genuine care for the church, mentioning:

  • his efforts to visit them again (2:17–20), and

  • his choice to send Timothy when he could not go himself (3:1–5).

It concludes with the apostle Paul’s happiness about Timothy’s positive report and his prayers to return to the church (3:6–9; 10–13). This detailed defense addresses criticisms of Paul’s sudden departure and long absence.

Theme notes and profiles

Paul (Saul) Overcoming the Devil

People

Paul: Apostle to the Gentiles, author of many NT epistles Satan: The adversary, the devil, the tempter of humanity

Glossary

First Letter to the Thessalonians Satan

Topics

Love: Exemplification of the Love of Man for Man Satan: Unclassified Scriptures Relating To The Devil: Opposes God's Work