"Therefore we wanted to come to you—even I, Paul, time and again—but Satan hindered us. 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? For you are our glory and joy." vv.18-20
Read chapter 2
Satan hindered Paul from coming to the Thessalonians again. It appears in the book of Hebrews that Paul and Silas were able to and did return, but Paul not. We are not sure from few details in scripture about that as to why other than that Satan hindered.
The Thessalonians are the result of the work of the ministry of Paul, Timothy and Silas and that brought them much joy in them. Of course he hoped to see them again during his lifetime but more so at the coming of the Lord Jesus Christ. The coming here is the parousia- Christ personal presence on the earth that is yet to come. Making it there is the eternal life being forever with Christ. It's the ultimate goal that we should long for everyone. That we would work with then end goal in mind of eternal life with Christ. Who is someone you've labored for in the gospel and is your joy and crown of rejoicing? Who are people you long to see at Christ's return?
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