1 For yourselves, brethren, know our entrance in unto you, that it was not in vain:

2 But even after that we had suffered before, and were shamefully entreated, as ye know, at Philippi, we were bold in our God to speak unto you the gospel of God with much contention.

3 For our exhortation was not of deceit, nor of uncleanness, nor in guile:

4 But as we were allowed of God to be put in trust with the gospel, even so we speak; not as pleasing men, but God, which trieth our hearts.

5 For neither at any time used we flattering words, as ye know, nor a cloke of covetousness; God is witness:

6 Nor of men sought we glory, neither of you, nor yet of others, when we might have been burdensome, as the apostles of Christ.

7 But we were gentle among you, even as a nurse cherisheth her children:

8 So being affectionately desirous of you, we were willing to have imparted unto you, not the gospel of God only, but also our own souls, because ye were dear unto us.

9 For ye remember, brethren, our labour and travail: for labouring night and day, because we would not be chargeable unto any of you, we preached unto you the gospel of God.

10 Ye are witnesses, and God also, how holily and justly and unblameably we behaved ourselves among you that believe:

11 As ye know how we exhorted and comforted and charged every one of you, as a father doth his children,

12 That ye would walk worthy of God, who hath called you unto his kingdom and glory.

13 For this cause also thank we God without ceasing, because, when ye received the word of God which ye heard of us, ye received it not as the word of men, but as it is in truth, the word of God, which effectually worketh also in you that believe.

14 For ye, brethren, became followers of the churches of God which in Judaea are in Christ Jesus: for ye also have suffered like things of your own countrymen, even as they have of the Jews:

15 Who both killed the Lord Jesus, and their own prophets, and have persecuted us; and they please not God, and are contrary to all men:

16 Forbidding us to speak to the Gentiles that they might be saved, to fill up their sins alway: for the wrath is come upon them to the uttermost.

17 But we, brethren, being taken from you for a short time in presence, not in heart, endeavoured the more abundantly to see your face with great desire.

18 Wherefore we would have come unto you, even I Paul, once and again; but Satan hindered us.

19 For what is our hope, or joy, or crown of rejoicing? Are not even ye in the presence of our Lord Jesus Christ at his coming?

20 For ye are our glory and joy.

Commentary

Verse 1

Matthew Henry's Concise Bible Commentary
The apostle reminds the Thessalonians of his preaching and behaviour.
The apostle had no wordly design in his preaching. Suffering in a good cause should sharpen holy resolution. The gospel of Christ at first met with much opposition; and it was preached with contention, with striving in preaching, and against opposition. And as the matter of the apostle's exhortation was true and pure, the manner of his speaking was without guile. The gospel of Christ is designed for mortifying corrupt affections, and that men may be brought under the power of faith. This is the great motive to sincerity, to consider that God not only sees all we do, but knows our thoughts afar off, and searches the heart. And it is from this God who trieth our hearts, that we must receive our reward. The evidences of the apostle's sincerity were, that he avoided flattery and covetousness. He avoided ambition and vain-glory.
John Wesley's Bible Commentary
What was proposed, (1 Thessalonians 1:5-6) , is now more largely treated of: concerning Paul and his fellowlabourers, (1 Thessalonians 2:1-12) ; concerning the Thessalonians, (1 Thessalonians 2:13-16) .
John Calvin Bible Commentary
He now, leaving out of view the testimony of other Churches, reminds the Thessalonians of what they had themselves experienced, and explains at large in what way he, and in like manner the two others, his associates, had conducted themselves among them, inasmuch as this was of the greatest importance for confirming their faith. For it is with this view that he declares his integrity — that the Thessalonians may perceive that they had been called to the faith, not so much by a mortal man, as by God himself. He says, therefore, that hisentering in unto them had not been vain, as ambitious persons manifest much show, while they have nothing of solidity; for he employs the wordvainhere as contrasted withefficaciousHe proves this by twoarguments. Thefirstis, that he had suffered persecution and ignominy at Philippi; thesecondis, that there was a great conflict prepared at Thessalonica. We know that the minds of men are weakened, nay, are altogether broken down by means of ignominy and persecutions. It was therefore an evidence of a Divine work that Paul, after having been subjected to evils of various kinds and to ignominy, did, as if in a perfectly sound state, shew no hesitation in making an attempt upon a large and opulent city, with the view of subjecting the inhabitants of it to Christ. In thisentering in, nothing is seen that savors of vain ostentation. In theseconddepartment the same Divine power is beheld, for he does not discharge his duty with applause and favor, but required to maintain a keen conflict. In the mean time he stood firm and undaunted, from which it appears that he was held upby the hand of God; for this is what he means when he says that he wasemboldened. And, unquestionably, if all these circumstances are carefully considered, it cannot be denied that God there magnificently displayed his power. As to the history, it is to be found in the sixteenth and seventeenth chapters of the Acts. [Acts 16 17.]
McArther Bible Commentary
not in vain. Paul's ministry among the Thessalonians was so fruitful that not only were people saved and a vibrant, reproducing church planted, but the church also grew and flourished even after Paul left (cf. 1Th 1:5-8).
Bible Cross References
1 Thessalonians 1:9 2 Thessalonians 1:10

Verse 2

Matthew Henry's Concise Bible Commentary
The apostle reminds the Thessalonians of his preaching and behaviour.
The apostle had no wordly design in his preaching. Suffering in a good cause should sharpen holy resolution. The gospel of Christ at first met with much opposition; and it was preached with contention, with striving in preaching, and against opposition. And as the matter of the apostle's exhortation was true and pure, the manner of his speaking was without guile. The gospel of Christ is designed for mortifying corrupt affections, and that men may be brought under the power of faith. This is the great motive to sincerity, to consider that God not only sees all we do, but knows our thoughts afar off, and searches the heart. And it is from this God who trieth our hearts, that we must receive our reward. The evidences of the apostle's sincerity were, that he avoided flattery and covetousness. He avoided ambition and vain-glory.
John Wesley's Bible Commentary
We had suffered - In several places. We are bold - Notwithstanding. With much contention - Notwithstanding both inward and outward conflicts of all kinds.
McArther Bible Commentary
spitefully treated at Philippi. Paul and Silas had been brutalized in Philippi before coming to Thessalonica (cf. Act 16:19-24, Act 16:37). They suffered physically when beaten (Act 16:22-23) and incarcerated (Act 16:24). They were arrogantly mistreated with false accusations (Act 16:20-21) and illegally punished in spite of their Roman citizenship (Act 16:37). much conflict. Like their treatment in Philippi, Paul's team was falsely accused of civil treason in Thessalonica (Act 17:7) and suffered physical intimidation (Act 17:5-6).
Bible Cross References
Acts 14:5 Acts 16:12 Acts 16:19 Acts 16:22 Acts 17:1 Romans 1:1 2 Corinthians 3:12 Philippians 1:30

Verse 3

Matthew Henry's Concise Bible Commentary
The apostle reminds the Thessalonians of his preaching and behaviour.
The apostle had no wordly design in his preaching. Suffering in a good cause should sharpen holy resolution. The gospel of Christ at first met with much opposition; and it was preached with contention, with striving in preaching, and against opposition. And as the matter of the apostle's exhortation was true and pure, the manner of his speaking was without guile. The gospel of Christ is designed for mortifying corrupt affections, and that men may be brought under the power of faith. This is the great motive to sincerity, to consider that God not only sees all we do, but knows our thoughts afar off, and searches the heart. And it is from this God who trieth our hearts, that we must receive our reward. The evidences of the apostle's sincerity were, that he avoided flattery and covetousness. He avoided ambition and vain-glory.
John Wesley's Bible Commentary
For our exhortation - That is, our preaching. A part is put for the whole. Is not, at any time, of deceit - We preach not a lie, but the truth of God. Nor of uncleanness - With any unholy or selfish view. This expression is not always appropriated to lust, although it is sometimes emphatically applied thereto. Nor in guile - But with great plainness of speech.
John Calvin Bible Commentary
For our exhortation. He confirms, by another argument, the Thessalonians in the faith which they had embraced — inasmuch as they had been faithfully and purely instructed in the word of the Lord, for he maintains that his doctrine was free from all deception and uncleanness. And with the view of placing this matter beyond all doubt, he calls their conscience to witness. The three terms which he makes use of may, it would seem, be distinguished in this manner:imposturemay refer to the substance of doctrine,uncleannessto the affections of the heart,guileto the manner of acting. In thefirstplace, therefore, he says that they had not been deluded or imposed upon by fallacies, when they embraced the kind of doctrine that had been delivered to them by him.Secondly, he declares his integrity, inasmuch as he had not come to them under the influence of any impure desire, but actuated solely by upright disposition.Thirdly, he says that he had done nothing fraudulently or maliciously, but had, on the contrary, manifested a simplicity befitting a minister of Christ. As these things were well known to the Thessalonians, they had a sufficiently firm foundation for their faith.
McArther Bible Commentary
error or uncleanness … deceit. Paul used three distinctly different words to affirm the truthfulness of his ministry, each expressing a contrast with what was characteristic of false teachers. He first asserted that "his message" was true and not erroneously false. His "manner of life" was pure, not sexually wicked. His "method of ministry" was authentic, not deceptive (see notes on 2Co 4:2).
Bible Cross References
Acts 4:36 Acts 13:15 2 Corinthians 4:2 2 Corinthians 6:8 1 Thessalonians 4:7 2 Thessalonians 2:11

Verse 4

Matthew Henry's Concise Bible Commentary
The apostle reminds the Thessalonians of his preaching and behaviour.
The apostle had no wordly design in his preaching. Suffering in a good cause should sharpen holy resolution. The gospel of Christ at first met with much opposition; and it was preached with contention, with striving in preaching, and against opposition. And as the matter of the apostle's exhortation was true and pure, the manner of his speaking was without guile. The gospel of Christ is designed for mortifying corrupt affections, and that men may be brought under the power of faith. This is the great motive to sincerity, to consider that God not only sees all we do, but knows our thoughts afar off, and searches the heart. And it is from this God who trieth our hearts, that we must receive our reward. The evidences of the apostle's sincerity were, that he avoided flattery and covetousness. He avoided ambition and vain-glory.
John Calvin Bible Commentary
As we have been approved. He goes even a step higher, for he appeals to God as the Author of his apostleship, and he reasons in this manner: “God, when he assigned me this office, bore witness to me as a faithful servant; there is no reason, therefore, why men should have doubts as to my fidelity, which they know to have beenapproved of by God. Paul, however, does not glory in having beenapproved of, as though he were such of himself; for he does not dispute here as to what he had by nature, nor does he place his own power in collision with the grace of God, but simply says that the Gospel had been committed to him as a faithful andapprovedservant. Now, God approves of those whom he has formed for himself according to his own pleasure.Not as pleasing men. What is meant bypleasing men has been explained in the Epistle to the Galatians, (Galatians 1:10) and this passage, also, shews it admirably. For Paul contrastspleasingmen, andpleasingGod, as things that are opposed to each other. Farther, when he says —God, who trieth our hearts, he intimates, that those who endeavor to obtain the favor of men, are not influenced by an upright conscience, and do nothing from the heart. Let us know, therefore, that true ministers of the gospel ought to make it their aim to devote to God their endeavors, and to do it from the heart, not from any outward regard to the world, but because conscience tells them that it is right and proper. Thus it will be secured that they will not make it their aim toplease men, that is, that they will not act under the influence of ambition, with a view to the favor of men.
McArther Bible Commentary
approved by God. It could be that some false teachers came into the church to discredit Paul's ministry. This would account for his emphasis in verses 1Th 2:1-12 on his divine appointment, approval, integrity, and devotion to them. Cf. Act 9:15; Act 16:9-10.
Bible Cross References
Psalm 139:23 Romans 8:27 2 Corinthians 2:17 Galatians 1:10 Galatians 2:7 1 Peter 4:11

Verse 5

Matthew Henry's Concise Bible Commentary
The apostle reminds the Thessalonians of his preaching and behaviour.
The apostle had no wordly design in his preaching. Suffering in a good cause should sharpen holy resolution. The gospel of Christ at first met with much opposition; and it was preached with contention, with striving in preaching, and against opposition. And as the matter of the apostle's exhortation was true and pure, the manner of his speaking was without guile. The gospel of Christ is designed for mortifying corrupt affections, and that men may be brought under the power of faith. This is the great motive to sincerity, to consider that God not only sees all we do, but knows our thoughts afar off, and searches the heart. And it is from this God who trieth our hearts, that we must receive our reward. The evidences of the apostle's sincerity were, that he avoided flattery and covetousness. He avoided ambition and vain-glory.
John Wesley's Bible Commentary
Flattering words - This ye know. Nor a cloak of covetousness - Of this God is witness. He calls men to witness an open fact; God, the secret intentions of the heart. In a point of a mixed nature, (1 Thessalonians 2:10) , he appeals both to God and man.
John Calvin Bible Commentary
For neither have we ever. It is not without good reason that he repeats it so frequently, that the Thessalonians knew that what he states is true. For there is not a surer attestation, than the experience of those with whom we speak. And this was of the greatest importance to them, because Paul relates with what integrity he had conducted himself, with no other intention, than that his doctrine may have the greater respect, for the building up of their faith. It is, however, a confirmation of the foregoing statement, for he that is desirous toplease men, must of necessity stoop shamefully to flattery, while he that is intent upon duty with an earnest and upright disposition, will keep at a distance from all appearance of flattery.When he adds, nor for an occasion of covetousness, he means that he had not, in teaching among them, been in quest of anything in the way of personal gain.Πρόφασιςis employed by the Greeks to mean bothoccasionandpretext, but the former signification suits better with the passage, so as to be, as it were, a trap.“I have not abused the gospel so as to make it an occasion of catching at gain.” As, however, the malice of men has so many winding retreats, that avarice and ambition frequently lie concealed, he on this account calls God to witness. Now, he makes mention here of two vices, from which he declares himself to be exempt, and, in doing so, teaches that the servants of Christ should stand aloof from them. Thus, if we would distinguish the genuine servants of Christ from those that are pretended and spurious, they must be tried according to this rule, and every one that would serve Christ aright must also conform his aims and his actions to the same rule. For where avarice and ambition reign, innumerable corruptions follow, and the whole man passes away into vanity, for these are the two sources from which the corruption of the whole ministry takes its rise.
McArther Bible Commentary
flattering words. Paul used three disclaimers to affirm the purity of his motives for ministry: (1) he denied being a smooth-talking preacher who tried to make favorable impressions in order to gain influence for selfish advantage; (2) he did not pretend to be poor and work night and day (cf. 1Th 2:9) as a pretense to get rich in the ministry at their expense; and (3) he didn't use his honored position as an apostle to seek personal glory, only God's glory (cf. 1Co 10:31).
Bible Cross References
Job 16:19 Acts 20:33 Romans 1:9 1 Thessalonians 2:10 2 Peter 2:3

Verse 6

Matthew Henry's Concise Bible Commentary
The apostle reminds the Thessalonians of his preaching and behaviour.
The apostle had no wordly design in his preaching. Suffering in a good cause should sharpen holy resolution. The gospel of Christ at first met with much opposition; and it was preached with contention, with striving in preaching, and against opposition. And as the matter of the apostle's exhortation was true and pure, the manner of his speaking was without guile. The gospel of Christ is designed for mortifying corrupt affections, and that men may be brought under the power of faith. This is the great motive to sincerity, to consider that God not only sees all we do, but knows our thoughts afar off, and searches the heart. And it is from this God who trieth our hearts, that we must receive our reward. The evidences of the apostle's sincerity were, that he avoided flattery and covetousness. He avoided ambition and vain-glory.
John Wesley's Bible Commentary
Nor from others - Who would have honoured us more, if we had been burdensome - That is, taken state upon ourselves.
John Calvin Bible Commentary
When we might have exercised authority. Some interpret it—when we might have been burdensome, that is, might have loaded you with expense, but the connection requires thatτὸ βαρὺshould be taken to meanauthority. For Paul says that he was so far removed from vain pomp, from boasting, from arrogance, that he even waived his just claim, so far as the maintenance of authority was concerned. For inasmuch as he was an Apostle of Christ, he deserved to be received with a higher degree of respect, but he had refrained from all show of dignity,as though he had been some minister of the common rank. From this it appears how far removed he was from haughtiness.
McArther Bible Commentary
apostles of Christ. This plural is designed to include Paul with the twelve for the sake of emphasizing his unique authority. Silvanus and Timothy were "apostles (messengers) of the church" (cf. Rom 16:7; Php 2:25). See note on Eph 4:11. Paul's Ministry Profile Paul's ministry profile in 1 and 2 Thessalonians outlines the essential elements of effective pastoral ministry. His life among the church illustrates what a shepherd is to be and do according to God's will. The following summary of responsibilities describes Paul's ministry among the Thessalonians. 1. Praying (1Th 1:2-3; 1Th 3:9-13; 2Th 2:16-17) 2. Evangelizing (1Th 1:4-5, 1Th 1:9-10) 3. Equipping (1Th 1:6-8) 4. Defending (1Th 2:1-6) 5. Loving (1Th 2:7-8) 6. Laboring (1Th 2:9) 7. Modeling (1Th 2:10) 8. Leading (1Th 2:11-12) 9. Feeding (1Th 2:13) 10. Suffering (1Th 2:14-20) 11. Watching (1Th 3:1-8) 12. Warning (1Th 4:1-8) 13. Teaching (1Th. 4:9-5:11) 14. Exhorting (1Th 5:12-24) 15. Encouraging (2Th 1:3-12) 16. Correcting (2Th 2:1-12) 17. Rebuking (2Th 3:6; 2Th 3:14) 18. Rescuing (2Th 3:15)
Bible Cross References
John 5:41 John 5:44 1 Corinthians 9:1 1 Corinthians 9:4 2 Corinthians 4:5 Philemon 1:8

Verse 7

Matthew Henry's Concise Bible Commentary
The apostle reminds the Thessalonians of his preaching and behaviour.
Mildness and tenderness greatly recommend religion, and are most conformable to God's gracious dealing with sinners, in and by the gospel. This is the way to win people. We should not only be faithful to our calling as Christians, but in our particular callings and relations. Our great gospel privilege is, that God has called us to his kingdom and glory. The great gospel duty is, that we walk worthy of God. We should live as becomes those called with such a high and holy calling. Our great business is to honour, serve, and please God, and to seek to be worthy of him.
John Wesley's Bible Commentary
But we were gentle - Mild, tender. In the midst of you - Like a hen surrounded with her young. Even as a nurse cherisheth her own children - The offspring of her own womb.
John Calvin Bible Commentary
What we have rendered mild, the old translator rendersFuimus parvuli, (we have been little,)but the reading which I have followed is more generally received among the Greeks; but whichever you may take, there can be no doubt that he makes mention of his voluntary abasement.As if a nurse. In this comparison he takes in two points that he had touched upon — that he had sought neither glory nor gain among the Thessalonians. For a mother in nursing her infant shews nothing of power or dignity. Paul says that he was such, inasmuch as he voluntarily refrained from claiming the honor that was due to him, and with calmness and modesty stooped to every kind of office.Secondly, a mother in nursing her children manifests a certain rare and wonderful affection, inasmuch as she spares no labor and trouble, shuns no anxiety, is wearied out by no assiduity, and even with cheerfulness of spirit gives her own blood to be sucked. In the same way, Paul declares that he was so disposed towards the Thessalonians, that he was prepared to lay out his life for their benefit. This, assuredly, was not the conduct of a man that was sordid or avaricious, but of one that exercised a disinterested affection, and he expresses this in the close —because ye were dear unto usIn the mean time, we must bear in mind, that all that would be ranked among true pastors must exercise this disposition of Paul—to have more regard to the welfare of the Church than to their own life, and not be impelled to duty by a regard to their own advantage, but by a sincere love to those to whom they know that they are conjoined, and laid under obligation.
McArther Bible Commentary
gentle … as a nursing mother. Paul may have had in mind Moses' portrayal of himself as a nursing mother to Israel (cf. Num 11:12). He used the same tender picture with the Corinthians (cf. 2Co 12:14-15) and the Galatians (cf. Gal 4:19). Paul's affection for the Thessalonians was like that felt by a mother willing to sacrifice her life for her child as was Christ who was willing to give up His own life for those who would be born again into the family of God (cf. Mat 20:28)
Bible Cross References
Galatians 4:19 1 Thessalonians 2:11 2 Timothy 2:24

Verse 8

Matthew Henry's Concise Bible Commentary
The apostle reminds the Thessalonians of his preaching and behaviour.
Mildness and tenderness greatly recommend religion, and are most conformable to God's gracious dealing with sinners, in and by the gospel. This is the way to win people. We should not only be faithful to our calling as Christians, but in our particular callings and relations. Our great gospel privilege is, that God has called us to his kingdom and glory. The great gospel duty is, that we walk worthy of God. We should live as becomes those called with such a high and holy calling. Our great business is to honour, serve, and please God, and to seek to be worthy of him.
John Wesley's Bible Commentary
To impart our own souls - To lay down our lives for your sake.
Bible Cross References
Romans 1:1 2 Corinthians 12:15 1 John 3:16

Verse 9

Matthew Henry's Concise Bible Commentary
The apostle reminds the Thessalonians of his preaching and behaviour.
Mildness and tenderness greatly recommend religion, and are most conformable to God's gracious dealing with sinners, in and by the gospel. This is the way to win people. We should not only be faithful to our calling as Christians, but in our particular callings and relations. Our great gospel privilege is, that God has called us to his kingdom and glory. The great gospel duty is, that we walk worthy of God. We should live as becomes those called with such a high and holy calling. Our great business is to honour, serve, and please God, and to seek to be worthy of him.
John Calvin Bible Commentary
For ye remember. These things tend to confirm what he had stated previously — that to spare them he did not spare himself. He must assuredly have burned with a wonderful and more than human zeal, inasmuch as, along with the labor of teaching, he labors with his hand as an operative, with the view of earning a livelihood, and in this respect, also, refrained from exercising his right. For it is the law of Christ, as he also teaches elsewhere, (1 Corinthians 9:14) that every church furnish its ministers with food and other necessaries. Paul, therefore, in laying no burden upon the Thessalonians, does something more than could, from the requirements of his office, have been required from him. In addition to this, he does not merely refrain from incurring public expense, but avoids burdening any one individually. Farther, there can be no doubt, that he was influenced by some good and special consideration in thus refraining from exercising his right,for in other churches he exercised, equally with others, the liberty allowed him.He received nothing from the Corinthians, lest he should give the false apostles a handle for glorying as to this matter. In the mean time, he did not hesitate to askfrom other churches, what was needed by him, for he writes that, while he bestowed labor upon the Corinthians, free of charge, herobbedthe Churches that he did not serve. (2 Corinthians 11:8)Hence, although the reason is not expressed here, we may, nevertheless, conjecture that the ground on which Paul was unwilling that his necessities should be ministered to, was — lest such a thing should put any hindrance in the way of the gospel. For this, also, ought to be matter of concern to good pastors — that they may not merely run with alacrity in their ministry, but may, so far as is in their power, remove all hindrances in the way of their course.
McArther Bible Commentary
laboring night and day. Paul explained this in 2Th 3:7-9. He did not ask for any money from the Thessalonians but rather lived on what he earned and what the Philippians sent (Php 4:16), so that his motives could not be questioned, unlike the false teachers who always sought money (cf. 1Pe 5:2). the gospel of God. Cf. Rom 1:1. The good news from God which Paul preached included these truths: (1) the authority and truthfulness of Scripture (1Th 2:13); (2) the deity of Christ (Rom 10:9); (3) the sinfulness of mankind (Rom 3:23); (4) Christ's death and resurrection (1Co 15:4-5); and (5) salvation by God's grace through man's faith (Eph 2:8-9). Paul's summary of the gospel is in 1Co 15:1-5.
Bible Cross References
Acts 18:3 Romans 1:1 1 Corinthians 9:4 2 Corinthians 11:9 2 Corinthians 11:27 Philippians 4:16 2 Thessalonians 3:8

Verse 10

Matthew Henry's Concise Bible Commentary
The apostle reminds the Thessalonians of his preaching and behaviour.
Mildness and tenderness greatly recommend religion, and are most conformable to God's gracious dealing with sinners, in and by the gospel. This is the way to win people. We should not only be faithful to our calling as Christians, but in our particular callings and relations. Our great gospel privilege is, that God has called us to his kingdom and glory. The great gospel duty is, that we walk worthy of God. We should live as becomes those called with such a high and holy calling. Our great business is to honour, serve, and please God, and to seek to be worthy of him.
John Wesley's Bible Commentary
Holily - In the things of God. Justly - With regard to men. Unblamable - In respect of ourselves. Among you that believe - Who were the constant observers of our behaviour.
John Calvin Bible Commentary
Ye are witnesses. He again calls God and them to witness, with the view of affirming his integrity, and cites, on the one hand, God as a witness of his conscience, and them,on the other hand, as witnesses of what they had known by experience.How holily, says he,and justly, that is, with how sincere a fear of God, and with what fidelity and blamelessness towards men; and thirdly,unreproachably, by which he means that he had given no occasion of complaint or obloquy. For the servants of Christ cannot avoid calumnies, and unfavorable reports; for being hated by the world, they must of necessity be evil-spoken of among the wicked. Hence he restricts this tobelievers, who judge uprightly and sincerely, and do not revile malignantly and groundlessly.
McArther Bible Commentary
You are witnesses. Under OT law, it took two or more witnesses to verify truth (Num 35:30; Deu 17:6; Deu 19:15; 2Co 13:1). Here, Paul called on both the Thessalonians and God as witnesses to affirm his holy conduct in the ministry. Cf. 2Co 1:12.
Bible Cross References
Luke 23:41 2 Corinthians 1:12 1 Thessalonians 1:5 1 Thessalonians 2:5

Verse 11

Matthew Henry's Concise Bible Commentary
The apostle reminds the Thessalonians of his preaching and behaviour.
Mildness and tenderness greatly recommend religion, and are most conformable to God's gracious dealing with sinners, in and by the gospel. This is the way to win people. We should not only be faithful to our calling as Christians, but in our particular callings and relations. Our great gospel privilege is, that God has called us to his kingdom and glory. The great gospel duty is, that we walk worthy of God. We should live as becomes those called with such a high and holy calling. Our great business is to honour, serve, and please God, and to seek to be worthy of him.
John Wesley's Bible Commentary
By exhorting, we are moved to do a thing willingly; by comforting, to do it joyfully; by charging, to do it carefully.
John Calvin Bible Commentary
Every one as a father. He insists more especially on those things which belong to his office. He has compared himself to anurse:he now compares himself to afather. What he means is this — that he was concerned in regard to them, just as afatheris wont to be as to his sons, and that he had exercised a truly paternal care in instructing and admonishing them. And, unquestionably, no one will ever be a good pastor, unless he shews himself to be afatherto the Church that is committed to him. Nor does he merely declare himself to be such to the entire body,but even to the individual members. For it is not enough that a pastor in the pulpit teach all in common, if he does not add also particular instruction, according as necessity requires, or occasion offers. Hence Paul himself, inActs 20:26, declares himself to befree from the blood of all men, because he did not cease to admonish all publicly, and also individually in private in their own houses. For instruction given in common is sometimes of little service, and some cannot be corrected or cured without particular medicine.
McArther Bible Commentary
exhorted … comforted … charged. Paul used these three words to describe his fatherly relationship with the Thessalonians since they were his children in the faith. They emphasized the personal touch of a loving father (cf. 1Co 4:14-15).
Bible Cross References
Luke 16:28 1 Corinthians 4:14 1 Thessalonians 2:7 1 Thessalonians 4:6 1 Thessalonians 5:14 3 John 1:4

Verse 12

Matthew Henry's Concise Bible Commentary
The apostle reminds the Thessalonians of his preaching and behaviour.
Mildness and tenderness greatly recommend religion, and are most conformable to God's gracious dealing with sinners, in and by the gospel. This is the way to win people. We should not only be faithful to our calling as Christians, but in our particular callings and relations. Our great gospel privilege is, that God has called us to his kingdom and glory. The great gospel duty is, that we walk worthy of God. We should live as becomes those called with such a high and holy calling. Our great business is to honour, serve, and please God, and to seek to be worthy of him.
John Wesley's Bible Commentary
To his kingdom here, and glory hereafter.
John Calvin Bible Commentary
Exhorted. He shews with what earnestness he devoted himself to their welfare, for he relates that in preaching to them respecting piety towards God and the duties of the Christian life, it had not been merely in a perfunctory way,but he says that he had made use of exhortations andadjurations. It is a lively preaching of the gospel, when persons are not merely told what is right, but arepricked(Acts 2:37) by exhortations, and are called to the judgment-seat of God, that they may not fall asleep in their vices, for this is what is properly meant byadjuring. But if pious men, whose promptitude Paul so highly commends, stood in absolute need of being stimulated by stirring exhortations, nay,adjurations, what must be done with us, in whom sluggishnessof the flesh does more reign? In the mean time, as to the wicked, whose obstinacy is incurable, it is necessary to denounce upon them the horrible vengeance of God, not so much from hope of success, as in order that they may be rendered inexcusable.Some render the participle παραμυθουμένοι,comforted. If we adopt this rendering, he means that he made use of consolations in dealing with the afflicted, who need to be sustained by the grace of God, and refreshed by tasting of heavenly blessings,that they may not lose heart or become impatient. The other meaning, however, is more suitable to the context, that headmonished; for the three verbs, it is manifest, refer to the same thing.That ye might walk. He presents in a few words the sum and substance of his exhortations, that, in magnifying the mercy of God, he admonished them not to fail as to their calling. His commendation of the grace of God is contained in the expression,who hath called us into his kingdom. For as our salvation is founded upon God’s gracious adoption, every blessing that Christ has brought us is comprehended in this one term. It now remains that we answer God’s call, that is, that we shew ourselves to be such children to him as he is a Father to us. For he who lives otherwise than as becomes a child of God, deserves to be cut off from God’s household.
McArther Bible Commentary
His own kingdom and glory. This speaks of the sphere of eternal salvation (cf. Col 1:13-14) culminating in the splendor of heaven.
Bible Cross References
Genesis 5:22 Romans 8:28 2 Corinthians 4:6 Ephesians 4:1 1 Thessalonians 5:24 2 Thessalonians 1:10 2 Thessalonians 2:13 2 Thessalonians 2:14 1 Peter 5:10 2 Peter 1:3 3 John 1:6

Verse 13

Matthew Henry's Concise Bible Commentary
And of their receiving the gospel as the word of God.
We should receive the word of God with affections suitable to its holiness, wisdom, truth, and goodness. The words of men are frail and perishing, like themselves, and sometimes false, foolish, and fickle; but God's word is holy, wise, just, and faithful. Let us receive and regard it accordingly. The word wrought in them, to make them examples to others in faith and good works, and in patience under sufferings, and in trials for the sake of the gospel. Murder and persecution are hateful to God, and no zeal for any thing in religion can excuse it. Nothing tends more to any person or people's filling up the measure of their sins, than opposing the gospel, and hindering the salvation of souls. The pure gospel of Christ is abhorred by many, and the faithful preaching of it is hindered in many ways. But those who forbid the preaching it to sinners, to men dead in sin, do not by this please God. Those have cruel hearts, and are enemies to the glory of God, and to the salvation of his people, who deny them the Bible.
John Calvin Bible Commentary
Wherefore we give thanks. Having spoken of his ministry, he returns again to address the Thessalonians, that he may always commend that mutual harmony of which he has previously made mention.He says, therefore, that he gives thanks to God, because they hadembraced the word of God which they heard from his mouth, as the word of God, as it truly was.Now, by these expressions he means, that it has been received by them reverently, and with the obedience with which it ought. For so soon as this persuasion has gained a footing, it is impossible but that a feeling of obligation to obey takes possession of our minds.For who would not shudder at the thought of resisting God? Who would not regard contempt of God with detestation? The circumstance, therefore, that the word of God is regarded by many with such contempt, that it is scarcely held in any estimation — that many are not at all actuated by fear, arises from this, that they do not consider that they have to do with God.Hence we learn from this passage what credit ought to be given to the gospel — such as does not depend on the authority of men, but, resting on the sure and ascertained truth of God, raises itself above the world; and, in fine, is as far above mere opinion, as heaven is above earth: and,secondly, such as produces of itself reverence, fear, and obedience, inasmuch as men, touched with a feeling of Divine majesty, will never allow themselves to sport with it. Teachersare, in their turn, admonished to beware of bringing forward anything but the pure word of God, for if this was not allowable for Paul, it will not be so for any one in the present day. He proves, however, from the effect produced, that it was the word of God that he had delivered, inasmuch as it had produced that fruit of heavenly doctrine which the Prophets celebrate, (Isaiah 55:11,13;Jeremiah 23:29) in renewing their life,for the doctrine of men could accomplish no such thing. The relative pronoun may be taken as referring either toGodor to hisword, but whichever way you choose, the meaning will come all to one, for as the Thessalonians felt in themselves a Divine energy, which proceeded from faith, they might rest assured that what they had heard was not a mere sound of the human voice vanishing into air, but the living and efficacious doctrine of God.As to the expression, the word of the preaching of God, it means simply, as I have rendered it,the word of God preached by man.For Paul meant to state expressly that they had not looked upon the doctrine as contemptible, although it had proceeded from the mouth of a mortal man, inasmuch as they recognized God as the author of it. He accordingly praises the Thessalonians, because they did not rest in mere regard for the minister. but lifted up their eyes to God, that they might receive his word. Accordingly, I have not hesitated to insert the particleut, (that,) which served to make the meaning more clear. There is a mistake on the part of Erasmus in rendering it, “the word of the hearing of God,” as if Paul meant that God had been manifested. He afterwards changed it thus, “the word by which you learned God,” for he did not advert to the Hebrew idiom.
McArther Bible Commentary
the word of God. Paul's message from God is equated with the OT (Mar 7:13). It was the message taught by the apostles (Act 4:31; Act 6:2). Peter preached it to the Gentiles (Act 11:1). It was the word Paul preached on his first missionary journey (Act 13:5, Act 13:7, Act 13:44, Act 13:48-49), his second (Act 16:32; Act 17:13; Act 18:11), and his third (Act 19:10). Cf. Col 1:25. effectively works. The work of God's Word includes: saving (Rom 10:17; 1Pe 1:23); teaching and training (2Ti 3:16-17); guiding (Psa 119:105); counseling (Psa 119:24); reviving (Psa 119:154); restoring (Psa 19:7); warning and rewarding (Psa 19:11); nourishing (1Pe 2:2); judging (Heb 4:12); sanctifying (Joh 17:17); freeing (Joh 8:31-32); enriching (Col 3:16); protecting (Psa 119:11); strengthening (Psa 119:28); making wise (Psa 119:97-100); rejoicing the heart (Psa 19:8); and prospering (Jos 1:8-9). All this is summarized in Psa 19:7-9 (see notes there).
Bible Cross References
Haggai 1:12 Matthew 10:20 Romans 1:8 Romans 10:17 Galatians 4:14 1 Thessalonians 1:2 Hebrews 4:2 Hebrews 4:12

Verse 14

Matthew Henry's Concise Bible Commentary
And of their receiving the gospel as the word of God.
We should receive the word of God with affections suitable to its holiness, wisdom, truth, and goodness. The words of men are frail and perishing, like themselves, and sometimes false, foolish, and fickle; but God's word is holy, wise, just, and faithful. Let us receive and regard it accordingly. The word wrought in them, to make them examples to others in faith and good works, and in patience under sufferings, and in trials for the sake of the gospel. Murder and persecution are hateful to God, and no zeal for any thing in religion can excuse it. Nothing tends more to any person or people's filling up the measure of their sins, than opposing the gospel, and hindering the salvation of souls. The pure gospel of Christ is abhorred by many, and the faithful preaching of it is hindered in many ways. But those who forbid the preaching it to sinners, to men dead in sin, do not by this please God. Those have cruel hearts, and are enemies to the glory of God, and to the salvation of his people, who deny them the Bible.
John Wesley's Bible Commentary
Ye suffered the same things - The same fruit, the same afflictions, and the same experience, at all times, and in all places, are an excellent criterion of evangelical truth. As they from the Jews - Their countrymen.
John Calvin Bible Commentary
For ye became imitators. If you are inclined to restrict this to the clause in immediate connection with it, the meaning will be, that the power of God, or of his word, shews itself in their patient endurance, while they sustain persecutions with magnanimity and undaunted courage. I prefer, however, to view it as extending to the whole of the foregoing statement, for he confirms what he has stated, that the Thessalonians had in good earnest embraced the gospel, as being presented to them by God, inasmuch as they courageously endured the assaults which Satan made upon them, and did not refuse to suffer anything rather than leave off obedience to it. And, unquestionably, this is no slight test of faith when Satan, by all his machinations, has no success in moving us away from the fear of God.In the mean time, he prudently provides against a dangerous temptation which might prostrate or harass them; for they endured grievous troubles from that nation which was the only one in the world that gloried in the name of God. This, I say, might occur to their minds: “If this is the true religion, why do the Jews, who are the sacred people of God, oppose it with such inveterate hostility?” With the view of removing this occasion of offense, he, in thefirstplace, shews them that they have this in common with the firstChurches that were in Judea:afterwards, he says that the Jews are determined enemies of God and of all sound doctrine. For although, when he says that they suffered fromtheir own countrymen, this may be explained as referring to others rather than to the Jews, or at least ought not to be restricted to the Jews exclusively, yet as he insists farther in describing their obstinacy and impiety, it is manifest that these same persons are adverted to by him from the beginning. It is probable, that at Thessalonica some from that nation were converted to Christ. It appears, however, from the narrative furnished in the Acts, thatthere, no less than in Judea, the Jews were persecutors of the gospel. I accordingly take this as being said indiscriminately of Jews as well as of Gentiles, inasmuch as both endured great conflicts and fierce attacks fromtheir own countrymen
McArther Bible Commentary
imitators. Not only were the Thessalonians imitators of Paul and the Lord (cf. 1Th 1:6), but also of the churches in Judea in the sense that they both were persecuted for Christ's sake (cf. Act 4:1-4; Act 5:26; Act 8:1). They drank Christ's cup of suffering (Mat 26:39) and walked in the way of the OT prophets (Mat 21:33-46; Luk 13:34).
Bible Cross References
Acts 13:50 Acts 14:2 Acts 14:4 Acts 14:5 Acts 14:19 Acts 17:5 Acts 18:12 1 Corinthians 7:17 1 Corinthians 10:32 Galatians 1:22 1 Thessalonians 1:6 1 Thessalonians 3:4 2 Thessalonians 1:4 Hebrews 10:33

Verse 15

Matthew Henry's Concise Bible Commentary
And of their receiving the gospel as the word of God.
We should receive the word of God with affections suitable to its holiness, wisdom, truth, and goodness. The words of men are frail and perishing, like themselves, and sometimes false, foolish, and fickle; but God's word is holy, wise, just, and faithful. Let us receive and regard it accordingly. The word wrought in them, to make them examples to others in faith and good works, and in patience under sufferings, and in trials for the sake of the gospel. Murder and persecution are hateful to God, and no zeal for any thing in religion can excuse it. Nothing tends more to any person or people's filling up the measure of their sins, than opposing the gospel, and hindering the salvation of souls. The pure gospel of Christ is abhorred by many, and the faithful preaching of it is hindered in many ways. But those who forbid the preaching it to sinners, to men dead in sin, do not by this please God. Those have cruel hearts, and are enemies to the glory of God, and to the salvation of his people, who deny them the Bible.
John Wesley's Bible Commentary
Us - Apostles and preachers of the gospel. They please not God - Nor are they even careful to please him, notwithstanding their fair professions. And are contrary to all men - Are common enemies of mankind; not only by their continual seditions and insurrections, and by their utter contempt of all other nations; but in particular, by their endeavouring to hinder their hearing or receiving the gospel.
John Calvin Bible Commentary
Who killed the Lord Jesus. As that people had been distinguished by so many benefits from God, in consequence of the glory of the ancient fathers, the very namewas of great authority among many. Lest this disguise should dazzle the eyes of any one, he strips the Jews of all honor, so as to leave them nothing but odium and the utmost infamy.“Behold,” says he, “the virtues for which they deserve praise among the good and pious! — they killed their own prophets and at last the Son of God, they have persecuted me his servant, they wage war with God, they are detested by the whole world, they are hostile to the salvation of the Gentiles; in fine, they are destined to everlasting destruction.” It is asked, why he says that Christ and the prophets were killed by the same persons? I answer, that this refers to the entire body, for Paul means that there is nothing new or unusual in their resisting God, but that, on the contrary, they are, in this manner,filling up the measure of their fathers, as Christ speaks. (Matthew 23:32)
McArther Bible Commentary
who killed … the Lord Jesus. There is no question that the Jews were responsible for the death of their Messiah, though the Romans carried out the execution. It was the Jews who brought the case against Him and demanded His death (cf. Luk 23:1-24, Luk 23:34-38), just as they had killed the prophets (cf. Mat 22:37; Mar 5:1-8; Act 7:51-52).
Bible Cross References
Jeremiah 2:30 Matthew 5:12 Luke 24:20 Acts 2:23 Acts 7:52 2 Corinthians 11:26

Verse 16

Matthew Henry's Concise Bible Commentary
And of their receiving the gospel as the word of God.
We should receive the word of God with affections suitable to its holiness, wisdom, truth, and goodness. The words of men are frail and perishing, like themselves, and sometimes false, foolish, and fickle; but God's word is holy, wise, just, and faithful. Let us receive and regard it accordingly. The word wrought in them, to make them examples to others in faith and good works, and in patience under sufferings, and in trials for the sake of the gospel. Murder and persecution are hateful to God, and no zeal for any thing in religion can excuse it. Nothing tends more to any person or people's filling up the measure of their sins, than opposing the gospel, and hindering the salvation of souls. The pure gospel of Christ is abhorred by many, and the faithful preaching of it is hindered in many ways. But those who forbid the preaching it to sinners, to men dead in sin, do not by this please God. Those have cruel hearts, and are enemies to the glory of God, and to the salvation of his people, who deny them the Bible.
John Wesley's Bible Commentary
To fill up - The measure of their sins always, as they have ever done. But the vengeance of God is come upon them - Hath overtaken them unawares, whilst they were seeking to destroy others, and will speedily complete their destruction.
John Calvin Bible Commentary
Who hinder us from speaking to the Gentiles. It is not without good reason that, as has been observed, he enters so much into detail in exposing the malice of the Jews.For as they furiously opposed the Gospel everywhere, there arose from this a great stumblingblock, more especially as they exclaimed that the gospel was profaned by Paul, when he published it among the Gentiles. By this calumny they made divisions in the Churches, they took away from the Gentiles the hope of salvation, and they obstructed the progress of the gospel. Paul, accordingly, charges them with this crime — that they regard the salvation of the Gentiles with envy, but adds, that matters are so, in order that theirsins may be filled up, that he may take away from them all reputation for piety; just as in saying previously, that theypleased not God, (1 Thessalonians 2:15) he meant, that they were unworthy to be reckoned among the worshippers of God. The manner of expression, however, must be observed, implying that those who persevere in an evil course fill up by this means the measure of their judgment,until they come to make it a heap. This is the reason why the punishment of the wicked is often delayed — because their impieties, so to speak, are not yet ripe. By this we are warned that we must carefully take heed lest, in the event of our adding from time to timesin to sin, as is wont to happen generally, the heap at last reaches as high as heaven.For wrath has come. He means that they are in an utterly hopeless state, inasmuch as they are vessels of the Lord’s wrath. “The just vengeance of God presses upon them and pursues them, and will not leave them until they perish — as is the case with all the reprobate, who rush on headlong to death, to which they are destined.” The Apostle, however, makes this declaration as to the entire body of the people, in such a manner as not to deprive the elect of hope. For as the greater proportion resisted Christ, he speaks, it is true, of the whole nation generally, but we must keep in view the exception which he himself makes inRomans 11:5, — that the Lord will always have some seed remaining. We must always keep in view Paul’s design — that believers must carefully avoid the society of those whom the just vengeance of God pursues, until they perish in their blind obstinacy.Wrath, without any additional term, means the judgment of God, as inRomans 4:15, —the law worketh wrath; also inRomans 12:19, —neither give place unto wrath
McArther Bible Commentary
wrath has come upon them. God's wrath (cf. 1Th 1:10; 1Th 5:9) on the Jews who "pile up their sins to the maximum limit" (cf. Mat 23:32; Rom 2:5), thus filling up the cup of wrath, can be understood: (1) historically of the Babylonian exile (Ezek. 8-11); (2) prophetically of Jerusalem's destruction in A.D. 70; (3) eschatologically of Christ's second coming in judgment (Rev. 19); or (4) soteriologically in the sense that God's promised eternal wrath for unbelievers is so certain that it is spoken of as having come already as does the apostle John (cf. Joh 3:18, Joh 3:36). This context relates to the fourth option.
Bible Cross References
Genesis 15:16 Daniel 8:23 Matthew 23:32 Acts 9:23 Acts 13:45 Acts 13:50 Acts 14:2 Acts 14:5 Acts 17:5 Acts 17:13 Acts 18:12 Acts 21:21 Acts 21:27 Acts 22:22 Acts 23:12 Acts 24:9 Acts 25:2 Acts 25:7 1 Corinthians 10:33 1 Thessalonians 1:10

Verse 17

Matthew Henry's Concise Bible Commentary
His joy on their account.
This world is not a place where we are to be always, or long together. In heaven holy souls shall meet, and never part more. And though the apostle could not come to them yet, and thought he might never be able to come, yet our Lord Jesus Christ will come; nothing shall hinder that. May God give faithful ministers to all who serve him with their spirit in the gospel of his Son, and send them to all who are in darkness
John Wesley's Bible Commentary
In this verse we have a remarkable instance, not so much of the transient affections of holy grief, desire, or joy, as of that abiding tenderness, that loving temper, which is so apparent in all St. Paul's writings, towards those he styles his children in the faith. This is the more carefully to be observed, because the passions occasionally exercising themselves, and flowing like a torrent, in the apostle, are observable to every reader; whereas it requires a nicer attention to discern those calm standing tempers, that fixed posture of his soul, from whence the others only flow out, and which more peculiarly distinguish his character.
John Calvin Bible Commentary
But we, brethren, bereaved of you. This excuse has been appropriately added, lest the Thessalonians should think that Paul had deserted them while so great an emergency demanded his presence. He has spoken of the persecutions which they endured from their own people: he, in the mean time, whose duty it was above all others to assist them, was absent. He has formerly called himself afather;now, it is not the part of afatherto desert his children in the midst of such distresses. He, accordingly, obviates all suspicion of contempt and negligence, by saying, that it was from no want of inclination, but because he had not opportunity. Nor does he say simply, “I was desirous to come to you, but my way was obstructed;” but by the peculiar terms that he employs he expresses the intensity of his affection: “When,” says he, “I wasbereavedof you.”By the wordbereaved, he declares how sad and distressing a thing it was to him to be absent from them.This is followed by a fuller expression of his feeling of desire — that it was with difficulty that he could endure their absence for a short time. It is not to be wondered, if length of time should occasion weariness or sadness; but we must have a strong feeling of attachment when we find it difficult to wait even a single hour. Now, by thespace of an hour, he means — a small space of time.This is followed by a correction — that he had been separated from them in appearance, not in heart, that they may know that distance of place does not by any means lessen his attachment. At the same time, this might not less appropriately be applied to the Thessalonians, as meaning that they, on their part, had felt united inmindwhile absent inbody;for it was of no small importance for the point in hand that he should state how fully assured he was of their affection towards him in return. He shews, however, more fully his affection, when he says that heendeavored the more abundantly;for he means that his affection was so far from being diminished by his leaving them, that it had been the more inflamed. When he says,we would once and again, he declares that it was not a sudden heat, that quickly cooled, (as we see sometimes happen,) but that he had been steadfast in this purpose,inasmuch as he sought various opportunities.
McArther Bible Commentary
having been taken away. Paul had been forcedly separated from his spiritual children (cf. Act 17:5-9). His motherly (1Th 2:7) and fatherly instincts (1Th 2:11) had been dealt a severe blow. Literally, the Thessalonians had been orphaned by Paul's forced departure.
Bible Cross References
Luke 12:58 1 Corinthians 5:3 1 Thessalonians 3:10

Verse 18

Matthew Henry's Concise Bible Commentary
His joy on their account.
This world is not a place where we are to be always, or long together. In heaven holy souls shall meet, and never part more. And though the apostle could not come to them yet, and thought he might never be able to come, yet our Lord Jesus Christ will come; nothing shall hinder that. May God give faithful ministers to all who serve him with their spirit in the gospel of his Son, and send them to all who are in darkness
John Wesley's Bible Commentary
Satan - By those persecuting Jews, (Acts 17:13) .
John Calvin Bible Commentary
wrestle not with flesh and blood, but with principalities of the air, and spiritual wickednesses, etc.For, whenever the wicked molest us, they fight under Satan’s banner, and are his instruments for harassing us. More especially, when our endeavors are directed to the work of the Lord, it is certain that everything that hinders proceeds from Satan; and would to God that this sentiment were deeply impressed upon the minds of all pious persons — that Satan is continually contriving, by every means, in what way he may hinder or obstruct the edification of the Church! We would assuredly be more careful to resist him; we would take more care to maintain sound doctrine, of which that enemy strives so keenly to deprive us. We would also, whenever the course of the gospel is retarded, know whence the hindrance proceeds. He says elsewhere, (Romans 1:13) that God had not permitted him, but both are true: for although Satan does his part, yet God retains supreme authority, so as to open up a way for us, as often as he sees good, against Satan’s will, and in spite of his opposition. Paul accordingly says truly that God does not permit, although the hindrance comes from Satan.
McArther Bible Commentary
Satan hindered us. Satan, which means "adversary," continually attempted to tear down the church that Christ promised to build (cf. Mat 16:18). He was said to be present at the churches of Jerusalem (Act 5:1-10), Smyrna (Rev 2:9-10), Pergamum (Rev 2:13), Thyatira (Rev 2:24), Philadelphia (Rev 3:9), Ephesus (1Ti 3:6-7), and Corinth (2Co 2:1-11). He thwarted Paul in the sense that a military foe would hinder the advance of his enemy. This could possibly refer to the pledge that Jason made (Act 17:9), if that pledge was a promise that Paul would not return to Thessalonica.
Bible Cross References
Matthew 4:10 Romans 1:13 Romans 15:22 Philippians 4:16

Verse 19

Matthew Henry's Concise Bible Commentary
His joy on their account.
This world is not a place where we are to be always, or long together. In heaven holy souls shall meet, and never part more. And though the apostle could not come to them yet, and thought he might never be able to come, yet our Lord Jesus Christ will come; nothing shall hinder that. May God give faithful ministers to all who serve him with their spirit in the gospel of his Son, and send them to all who are in darkness
John Wesley's Bible Commentary
Ye also - As well as our other children.
John Calvin Bible Commentary
For what is our hope. He confirms that ardor of desire, of which he had made mention, inasmuch as he has his happiness in a manner treasured up in them. “Unless I forget myself, I must necessarily desire your presence,for ye are our glory and joy.” Farther, when he calls them hishope and the crown of his glory, we must not understand this as meaning that he gloried in any one but God alone, but because we are allowed to glory in all God’s favors, in their own place, in such a manner that he is always our object of aim, as I have explained more at large in thefirstEpistle to the Corinthians.We must, however, infer from this, that Christ’s ministers will, on the last day, according as they have individually promoted his kingdom, be partakers of glory and triumph. Let them therefore now learn to rejoice and glory in nothing but the prosperous issue of their labors, when they see that the glory of Christ is promoted by their instrumentality. The consequence will be, that they will be actuated by that spirit of affection to the Church with which they ought. The particlealsodenotes that the Thessalonians were not the only persons in whom Paul triumphed, but that they held a place among many. The causal particleγάρ, (for,) which occurs almost immediately afterwards, is employed here not in its strict sense, by way of affirmation—”assuredlyyou are.”
McArther Bible Commentary
crown of rejoicing. The Bible speaks of eternal life like a wreath awarded for an athletic victory. It is spoken of in terms of: (1) the imperishable wreath that celebrates salvation's victory over corruption (1Co 9:25); (2) the righteous wreath that celebrates salvation's victory over unrighteousness (2Ti 4:8); (3) the unfading wreath of glory that celebrates salvation's victory over defilement (1Pe 5:4); (4) the wreath of life that celebrates salvation's victory over death (Jas 1:12, Rev 2:10); and here (5) the wreath of exultation which celebrates salvation's victory over Satan and mankind's persecution of believers. at His coming. "Coming" or parousia literally means "to be present." It can be understood as: (1) actual presence (Php 2:2); (2) moment of arrival (1Co 16:17); or (3) expected coming (2Co 7:6). In regard to Christ and the future, it can refer to: (1) Christ's coming at the rapture (1Th 4:15), or (2) Christ's second coming prior to His 1,000 year millennial reign (Mat 24:37; Rev. 19:11-20:6). Paul referred directly to Christ's coming four times in 1 Thessalonians (see also 1Th 3:13; 1Th 4:15; 1Th 5:23) and once indirectly (1Th 1:10). Context indicates Paul most likely refers here to Christ's coming for the rapture of the church.
Bible Cross References
Isaiah 62:3 Matthew 16:27 Mark 8:38 John 21:22 1 Corinthians 15:23 Philippians 4:1 1 Thessalonians 3:13 1 Thessalonians 4:15 1 Thessalonians 5:23 2 Thessalonians 1:4 2 Thessalonians 2:1 James 5:7 James 5:8 2 Peter 1:16 2 Peter 3:4 1 John 2:28

Verse 20

Matthew Henry's Concise Bible Commentary
His joy on their account.
This world is not a place where we are to be always, or long together. In heaven holy souls shall meet, and never part more. And though the apostle could not come to them yet, and thought he might never be able to come, yet our Lord Jesus Christ will come; nothing shall hinder that. May God give faithful ministers to all who serve him with their spirit in the gospel of his Son, and send them to all who are in darkness
Bible Cross References
2 Corinthians 1:14 1 Thessalonians 3:1