1Th 2:17 | MHM | STEP | Effects of the Christian Ministry. In this section, Paul explains why he has been away from the Thessalonians. He shares his deep love and longing for them, and reminds them that their relationship is special in the eyes of Christ. Paul assures them that, even though he cannot be with them in person, they are always in his heart. He also points out that even when people are separated, they will be reunited when Jesus returns. v. 17 : Paul tells the Thessalonians that he was forced to leave them: We, brethren, were taken from you (1 Thessalonians 2:17 ). He did not want to go, but his enemies made him leave. In fact, he was sent away by night to Berea (Acts 17:10 ). Even though he was not with them physically, he was still thinking about them and cared for them deeply. He says this absence was only for a short time, reminding them that life on earth is short and uncertain. True believers will be together forever in heaven.

‏ 1 Thessalonians 2:17

Effects of the Christian Ministry.

In this section, Paul explains why he has been away from the Thessalonians. He shares his deep love and longing for them, and reminds them that their relationship is special in the eyes of Christ. Paul assures them that, even though he cannot be with them in person, they are always in his heart. He also points out that even when people are separated, they will be reunited when Jesus returns.

v. 17: Paul tells the Thessalonians that he was forced to leave them: We, brethren, were taken from you (1 Thessalonians 2:17 ^a). He did not want to go, but his enemies made him leave. In fact, he was sent away by night to Berea (Acts 17:10 ^b). Even though he was not with them physically, he was still thinking about them and cared for them deeply. He says this absence was only for a short time, reminding them that life on earth is short and uncertain. True believers will be together forever in heaven.