How I Love My Church Family

How We Feel Apart

1 Thessalonians 2:17

1 Thessalonians 2:17 ESV

But since we were torn away from you, brothers, for a short time, in person not in heart, we endeavored the more eagerly and with great desire to see you face to face,

What Keeps Us Apart?

1 Thessalonians 2:18

1 Thessalonians 2:18 ESV

because we wanted to come to you—I, Paul, again and again—but Satan hindered us.

Why Do We Want to Be Together?

1 Thessalonians 2:19–20 ESV

For what is our hope or joy or crown of boasting before our Lord Jesus at his coming? Is it not you? For you are our glory and joy.

Why Do We Need to Be Together?

1 Thessalonians 3:1–5 ESV

Therefore when we could bear it no longer, we were willing to be left behind at Athens alone, and we sent Timothy, our brother and God’s coworker in the gospel of Christ, to establish and exhort you in your faith, that no one be moved by these afflictions. For you yourselves know that we are destined for this. For when we were with you, we kept telling you beforehand that we were to suffer affliction, just as it has come to pass, and just as you know. For this reason, when I could bear it no longer, I sent to learn about your faith, for fear that somehow the tempter had tempted you and our labor would be in vain.

We can’t stand being apart—3:1

We want to strengthen—3:2

We want to encourage—3:2

We want to endure affliction—3:3-4

We want to withstand temptation—3:5

How Do We Feel Together?