[2:17] 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,
[2:18] because we wanted to come to you—I, Paul, again and again—but Satan hindered us.
[2:19] For what is our hope or joy or crown of boasting before our Lord Jesus at his coming? Is it not you?
[2:20] For you are our glory and joy.
[3:1] Therefore when we could bear it no longer, we were willing to be left behind at Athens alone,
[3:2] and we sent Timothy, our brother and God’s coworker in the gospel of Christ, to establish and exhort you in your faith,
[3:3] that no one be moved by these afflictions. For you yourselves know that we are destined for this.
[3:4] 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.
[3:5] 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.