1 Thessalonians 2:18

An Understandable Version (2005 edition)

For we [really] wanted to come to you [and] I, Paul, [even tried to come] more than once, but Satan prevented us. [Note: This was probably accomplished through the influence of certain people or circumstances].

Cross References

Matthew 4:10

Then Jesus replied to him, “Get away from me Satan, for it is written [Deut. 6:13], ‘You are supposed to worship the Lord your God, and serve only Him.’”

Romans 1:13

And I want you to be aware, brothers, of how frequently I [had] planned to visit you (but was prevented from doing so until now). I wanted to come in order to bear some fruit [i.e., make additional converts] among you, just as I have done among the other Gentiles [i.e., unconverted people].

Romans 15:22

This is why I have been so often hindered from coming to you.

1 Corinthians 16:21

These greetings are being written with my own hand. [See II Thess. 3:17].

Philippians 4:16

For even [when I was] in Thessalonica, you sent [money] more than once to meet my needs.

Colossians 4:18

This greeting [is being written] by me, Paul, in my own handwriting. Remember my imprisonment. [Note: This was probably a request for them to pray for him]. May God’s favor be with you.

2 Thessalonians 3:17

This greeting [is being written] by me, Paul, in my own handwriting; it is the signature I write in every letter.

Philemon 1:9

yet out of [mutual] love, I appeal to you [to do what I ask]. For I Paul, am an old man, and now also a prisoner of Christ Jesus. [Note: Most calculations suggest that Paul was approximately 60 years old, which was considered a relatively advanced age in that day].

Revelation 2:10

Do not be afraid of the things you are about to suffer. [For] look, the devil is about to throw some of you into prison, so that you may be tested, and you will suffer persecution for ten days. [But], you should be faithful [to God] even to the point of dying [for Him], and I will give you the crown of [never ending] life.