Albert Barnes Commentary 1 Thessalonians 2:17

"But we, brethren, being bereaved of you for a short season, in presence not in heart, endeavored the more exceedingly to see your face with great desire:" — 1 Thessalonians 2:17 (ASV)

But we, brothers, being taken from you. There is more implied in the Greek word translated here as "being taken from you"—aporfanisyentev—than appears from our translation. It properly relates to the condition of an orphan , or one who is bereaved of parents.

Then it is used in a more general sense, meaning to be bereaved of. In this place, it does not mean merely that he was "taken from them," but it includes the idea that it was like a painful bereavement. It was a state like that of one who had lost a parent. Perhaps no word could have expressed stronger attachment to them.

For a short time. Greek: 'For the time of an hour;' that is, for a brief period. The meaning is that when he left them, he supposed it would be only for a short time.

The fact seems to have been (Acts 17:10) that it was supposed, when Paul was sent to Berea, that circumstances would soon allow him to return safely to Thessalonica. He was "sent" there by those who thought it was necessary for the safety of some of his friends at Thessalonica, and he evidently intended to return as soon as it could properly be done. However, it had, in fact, turned out to be a long and painful absence.

In presence, not in heart. My heart was still with you. This is an elegant and touching expression, which we still use to express affection for an absent friend.

Endeavoured the more abundantly to see your face. Made every endeavor possible. It was not from any lack of affection that I have not done so, but from causes beyond my control.

With great desire. Compare to Luke 22:15.