Expositor's Bible Commentary 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)

Turning from his digression about the Jews, Paul continues to stress his deep feeling for the Thessalonians. He pictures himself in contrast to the persecutors just mentioned (2:14–16). The affectionate “brothers” prepares for heartfelt words about his leaving them—a painful experience because of a consuming attraction for them, like that of a child who has prematurely lost his parents. After only a brief absence, he wants to be with them. “We made every effort” conveys a depth of feeling amounting to zeal, a zeal heightened by separation. Added to this deep emotion already portrayed is his “intense longing.” Paul’s warm words about his feelings for the Thessalonians may reflect rumors that he did not really care for them. Apparently some had said that he had no interest in coming back to them and that he had come the first time only to satisfy selfish ambition.