John Calvin Commentary 1 Thessalonians 2:18

"because we would fain have come unto you, I Paul once and again; and Satan hindered us." — 1 Thessalonians 2:18 (ASV)

Satan hindered us. Luke relates that Paul was in one instance hindered (Acts 20:3), since the Jews laid an ambush for him on his journey. The same thing, or something similar, may have occurred frequently. It is not without good reason, however, that Paul ascribes all of this to Satan. For, as he teaches elsewhere (Ephesians 6:12), we have to wrestle not with flesh and blood, but with principalities of the air, and spiritual wickednesses, etc.

For, whenever the wicked trouble us, they fight under Satan’s banner and are his instruments for harassing us. Especially when our efforts are directed to the work of the Lord, it is certain that everything that hinders proceeds from Satan. If only this sentiment were deeply impressed upon the minds of all godly people—that Satan is continually contriving, by every means, how he may hinder or obstruct the edification of the Church!

We would certainly be more careful to resist him; we would take more care to maintain sound doctrine, which that enemy strives so keenly to deprive us of. We would also, whenever the course of the gospel is slowed, know from where the hindrance proceeds.

Paul says elsewhere (Romans 1:13) that God had not permitted him. Both statements are true: for although Satan does his part, God still retains supreme authority, so as to open up a way for us whenever He sees fit, against Satan’s will and in spite of his opposition. Paul accordingly says truly that God does not permit, although the hindrance comes from Satan.