1 Thessalonians 2:18-20

2:18 For we wanted to come to you (I, Paul, in fact tried again and again) ¹  but Satan thwarted us. 2:19 For who is our hope or joy or crown to boast of ²  before our Lord Jesus at his coming? Is it not of course you? 2:20 For you are our glory and joy!

¹ tn Or “several times”; Grk, “both once and twice.” The literal expression “once and twice” is frequently used as a Greek idiom referring to an indefinite low number, but more than once (“several times”); see L&N 60.70.

² sn Crown to boast of (Grk “crown of boasting”). Paul uses boasting or exultation to describe the Christian’s delight in being commended for faithful service by the Lord at his return (1 Cor 9:15-16; 2 Cor 1:12-14; 10:13-18; Phil 2:16; and 1 Cor 3:14; 4:5).