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cellspacing="0" cellpadding="0" align="center"><tr><td><iframe src="/ad1.htm" width="100%" height="48" scrolling="no" frameborder="0"></iframe></td></tr></table></div></td></tr></table><div id="movebox2"><table border="0" align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0"><tr><td><div id="topheading"><a href="/1_thessalonians/2-20.htm" title="1 Thessalonians 2:20">◄</a> 1 Thessalonians 3:1 <a href="/1_thessalonians/3-2.htm" title="1 Thessalonians 3:2">►</a></div></tr></table></div><div align="center" class="maintable2"><table border="0" cellspacing="0" cellpadding="0" align="center"><tr><td><div id="topverse"> <a href="#audio" class="clickchap2" title="Context and Audio Bible"> Audio </a> <a href="#crossref" class="clickchap2" title="Cross References"> Cross </a> <a href="#study" class="clickchap2" title="Study Bible"> Study </a> <a href="#commentary" class="clickchap2" title="Commentary"> Comm </a> <a href="#lexicon" class="clickchap2" title="Lexicon"> Greek </a> </div><div id="leftbox"><div class="padleft"><div class="vheadingv"><b>Verse</b><a href="/bsb/1_thessalonians/3.htm" class="clickchap" style="color:#001320" title="Click any translation name for full chapter">  (Click for Chapter)</a></div><div id="par"><span class="versiontext"><a href="/niv/1_thessalonians/3.htm">New International Version</a></span><br />So when we could stand it no longer, we thought it best to be left by ourselves in Athens.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/nlt/1_thessalonians/3.htm">New Living Translation</a></span><br />Finally, when we could stand it no longer, we decided to stay alone in Athens,<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/esv/1_thessalonians/3.htm">English Standard Version</a></span><br />Therefore when we could bear it no longer, we were willing to be left behind at Athens alone,<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/bsb/1_thessalonians/3.htm">Berean Standard Bible</a></span><br />So when we could bear it no longer, we were willing to be left on our own in Athens.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/blb/1_thessalonians/3.htm">Berean Literal Bible</a></span><br />Therefore, enduring no longer, we thought it best to be left in Athens alone,<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/kjv/1_thessalonians/3.htm">King James Bible</a></span><br />Wherefore when we could no longer forbear, we thought it good to be left at Athens alone;<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/nkjv/1_thessalonians/3.htm">New King James Version</a></span><br />Therefore, when we could no longer endure it, we thought it good to be left in Athens alone,<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/nasb_/1_thessalonians/3.htm">New American Standard Bible</a></span><br />Therefore, when we could no longer endure <i>it,</i> we thought it best to be left behind, alone at Athens,<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/nasb/1_thessalonians/3.htm">NASB 1995</a></span><br />Therefore when we could endure it no longer, we thought it best to be left behind at Athens alone,<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/nasb77/1_thessalonians/3.htm">NASB 1977 </a></span><br />Therefore when we could endure <i>it</i> no longer, we thought it best to be left behind at Athens alone;<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/lsb/1_thessalonians/3.htm">Legacy Standard Bible </a></span><br />Therefore when we could endure <i>it</i> no longer, we were pleased to be left behind at Athens alone,<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/amp/1_thessalonians/3.htm">Amplified Bible</a></span><br />Therefore, when we could no longer endure our separation [from you], we thought it best to be left behind, alone at Athens,<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/csb/1_thessalonians/3.htm">Christian Standard Bible</a></span><br />Therefore, when we could no longer stand it, we thought it was better to be left alone in Athens.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/hcsb/1_thessalonians/3.htm">Holman Christian Standard Bible</a></span><br />Therefore, when we could no longer stand it, we thought it was better to be left alone in Athens.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/asv/1_thessalonians/3.htm">American Standard Version</a></span><br />Wherefore when we could no longer forbear, we thought it good to be left behind at Athens alone;<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/cev/1_thessalonians/3.htm">Contemporary English Version</a></span><br />Finally, we couldn't stand it any longer. We decided to stay in Athens by ourselves <span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/erv/1_thessalonians/3.htm">English Revised Version</a></span><br />Wherefore when we could no longer forbear, we thought it good to be left behind at Athens alone;<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/gwt/1_thessalonians/3.htm">GOD'S WORD® Translation</a></span><br />We thought it best to remain in Athens by ourselves. But, because we couldn't wait any longer [for news about you],<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/gnt/1_thessalonians/3.htm">Good News Translation</a></span><br />Finally, we could not bear it any longer. So we decided to stay on alone in Athens <span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/isv/1_thessalonians/3.htm">International Standard Version</a></span><br />Therefore, when we could stand it no longer, we decided to remain alone in Athens <span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/msb/1_thessalonians/3.htm">Majority Standard Bible</a></span><br />So when we could bear it no longer, we were willing to be left on our own in Athens.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/net/1_thessalonians/3.htm">NET Bible</a></span><br />So when we could bear it no longer, we decided to stay on in Athens alone.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/nheb/1_thessalonians/3.htm">New Heart English Bible</a></span><br />Therefore, when we could not stand it any longer, we thought it good to be left behind at Athens alone,<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/wbt/1_thessalonians/3.htm">Webster's Bible Translation</a></span><br />Wherefore, when we could no longer forbear, we thought it good to be left at Athens alone;<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/wey/1_thessalonians/3.htm">Weymouth New Testament</a></span><br />So when we could endure it no longer, we decided to remain behind in Athens alone;<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/web/1_thessalonians/3.htm">World English Bible</a></span><br />Therefore when we couldn’t stand it any longer, we thought it good to be left behind at Athens alone, <div class="vheading2"><b>Literal Translations</b></div><span class="versiontext"><a href="/lsv/1_thessalonians/3.htm">Literal Standard Version</a></span><br />For this reason, enduring no longer, we thought good to be left in Athens alone,<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/blb/1_thessalonians/3.htm">Berean Literal Bible</a></span><br />Therefore, enduring no longer, we thought it best to be left in Athens alone,<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/ylt/1_thessalonians/3.htm">Young's Literal Translation</a></span><br /> Wherefore no longer forbearing, we thought good to be left in Athens alone,<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/slt/1_thessalonians/3.htm">Smith's Literal Translation</a></span><br />Wherefore no more concealing, we were content to be left among the Athenians alone:<div class="vheading2"><b>Catholic Translations</b></div><span class="versiontext"><a href="/drb/1_thessalonians/3.htm">Douay-Rheims Bible</a></span><br />For which cause, forbearing no longer, we thought it good to remain at Athens alone: <span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/cpdv/1_thessalonians/3.htm">Catholic Public Domain Version</a></span><br />Because of this, willing to wait no longer, it was pleasing to us to remain at Athens, alone.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/nabre/1_thessalonians/3.htm">New American Bible</a></span><br />That is why, when we could bear it no longer, we decided to remain alone in Athens<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/nrsvce/1_thessalonians/3.htm">New Revised Standard Version</a></span><br />Therefore when we could bear it no longer, we decided to be left alone in Athens;<div class="vheading2"><b>Translations from Aramaic</b></div><span class="versiontext"><a href="/lamsa/1_thessalonians/3.htm">Lamsa Bible</a></span><br />AND because we could no longer with stand these obstacles, we decided to remain at Athens alone;<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/aramaic-plain-english/1_thessalonians/3.htm">Aramaic Bible in Plain English</a></span><br />And because we did not resist, we chose to remain in Athens by ourselves,<div class="vheading2"><b>NT Translations</b></div><span class="versiontext"><a href="/anderson/1_thessalonians/3.htm">Anderson New Testament</a></span><br />Wherefore, being no longer able to contain ourselves, we thought it good to be left at Athens alone;<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/godbey/1_thessalonians/3.htm">Godbey New Testament</a></span><br />Therefore no longer containing, we delighted to be left alone at Athens;<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/haweis/1_thessalonians/3.htm">Haweis New Testament</a></span><br />WHEREFORE when we could no longer forbear, we thought it good to be left at Athens alone:<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/mace/1_thessalonians/3.htm">Mace New Testament</a></span><br />Being therefore impatient to hear of you, we judg'd it proper to stay at Athens alone, and send you our brother Timothy,<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/wey/1_thessalonians/3.htm">Weymouth New Testament</a></span><br />So when we could endure it no longer, we decided to remain behind in Athens alone;<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/worrell/1_thessalonians/3.htm">Worrell New Testament</a></span><br />Wherefore, <i>when</i> no longer <i>able</i> to endure <i>it</i>, we were well pleased to be left behind at Athens alone,<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/worsley/1_thessalonians/3.htm">Worsley New Testament</a></span><br />Wherefore being able to contain no longer, we were content to be left alone at Athens,<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/parallel/1_thessalonians/3-1.htm">Additional Translations ...</a></span></div></div></div><div id="centbox"><div class="padcent"><a name="audio" id="audio"></a><div class="vheadingv"><b>Audio Bible</b></div><iframe width="100%" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/sgDUoqNjFio?start=310" title="YouTube video player" frameborder="0" allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture; web-share" allowfullscreen></iframe><span class="p"><br /><br /><br /></span><div class="vheadingv"><b>Context</b></div><span class="hdg"><a href="/bsb/1_thessalonians/3.htm">Timothy's Visit</a></span><br> <span class="reftext">1</span><span class="highl"><a href="/greek/1352.htm" title="1352: Dio (Conj) -- Wherefore, on which account, therefore. From dia and hos; through which thing, i.e. Consequently.">So</a> <a href="/greek/4722.htm" title="4722: stegontes (V-PPA-NMP) -- To cover, conceal, ward off, bear with, endure patiently. From stege; to roof over, i.e. to cover with silence.">when we could bear it</a> <a href="/greek/3371.htm" title="3371: mēketi (Adv) -- No longer, no more. From me and eti; no further.">no longer,</a> <a href="/greek/2106.htm" title="2106: eudokēsamen (V-AIA-1P) -- To be well-pleased, think it good, be resolved. From eu and dokeo; to think well of, i.e. Approve; specially, to approbate.">we were willing</a> <a href="/greek/2641.htm" title="2641: kataleiphthēnai (V-ANP) -- From kata and leipo; to leave down, i.e. Behind; by implication, to abandon, have remaining.">to be left</a> <a href="/greek/3441.htm" title="3441: monoi (Adj-NMP) -- Only, solitary, desolate. Probably from meno; remaining, i.e. Sole or single; by implication, mere.">on our own</a> <a href="/greek/1722.htm" title="1722: en (Prep) -- In, on, among. A primary preposition denoting position, and instrumentality, i.e. A relation of rest; in, at, on, by, etc.">in</a> <a href="/greek/116.htm" title="116: Athēnais (N-DFP) -- Athens, the intellectual capital of Greece. Plural of Athene; Athenoe, the capitol of Greece.">Athens.</a> </span> <span class="reftext">2</span>We sent Timothy, our brother and fellow worker for God in the gospel of Christ, to strengthen and encourage you in your faith,…<div class="cred"><a href="//berean.bible">Berean Standard Bible</a> · <a href="//berean.bible/downloads.htm">Download</a></div><span class="p"><br /><br /></span><a name="crossref" id="crossref"></a><div class="vheading">Cross References</div><div id="crf"><span class="crossverse"><a href="/acts/17-15.htm">Acts 17:15</a></span><br />Those who escorted Paul brought him to Athens and then returned with instructions for Silas and Timothy to join him as soon as possible.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="crossverse"><a href="/philippians/2-19.htm">Philippians 2:19-20</a></span><br />Now I hope in the Lord Jesus to send Timothy to you soon, that I also may be cheered when I learn how you are doing. / I have nobody else like him who will genuinely care for your needs.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="crossverse"><a href="/1_thessalonians/2-17.htm">1 Thessalonians 2:17-18</a></span><br />Brothers, although we were torn away from you for a short time (in person, not in heart), our desire to see you face to face was even more intense. / For we wanted to come to you—indeed I, Paul, tried again and again—but Satan obstructed us.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="crossverse"><a href="/2_corinthians/11-28.htm">2 Corinthians 11:28</a></span><br />Apart from these external trials, I face daily the pressure of my concern for all the churches.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="crossverse"><a href="/acts/18-5.htm">Acts 18:5</a></span><br />And when Silas and Timothy came down from Macedonia, Paul devoted himself fully to the word, testifying to the Jews that Jesus is the Christ.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="crossverse"><a href="/2_timothy/4-9.htm">2 Timothy 4:9-10</a></span><br />Make every effort to come to me quickly, / because Demas, in his love of this world, has deserted me and gone to Thessalonica. Crescens has gone to Galatia, and Titus to Dalmatia.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="crossverse"><a href="/romans/1-11.htm">Romans 1:11-12</a></span><br />For I long to see you so that I may impart to you some spiritual gift to strengthen you, / that is, that you and I may be mutually encouraged by each other’s faith.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="crossverse"><a href="/1_corinthians/16-10.htm">1 Corinthians 16:10-11</a></span><br />If Timothy comes, see to it that he has nothing to fear while he is with you, for he is doing the work of the Lord, just as I am. / No one, then, should treat him with contempt. Send him on his way in peace so that he can return to me, for I am expecting him along with the brothers.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="crossverse"><a href="/2_corinthians/2-12.htm">2 Corinthians 2:12-13</a></span><br />Now when I went to Troas to preach the gospel of Christ and a door stood open for me in the Lord, / I had no peace in my spirit, because I did not find my brother Titus there. So I said goodbye to them and went on to Macedonia.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="crossverse"><a href="/acts/15-36.htm">Acts 15:36</a></span><br />Some time later Paul said to Barnabas, “Let us go back and visit the brothers in every town where we proclaimed the word of the Lord, to see how they are doing.”<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="crossverse"><a href="/galatians/4-19.htm">Galatians 4:19-20</a></span><br />My children, for whom I am again in the pains of childbirth until Christ is formed in you, / how I wish I could be with you now and change my tone, because I am perplexed about you.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="crossverse"><a href="/2_corinthians/7-5.htm">2 Corinthians 7:5-7</a></span><br />For when we arrived in Macedonia, our bodies had no rest, but we were pressed from every direction—conflicts on the outside, fears within. / But God, who comforts the downcast, comforted us by the arrival of Titus, / and not only by his arrival, but also by the comfort he had received from you. He told us about your longing, your mourning, and your zeal for me, so that I rejoiced all the more.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="crossverse"><a href="/acts/20-1.htm">Acts 20:1-3</a></span><br />When the uproar had ended, Paul sent for the disciples. And after encouraging them, he said goodbye to them and left for Macedonia. / After traveling through that area and speaking many words of encouragement, he arrived in Greece, / where he stayed three months. And when the Jews formed a plot against him as he was about to sail for Syria, he decided to go back through Macedonia.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="crossverse"><a href="/2_thessalonians/2-17.htm">2 Thessalonians 2:17</a></span><br />encourage your hearts and strengthen you in every good word and deed.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="crossverse"><a href="/romans/15-23.htm">Romans 15:23-24</a></span><br />But now that there are no further opportunities for me in these regions, and since I have longed for many years to visit you, / I hope to see you on my way to Spain. And after I have enjoyed your company for a while, you can equip me for my journey.</div><span class="p"><br /><br /></span><a name="tsk" id="tsk"><div class="vheading">Treasury of Scripture</div><p class="tsk2">Why when we could no longer forbear, we thought it good to be left at Athens alone;</p><p class="hdg">when.</p><p class="tskverse"><b><a href="/1_thessalonians/3-5.htm">1 Thessalonians 3:5</a></b></br> For this cause, when I could no longer forbear, I sent to know your faith, lest by some means the tempter have tempted you, and our labour be in vain.</p><p class="tskverse"><b><a href="/1_thessalonians/2-17.htm">1 Thessalonians 2:17</a></b></br> But we, brethren, being taken from you for a short time in presence, not in heart, endeavoured the more abundantly to see your face with great desire.</p><p class="tskverse"><b><a href="/jeremiah/20-9.htm">Jeremiah 20:9</a></b></br> Then I said, I will not make mention of him, nor speak any more in his name. But <i>his word</i> was in mine heart as a burning fire shut up in my bones, and I was weary with forbearing, and I could not <i>stay</i>.</p><p class="hdg">we thought.</p><p class="tskverse"><b><a href="/acts/17-15.htm">Acts 17:15</a></b></br> And they that conducted Paul brought him unto Athens: and receiving a commandment unto Silas and Timotheus for to come to him with all speed, they departed.</p><div class="vheading">Jump to Previous</div><a href="/1_thessalonians/2-6.htm">Able</a> <a href="/colossians/4-11.htm">Alone</a> <a href="/acts/18-1.htm">Athens</a> <a href="/colossians/4-13.htm">Bear</a> <a href="/philippians/1-10.htm">Best</a> <a href="/1_corinthians/3-1.htm">Couldn't</a> <a href="/2_corinthians/9-7.htm">Decided</a> <a href="/1_thessalonians/2-17.htm">Desire</a> <a href="/2_corinthians/1-8.htm">Endure</a> <a href="/ephesians/6-9.htm">Forbear</a> <a href="/colossians/3-13.htm">Forbearing</a> <a href="/1_thessalonians/2-9.htm">Good</a> <a href="/philippians/1-22.htm">Longer</a> <a href="/1_thessalonians/2-9.htm">News</a> <a href="/1_thessalonians/2-10.htm">Ourselves</a> <a href="/ephesians/6-9.htm">Refrain</a> <a href="/colossians/4-12.htm">Stand</a> <a href="/1_thessalonians/2-2.htm">Strong</a> <a href="/1_thessalonians/2-17.htm">Thought</a> <a href="/1_thessalonians/2-18.htm">Wherefore</a> <a href="/1_thessalonians/2-8.htm">Willing</a><div class="vheading2">Jump to Next</div><a href="/1_thessalonians/3-5.htm">Able</a> <a href="/1_timothy/1-17.htm">Alone</a> <a href="/acts/17-15.htm">Athens</a> <a href="/1_timothy/3-7.htm">Bear</a> <a href="/2_timothy/1-18.htm">Best</a> <a href="/1_thessalonians/3-5.htm">Couldn't</a> <a href="/titus/3-12.htm">Decided</a> <a href="/1_thessalonians/4-5.htm">Desire</a> <a href="/1_thessalonians/3-5.htm">Endure</a> <a href="/1_thessalonians/3-5.htm">Forbear</a> <a href="/2_timothy/2-24.htm">Forbearing</a> <a href="/1_thessalonians/3-2.htm">Good</a> <a href="/1_thessalonians/3-5.htm">Longer</a> <a href="/1_thessalonians/3-2.htm">News</a> <a href="/2_thessalonians/1-4.htm">Ourselves</a> <a href="/1_thessalonians/3-5.htm">Refrain</a> <a href="/1_thessalonians/3-5.htm">Stand</a> <a href="/1_thessalonians/3-13.htm">Strong</a> <a href="/1_timothy/3-7.htm">Thought</a> <a href="/1_thessalonians/4-18.htm">Wherefore</a> <a href="/2_thessalonians/3-10.htm">Willing</a><div class="vheading2">1 Thessalonians 3</div><span class="reftext">1. </span><span class="outlinetext"><a href="/1_thessalonians/3-1.htm">Paul testifies his great love to the Thessalonians, </a></span><br><span class="reftext">5. </span><span class="outlinetext"><a href="/1_thessalonians/3-5.htm">partly by sending Timothy unto them to strengthen and comfort them; </a></span><br><span class="reftext">7. </span><span class="outlinetext"><a href="/1_thessalonians/3-7.htm">partly by rejoicing in their well-doing;</a></span><br><span class="reftext">10. </span><span class="outlinetext"><a href="/1_thessalonians/3-10.htm">and partly by praying for them, and desiring a safe coming unto them.</a></span><br></div></div><div id="mdd"><div align="center"><div class="bot2"><table align="center" width="100%"><tr><td><div align="center"> <script id="3d27ed63fc4348d5b062c4527ae09445"> (new Image()).src = 'https://capi.connatix.com/tr/si?token=51ce25d5-1a8c-424a-8695-4bd48c750f35&cid=3a9f82d0-4344-4f8d-ac0c-e1a0eb43a405'; </script> <script id="b817b7107f1d4a7997da1b3c33457e03"> (new Image()).src = 'https://capi.connatix.com/tr/si?token=cb0edd8b-b416-47eb-8c6d-3cc96561f7e8&cid=3a9f82d0-4344-4f8d-ac0c-e1a0eb43a405'; </script><br /><br />  <div id='div-gpt-ad-1529103594582-2'> </div><br /><br />  <div id='div-gpt-ad-1529103594582-0' style='max-width: 300px;'> </div><br /><br />  <div id='div-gpt-ad-1529103594582-3'> </div><br /><br />  <div id='div-gpt-ad-1529103594582-1' style='max-width: 300px;'> </div><br /><br />  <div align="center" id='div-gpt-ad-1531425649696-0'> </div><br /><br /> <ins class="adsbygoogle" style="display:inline-block;width:200px;height:200px" data-ad-client="ca-pub-3753401421161123" data-ad-slot="3592799687"></ins> <script> (adsbygoogle = window.adsbygoogle || []).push({}); </script> <br /><br /> </div> </td></tr></table></div></div></div><div id="combox"><div class="padcom"><a name="study" id="study"></a><div class="vheading"><table width="100%"><tr><td width="99%" valign="top"><a href="/study/1_thessalonians/3.htm">Study Bible</a></td><td width="1%" valign="top"><a href="/study/1_thessalonians/" title="Book Summary and Study">Book ◦</a> <a href="/study/chapters/1_thessalonians/3.htm" title="Chapter summary and Study">Chapter </a></tr></table></div><b>So when we could bear it no longer</b><br>This phrase reflects the deep emotional concern Paul had for the Thessalonian believers. It indicates a point of intense longing and anxiety for their spiritual well-being. This sentiment is consistent with Paul's pastoral heart, as seen in other letters where he expresses similar feelings (e.g., <a href="/2_corinthians/11-28.htm">2 Corinthians 11:28</a>). The urgency in his tone suggests a strong bond and responsibility towards the church he helped establish.<p><b>we were willing to be left on our own in Athens</b><br>Athens, a major city in ancient Greece, was known for its intellectual and philosophical heritage. Paul’s willingness to remain there alone underscores his commitment to the Thessalonians, prioritizing their needs over his comfort. This decision reflects the sacrificial nature of Christian ministry, as Paul often endured hardships for the sake of the Gospel (<a href="/philippians/1-21.htm">Philippians 1:21-26</a>). The mention of Athens also highlights the strategic nature of Paul's missionary journeys, as he often targeted influential cities to spread the Gospel.<div class="vheading2">Persons / Places / Events</div>1. <b><a href="/topical/p/paul.htm">Paul</a></b><br>The apostle who is writing this letter to the Thessalonian church. He expresses his deep concern for the believers in Thessalonica.<br><br>2. <b><a href="/topical/t/timothy.htm">Timothy</a></b><br>Although not mentioned directly in this verse, Timothy is the one Paul sends to Thessalonica, as indicated in the following verses. He is a trusted companion and co-worker of Paul.<br><br>3. <b><a href="/topical/a/athens.htm">Athens</a></b><br>The city where Paul is staying at the time of writing. Known for its philosophical and cultural significance, it is a place where Paul had previously engaged in discussions about the Gospel.<br><br>4. <b><a href="/topical/t/thessalonica.htm">Thessalonica</a></b><br>The city where the recipients of the letter reside. It was a major city in Macedonia and an important center for early Christianity.<br><br>5. <b><a href="/topical/t/the_thessalonian_church.htm">The Thessalonian Church</a></b><br>The community of believers in Thessalonica who are the recipients of Paul's letter. They are facing persecution and challenges in their faith.<div class="vheading2">Teaching Points</div><b><a href="/topical/t/the_burden_of_spiritual_leadership.htm">The Burden of Spiritual Leadership</a></b><br>Paul’s statement, "when we could bear it no longer," reflects the deep emotional and spiritual burden leaders carry for their congregations. Spiritual leaders today should be encouraged to express their concerns and take action to support their communities.<br><br><b><a href="/topical/s/sacrificial_love_and_commitment.htm">Sacrificial Love and Commitment</a></b><br>Paul’s willingness to be left alone in Athens for the sake of the Thessalonians exemplifies sacrificial love. Believers are called to prioritize the spiritual well-being of others, even at personal cost.<br><br><b><a href="/topical/t/the_importance_of_encouragement_and_support.htm">The Importance of Encouragement and Support</a></b><br>Sending Timothy was a strategic decision to strengthen and encourage the Thessalonian church. This underscores the importance of providing support and encouragement to fellow believers, especially in times of trial.<br><br><b><a href="/topical/t/trust_in_god's_provision.htm">Trust in God’s Provision</a></b><br>Paul’s decision to send Timothy, despite being left alone, demonstrates trust in God’s provision. Believers are encouraged to trust God’s plan and provision when making difficult decisions.<div class="vheading2">Lists and Questions</div><a href="/top10/lessons_from_1_thessalonians_3.htm">Top 10 Lessons from 1 Thessalonians 3</a><span class="p"><br /><br /></span><a href="/q/verify_timothy's_athens-thessalonica_trip.htm">1 Thessalonians 3:1–2: How do we verify Paul’s claim that Timothy was sent from Athens to Thessalonica when some question the historical route and timeline of Paul’s journeys? </a><span class="p"><br /><br /></span><a href="/q/does_2_thess._3_10_contradict_jesus.htm">2 Thessalonians 3:10 - Does telling the idle they 'shall not eat' contradict Jesus' teachings on charity and feeding the poor (e.g., Matthew 25)?</a><span class="p"><br /><br /></span><a href="/q/2_thess._3_3__why_do_faithful_still_suffer.htm">2 Thessalonians 3:3 - How can believers claim 'the Lord is faithful' if historical evidence suggests countless faithful people still suffer or face calamity?</a><span class="p"><br /><br /></span><a href="/q/what_are_feet_like_burnished_bronze.htm">What is delaying Jesus' return?</a><a name="commentary" id="commentary"></a><div class="vheading2"><a href="/commentaries/ellicott/1_thessalonians/3.htm">Ellicott's Commentary for English Readers</a></div><span class= "bld">III.</span><p>(1) <span class= "bld">We could no longer forbear.</span>--The Greek word contains the metaphor of a vessel over-full and bursting with its contents. "We<span class= "ital">"</span> must be understood here by the limitation of <a href="/1_thessalonians/2-18.htm" title="Why we would have come to you, even I Paul, once and again; but Satan hindered us.">1Thessalonians 2:18</a>, and by the direct singular of <a href="/1_thessalonians/3-5.htm" title="For this cause, when I could no longer forbear, I sent to know your faith, lest by some means the tempter have tempted you, and our labor be in vain.">1Thessalonians 3:5</a>, to mean St. Paul alone, not him and Silas.<p><span class= "bld">To be left at Athens alone.</span>--The difficulty of interpreting this passage so as to agree with <a href="/context/acts/17-15.htm" title="And they that conducted Paul brought him to Athens: and receiving a commandment to Silas and Timotheus for to come to him with all speed, they departed.">Acts 17:15-16</a>; <a href="/acts/18-5.htm" title="And when Silas and Timotheus were come from Macedonia, Paul was pressed in the spirit, and testified to the Jews that Jesus was Christ.">Acts 18:5</a>, is not a light one. From those passages it would appear that immediately upon reaching Athens, St. Paul sent word back to Macedonia, by the friends who had escorted him, that St. Silas and St. Timothy should join him at once; but that some delay took place, and that St. Paul had arrived at Corinth before his companions reached him; that they consequently never were with him at Athens. In that case, "to be left alone" must mean, "We resolved not to keep with us the brethren who escorted us;" and the "sent" of <a href="/1_thessalonians/3-2.htm" title="And sent Timotheus, our brother, and minister of God, and our fellow laborer in the gospel of Christ, to establish you, and to comfort you concerning your faith:">1Thessalonians 3:2</a> will mean that he gave them a message to Timothy that he should go back to Thessalonica (presumably from Ber?a), before joining St. Paul at Athens; for the <span class= "ital">tense</span> of the Greek verb "to be left" absolutely necessitates an <span class= "ital">act</span> of parting with some one: it cannot mean, "We were willing to endure loneliness a little longer." But such an interpretation suits ill with <a href="/acts/17-15.htm" title="And they that conducted Paul brought him to Athens: and receiving a commandment to Silas and Timotheus for to come to him with all speed, they departed.">Acts 17:15</a>; it is hard to identify an urgent message to "come with all speed" with a command to make such a <span class= "ital">detour.</span> It seems, therefore, most reasonable to suppose that Silas and Timothy joined St. Paul forthwith at Athens, and were almost as soon sent back into Macedonia,--Silas to Ber?a or Philippi, and Timothy to Thessalonica. This would explain St. Paul's being left <span class= "ital">alone, </span>an expression which would hardly have been used had Silas remained with him at Athens, as some (misled by the word "we") have supposed; and also it explains how in <a href="/acts/18-5.htm" title="And when Silas and Timotheus were come from Macedonia, Paul was pressed in the spirit, and testified to the Jews that Jesus was Christ.">Acts 18:5</a> both Timothy <span class= "ital">and Silas</span> come from Macedonia to Corinth. The despatching <span class= "ital">of Silas</span> from Athens is not mentioned here, simply because it had no particular interest for the Thessalonians. If the two men did not reach St. Paul at all during the time he was at Athens, after receiving so imperative a message, they must have been very slow, for a week would have allowed ample time for their journey from Ber?a, and <a href="/acts/17-17.htm" title="Therefore disputed he in the synagogue with the Jews, and with the devout persons, and in the market daily with them that met with him.">Acts 17:17</a>; <a href="/acts/18-1.htm" title="After these things Paul departed from Athens, and came to Corinth;">Acts 18:1</a> certainly imply a much longer period of residence there. "To be left alone" was a great trial to St. Paul's affectionate nature: such a sacrifice may well impress the Thessalonians with the strength of his love for them. . . . <div class="vheading2"><a href="/commentaries/pulpit/1_thessalonians/3.htm">Pulpit Commentary</a></div><span class="cmt_sub_title">Verse 1.</span> - This verse is closely connected with the concluding verses of the last chapter, from which it should not be separated. <span class="cmt_word">Wherefore</span>; on account of my affection toward you and my repeated vain attempts to see you. <span class="cmt_word">When we</span>. Some refer the plural to Paul, Silas, and Timothy (<a href="/1_thessalonians/1-1.htm">1 Thessalonians 1:1</a>); others to Paul and Silas, as Timothy had been sent to Thessalonica; but it is to be restricted to Paul, as is evident from <a href="/1_thessalonians/2.htm">1 Thessalonians 2</a>:38 and 1 Thessalonians 3:5, and inasmuch as Paul was left alone at Athens; the plural being here used for the singular. <span class="cmt_word">Could no longer forbear</span>; could no longer restrain our longing and anxiety to know your condition. <span class="cmt_word">We thought it good</span>; a happy translation of the original, expressing both "we were pleased and resolved." <span class="cmt_word">To be left at Athens alone</span>; an expression of solitude. Alone in Athens, in the very metropolis of idolatry. Compare with this the common saying, "Alone in London." In the Acts of the Apostles we are informed that Paul came to Athens alone, and that there he waited for Silas and Timothy (<a href="/acts/17-14.htm">Acts 17:14</a>, ]5), and that these fellow-workers rejoined him at Corinth (<a href="/acts/18-5.htm">Acts 18:5</a>). Many expositors, however, from this and the next verse, infer that Timothy at least joined Paul at Athens, but was sent back by him to Thessalonica, to inquire into the condition of his converts in that city. Such is the opinion of Olshausen, Neander, De Wette, Lunemann, Hofmann, Koch, and Schott; and, among English expositors, of Macknight, Paley, Eadie, Jowett, Ellicott, and Wordsworth. There is no contradiction between this view and the narrative of the Acts. Luke merely omits to mention Timothy's short visit to Athens and departure from it, and relates only the final reunion of these three fellow-workers at Corinth. Indeed, Paley gives this coming of Timothy to Athens as one of the undesigned coincidences between this Epistle and the Acts of the Apostles. Still, however, we are not necessitated to suppose that Timothy joined the apostle at Athens. The words admit of the opinion that he was sent by Paul direct from Beraea, and not from Athens; and that he and Silas did not join Paul until they came from Macedonia to Corinth. Such is the opinion of Hug, Wieseler, Koppe, Alford, and Vaughan. <span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/commentaries/1_thessalonians/3-1.htm">Parallel Commentaries ...</a></span><span class="p"><br /><br /><br /></span><a name="lexicon" id="lexicon"></a><div class="vheading">Greek</div><span class="word">So</span><br /><span class="grk">Διὸ</span> <span class="translit">(Dio)</span><br /><span class="parse">Conjunction<br /></span><span class="str"><a href="/greek/strongs_1352.htm">Strong's 1352: </a> </span><span class="str2">Wherefore, on which account, therefore. From dia and hos; through which thing, i.e. Consequently.</span><br /><br /><span class="word">[when] we could bear [it]</span><br /><span class="grk">στέγοντες</span> <span class="translit">(stegontes)</span><br /><span class="parse">Verb - Present Participle Active - Nominative Masculine Plural<br /></span><span class="str"><a href="/greek/strongs_4722.htm">Strong's 4722: </a> </span><span class="str2">To cover, conceal, ward off, bear with, endure patiently. From stege; to roof over, i.e. to cover with silence.</span><br /><br /><span class="word">no longer,</span><br /><span class="grk">μηκέτι</span> <span class="translit">(mēketi)</span><br /><span class="parse">Adverb<br /></span><span class="str"><a href="/greek/strongs_3371.htm">Strong's 3371: </a> </span><span class="str2">No longer, no more. From me and eti; no further.</span><br /><br /><span class="word">we were willing</span><br /><span class="grk">εὐδοκήσαμεν</span> <span class="translit">(eudokēsamen)</span><br /><span class="parse">Verb - Aorist Indicative Active - 1st Person Plural<br /></span><span class="str"><a href="/greek/strongs_2106.htm">Strong's 2106: </a> </span><span class="str2">To be well-pleased, think it good, be resolved. From eu and dokeo; to think well of, i.e. Approve; specially, to approbate.</span><br /><br /><span class="word">to be left</span><br /><span class="grk">καταλειφθῆναι</span> <span class="translit">(kataleiphthēnai)</span><br /><span class="parse">Verb - Aorist Infinitive Passive<br /></span><span class="str"><a href="/greek/strongs_2641.htm">Strong's 2641: </a> </span><span class="str2">From kata and leipo; to leave down, i.e. Behind; by implication, to abandon, have remaining.</span><br /><br /><span class="word">on our own</span><br /><span class="grk">μόνοι</span> <span class="translit">(monoi)</span><br /><span class="parse">Adjective - Nominative Masculine Plural<br /></span><span class="str"><a href="/greek/strongs_3441.htm">Strong's 3441: </a> </span><span class="str2">Only, solitary, desolate. Probably from meno; remaining, i.e. Sole or single; by implication, mere.</span><br /><br /><span class="word">in</span><br /><span class="grk">ἐν</span> <span class="translit">(en)</span><br /><span class="parse">Preposition<br /></span><span class="str"><a href="/greek/strongs_1722.htm">Strong's 1722: </a> </span><span class="str2">In, on, among. A primary preposition denoting position, and instrumentality, i.e. A relation of rest; 'in, ' at, on, by, etc.</span><br /><br /><span class="word">Athens.</span><br /><span class="grk">Ἀθήναις</span> <span class="translit">(Athēnais)</span><br /><span class="parse">Noun - Dative Feminine Plural<br /></span><span class="str"><a href="/greek/strongs_116.htm">Strong's 116: </a> </span><span class="str2">Athens, the intellectual capital of Greece. Plural of Athene; Athenoe, the capitol of Greece.</span><br /><span class="p"><br /><br /></span><div class="vheading">Links</div><a href="/niv/1_thessalonians/3-1.htm">1 Thessalonians 3:1 NIV</a><br /><a href="/nlt/1_thessalonians/3-1.htm">1 Thessalonians 3:1 NLT</a><br /><a href="/esv/1_thessalonians/3-1.htm">1 Thessalonians 3:1 ESV</a><br /><a href="/nasb/1_thessalonians/3-1.htm">1 Thessalonians 3:1 NASB</a><br /><a href="/kjv/1_thessalonians/3-1.htm">1 Thessalonians 3:1 KJV</a><span class="p"><br /><br /></span><a href="//bibleapps.com/1_thessalonians/3-1.htm">1 Thessalonians 3:1 BibleApps.com</a><br /><a href="//bibliaparalela.com/1_thessalonians/3-1.htm">1 Thessalonians 3:1 Biblia Paralela</a><br /><a href="//holybible.com.cn/1_thessalonians/3-1.htm">1 Thessalonians 3:1 Chinese Bible</a><br /><a href="//saintebible.com/1_thessalonians/3-1.htm">1 Thessalonians 3:1 French Bible</a><br /><a href="/catholic/1_thessalonians/3-1.htm">1 Thessalonians 3:1 Catholic Bible</a><span class="p"><br /><br /></span><a href="/1_thessalonians/3-1.htm">NT Letters: 1 Thessalonians 3:1 Therefore when we couldn't stand it any (1 Thess. 1 Thes. 1Th iTh i Th)</a></div></div></td></tr></table></div><div id="left"><a href="/1_thessalonians/2-20.htm" onmouseover='lft.src="/leftgif.png"' onmouseout='lft.src="/left.png"' title="1 Thessalonians 2:20"><img src="/left.png" name="lft" border="0" alt="1 Thessalonians 2:20" /></a></div><div id="right"><a href="/1_thessalonians/3-2.htm" onmouseover='rght.src="/rightgif.png"' onmouseout='rght.src="/right.png"' title="1 Thessalonians 3:2"><img src="/right.png" name="rght" border="0" alt="1 Thessalonians 3:2" /></a></div><div id="botleft"><a href="#" onmouseover='botleft.src="/botleftgif.png"' onmouseout='botleft.src="/botleft.png"' title="Top of Page"><img src="/botleft.png" name="botleft" border="0" alt="Top of Page" /></a></div><div id="botright"><a href="#" onmouseover='botright.src="/botrightgif.png"' onmouseout='botright.src="/botright.png"' title="Top of Page"><img src="/botright.png" name="botright" border="0" alt="Top of Page" /></a></div><div id="bot"><iframe width="100%" height="1500" scrolling="no" src="/botmenubhnew2.htm" frameborder="0"></iframe></div></td></tr></table></div></body></html>