1 Thessalonians 2:18 Why we would have come to you, even I Paul, once and again; but Satan hindered us. I. THAT THERE IS A PERSONAL HINDERER IN THE SPIRITUAL LIFE OF MEN. Both the tenor and history, and the assignment of personal attributes prove it. He is mighty, malignant, spiritual, invisible, and impersuadable. II. THIS HINDERER ASSAILS THE MOST EMINENT PERSONAGES AND WORKERS IN THE CHURCH. This shows the unity of the race, and suggests a common sympathy. III. THIS HINDERER SEEKS TO FOIL EVERY AGGRESSIVE CHRISTIAN INTENTION. Easier to "hinder" than counteract: to suggest difficulties and magnify obstacles. Satan hinders the cause of religion in the world by creating, and then pointing to the foibles and sins of professors. 1. Their inconsistencies — pride, worldliness, divisions, selfishness, covetousness, gloominess. 2. Their crimes — drunkenness, fraud, etc. 3. Lukewarmness. (J. M. McNulty, D. D.) Parallel Verses KJV: Wherefore we would have come unto you, even I Paul, once and again; but Satan hindered us.WEB: because we wanted to come to you—indeed, I, Paul, once and again—but Satan hindered us. |
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