14 For you, brothers, became imitators of God’s churches in Christ Jesus that are in Judea, since you have also suffered the same things from people of your own country, just as they did from the Jews
15 who killed both the Lord Jesus and the prophets and persecuted us; they displease God and are hostile to everyone,
16 hindering us from speaking to the Gentiles so that they may be saved. As a result, they are always completing the number of their sins, and wrath has overtaken them at last.
17 But as for us, brothers, after we were forced to leave you for a short time (in person, not in heart ), we greatly desired and made every effort to return and see you face to face.
18 So we wanted to come to you — even I, Paul, time and again — but Satan hindered us.
19 For who is our hope or joy or crown of boasting in the presence of our Lord Jesus at His coming? Is it not you?
20 For you are our glory and joy!