1 Thessalonians 2:14-20

14For you became imitators, brothers and sisters, of God’s churches in Christ Jesus that are in Judea, because you too suffered the same things from your own countrymen as they in fact did from the Jews,

15who killed both the Lord Jesus and the prophets and persecuted us severely. They are displeasing to God and are opposed to all people,

16because they hinder us from speaking to the Gentiles so that they may be saved. Thus they constantly fill up their measure of sins, but wrath has come upon them completely.

17But when we were separated from you, brothers and sisters, for a short time (in presence, not in affection) we became all the more fervent in our great desire to see you in person.

18For we wanted to come to you (I, Paul, in fact tried again and again) but Satan thwarted us.

19For who is our hope or joy or crown to boast of before our Lord Jesus at his coming? Is it not of course you?

20For you are our glory and joy!