[Greek] ἀπορφανίζω (aporphanizō), [Latin] desolare: to be orphaned, to make someone an orphan, to have someone torn apart, to make parents deprived of children; 1Thess. 2:17
Paul speaks in the public square in Thessalonica. A disturbance ensues and a mob forces Paul out of the city. (Acts 17:1-14)
Background Information:
New Testament: Paul, from Corinth, wrote his first letter to Thessalonica around 50-54 A.D. Paul spoke in the synagogue and the public square. A disturbance occurred and set the city in turmoil. The Thessalonians were experiencing persecution. Paul, like a concerned parent, was anxious about the new Christians’ welfare and faith. Paul speaks of himself as a bereaved parent unable to see his spiritual children in Thessalonica. Satan thwarted Paul’s attempts to visit the city. Paul and the Thessalonians faced persecution from Jews and Gentiles alike. Hostilities, conflict, false teachings, and sinful conduct sowed seeds of doubt and fears among the Christian faithful. Satan’s efforts lead to these Christians being orphaned by this separation from Paul. Paul becomes a bereft childless parent.
Scripture:
“Brothers, when we were bereft of you for a short time, in person, not in heart, we were all the more eager in our great desire to see you in person.” 1Thess.2:17
Paul becomes forcibly separated from his spiritual children in Thessalonica.
Conclusion
Orphan, desolate, desolation
Had I not seen this Greek term, I wouldn’t have really understood the true gravity of the meaning of this word. Essentially, Paul has become a spiritual father to many of his followers. This helps to explain his grief. In today’s world, this brings to mind those unfortunate situations when a child is kidnapped. This also brings to mind when a court of law makes a ruling to take a child away from its parents. It is also curious as to why Paul was thwarted by Satan. Perhaps, God allowed this happen as part of His Providence.