2:17 But when we were separated from you, brothers and sisters, 5 for a short time (in presence, not in affection) 6 we became all the more fervent in our great desire 7 to see you in person. 8
1 map For location see JP1-C1; JP2-C1; JP3-C1; JP4-C1.
2 tn The genitive in the phrase τὸ εὐαγγέλιον τοῦ θεοῦ (to euangelion tou qeou, “the gospel of God”) could be translated as either a subjective genitive (“the gospel which God brings”) or an objective genitive (“the gospel about God”). Either is grammatically possible. This is possibly an instance of a plenary genitive (see ExSyn 119-21; M. Zerwick, Biblical Greek, §§36-39). If so, an interplay between the two concepts is intended: The gospel which God brings is in fact the gospel about himself. This same phrase occurs in vv. 8 and 9 as well.
3 tn Grk “longing for you in this way.”
4 tn Or “we are happy.” This verb may be past or present tense, but the context favors the past.
5 tn Grk “brothers.” See note on the phrase “brothers and sisters” in 1:4.
6 tn Grk “in face, not in heart.”
7 tn Grk “with great desire.”
8 tn Grk “to see your face.”