1 Corinthians 16:20

Context of the Greeting

First Corinthians concludes with various personal greetings and final instructions from the Apostle Paul. Verse 20, "All the brethren greet you. Greet ye one another with an holy kiss," is part of this concluding section, emphasizing the strong bonds of fellowship and unity within the early Christian community. The practice of greeting with a kiss was a common social custom in the ancient world, signifying respect, affection, and familial closeness. Paul himself frequently concludes his epistles with similar exhortations, such as in Romans 16:16 and 1 Thessalonians 5:26, highlighting its significance in the apostolic church.

The Significance of "An Holy Kiss"

The addition of the word "holy" (Greek: hagios) is crucial. It elevates a common cultural practice to a distinctively Christian expression. This was not merely a casual or perfunctory social gesture but an outward sign of inward spiritual purity and genuine affection among believers. It signified:

• Pure Affection: The kiss was to be free from any carnal, deceitful, or hypocritical motives. It expressed sincere love and respect for fellow believers, recognizing them as brothers and sisters in Christ.
• Christian Unity: It underscored the deep spiritual bond that transcended social status, ethnicity, or former divisions. It was a visible demonstration of the unity of the Spirit within the body of Christ.
• Sanctified Fellowship: The greeting was part of the sacred atmosphere of Christian gatherings, reflecting the holiness to which believers are called.

Key Themes

• Brotherly Love and Fellowship: The verse powerfully conveys the importance of mutual love among Christians, a hallmark of discipleship. It's an active demonstration of care and acceptance.
• Church Unity: The "holy kiss" was a tangible expression of the collective identity and shared spiritual bond that characterized the early church, fostering cohesion and solidarity.
• Authentic Greeting: It calls for sincerity and purity in interactions, emphasizing that Christian greetings should be genuine and reflect the sanctifying work of God in believers' lives.

Practical Application Today

While a literal kiss as a universal greeting may not be culturally appropriate in all modern contexts, the underlying principle of 1 Corinthians 16:20 remains vital for Christian fellowship. The instruction calls believers to:

• Express Genuine Warmth: Greet one another with sincere affection, respect, and welcome, whether through a handshake, a hug, or a warm word.
• Foster Purity in Relationships: Ensure that all interactions within the Christian community are marked by purity, integrity, and honor, free from any form of impropriety or pretense.
• Cultivate Unity: Actively pursue and demonstrate unity within the local church, recognizing and valuing every member as part of the family of God.
• Practice Sincere Hospitality: Extend a heartfelt welcome to all, reflecting the love of Christ and making others feel truly belonging and valued.

Ultimately, "an holy kiss" serves as a timeless reminder that Christian greetings should be more than mere formalities; they should be expressions of the deep, pure, and unifying love that binds believers together in Christ.