1 Corinthians 16:24

KJV

My love [be] with you all in Christ Jesus. Amen.

KJV (with Strong's)

My {G3450} love {G26} be with {G3326} you {G5216} all {G3956} in {G1722} Christ {G5547} Jesus {G2424}. Amen {G281}. The first {G4413} epistle to {G4314} the Corinthians {G2881} was written {G1125} from {G575} Philippi {G5375} by {G1223} Stephanas {G4734} and {G2532} Fortunatus {G5415} and {G2532} Achaicus {G883} and {G2532} Timotheus {G5095}.

Complete Jewish Bible

My love is with you all, in union with the Messiah Yeshua.

Berean Standard Bible

My love be with all of you in Christ Jesus. Amen.

American Standard Version

My love be with you all in Christ Jesus. Amen.

Commentary

### SUMMARY
The concluding verse of Paul's First Epistle to the Corinthians, 1 Corinthians 16:24, serves as a profound and tender benediction, encapsulating the apostle's deep, Christ-centered affection for the Corinthian believers. Despite the challenging issues and stern rebukes addressed throughout the letter, this final declaration underscores that Paul's pastoral heart was ultimately driven by a divine love, extended universally to all members of the church, and rooted in their shared identity and experience "in Christ Jesus." It stands as a powerful reminder that love, particularly the selfless love empowered by Christ, is the essential bond and ultimate aim of Christian community.

### CONTEXT
* **Literary Context:** This verse marks the culmination of Paul's extensive and often corrective letter to the Corinthian church. Following detailed instructions on various practical and theological matters—including divisions within the church ([1 Corinthians 1:10-17](/1-corinthians/1-10-17 "1 Corinthians 1:10-17 - Divisions in the Church")), sexual immorality ([1 Corinthians 5](/1-corinthians/5 "1 Corinthians 5 - Immorality in the Church")), lawsuits among believers ([1 Corinthians 6:1-11](/1-corinthians/6-1-11 "1 Corinthians 6:1-11 - Lawsuits Among Believers")), marriage ([1 Corinthians 7](/1-corinthians/7 "1 Corinthians 7 - Instructions on Marriage")), food sacrificed to idols ([1 Corinthians 8-10](/1-corinthians/8-10 "1 Corinthians 8-10 - Food Sacrificed to Idols")), proper conduct in worship ([1 Corinthians 11](/1-corinthians/11 "1 Corinthians 11 - Head Coverings and the Lord's Supper")), the exercise of spiritual gifts ([1 Corinthians 12-14](/1-corinthians/12-14 "1 Corinthians 12-14 - Spiritual Gifts")), and the resurrection of the dead ([1 Corinthians 15](/1-corinthians/15 "1 Corinthians 15 - The Resurrection of Christ and Believers"))—Paul transitions to final greetings and practical instructions regarding the collection for the saints. The immediate preceding verses include personal greetings from Paul and his companions, a stern warning against those who do not love the Lord ([1 Corinthians 16:22](/1-corinthians/16-22 "1 Corinthians 16:22 - Anathema Maranatha")), and a final grace benediction ([1 Corinthians 16:23](/1-corinthians/16-23 "1 Corinthians 16:23 - Grace Benediction")). Against this backdrop of both correction and encouragement, the explicit declaration of "My love be with you all in Christ Jesus" serves as a tender, unifying, and deeply personal conclusion, emphasizing that despite their flaws, Paul's core relationship with them was one of profound, Christ-centered affection.

* **Historical & Cultural Context:** Corinth was a prominent Roman colony, a bustling port city known for its commercial prosperity and diverse, often morally lax, culture. This environment significantly influenced the challenges faced by the nascent Christian community there, as evidenced by the various issues Paul addresses. Ancient letters typically concluded with greetings and a final benediction or wish for well-being. Paul's letters, however, often elevate these conventional closings with profound theological significance. The inclusion of a personal "Amen" (G281, _amḗn_) at the very end of the letter, following the final benediction, underscores the sincerity and authority of his closing statement. The note about the letter's origin "from Philippi by Stephanas and Fortunatus and Achaicus and Timotheus" (though not part of the inspired text of the verse itself, but a later scribal addition or subscription) reflects the collaborative nature of early apostolic ministry and the network of believers involved in the spread of the gospel. Paul's emphasis on love in this context is particularly poignant, given the internal strife and divisions that characterized the Corinthian church, highlighting that true unity could only be forged through the selfless, divine love he had previously expounded upon in [1 Corinthians 13](/1-corinthians/13 "1 Corinthians 13 - The Love Chapter").

* **Key Themes:** This concluding verse powerfully reinforces several key themes woven throughout 1 Corinthians and Paul's broader theology. Firstly, it highlights **Apostolic Affection and Pastoral Care**, demonstrating Paul's genuine love for the churches he founded, even when he had to deliver harsh rebukes. His ultimate desire was their spiritual well-being, rooted in a deep, personal connection. Secondly, **Love as the Supreme Virtue** is reiterated. After dedicating an entire chapter to the preeminence of _agape_ love ([1 Corinthians 13](/1-corinthians/13 "1 Corinthians 13 - The Superiority of Love")), Paul concludes by invoking this very love as his final blessing, signaling its foundational importance for Christian life and community. Thirdly, the phrase "in Christ Jesus" underscores the theme of **Union with Christ** (or **Christ-Centeredness**). This is not merely human affection but a love that is empowered by, exists within, and flows from their shared spiritual reality in Christ. It is a love that transcends human limitations and is the basis for genuine unity and spiritual growth, as seen in passages like [Ephesians 4:1-3](/ephesians/4-1-3 "Ephesians 4:1-3 - Unity in the Body of Christ"). Finally, the inclusion of "all" (G3956, _pâs_) emphasizes **Inclusivity and Unity**, signaling that Paul's love, and the love that should characterize the church, extends to every member, regardless of their past failings or their position in the factions that had plagued the community.

### EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS
#### Key Word Analysis
* **love (Greek, _agápē_):** G26, from ἀγαπάω; affection or benevolence; specially (plural) a love-feast:--(feast of) charity(-ably), dear, love. This term signifies a selfless, unconditional, and divine love, distinct from human affection (_philia_) or romantic love (_eros_). It is a volitional love, a choice to act for the good of another, often irrespective of their merit. Paul’s use of _agápē_ here connects directly to his profound exposition of its qualities in [1 Corinthians 13](/1-corinthians/13 "1 Corinthians 13 - The Qualities of Love"), indicating that the love he extends and desires for them is of this divine, self-giving nature.
* **in (Greek, _en_):** G1722, a primary preposition denoting (fixed) position (in place, time or state), and (by implication) instrumentality (medially or constructively), i.e. a relation of rest (intermediate between εἰς and ἐκ); "in," at, (up-)on, by, etc. In this context, "in" signifies the sphere or realm in which this love operates and is made possible. It denotes a spiritual union and identification with Christ, implying that the love is not merely human sentiment but is derived from and sustained by their shared life and identity with Jesus Christ. It is the spiritual atmosphere in which true Christian love exists.
* **Christ (Greek, _Christós_):** G5547, from χρίω; anointed, i.e. the Messiah, an epithet of Jesus:--Christ. This title, meaning "Anointed One" or "Messiah," is central to Christian theology. Its inclusion here emphasizes that the love Paul speaks of is not a generic human emotion but a specific, redemptive, and transformative love that finds its source, pattern, and power in Jesus, the Messiah. It grounds the love in the saving work and ongoing presence of the Lord.

#### Verse Breakdown
* **"My love":** This phrase directly expresses Paul's personal affection and care for the Corinthian believers. It is a deeply pastoral and intimate declaration, conveying his genuine concern and affection despite the often-harsh tone of correction earlier in the letter. It underscores that his apostolic authority was always exercised from a heart of love.
* **"be with you all":** This is a benedictory wish, a prayer or desire that his love, specifically the _agápē_ love, would be a present and active reality among them. The inclusion of "all" (G3956, _pâs_) is crucial, emphasizing the universal scope of this love within the community, transcending any internal divisions or factions. It is a call for mutual love among all members, reflecting the unity that should characterize the body of Christ.
* **"in Christ Jesus. Amen.":** This final phrase specifies the sphere and source of this love. It is not merely a human sentiment but a spiritual reality that exists "in" their shared union with Christ. This love flows from their relationship with Jesus and is empowered by His presence. The "Amen" (G281, _amḗn_), meaning "so be it" or "truly," functions as a solemn affirmation of the sincerity and certainty of Paul's benediction, sealing his final wish with divine authority and conviction.

#### Literary Devices
The verse employs several significant literary devices. It functions primarily as a **Benediction**, a formal concluding blessing or good wish, characteristic of ancient letters and particularly Paul's epistles. This benediction carries an **Apostolic Tone**, reflecting Paul's authority as an apostle yet tempered with profound personal affection, demonstrating the balance between firm instruction and tender care that defines his ministry. The phrase "you **all**" (G3956, _pâs_) exemplifies **Inclusivity**, a deliberate choice of language to encompass every member of the Corinthian church, regardless of their position in the factions or their past behavior, thereby promoting unity. Finally, the entire verse serves as a **Theological Affirmation**, distilling the essence of Christian community and the source of its strength—love grounded "in Christ Jesus"—into a concise, powerful statement that reinforces the central themes of the letter and Paul's broader theology.

### THEOLOGICAL AND THEMATIC CONNECTIONS
Paul's final benediction in 1 Corinthians 16:24 profoundly connects to the overarching theological truth that love is the essence of God's character and the foundational principle for His people. This is not a mere human emotion, but the divine _agápē_ love that God Himself embodies and pours into the hearts of believers through the Holy Spirit ([Romans 5:5](/romans/5-5 "Romans 5:5 - God's Love Poured Out")). By wishing his love "in Christ Jesus" to "all" the Corinthians, Paul is not just expressing personal affection but invoking a spiritual reality: that the love which unites them is supernatural, empowered by their shared life with the incarnate Lord. This love is the distinguishing mark of Christ's disciples ([John 13:34-35](/john/13-34-35 "John 13:34-35 - The New Commandment to Love")), the "bond of perfection" that holds the body of Christ together ([Colossians 3:14](/colossians/3-14 "Colossians 3:14 - Love as the Bond of Perfection")), and the ultimate goal toward which all spiritual gifts and knowledge strive ([1 Corinthians 13:8-13](/1-corinthians/13-8-13 "1 Corinthians 13:8-13 - Love Endures Forever")). It is through this Christ-centered love that believers truly grow into maturity and fulfill the law of Christ.

* [John 13:34-35](/john/13-34-35 "John 13:34-35 - The New Commandment to Love One Another")
* [Ephesians 3:17-19](/ephesians/3-17-19 "Ephesians 3:17-19 - Rooted and Grounded in Love")
* [Colossians 3:14](/colossians/3-14 "Colossians 3:14 - Love, the Bond of Perfection")

### REFLECTION AND APPLICATION
Paul's concluding declaration of love in 1 Corinthians 16:24 offers a timeless and vital lesson for believers and churches today. It reminds us that even when addressing difficult truths, confronting sin, or navigating deep disagreements, the ultimate posture of our hearts and the goal of our interactions must be _agápē_ love, rooted and empowered by our union with Christ. This means that our corrections should be seasoned with grace, our disagreements should not lead to division, and our fellowship should always prioritize the spiritual well-being of "all" within the community. For individuals, it challenges us to examine whether our daily interactions, both within and outside the church, are truly characterized by this selfless, Christ-like love. For churches, it serves as a powerful call to unity, urging us to overcome factions, embrace diversity, and ensure that love remains the supreme virtue that binds us together and defines our witness to the world. It is a profound reminder that the effectiveness of our ministry and the authenticity of our faith are ultimately measured by the quality of our love for one another, a love made possible and perfected "in Christ Jesus."

#### Questions for Reflection
* **How does the _agápē_ love Paul expresses here differ from ordinary human affection, and what are the practical implications for my relationships within the church?**
* **In what specific ways can I cultivate and demonstrate this Christ-centered love towards "all" members of my community, especially those with whom I might disagree?**
* **How does the phrase "in Christ Jesus" transform my understanding of love, moving it beyond mere sentiment to a spiritual reality and power?**
* **Considering the challenges faced by the Corinthian church, how can prioritizing Christ-centered love help my own church overcome internal divisions or difficulties today?**

### FAQ
**Why does Paul end a letter filled with corrections and rebukes with such a tender expression of love?**

Answer: Paul's ending in 1 Corinthians 16:24 is a deliberate and profound pastoral act. Throughout the letter, Paul addressed numerous serious issues within the Corinthian church, including divisions, immorality, and misuse of spiritual gifts. His rebukes were stern, but they were always rooted in his genuine love and concern for their spiritual well-being. By concluding with "My love be with you all in Christ Jesus," Paul underscores that his apostolic authority and corrective discipline were always motivated by _agápē_ love, not anger or condemnation. It serves as a powerful reminder that true spiritual leadership is ultimately expressed through selfless love, aiming for restoration and unity. This final benediction reaffirms the central theme of [1 Corinthians 13](/1-corinthians/13 "1 Corinthians 13 - The Love Chapter"), highlighting that love is the supreme virtue that should govern all aspects of Christian life and community, even amidst challenges.

**What is the significance of the phrase "in Christ Jesus" in this verse?**

Answer: The phrase "in Christ Jesus" (Greek: _en Christō Iēsou_) is profoundly significant and a hallmark of Paul's theology. It indicates the spiritual sphere or realm in which believers exist and operate. It means that the love Paul wishes for the Corinthians is not merely human affection or sentiment, but a divine love that originates from, is empowered by, and finds its truest expression within their shared union with Jesus Christ. It signifies that this love is a fruit of the Spirit ([Galatians 5:22](/galatians/5-22 "Galatians 5:22 - The Fruit of the Spirit")), made possible by Christ's redemptive work, and sustained by His indwelling presence. It elevates the love from a human emotion to a supernatural reality that transcends human limitations and is capable of fostering genuine unity and reconciliation within the body of Christ, as seen in how believers are "in Christ" ([Romans 8:1](/romans/8-1 "Romans 8:1 - No Condemnation in Christ Jesus")) and walk "in Christ" ([Colossians 2:6](/colossians/2-6 "Colossians 2:6 - Walk in Christ Jesus")).

**Is the "Amen" at the end of the verse part of the original text, and what does it signify?**

Answer: Yes, the "Amen" (Greek: _amḗn_) is part of the original Greek text of 1 Corinthians 16:24. Derived from a Hebrew word meaning "firm" or "trustworthy," "Amen" functions as a solemn affirmation, meaning "so be it," "truly," or "let it be done." In this context, it serves as Paul's personal and emphatic endorsement of the preceding benediction. It signifies his deep sincerity, conviction, and desire that his declaration of love "in Christ Jesus" would indeed be a reality for the Corinthian believers. It is a powerful concluding word that seals his final pastoral wish with the weight of divine truth and certainty, much like how Jesus often used "Amen, amen" (translated "Truly, truly") to emphasize the truth of His statements in the Gospels ([John 5:24](/john/5-24 "John 5:24 - Truly, Truly, I Say to You")).

### CHRIST-CENTERED FULFILLMENT
Paul's final benediction, "My love be with you all in Christ Jesus. Amen," finds its ultimate fulfillment and deepest meaning in the person and work of Jesus Christ. This is not merely Paul's human affection, but a divine _agápē_ love that mirrors and flows from the very heart of God, revealed supremely in Christ. Jesus Himself commanded His disciples to love one another as He had loved them ([John 15:12](/john/15-12 "John 15:12 - Love One Another as I Have Loved You")), demonstrating this love through His sacrificial death on the cross ([Romans 5:8](/romans/5-8 "Romans 5:8 - God Demonstrates His Own Love")). Therefore, the love Paul wishes for the Corinthians is fundamentally Christ's love, mediated through Paul and made real in the lives of believers by their spiritual union "in Christ Jesus." Christ is the source, the standard, and the sphere of this love. He is the one who enables believers to overcome their divisions and live in unity, for it is His Spirit that produces love as a fruit in their lives ([Galatians 5:22-23](/galatians/5-22-23 "Galatians 5:22-23 - The Fruit of the Spirit")). The call to love "in Christ Jesus" is a call to participate in the very life and character of God, to embody the love that reconciled humanity to God, and to extend that same redemptive love to one another, reflecting the unity of the Godhead and the unity for which Christ prayed ([John 17:20-23](/john/17-20-23 "John 17:20-23 - Jesus Prays for Unity")). Thus, this benediction is a powerful Christological statement, affirming that true Christian love is inseparable from the person and empowering presence of the risen Lord.

Note: Commentary is generated by AI with a directive for Biblical fidelity. Always rely on the Holy Spirit for discernment. The Scripture text and cross-references are from verified, non-AI sources.

Cross-References

Matthew 6:13

And lead us not into temptation, but deliver us from evil: For thine is the kingdom, and the power, and the glory, for ever. Amen.

2 Corinthians 12:15

And I will very gladly spend and be spent for you; though the more abundantly I love you, the less I be loved.

Matthew 28:20

Teaching them to observe all things whatsoever I have commanded you: and, lo, I am with you alway, [even] unto the end of the world. Amen.

Philippians 1:8

For God is my record, how greatly I long after you all in the bowels of Jesus Christ.

1 Corinthians 4:14

¶ I write not these things to shame you, but as my beloved sons I warn [you].

1 Corinthians 4:15

For though ye have ten thousand instructors in Christ, yet [have ye] not many fathers: for in Christ Jesus I have begotten you through the gospel.

2 Corinthians 11:11

Wherefore? because I love you not? God knoweth.