1 Peter 5:14

KJV

Greet ye one another with a kiss of charity. Peace [be] with you all that are in Christ Jesus. Amen.

KJV (with Strong's)

Greet ye {G782} one another {G240} with {G1722} a kiss {G5370} of charity {G26}. Peace {G1515} be with you {G5213} all {G3956} that are in {G1722} Christ {G5547} Jesus {G2424}. Amen {G281}.

Complete Jewish Bible

Greet each other with a kiss of love.

“Shalom aleikhem!” to all who belong to the Messiah.

Berean Standard Bible

Greet one another with a kiss of love. Peace to all of you who are in Christ.

American Standard Version

Salute one another with a kiss of love. Peace be unto you all that are in Christ.

Commentary

### SUMMARY
This concluding verse of 1 Peter offers a poignant final greeting and blessing, encapsulating the essence of Christian fellowship and spiritual well-being. It commands believers to express genuine, selfless love through a "kiss of charity" and bestows a profound blessing of peace upon all who are spiritually united "in Christ Jesus," sealing the epistle with a definitive "Amen." The verse serves as a powerful reminder of the deep love, unity, and comprehensive peace that should characterize the community of faith, especially amidst trials.

### CONTEXT
* **Literary Context:** 1 Peter 5:14 serves as the concluding salutation of Peter's first epistle, a common feature in New Testament letters that often end with personal greetings, doxologies, and benedictions. This verse follows Peter's final exhortations to elders to shepherd God's flock, to younger believers to submit, and to all to clothe themselves with humility and to be vigilant against the adversary ([1_peter/5-1-9](/1_peter/5-1-9 "1 Peter 5:1-9 - Exhortations to Elders and Believers")). Having addressed themes of suffering, perseverance, and the hope found in Christ, this final verse brings the practical exhortations and theological truths to a personal and communal close, emphasizing the unity and spiritual blessings shared among those who are "in Christ Jesus." It acts as a final embrace, solidifying the bonds of fellowship Peter has implicitly called for throughout the letter.

* **Historical & Cultural Context:** The "kiss" (φίλημα, _phílēma_) was a common social greeting in the ancient world, signifying respect, affection, or recognition. However, within early Christian communities, it took on a unique and sacred significance, often referred to as a "holy kiss" or, as here, a "kiss of charity" (ἀγάπη, _agápē_). This practice distinguished Christian greetings from pagan customs, symbolizing genuine spiritual affection, purity, and unity among believers, regardless of social status or background. Peter is writing to scattered believers in various Roman provinces of Asia Minor who were experiencing significant social ostracism and persecution ([1_peter/4-12-19](/1_peter/4-12-19 "1 Peter 4:12-19 - Suffering for Christ")). In such a context, the emphasis on communal love and divine peace would have been particularly vital, reinforcing their shared identity and solidarity in Christ.

* **Key Themes:** This concluding verse encapsulates several major theological and narrative themes woven throughout 1 Peter. The command to "Greet ye one another with a kiss of charity" highlights the paramount importance of **Christian Fellowship and Love**, particularly the divine, self-sacrificial love (ἀγάπη) that should bind believers together, forming a spiritual family ([1_peter/4-8-11](/1_peter/4-8-11 "1 Peter 4:8-11 - Love One Another Earnestly")). The blessing "Peace be with you all that are in Christ Jesus" underscores the theme of **Peace (εἰρήνη, _eirḗnē_)** – not merely the absence of conflict, but a holistic well-being and spiritual flourishing that is a gift from God. This peace is uniquely accessible to those whose **Identity and Security are "in Christ"**, a foundational theological concept signifying the believer's spiritual union with Jesus Christ, which is the source of their peace, new life, and shared fellowship, even amidst suffering ([1_peter/1-3-9](/1_peter/1-3-9 "1 Peter 1:3-9 - A Living Hope")). The "Amen" serves as a final affirmation of the certainty and truth of these blessings and the entire message of the epistle.

### EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS

#### Key Word Analysis
* **Charity (Greek, _agápē'_):** From ἀγαπάω (_agapáō_), this word denotes a profound, unconditional, and self-sacrificial love, often associated with God's love for humanity and the love believers are called to show one another. It signifies affection or benevolence that is active, intentional, and rooted in moral choice rather than mere emotion or sentiment. In this context, it elevates the "kiss" from a simple social custom to an expression of divine love that binds the Christian community.
* **Peace (Greek, _eirḗnē'_):** Probably derived from a primary verb meaning "to join," _eirḗnē_ encompasses more than just the absence of conflict. It signifies a state of holistic well-being, harmony, prosperity, and spiritual rest. Akin to the Hebrew _shalom_, it represents the comprehensive flourishing that comes from God, a state of reconciliation and right relationship with God and others.
* **In (Greek, _en'_):** A primary preposition, _en_ denotes a fixed position in place, time, or state, and by implication, instrumentality. In the phrase "in Christ Jesus," it signifies a deep, spiritual union and identification. It describes the sphere or realm in which believers exist, from which they derive their identity, peace, and all spiritual blessings. It is not merely proximity but an intimate, existential connection.

#### Verse Breakdown
* **"Greet ye one another with a kiss of charity."**: This is an imperative command, instructing believers to actively salute or embrace each other. The phrase "one another" (G240, _allḗlōn_) emphasizes reciprocity and mutual expression of affection. The "kiss" (G5370, _phílēma_) is the physical act, but it is qualified by "of charity" (G26, _agápē_), indicating that this greeting is to be an expression of selfless, divine love, distinguishing it from a casual or profane kiss and underscoring the purity and depth of Christian fellowship.
* **"Peace [be] with you all that are in Christ Jesus."**: This constitutes a powerful benediction or blessing. "Peace" (G1515, _eirḗnē_) is the core blessing, signifying holistic well-being and spiritual harmony. It is extended universally to "you all" (G5213, _hymîn_; G3956, _pâs_), encompassing all the recipients of Peter's letter. The crucial qualifier "that are in Christ Jesus" (G1722, _en_; G5547, _Christós_; G2424, _Iēsoûs_) defines the spiritual condition and identity of those who receive this peace, emphasizing that true and lasting peace is found only through spiritual union with Jesus Christ.
* **"Amen."**: (G281, _amḗn_) This final word is a solemn affirmation, meaning "so be it," "truly," or "let it be done." It functions as a seal, confirming the truthfulness and certainty of the preceding blessing and the entire message of the epistle. It expresses Peter's earnest desire that the peace and love he has invoked will indeed be a reality for his readers.

#### Literary Devices
The verse employs several significant literary devices. The opening phrase, "Greet ye one another," is a direct **Command/Exhortation**, an imperative verb that conveys Peter's pastoral instruction for communal behavior. Following this, "Peace [be] with you all that are in Christ Jesus" functions as a **Benediction** or **Blessing**, a common epistolary closing that invokes divine favor and spiritual well-being upon the recipients. The phrase "kiss of charity" uses **Symbolism**, where a physical act (the kiss) represents a deeper spiritual reality (agape love and communal unity). The concluding "Amen" is an **Affirmation**, a Hebrew transliteration universally adopted, serving to solemnly confirm and seal the preceding statements. Furthermore, the recurring phrase "in Christ Jesus" is a powerful piece of **Theological Phraseology**, acting almost as a **Metonymy** for the entire Christian identity and experience, signifying the spiritual realm and source of all blessings for believers.

### THEOLOGICAL AND THEMATIC CONNECTIONS
This concluding verse beautifully synthesizes key theological truths that permeate the New Testament. The command for a "kiss of charity" underscores the New Covenant's emphasis on _agape_ love as the defining characteristic of Christ's followers, a love that transcends mere human affection and reflects the very nature of God. This love is foundational for Christian community, fostering unity and mutual support, especially important for believers facing external pressures. The blessing of "peace" is not merely the absence of conflict, but the comprehensive well-being and spiritual wholeness (shalom) that God provides. Crucially, this peace is explicitly linked to being "in Christ Jesus," highlighting the profound theological reality of spiritual union with Christ as the source of all spiritual blessings, identity, and security. It is through Christ that believers are reconciled to God and to one another, experiencing a peace that the world cannot give.

* [Romans 16:16](/romans/16-16 "Romans 16:16 - The Holy Kiss")
* [John 14:27](/john/14-27 "John 14:27 - Christ's Gift of Peace")
* [Ephesians 1:3](/ephesians/1-3 "Ephesians 1:3 - Blessed in Christ")

### REFLECTION AND APPLICATION
1 Peter 5:14, though brief, offers enduring principles for Christian living and community. While the cultural expression of a "kiss of charity" may vary today, the underlying command to express genuine, selfless love (agape) to fellow believers remains paramount. This calls us to cultivate authentic relationships within the church, characterized by warmth, sincerity, and mutual respect, reflecting the love of Christ. We are challenged to actively pursue peace and harmony within our communities, resolving conflicts with grace and fostering an atmosphere of mutual support and acceptance. Furthermore, the blessing of peace "in Christ Jesus" reminds us that our deepest peace and true identity are not found in worldly circumstances or achievements, but in our spiritual union with Jesus Christ. This divine peace empowers us to live out His love even amidst suffering, knowing that our security and well-being are rooted in Him. This verse encourages us to live as ambassadors of Christ's love and peace, both within the church and to the world.

#### Questions for Reflection
* How can we genuinely express "agape" love to fellow believers in our contemporary context, moving beyond superficial interactions?
* In what specific ways does being "in Christ Jesus" provide a unique and lasting peace amidst life's challenges and uncertainties?
* What practical steps can you take this week to foster greater unity and peace within your local church community or Christian fellowship?

### FAQ

**What is the "kiss of charity" and is it still practiced today?**
Answer: The "kiss of charity" (φίλημα ἀγάπης, _phílēma agápēs_) was a common and significant greeting in the early Christian church, mentioned in several New Testament letters (e.g., [Romans 16:16](/romans/16-16 "Romans 16:16 - The Holy Kiss"), [1 Corinthians 16:20](/1_corinthians/16-20 "1 Corinthians 16:20 - The Holy Kiss"), [2 Corinthians 13:12](/2_corinthians/13-12 "2 Corinthians 13:12 - The Holy Kiss"), [1 Thessalonians 5:26](/1_thessalonians/5-26 "1 Thessalonians 5:26 - The Holy Kiss")). It was more than a casual social custom; it was an outward expression of the inward, selfless love (agape) that bound believers together, symbolizing their spiritual unity, purity, and mutual affection as members of God's family. While the literal practice of a "holy kiss" may not be common in many contemporary cultures or church traditions due to cultural differences and potential for misunderstanding, the underlying principle remains vital: Christians are called to express genuine, profound love, unity, and acceptance towards one another in culturally appropriate ways. This can manifest through warm greetings, sincere hospitality, acts of service, and cultivating harmonious relationships.

**Why is the phrase "in Christ Jesus" so important in this verse and throughout the New Testament?**
Answer: The phrase "in Christ Jesus" (or simply "in Christ") is a foundational theological concept in the New Testament, appearing hundreds of times, particularly in Paul's epistles and echoed here by Peter. It signifies the believer's spiritual union with Jesus Christ. It describes the new spiritual realm or sphere of existence for those who have placed their faith in Him. To be "in Christ Jesus" means that one's identity, status, security, and source of all spiritual blessings are found in Him. It implies participation in His death, resurrection, and new life ([Romans 6:3-5](/romans/6-3-5 "Romans 6:3-5 - United with Christ in Baptism")). In [1 Peter 5:14](/1_peter/5-14 "1 Peter 5:14 - Peace in Christ"), the peace that is bestowed is specifically for those "in Christ Jesus," underscoring that true, holistic peace (shalom) is a gift and a state of being uniquely available through this intimate, saving relationship with the Lord. It is the very ground of our peace, unity, and hope.

### CHRIST-CENTERED FULFILLMENT
1 Peter 5:14, though a concluding greeting, is profoundly Christ-centered, embodying the very essence of the gospel. The "kiss of charity" points directly to the self-sacrificial love (agape) that Christ Himself demonstrated on the cross, laying down His life for His friends ([John 15:13](/john/15-13 "John 15:13 - Greater Love")). This divine love, now poured into the hearts of believers by the Holy Spirit ([Romans 5:5](/romans/5-5 "Romans 5:5 - Love Poured Out")), empowers them to love one another with the same Christ-like affection. Furthermore, the blessing of "Peace [be] with you all that are in Christ Jesus" finds its ultimate source and fulfillment in Christ. He is not merely a bringer of peace, but He *is* our peace ([Ephesians 2:14](/ephesians/2-14 "Ephesians 2:14 - Christ Our Peace")), having reconciled us to God through His blood ([Colossians 1:20](/colossians/1-20 "Colossians 1:20 - Reconciliation Through Christ")). The peace He gives is unlike the world's peace, a profound inner tranquility that guards hearts and minds ([John 14:27](/john/14-27 "John 14:27 - Christ's Gift of Peace"); [Philippians 4:7](/philippians/4-7 "Philippians 4:7 - The Peace of God")). The phrase "in Christ Jesus" encapsulates the believer's new identity and spiritual reality, a union with the risen Lord through whom all blessings flow. Finally, the concluding "Amen" is a powerful affirmation that echoes Christ Himself, who is the "Amen, the faithful and true witness" ([Revelation 3:14](/revelation/3-14 "Revelation 3:14 - Christ, the Amen")), the divine confirmation of all God's promises being "Yes" in Him ([2 Corinthians 1:20](/2_corinthians/1-20 "2 Corinthians 1:20 - Christ, the 'Amen'")). Thus, this verse is a final, beautiful testament to the centrality of Christ as the source of our love, peace, and eternal security.

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

Romans 16:16

Salute one another with an holy kiss. The churches of Christ salute you.

Ephesians 6:23

Peace [be] to the brethren, and love with faith, from God the Father and the Lord Jesus Christ.

Romans 8:1

¶ [There is] therefore now no condemnation to them which are in Christ Jesus, who walk not after the flesh, but after the Spirit.

Romans 1:7

To all that be in Rome, beloved of God, called [to be] saints: Grace to you and peace from God our Father, and the Lord Jesus Christ.

1 Corinthians 16:20

All the brethren greet you. Greet ye one another with an holy kiss.

John 20:19

¶ Then the same day at evening, being the first [day] of the week, when the doors were shut where the disciples were assembled for fear of the Jews, came Jesus and stood in the midst, and saith unto them, Peace [be] unto you.

1 Corinthians 1:30

But of him are ye in Christ Jesus, who of God is made unto us wisdom, and righteousness, and sanctification, and redemption: