2 Corinthians 13:12

In 2 Corinthians 13:12, the Apostle Paul issues a succinct instruction to the Corinthian believers: "Greet one another with an holy kiss." This brief command, part of his closing remarks, underscores the importance of genuine affection, unity, and purity within the Christian community.

Context

This verse appears at the very end of Paul's Second Epistle to the Corinthians, following his final exhortations for the church to be perfect, to be of good comfort, to be of one mind, and to live in peace (2 Corinthians 13:11). The Corinthian church had been plagued by divisions, challenges to Paul's authority, and various moral issues. Therefore, this instruction serves as a practical call for them to demonstrate the unity and love he had been urging throughout the letter. It’s an expression of reconciliation and solidarity after a period of tension and correction, fostering a stronger communal bond.

Key Themes

• Christian Fellowship and Unity: The command emphasizes the deep bond that should exist among believers, transcending disagreements and fostering a sense of family. It's a call to actively express mutual acceptance and belonging, crucial for a harmonious church body.
• Pure Affection: The addition of "holy" (hagios) is crucial. It distinguishes this greeting from common or sensual kisses, emphasizing its sacred, pure, and sincere nature. It signifies love that is set apart by God's Spirit, reflecting the sanctity of their relationship in Christ.
• Practical Expression of Love: Paul often encouraged believers to love one another (John 13:34) and here provides a tangible, culturally relevant way to express that love and respect within the church, serving as a sign of peace and reconciliation.

Linguistic Insights

The Greek word for "kiss" is philema (φίλημα), which denotes a kiss of affection, friendship, or greeting. In ancient Near Eastern and Mediterranean cultures, a kiss on the cheek or hand was a common and respectful form of greeting among friends, family, and even acquaintances. The qualifier "holy" (Greek: hagios) means "set apart," "sacred," or "pure." When combined, "holy kiss" signifies a greeting that is consecrated by the Spirit, free from hypocrisy, sensuality, or insincerity, and indicative of true spiritual kinship and reverence for God.

Cross-References and Significance

This instruction for a "holy kiss" is not unique to 2 Corinthians. Paul reiterates it in several other epistles, underscoring its importance in the early Christian community as a form of greeting:

• Romans 16:16
• 1 Corinthians 16:20
• 1 Thessalonians 5:26

Furthermore, Peter refers to it as a "kiss of charity" or "kiss of love" in 1 Peter 5:14, further emphasizing its foundation in Christian love (agape) and the affectionate bond among believers.

Practical Application

While a literal kiss as a greeting may not be culturally appropriate or common in all contemporary church settings, the underlying principle of sincere and pure Christian greeting and fellowship remains vital. This verse encourages believers to:

• Express Genuine Affection: Foster a warm, welcoming, and loving atmosphere where members feel truly cared for and accepted. This might involve a handshake, a hug, or simply a warm smile and genuine conversation, depending on cultural norms.
• Promote Unity: Actively seek to break down barriers, reconcile differences, and strengthen bonds within the body of Christ. The greeting serves as a visible sign of peace and reconciliation, especially important in diverse congregations.
• Maintain Purity in Interaction: Ensure all interactions among believers are characterized by respect, integrity, and holiness, reflecting the spiritual nature of their relationship in Christ and upholding the church's witness.

Ultimately, "Greet one another with an holy kiss" calls for a community where love, respect, and unity are not just doctrines, but are visibly and sincerely expressed in daily interactions among God's people, reflecting their shared faith and commitment.