1 Corinthians 16:20
All the brethren greet you. Greet ye one another with an holy kiss.
1 Corinthians 16:20 (KJV)
Context
Paul wrote 1 Corinthians to address various issues within the Corinthian church. In this final chapter, he discusses the collection for the saints in Jerusalem and his travel plans. He then closes the letter with greetings from fellow believers and a command for the Corinthians to greet one another with a holy kiss.
Meaning
The verse has two parts. First, “All the brethren greet you” conveys greetings from the Christians with Paul, likely those in Ephesus or fellow workers. This shows the interconnectedness and unity of early believers. Second, “Greet ye one another with an holy kiss” instructs the Corinthians to greet each other with a holy kiss, a common cultural practice in the Greco-Roman world. Paul adds the qualifier “holy” to emphasize purity, sincerity, and genuine Christian love, not romantic or sensual intent. This greeting was a sign of fellowship, unity, and familial affection within the church.
Biblical connections
Similar greetings appear in other Pauline letters, such as Romans 16:16 and 2 Corinthians 13:12, indicating a consistent practice among early Christians. The holy kiss also reflects the commandment of Jesus to love one another (John 13:34-35), serving as a tangible expression of that love.
Application
While the specific method of greeting may vary across cultures and time periods, the underlying principle remains relevant. Believers today can express love and unity through appropriate cultural gestures, such as a warm handshake, a hug, or other forms of greeting. The holy kiss is a cultural expression of the spiritual reality of Christian community, where believers are to greet one another with genuine love and holiness.
Reflection
This verse reminds us to prioritize love, humility, and unity within the body of Christ. It encourages believers to greet one another with genuine affection and to extend Christian love in their interactions, demonstrating the transformative power of the Gospel.
