1 Corinthians 16:22

If any man loue not the Lord Iesus Christ, let him bee Anathema Maranatha. 1 Corinthians 16:22 (KJV)

This verse concludes Paul’s first letter to the Corinthians. It carries a strong admonition and significant theological implications, inviting the reader to examine its components for deeper understanding.

“If any man love not the Lord Jesus Christ”: The phrasing underscores the central New Testament theme that love for the Lord Jesus is essential to the Christian life. Throughout Scripture, love for Christ is presented as the defining mark of true discipleship and the foundation of all Christian obedience.

“Let him be Anathema”: The Greek term anathema means “accursed” or “devoted to destruction.” In this context Paul declares that a person who does not love the Lord Jesus Christ is under divine condemnation. The word conveys a severe, irrevocable judgment, reflecting the seriousness with which the early church regarded the rejection of Christ.

“Maranatha”: This Aramaic expression translates as “Our Lord, come!” or “The Lord is coming.” It expresses the early Christians’ eager anticipation of Christ’s return. By appending Maranatha, Paul links the present warning with the future hope, reminding believers that the ultimate vindication of Christ’s love will be realized at His second coming.

Together, the three elements form a powerful exhortation: love for Christ is non‑negotiable, rejection brings condemnation, and the hope of Christ’s return intensifies the urgency of that love. For contemporary believers, the verse challenges us to examine the depth of our affection for Jesus, to recognize the grave consequences of indifference, and to live in hopeful expectation of His promised return.