Romans 16:16

Salute one another with an holy kisse. The Churches of Christ salute you. Romans 16:16 (KJV)

Context: The book of Romans is a letter written by the Apostle Paul to the believers in Rome. It contains theological teachings and practical instructions for Christian living. In Romans 16, Paul concludes his letter by sending greetings to various individuals in the Roman church.

Salute one another: The word “salute” in this context means to greet or show respect. Paul encourages the believers in Rome to greet one another warmly.

Holy kiss: In the culture of the early church, an “holy kiss” was a customary form of greeting. It was a symbol of Christian love and unity. The kiss was not meant to be romantic or sensual but rather a gesture of affection and brotherly/sisterly love. The reference to a holy kiss emphasizes the sacredness and purity of this act.

Unity and love: Romans 16:16 emphasizes the importance of unity and love within the Christian community. Christians are called to treat one another with genuine affection and respect. It reminds us to go beyond mere formalities and to genuinely care for and show love to our fellow believers.

Cultural expressions of love: The specific cultural expression of a “holy kiss” may vary across different times and cultures. The underlying principle, however, remains relevant: we should find appropriate ways to express love, affection, and unity in our own cultural context.

Church family: The mention of “the churches of Christ” saluting the believers in Rome reminds us of the interconnectedness of Christian communities. It is a reminder that we are part of a larger family of believers who should support, encourage, and greet one another.