Romans 16:16

Salute one another with an holy kiss. 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.

Meaning

The word “salute” means to greet or show respect. Paul encourages believers to greet one another warmly. In the culture of the early church, a “holy kiss” was a customary greeting among friends, expressing warmth, respect, and affection. Paul qualifies it as “holy” to distinguish it from any improper or romantic gesture; it is to be pure, sincere, and an expression of Christian love and unity. This practice is also mentioned in 1 Corinthians 16:20, 2 Corinthians 13:12, 1 Thessalonians 5:26, and 1 Peter 5:14, where it is called a “kiss of charity” or “kiss of love.” These parallel passages confirm that this was a recognized and repeated apostolic instruction, emphasizing brotherly and sisterly love within the Christian community.

Biblical connections

The second part, “The churches of Christ salute you,” highlights the interconnectedness of the early Christian congregations. Paul conveys greetings from all the churches, showing that the believers in Rome were not isolated but part of a larger body of Christ. This reflects the unity and fellowship that should exist among all Christians.

Application

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, going beyond mere formalities. The specific cultural expression of a “holy kiss” may vary across different times and cultures, but the underlying principle remains relevant: we should find appropriate ways to express love, affection, and unity in our own cultural context. The mention of “the churches of Christ” saluting the believers in Rome reminds us that we are part of a larger family of believers who should support, encourage, and greet one another.

Reflection

This verse serves as a model for Christian greeting: it should be warm, sincere, and holy, reflecting the love and unity that believers share in Christ. Let us consider how we greet our fellow believers, ensuring that our words and actions convey genuine Christian affection.