1 Corinthians 16:20- “All the brothers and sisters here send you greetings. Greet one another with a holy kiss.”

Extended Explanation

As Paul closes his first letter to the Corinthians, he includes greetings from other believers and gives a final instruction: “Greet one another with a holy kiss.”

This was a cultural expression of love and unity among believers in the early church. It wasn’t romantic but a warm and respectful gesture, similar to a handshake or a hug today. In biblical times, greetings often involved a kiss on the cheek or forehead, especially among close friends and family.

Paul’s command here is not just about the physical act of greeting but about the heart behind it. The “holy kiss” symbolized Christian unity, love, and fellowship. It was a reminder that believers were part of a spiritual family, bound together by their faith in Christ.

At its core, this verse is about genuine love and unity within the church. Paul is encouraging Christians to greet one another warmly, not with cold formality but with sincere affection as brothers and sisters in Christ.

Historical Context

The early church was made up of diverse people—Jews, Greeks, Romans, slaves, and free citizens—who might not have interacted under normal circumstances. The “holy kiss” was a way to break down barriers and reinforce that, in Christ, all believers were equal and part of one family.

In the Roman world, a kiss was commonly used as a greeting among family members and close friends. By instructing the Corinthians to greet one another this way, Paul was encouraging them to treat fellow believers as family.

Because of persecution, the early church often met in secret house churches rather than public buildings. Personal greetings were meaningful, especially since many believers faced hostility from the world. This kind of warm, loving greeting reminded them that they were not alone.

Over time, as church traditions developed, the “holy kiss” was replaced with other cultural greetings, but the meaning remained the same—believers should welcome one another warmly and with love.

Theological Implications

1. Christian love is not just words—it is expressed in action. The “holy kiss” was a sign of real love and unity within the church. Today, we might not greet each other this way, but we should show love through genuine kindness, encouragement, and hospitality.

2. The church is a family. Paul’s instruction reminds us that believers are not just members of an organization but are spiritual brothers and sisters. The Christian life is meant to be lived in community.

3. Unity in Christ overcomes social and cultural divisions. The early church was made up of people from different backgrounds, yet they greeted each other warmly as equals. This verse challenges us to love all believers, regardless of differences.

4. Fellowship is essential in the Christian life. The way we greet and treat one another reflects our understanding of God’s love and grace.

Literary Analysis

This verse is part of Paul’s final farewell in 1 Corinthians 16. Throughout this chapter, he has been giving personal greetings, final instructions, and words of encouragement.

The phrase “all the brothers and sisters here send you greetings” shows that Paul wasn’t alone—he was surrounded by fellow believers who also cared for the Corinthians. This reflects the strong relational aspect of the early church.

The instruction “greet one another with a holy kiss” is a repeated phrase in Paul’s letters (see Romans 16:16, 2 Corinthians 13:12, 1 Thessalonians 5:26). This repetition suggests that Christian greetings were important in maintaining unity.

The word “holy” in “holy kiss” is significant. This wasn’t just an ordinary greeting but one that was set apart as a sign of Christian love, respect, and purity.

Relevant Biblical Cross-References

• Romans 16:16 – “Greet one another with a holy kiss. All the churches of Christ send greetings.”
• 2 Corinthians 13:12 – “Greet one another with a holy kiss.”
• 1 Peter 5:14 – “Greet one another with a kiss of love. Peace to all of you who are in Christ.”
• John 13:35 – “By this everyone will know that you are my disciples, if you love one another.”
• Galatians 3:28 – “There is neither Jew nor Gentile, neither slave nor free, nor is there male and female, for you are all one in Christ Jesus.”

What This Verse Means for Today’s Christian

1. Christian fellowship should be warm and genuine. Paul’s command to greet one another warmly is still relevant today. While we may not use a “holy kiss,” we can show love through kindness, encouragement, and hospitality.

2. The church should reflect family-like relationships. Christians should care for each other deeply, treating fellow believers as brothers and sisters rather than strangers.

3. Personal interactions matter. The way we greet people—whether through a handshake, a hug, or a kind word—can reflect God’s love. Even small acts of warmth and kindness can make a difference in someone’s life.

4. Unity in Christ is more important than social or cultural differences. Whether rich or poor, young or old, from different races or backgrounds, all believers are one in Christ.

How This Verse Relates to a Loving God

God’s love is personal and relational. He doesn’t just love us from a distance—He draws near to us, welcomes us into His family, and calls us to love one another.

This verse reflects God’s heart for Christian unity and fellowship. Just as He welcomes us with open arms, He calls us to welcome and love one another.

In the parable of the prodigal son (Luke 15:20), the father runs to his lost son and embraces him with love. This is the kind of warm welcome God gives us—and the kind of love we should extend to others.

How This Verse Connects to Jesus Christ

Jesus modeled love, humility, and personal connection in the way He interacted with people.

• Jesus welcomed His disciples as friends. – John 15:15, “I no longer call you servants, but friends.”
• Jesus physically touched and blessed people. – Matthew 8:3, “Jesus reached out His hand and touched the man.”
• Jesus prayed for unity among believers. – John 17:20-21, “I pray also for those who will believe in me… that all of them may be one.”

The holy kiss in Paul’s time was a way of showing love and unity, just as Jesus taught. Today, we show Christ’s love through genuine kindness, welcoming attitudes, and caring for one another.

Questions for Reflection and Discussion

1. What are some practical ways you can show love and warmth to fellow believers?
2. Do you see your church as a family? If not, how can you help create that sense of closeness?
3. Are there any social or cultural barriers in your church that prevent unity? How can you help bridge those gaps?
4. How does the way you greet and interact with others reflect God’s love?
5. Who in your life might need a warm welcome or encouragement today?