What other biblical examples show the significance of respectful greetings? Setting the Stage – Exodus 18:7 “So Moses went out to meet his father-in-law and bowed down and kissed him. They greeted each other and went into the tent.” • A face-to-face meeting, a bow, a kiss, shared words—Scripture treats each action as purposeful, showing honor, affection, and readiness for fellowship. Patterns among the Patriarchs • Genesis 18:2-3 – Abraham runs to meet the three visitors, “bowed low to the ground,” and offers lavish hospitality. • Genesis 33:3-4 – Jacob “bowed to the ground seven times” before Esau; the brothers then embrace and weep, sealing reconciliation. • Genesis 45:14-15 – Joseph “wept on Benjamin’s neck” and then “kissed all his brothers,” moving them from guilt to restored family unity. Greetings that Heal Family Wounds • Ruth 2:4 – Boaz greets field workers, “The LORD be with you.” Their reply, “The LORD bless you,” cultivates mutual respect between master and servants. • Luke 1:41-43 – Mary’s simple greeting causes John to leap in Elizabeth’s womb; Elizabeth’s Spirit-filled reply confirms God’s promise. • Luke 15:20 – The prodigal’s father “ran to his son, threw his arms around his neck, and kissed him,” turning repentance into celebration. Models of Honor in Royal Courts • 1 Samuel 25:23 – Abigail “fell facedown… and bowed to the ground” before David, averting bloodshed through humble approach. • 1 Kings 2:19 – Solomon rises, bows to Bathsheba, seats her at his right hand—royal protocol expressing filial honor. • 2 Samuel 24:20-22 – Araunah bows before King David; the king insists on paying full price, showing mutual respect in covenant dealings. Hospitality between Host and Guest • Luke 7:44-45 – Jesus rebukes Simon: “You did not greet Me with a kiss,” contrasting casual neglect with the woman’s heartfelt honor. • John 13:4-5 – Jesus washes the disciples’ feet, re-defining the greeting of a host as humble service. • Acts 20:37 – Ephesian elders “wept openly, embraced Paul, and kissed him,” their farewell imprinted with love and gratitude. New-Covenant Instructions • Matthew 10:12-13 – “As you enter the house, greet it. If the house is worthy, let your peace rest on it.” • Romans 16:16 – “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.” These commands treat respectful greeting as a conduit for Christ’s peace and unity in the church. Key Takeaways for Today • Respectful greetings demonstrate honor for God-given relationships—family, authority, guest, or fellow believer. • They often precede reconciliation, covenant, or blessing; Scripture never treats them as empty formality. • Whether by bow, embrace, blessing, or act of service, God’s people are called to greet one another in ways that reflect His character and foster genuine fellowship. |
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