How can we apply "Greet all the brothers with a holy kiss" today? Seeing the Command in Its Original Setting “Greet all the brothers with a holy kiss.” (1 Thessalonians 5:26) • In the first-century Mediterranean world, a kiss on the cheek was the ordinary way family members exchanged affection and respect. • By calling it “holy,” Paul set this greeting apart from casual or worldly displays, anchoring it in purity and Christian love. • Similar instructions appear in Romans 16:16; 1 Corinthians 16:20; 2 Corinthians 13:12; and 1 Peter 5:14, showing this was a consistent apostolic practice. Principles That Remain Timeless • Warm, tangible affirmation of spiritual family ties (Romans 12:10: “Be devoted to one another in brotherly love; outdo yourselves in honoring one another.”). • Purity in every affectionate action (Ephesians 5:3). • Inclusion—“all the brothers,” not merely close friends or certain groups (James 2:1–4). • Public testimony that Christ breaks social and ethnic barriers (Galatians 3:28). Modern Expressions of the Same Heart • A friendly handshake, firm and sincere. • An appropriate hug between people who both feel comfortable. • A gentle pat on the shoulder or back. • A warm smile accompanied by direct eye contact and welcoming words. • Digital “touch” when distance requires it—voice messages, video calls, or thoughtful texts that convey real affection. Guarding Purity and Propriety • Always consider local customs and personal boundaries; what feels affirming in one culture may feel invasive in another (1 Corinthians 9:22). • Exercise extra sensitivity across gender lines or with those who have experienced trauma; “do not cause anyone to stumble” (Romans 14:20-21). • Let motives be transparent: genuine love, not flirtation or superficial politeness (1 Timothy 5:2). • Seek accountability; greet in public spaces and within the gathered body whenever possible. Practical Steps for Today 1. Prepare your heart before worship: ask the Lord to help you notice those who need encouragement. 2. Arrive early or linger afterward so greetings are unhurried. 3. Use names—“Good to see you, Emily!” Personal recognition amplifies warmth. 4. Pair the greeting with a short blessing: “I’m thankful God brought you here.” 5. Intentionally cross generational, cultural, and socioeconomic lines each week. 6. In small groups or family gatherings, agree together on a culturally comfortable form of “holy kiss” and practice it consistently. 7. Teach children and new believers why we greet this way, rooting the habit in Scripture rather than mere etiquette. 8. Evaluate regularly: does our greeting still feel holy—set apart, pure, inclusive, and marked by Christlike love? If not, adjust. The Goal Summed Up Whether through a literal kiss, a handshake, or another respectful gesture, let every greeting in the body of Christ radiate holiness, sincerity, and family affection, so that anyone who walks among us senses the living truth of 1 John 4:7: “Beloved, let us love one another, for love comes from God.” |
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