How can we "greet one another with a holy kiss" today? Setting the Scene “Greet one another with a holy kiss.” (2 Corinthians 13:12) Paul closes four different letters with the same charge (Romans 16:16; 1 Corinthians 16:20; 1 Thessalonians 5:26), and Peter echoes it (1 Peter 5:14). Clearly, this is more than a throw-away phrase; it is a Spirit-inspired command meant for the church in every era. What Is a “Holy Kiss”? • A real kiss—forehead, cheek, or beard—was the standard greeting among family and close friends in the ancient Near East. • “Holy” (hagios) marks it as set apart: pure, untainted by romantic or impure intent. • Symbolized full fellowship across social lines: Jew and Gentile, slave and free, male and female, rich and poor. Biblical Threads That Tie It Together • Romans 12:10 — “Be devoted to one another in brotherly love. Outdo yourselves in honoring one another.” • John 13:34-35 — Love is the badge of discipleship. • Luke 7:45 — Jesus notes the lack of a welcoming kiss; hospitality and warmth matter. • Proverbs 27:6 — “Faithful are the wounds of a friend, but deceitful are the kisses of an enemy.” Holiness keeps affection truthful and pure. Principles for Today 1. Literal obedience still matters; Scripture has not expired. 2. Holiness governs the manner; purity and respect override cultural trends. 3. The core command is affectionate, visible, mutual welcome inside God’s family. Practical Ways to Greet Today Depending on culture, setting, gender, and personal boundaries: • Light cheek-to-cheek kiss among cultures where that remains normal. • Warm handshake with direct eye contact and sincere words. • Brief, side-hug between same-gender friends or between family units. • Hand on the shoulder or arm while verbalizing blessing. • Friendly fist-bump or clasped-hands greeting for teens and young adults. The form may vary; the warmth, purity, and intentional welcome must not. Guardrails to Keep It Holy • Never impose physical contact; “let all things be done decently and in order” (1 Corinthians 14:40). • Maintain propriety between men and women, mindful of temptation and testimony. • Observe civil or church policies that safeguard minors and vulnerable adults. • Stay within what your culture reads as respectful and non-sexual. • Let genuine love for Christ’s body, not social custom alone, drive the gesture. Heart Posture Matters Most • Welcome every believer as a brother or sister purchased by Christ’s blood. • Break down cliques and social walls; the greeting is an equalizer. • Express joy in another’s presence—mirroring the Father’s joy over His children. Putting It Together Whether your church family greets with a literal kiss, a firm handshake, or a hearty hug, obey the command’s heart: visible, tangible affection that is unmistakably holy, pure, and rooted in Christ’s love. |
    |