How does the warning in 1 Corinthians 16:22 influence our evangelism efforts?

The Sobering Warning

“If anyone does not love the Lord, let him be accursed. Maranatha!” (1 Corinthians 16:22)

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What “Accursed” Communicates

- “Accursed” translates the Greek anathema—complete separation from God’s blessing.

- This is not a temporary setback but an eternal reality (cf. 2 Thessalonians 1:8–9).

- Scripture consistently shows that unbelief already places people under judgment (John 3:18, 36).

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Why the Warning Fuels Urgency

- Evangelism is not merely offering a better life; it is a rescue from certain condemnation.

- Every person without a genuine love for Christ stands under the same sentence pronounced here.

- Love for the Lord is the dividing line—neutrality is impossible (Matthew 12:30).

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Key Truths We Must Communicate

• The Necessity of Loving Christ

– Salvation is personal affection and loyalty to Jesus, not just intellectual assent (John 14:23).

• The Exclusivity of the Gospel

– “There is no other name under heaven given to men by which we must be saved” (Acts 4:12).

• The Imminence of Judgment

– “Maranatha” (“Our Lord, come!”) underscores that His return—and the final verdict—could be at any moment (Revelation 22:12).

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Practical Adjustments to Our Evangelism

- Speak plainly about eternal stakes; avoid softening the seriousness of unbelief.

- Present Christ’s lordship and love together—invite hearers to a wholehearted relationship, not mere ritual.

- Let compassion fuel boldness: “For Christ’s love compels us” (2 Corinthians 5:14).

- Rely on Scripture’s authority; faith comes by hearing the word of Christ (Romans 10:17).

- Intercede earnestly; only the Spirit can awaken genuine love for the Savior (John 16:8–11).

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Living Out the Warning

- Remember that lost people are not merely uninformed but spiritually endangered.

- Hold both truth and tenderness—“save others by snatching them from the fire” while showing mercy (Jude 22–23).

- Keep the expectancy of Christ’s return before your eyes; urgency grows when eternity feels near.

The warning of 1 Corinthians 16:22 presses us to proclaim a clear, urgent, and loving gospel—calling every soul to turn from curse to Christ before He comes.