What cultural practices today reflect the greeting in Romans 16:16? Context of Romans 16:16 “Greet one another with a holy kiss. All the churches of Christ send you greetings.” • Written by Paul at the close of his letter, this command is as Spirit-breathed and trustworthy as every other verse (2 Timothy 3:16). • A “holy kiss” was an established, literal form of greeting among first-century believers, marking family-level affection and shared holiness in Christ. The Original Gesture: A Holy Kiss • Appears four other times: 1 Corinthians 16:20; 2 Corinthians 13:12; 1 Thessalonians 5:26; 1 Peter 5:14 (“a kiss of love”). • In Jewish and Greco-Roman society, close relatives greeted with a kiss on the cheek or beard; the church adopted it to declare that all believers are now family. • “Holy” safeguarded the act from anything impure, keeping the greeting respectful and set apart for God. Timeless Principle Behind the Kiss 1. Warm, visible affection among believers. 2. Recognition of our unity in Christ (John 13:34-35). 3. Holiness—greetings are to remain pure and honorable (1 Timothy 5:1-2). Modern Equivalents Around the World • Handshake: common in North America, Europe, parts of Africa; conveys respect and welcome. • Side-hug or full embrace: typical in many evangelical circles; demonstrates brotherly love while honoring boundaries. • Cheek-to-cheek kiss (“la bise”): practiced in France, Spain, Italy, Latin America, the Middle East—often two or three light touches. • Bowing: East Asian congregations reflect respect and humility with a gentle bow. • “Passing the Peace”: liturgical churches exchange a handshake and the words “Peace of Christ.” • Fist bump or elbow tap: emerged during health crises yet still expresses friendly warmth. • Right-hand clasp followed by heart touch (parts of Africa and the Middle East): a cultural sign of sincerity. • Traditional Māori hongi (New Zealand): believers press noses and foreheads, symbolizing shared breath of life. • Digital greetings: sincere video calls or text messages carrying Scripture and love when distance prevents physical contact. Each practice seeks to mirror the holy kiss—visible, affectionate, pure recognition that we belong to one spiritual family. Guidelines for Practicing a “Holy Greeting” Today • Honor holiness: keep every gesture above reproach (Ephesians 5:3). • Respect culture and personal boundaries (Romans 14:19). • Be intentional: do not skip genuine greetings; they affirm worth and unity (3 John 14). • Use wisdom with gender, age, and safeguarding policies (Proverbs 4:7). • Let the greeting flow from heartfelt love, not mere habit (1 Colossians 16:14). Living It Out Together • Arrive early or linger after service to greet fellow believers personally. • Train greeter teams to extend warm, appropriate physical or verbal welcomes. • Encourage members to learn culturally suitable greetings for missionaries and international visitors. • Model affectionate yet holy interaction in small groups and family devotions. The form may shift with culture, but the command to greet one another warmly, visibly, and in holiness stands unchanged, continuing to testify that in Christ we are one redeemed family. |
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