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HomeBible Commentary1 CorinthiansChapter 161 Corinthians 16:20

1 Corinthians 16:20 meaning

In this passage, Paul expresses a fond farewell to the Corinthians, encouraging unity among the believers through the exchange of a "holy kiss." This practice, steeped in cultural significance, served as a symbolic gesture of love, forgiveness, and community. The "holy kiss" highlights the relational aspect of church life, emphasizing that genuine affection and reconciliation are vital in the body of Christ and should transcend the divisions that had affected the Corinthian church.

The spirit of Paul’s call also reflects the broader theme of mutual support and encouragement found throughout the epistle. As he writes, the greeting and the sharing of peace among the brethren underscore the importance of love and unity in the Christian community. In light of these qualities, the exhortation to greet one another warmly aligns with the principles found in scripture about the necessity of fellowship, urging believers to actively maintain the bond of peace. Paul concludes with a benediction that emphasizes God’s grace, which is foundational for cultivating love and harmony among the faithful.

Other Relevant Commentaries:

  • 1 Corinthians 4:1-5 meaning. 1 Corinthians 4:1-5 reminds the Corinthians of Paul’s role as a servant to God who communicates God’s word. He has been assigned this role by God, teaching some of what has been revealed of God’s mysterious plans—the Gospel. Paul is not concerned with what other men think of him; he is not in the business of people-pleasing. He tries to be obedient in all things so that Jesus will approve of him when judgment day comes. It is not the opinion of man, or even Paul’s own opinion of himself, that matters. Jesus will judge and decide how faithful Paul has been. Because of this, the Corinthians should not judge other men, but should only value God’s judgment.
  • 1 Corinthians 1:10-17 meaning. Having directed their minds to the good gifts they have received from their faithful God, Paul exhorts them to stop quarreling amongst themselves. He has heard a report from a Corinthian believer, Chloe, that the Corinthian church is divided. They have separated themselves into factions, some claiming that Paul is their leader, or Apollos, or Cephas. Paul is urging them to stop this nonsense. He asks them if Jesus is divided. Of course Jesus is not divided. Paul asks them why they should fight over which human man they favor. Paul did not die for anyone’s sins. No one was baptized in Paul’s name. Jesus the Son of God is their savior and Lord. These believers ought to be united in Jesus Christ.
  • 1 Corinthians 3:1-4 meaning. Paul reprimands the Corinthians because of their immaturity. They were once newborn babes when they first believed in Jesus, and yet they have not grown since then. Paul wishes he could teach them deeper spiritual truths, but he is stuck having to teach them basics because of the jealousy and tribalism they are engaged in. Some Corinthians say they only follow Paul, while others only follow Apollos. This is a meaningless argument they are having. Paul shows them they are being sinful, not spiritual.