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1 Corinthians 16:19-24
The Apostle Paul ends the first letter to the church at Corinth with greetings from those in which he has recognized for opening their house to the church gathering, being Aquila and Priscilla, believed to be the house in which Paul attended church during the time in which he wrote this letter, with greeting also from the “brethren” (1 Corinthians 16:20, NKJV). He then instructs to greet one another with a “holy kiss” as was a proper greeting of the day. Some scholars believe this “kiss” to be connected to the Eucharist, but tradition shows that most likely it is simply the tradition of greeting one another with a show of caring for one another.
Paul then gives his signature to the pinning of the letter and sums up his entire teaching of the corrective criticism that he has given. He states, “If anyone does not love the Lord Jesus Christ, let him be accursed. O Lord, come! (1 Corinthians 16:22). Notice how Paul calls out for the Lord to return as if to prove His existence to all who refuse to believe in Him. But then finishes the letter with the blessing of God’s grace through Jesus Christ, along with his own love to them all – in Christ (1 Corinthians 16:23-24).
This is a promise of blessing of God’s love and grace to all who believe in Him.
This is a promise of damnation for all who refuse to believe in God.
This letter to the church at Corinth has been a guiding light to all who desire to learn what it means to be a Christian. This letter shows that our intentions need to be focused on the Lord Jesus Christ and our salvation in Him as we learn what it means to be a Christian. We are all always growing in Christ and learning more and more about how God desires us to be as His children. I pray that you all continue to grow in the knowledge and wisdom of God as you seek through faith in Christ Jesus to be all that you can be – in Christ!
Dear LORD,
We have studied how You led the church at Corinth through the teaching of the Apostle Paul in the proper behavior that You desire not only them to have, but that You desire for us all to have – in Christ. Please let it be so LORD for now and forever for each one of us who believe in You and seek Your will for our lives through salvation in Your One and only Son Jesus. In Jesus name I pray, amen.