Salute one another with an holy kiss. The churches of Christ salute you (Romans 16:16).

 

When the Apostle Paul wrote, “Salute one another with an holy kiss,” he wasn’t introducing a ritual; he was addressing the sincerity of relationships among God’s people. To understand this, you must look beyond the surface. In those days, a kiss was a common form of greeting. But Paul added a qualifier—“holy.” That’s because not every expression of affection is genuine.

 

The Lord Jesus Himself highlighted this when Judas came to betray Him. The Bible says, “And forthwith he came to Jesus, and said, Hail, master; and kissed him. And Jesus said unto him, Friend, wherefore art thou come? Then came they, and laid hands on Jesus, and took him” (Matthew 26:49-50). Judas’ kiss wasn’t sincere. It concealed betrayal. Read Luke’s account: “And while he yet spake, behold a multitude, and he that was called Judas, one of the twelve, went before them, and drew near unto Jesus to kiss him. But Jesus said unto him, Judas, betrayest thou the Son of man with a kiss?” (Luke 22:47-48).

 

This is the context for Paul’s instruction. He was emphasising sincerity, loyalty and truthfulness in our expressions toward one another. Don’t show affection outwardly while harbouring hatred and contrary thoughts inwardly. Express genuine love. Be honest without pretence.

 

The Bible says, “Let love be without dissimulation…” (Romans 12:9). Let your love not have hidden intentions. This goes beyond physical gestures. It speaks to your entire conduct—how you greet, how you relate, how you respond to others in the body of Christ; there should be no hypocrisy.

 

As God’s people, you’re called to a higher standard of living and relationship, not one shaped by suspicion or duplicity but by sincerity and truth. You don’t say one thing and mean another. You don’t act one way and think another. Your life must be consistent; your heart, your words, and your actions must align.

 

Also, you must exercise wisdom. Times have changed, and expressions may differ across cultures. What matters is not the form but the spirit behind it, which is genuine love, expressed with purity and discretion. So, when you show love and affection to others, let it be real. Let it be true. Let it reflect the love of Christ in your heart. That’s what makes it holy.