Salute One Another |
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Elder
Robert Willis (dec) |
Romans
16:16 “Salute one another with an holy kiss. The churches
of Christ salute you.”
Used some 46 times in scripture, the word “Salute” means to
“greet or give a salutation to another.” The Apostle Paul
used the word in verse 16 of Romans 16 in referring to how
we are to greet one another in an honorable and godly way
and with much respect. This was to be done at times by
sharing a holy kiss. This kiss would not be on the lips as
between a man and a wife, but rather on the cheek. There are
still cultures in the world that practice this type of
respectful greeting. There is nothing vulgar or sinful meant
by this type of greeting. Even the churches were to “salute”
those whom Paul was writing to in order for them to know
they were being greeted with respect (this greeting was not
a physical kiss on the cheek), but rather a decent honoring
of those they were coming in contact with.
Most churches I have visited over the years “Saluted” me
when I arrived by a heart felt welcome. Words like “We are
glad you are here” and “If you need anything while with us,
just let us know” also including simple greetings like a
handshake and “Good morning.”
What a
blessing to attend a church where we are greeted with an
“holy kiss,” meaning an outpouring of godly love, kindness,
and sincerity. There are churches where this is not the case
and it is a shame on the cause of Christ. We have so much to
rejoice about and should be willing to share our joy with
those who come to visit. One of the worse things that could
happen is to attend a church and NOBODY “Salutes” you while
you are there. May God bless us all to greet our brothers
and sisters as the Lord intends, with a “holy kiss” (godly
greeting).
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