2 Corinthians 13
Paul would be Unsparing of Evil upon Arrival (13:1-2)
- “I have declared beforehand” (past tense) refers to Paul’s first epistle, when he indicted them for immorality and warned that he would come with a rod (e.g. 1 Cor. 4). This was an opportunity for them to deal with the evil.
- “I say beforehand as present the second time” (present tense) refers to the second epistle, revealing that there were deeper evils at work. Yet this epistle gave them another opportunity to repent.
- “This third time I am coming to you… I will not spare” (future) refers to the fulfillment of Paul’s promise; an actual visit to Corinth. This would be the third and final witness of their state. Would they have repented?
Self-Examination: The Final Proof of Paul’s Apostleship (13:3-5)
Paul’s Desires Concerning His Arrival (13:6-10)
Conclusion (13:11-14)
The holy kiss is mentioned four times in the New Testament as a common expression of affection, to be used as a greeting for Christians (Rom. 16:16; 1 Cor. 16:20; 2 Cor. 13:12; 1 Thess. 5:261). There was to be a ‘kiss’, or display of affection; but it was to ‘holy’ as well. They were to be careful that their greetings were genuine, and above reproach. There are at least two ways a kiss could be unholy. First, if it is not genuine, like the kiss of Judas (Luke 22:47-48) or Joab (2 Sam. 20:9). Second, if it is sexually motivated or gives the appearance of evil (1 Cor. 7:1). Paul wanted to see affection between the saints, but he wanted it to be pure. God's desire is for warmth and affection to be present in the greetings of His saints. It is remarkable how a simple greeting such as a kiss can remove barriers, soften bitter hearts, and draw the Lord's people together.2
- In addition, we have a "kiss of love" in 1 Pet. 5:14.
- Should we still practice the holy kiss today? If God had intended some other form of greeting He would have specified it. In many cultures around the world, a greeting with a kiss is still common and socially appropriate. However, in some western cultures a kiss in public would have the appearance of evil. For example, in the United States, two men kissing in public, or a man kissing another man's wife, would give the appearance of evil, and therefore could not be considered "a holy kiss". In these cases, a different greeting could be used, or else discretion should govern the times and places the holy kiss is used.
- Newton, John. May the grace of Christ our Saviour. Little Flock Hymnbook #17. 1725-1807.