1 Peter 5:14
Greet one another with a kiss of love. Peace to you all who are in Christ Jesus. Amen.
Truth to Learn
Peter encourages brotherly love and offers peace to all Christians.
Behind the Words
“Kiss” is translated from the Greek word philema, which is derived from phileō, meaning “to be a friend to.” Hence, in its original form, this represents a kiss of friendship, not a sensual kiss. Some people have wondered whether this is a kiss on the cheek or a kiss on the lips. Both of these customs were practiced by the early church and still exist in parts of Europe and Asia today, although most of us in Western countries think it odd for two men or two women to kiss on the lips.
The word which modifies “kiss” is agapē, which means “love.” But, again, it does not represent sensual love, rather the type of self-sacrificing love that only comes from God. In human terms this type of kiss is most exemplified by the love a father or mother has for his or her children.
Meaning Explained
Peter closes this letter with a command and a benediction. He tells us to hug one another (as explained in the previous verse) with a loving kiss. There is a similar expression from the Apostle Paul in the last chapter of Romans:
Greet one another with a holy kiss. The churches of Christ greet you. (Romans 16:16)
Peter then proclaims peace unto all those who are in Christ Jesus. This, it is said, was Peter’s standard way of parting. He may have been following the example set by Christ himself to declare peace upon those whom he knew and loved. In John 14:27 Christ expressed it this way,
Peace I leave with you, my peace I give to you. Not as the world gives do I give to you. Let not your heart be troubled, neither let it be afraid.
After all, what greater blessing could anyone have than to be at peace! Remember that this letter was sent to Christians who were being persecuted and who were suffering simply because they had claimed Jesus Christ as Lord and Savior. What better blessing could they receive than the peace that passes all understanding in a time of trial and suffering?
There is a variant reading at the end of this verse. Some Greek texts have “in Christ Jesus. Amen” while others have “in Christ.” Once again we see that even though there are differences in the various Greek texts, there is no doctrinal confusion created by the different readings.
So concludes the Apostle Peter’s first general epistle to the churches in Asia Minor and, subsequently, to all Christians everywhere. It is an encouraging letter given to all of us for those times when we are undergoing suffering for righteousness’ sake.
Application
If you are undergoing persecution or are suffering because of your faith in Jesus Christ, take some time to open your Bible and read through this first general epistle of Peter again from start to finish, and be encouraged that you are not alone. God knows of your suffering and will use it to bring glory to Himself. Give Him thanks, and endure your suffering patiently.
Peace be unto you!
In God’s service, for His glory,
Copyright © 2009 Will Krause. All rights reserved.
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