1 Corinthians 16:20 — "greet one another with a holy kiss" is a culturally applied principle, not a universal command

Mike addresses the hermeneutical question of literal vs. principle application of NT cultural commands. The holy kiss was a normal greeting in Greco-Roman culture between same-gender community members; Paul is sanctifying and emphasizing it as a mark of love in the body. There is no universal biblical command requiring kisses as greetings across all cultures. The principle is warm, genuine affection and welcome within the Christian community. Mike notes a pastor once used this verse to permit unmarried teenagers to French-kiss (which he found insane and left that church over). During COVID or with cold sores, a literal kiss is impractical. The culturally translated application: genuinely care for one another when you meet.