1 Corinthians 16:22 (KJV)

What does 1 Corinthians 16:22 mean?

1 Corinthians 16:22 says that anyone who does not love the Lord Jesus Christ is to be under a curse, using the words "Anathema Maranatha." Paul is warning the Corinthian church that loving Jesus is essential, and those who reject Him are separated from the blessings of God.

Paul is writing to the Christians in Corinth at the close of his letter, emphasizing the seriousness of devotion to Jesus. The phrase "Anathema Maranatha" combines a Greek word for being accursed or set apart for destruction with an Aramaic phrase often understood as "Our Lord, come!" This strong language highlights the importance Paul places on loving Jesus as central to Christian faith.

The Greek and Aramaic behind 1 Corinthians 16:22

• Ἀνάθεμα (Anathema): This Greek word means "accursed" or "set apart for destruction." Paul uses it here to express a very serious consequence for not loving Jesus, showing the gravity of the issue.
• Μαραναθά (Maranatha): This is an Aramaic phrase, transliterated into Greek letters, often understood as "Our Lord, come!" or "The Lord is coming." Its use here adds a sense of urgency and expectation, reminding readers of Jesus' return and the finality of His judgment.

Why 1 Corinthians 16:22 matters

• This verse clears up that Paul is not speaking lightly; he is stressing that loving Jesus is not optional for those who claim to follow Him.
• The use of both Greek and Aramaic phrases shows the diverse background of the early church and the seriousness of Paul's warning.
• In the wider context, this warning comes at the end of a letter filled with corrections and encouragements, underlining that everything Paul has said centers on a relationship with Jesus.