If anyone has no love for the Lord, let him be accursed. Our Lord, come!
English Standard Version (ESV)
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1 Corinthians 16:22
What does 1 Corinthians 16:22 mean?
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1 Corinthians 16:22
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That opening "If anyone has no love for the Lord, let him be accursed" isn't just a casual warning; it's a strong, almost desperate plea for genuine affection, implying that a lack of love for Jesus is a truly dangerous state. The abrupt shift to "Our Lord, come!" at the end isn't a separate thought, but a direct, heartfelt prayer following that stark warning, longing for Jesus' return as the ultimate solution to any spiritual deficiency.
If anyone has no love for the Lord, let him be accursed. Our Lord, come!
English Standard Version (ESV)
Paul is wrapping up his letter, bringing together his final instructions and greetings with a powerful, almost abrupt, spiritual declaration. After a series of practical advice on church matters, he launches into this fervent prayer and solemn warning, emphasizing the absolute necessity of genuine love for Jesus. This closing statement underscores the profound gravity of Paul's message about Christian life and fellowship, setting the stage for his final amen.
This verse starts with one of the harshest statements in the New Testament. What does it mean to be 'accursed,' and why would Paul use such strong language?
The Weight of 'Anathema'
Paul uses the word 'anathema,' which means something devoted to destruction or destruction itself. It’s a strong declaration of separation from God's blessing and presence.
Not About Salvation Status
It's crucial to understand that Paul isn't saying someone loses their salvation here. Instead, he's describing the inevitable outcome for those whose lives show a complete absence of genuine love for Christ. True faith, as seen throughout Paul’s letters, naturally produces a response of love and obedience to Jesus.
The Final Verdict
This 'accursed' state is the final, eternal condition of those who willfully and persistently reject their Lord, demonstrating a heart devoid of love for Him. It's a stark reminder that our relationship with Jesus isn't just intellectual assent; it’s meant to be an all-consuming love.
After such a severe warning, the verse ends with a beautiful and longing cry. What does this powerful phrase reveal about the Christian hope?
'Our Lord, Come!'
The final phrase, 'Maranatha,' is an Aramaic expression that translates to 'Our Lord, come!' It’s not a passive wish but an active, hopeful prayer and declaration.
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Anticipating His Return
This cry encapsulates the core of Christian hope: the eager anticipation of Jesus' second coming. It's a yearning for His complete triumph, the restoration of all things, and His full presence among His people.
A Call to Steadfastness
In the context of 1 Corinthians, where believers faced divisions, false teachings, and worldly pressures, 'Maranatha' served as a powerful reminder to remain faithful. It grounded them in the ultimate reality of Christ's return and reign, encouraging perseverance through present difficulties.
Understand the original words
phileō · Greek Verb
A deep, committed, self-sacrificial affection and devotion to God, characterized by obedience and trust. In the New Testament, it is the primary mark of a true believer.
anathema · Greek Noun
A state of divine judgment or being devoted to destruction; it signifies separation from the covenantal blessings of God and exclusion from the fellowship of believers.
Marana tha · Aramaic Phrase
An Aramaic expression meaning 'Our Lord, come!' or 'The Lord is coming.' It reflects the early church's eager, expectant longing for the return of Jesus Christ.
This passage beautifully highlights that our love for God is a direct response to His prior, foundational love for us, underscoring the depth of what is at stake in 1 Corinthians 16:22.
Romans 8:35-39Paul's powerful declaration here shows that nothing, not even hardship or persecution, can separate us from the love of God in Christ, offering a profound contrast to the idea of being 'accursed' for lacking that love.
Matthew 22:37-38Jesus himself identifies the greatest commandment as loving God with all our heart, soul, and mind, which directly echoes the fundamental importance of loving the Lord that Paul emphasizes.
Revelation 22:20The concluding words of the Bible echo the sentiment in 1 Corinthians 16:22, with Jesus Himself saying, 'Yes, I am coming soon,' pointing to the same eager anticipation of His return and the divine judgment that accompanies it.
That opening "If anyone has no love for the Lord, let him be accursed" isn't just a casual warning; it's a strong, almost desperate plea for genuine affection, implying that a lack of love for Jesus is a truly dangerous state. The abrupt shift to "Our Lord, come!" at the end isn't a separate thought, but a direct, heartfelt prayer following that stark warning, longing for Jesus' return as the ultimate solution to any spiritual deficiency.
Paul is wrapping up his letter, bringing together his final instructions and greetings with a powerful, almost abrupt, spiritual declaration. After a series of practical advice on church matters, he launches into this fervent prayer and solemn warning, emphasizing the absolute necessity of genuine love for Jesus. This closing statement underscores the profound gravity of Paul's message about Christian life and fellowship, setting the stage for his final amen.
Paul is wrapping up his letter, bringing together his final instructions and greetings with a powerful, almost abrupt, spiritual declaration. After a series of practical advice on church matters, he launches into this fervent prayer and solemn warning, emphasizing the absolute necessity of genuine love for Jesus. This closing statement underscores the profound gravity of Paul's message about Christian life and fellowship, setting the stage for his final amen.
"If anyone has no love for the Lord, let him be accursed. Our Lord, come!" — That opening "If anyone has no love for the Lord, let him be accursed" isn't just a casual warning; it's a strong, almost desperate plea for genuine affection, implying that a lack of love for Jesus…
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Last reviewed October 2026