New Testament
1 Corinthians 16:22
Read the Bible in clear, modern English—easy to understand, faithful to the meaning, and written for everyday readers.
If anyone does not love the Lord Jesus Christ, let that person be cursed. Come, Lord!
Compare translations
If any man love not the Lord Jesus Christ, let him be Anathema Maranatha.
What 1 Corinthians 16:22 means
Plain-English insight for readers
In this verse, Paul emphasizes the importance of loving Jesus Christ. He warns that those who do not love Him are under a curse, highlighting the seriousness of this relationship. The phrase 'Come, Lord!' expresses a longing for Jesus' return, showing hope and anticipation. This reflects the deep connection believers have with Christ, where love is central. It’s not just about rules or rituals; it’s about a heartfelt relationship. Loving Jesus means embracing His teachings and living in a way that reflects that love. This verse serves as a reminder that our love for Jesus should be genuine and transformative, impacting how we live and interact with others. It challenges us to examine our hearts and prioritize our relationship with Him above all else. Ultimately, it calls us to be passionate about our faith and to look forward to the day when we will be united with Him fully. This longing for Christ's return is a powerful motivator for believers to live out their faith authentically.
How to apply 1 Corinthians 16:22 to your life
Reflect on your love for Jesus and how it influences your daily life. Consider ways to deepen that love through prayer, study, and community. Let this love guide your actions and interactions with others, showing them the heart of Christ in you. Remember, your relationship with Him is foundational to your faith journey. Live it out authentically every day, anticipating His return with joy and hope.
Curated for this public verse page. 1 Corinthians Summary
Explore more of the Bible
Learn the Bible through its people and places
Get to know the people in Scripture through illustrated stories, and explore the places where they lived and traveled.

Illustrated scene from John the Apostle's story: Mending Their Nets (Mark 1:19–20)
Meet the people of the Bible
Follow their lives in order, with illustrated scenes and Bible passages that tell their stories.
John the Apostle

Photo: Photochrom print, Library of Congress Prints and Photographs Division (LCCN 2002725045). License: Public domain in the United States; Library of Congress states no known restrictions on publication. Source. Location: Nazareth, Israel; print preserved by the Library of Congress. Resized for the web.
Explore the places of the Bible
See where biblical events happened, why each place matters, and what archaeology helps us understand.
Nazareth
The small town in Galilee where Jesus grew up.
Get full access with one subscription
Explore the people and places of the Bible. Read summaries of every book, with images and clear explanations covering every chapter. Access all these features and our Bible study tools with one subscription.
See PlansAsk AI about 1 Corinthians 16:22
Ask a question about this verse and get a clear answer, with Bible references you can read for yourself.
Every Bible book, explained chapter by chapter
Explore summaries of every book of the Bible, with images and easy-to-understand explanations covering every chapter.
Keep studying 1 Corinthians 16:22
Related Bible verses
Related topics
At a Glance — the Book of 1 Corinthians
- Author
- Paul the apostle
- Written
- Around AD 55
- Genre
- Letter (epistle)
- Original Audience
- The church in Corinth
Frequently Asked Questions
Quick, clear answers about this verse
What does 1 Corinthians 16:22 mean?
1 Corinthians 16:22 emphasizes the necessity of loving Jesus Christ. It warns that those who do not love Him are under a curse, highlighting the importance of a genuine relationship with Him.
What is the meaning of 'Anathema Maranatha' in 1 Corinthians 16:22?
'Anathema Maranatha' translates to 'let him be cursed; come, Lord!' This phrase signifies a strong warning against those who do not love Jesus, coupled with a longing for His return.
How does 1 Corinthians 16:22 relate to my faith?
1 Corinthians 16:22 challenges believers to reflect on their love for Jesus and how it shapes their actions and relationships, urging them to prioritize their connection with Him.
What should I do with the message of 1 Corinthians 16:22?
Consider how your love for Jesus influences your daily life. Engage in prayer and community to deepen that love, allowing it to guide your interactions with others.
Daily Verse — straight to your inbox
A verse and a 2-sentence plain-English explanation, every morning. Free. Unsubscribe anytime.