SPECIAL TOPIC: MARANATHA

This is an Aramaic phrase translated into Koine Greek which reflects the early Palestinian church's theological, liturgical affirmation of

1. Jesus' Deity (Psalm 110)
2. Jesus' Second Coming (Acts 3:19-21)

Its meaning depends on how one divides the word:

1. "Our Lord, come" (i.e., marana-tha) is the meaning of a similar IMPERATIVAL PHRASE in Rev. 22:20.  Therefore, most translations assume that meaning in 1 Cor. 16:22.  If so, then it would be a prayer for Jesus' return.
2. "Our Lord has come" (i.e., maran-atha) would be an Aramaic PERFECT. This is the translation that Chrysostom (A.D. 345-407) preferred, which speaks of Jesus' Incarnation.
3. "Our Lord is coming" would reflect a Hebraic PROPHETIC PERFECT, which is used by many to assume a motive for Christian service.  The Second Coming has always been an encouragement for believers in every age.
4. The Didache (written in the late first or second century) 10:6, uses this same phrase in the context of the Lord's Supper, where Jesus' current presence and future eschatological coming are both emphasized in prayers.

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