Foul Language April 8, 2009

WEIGHT LOSS SERIES

Many people will dismiss this post as nit-picky because of post- post-modern, secular standards.  But if we are genuinely concerned for our spiritual health and thus determined to shed ourselves of “every weight that so easily beset[s] us  (Hebrews 12:1),” we’re going to be mindful of the human gift of speech.

Here are four passages that impress me most regarding language:

But now ye also put off all these; anger, wrath, malice, blasphemy, filthy communication out of your mouth. (Colossians 3:8)

Let no corrupt communication proceed out of your mouth, but that which is good to the use of edifying, that it may minister grace unto the hearers. (Ephesians 4:29)

But fornication, and all uncleanness, or covetousness, let it not be once named among you, as becometh saints; Neither filthiness, nor foolish talking, nor jesting, which are not convenient: but rather giving of thanks. (Ephesians 5:3-4)

[B]ut no human being can tame the tongue. It is a restless evil, full of deadly poison. With it we bless our Lord and Father, and with it we curse people who are made in the likeness of God. From the same mouth come blessing and cursing. My brothers, these things ought not to be so. (James 3:8-10)

Often, those of us who claim to be Christian utter a host of ‘choice words.’  But clearly our gift of speech is intended to, first and foremost, further the cause of Christ in this present world (Matthew 28:18-20, Mark 16:15-16).  Instead of corrupt communication, we are to let spiritually edifying words proceed from our mouths.  We are commanded to share the gospel message with others and let our light (not darkness) shine before men.

How many times have we (self included first) cursed an enemy instead of praying for him/her?  How often do we tell or repeat jokes that are unsavory?  How often do we spread the catch-phrase of the day, regardless of its sordid nature?  How often do we gossip?  Lie?  Speak out of turn?

We, among all the creatures of the earth, are singularly able to communicate with one another so that the hearer can profit from what is said (Colossians 4:6).  While other mammals, birds, sea creatures and the like behave similarly, humanity alone has the capability to prepare others to enjoy life eternal.  Let’s not take this faculty for granted.  Let’s indeed “Walk in wisdom toward them that are without, redeeming the time.” (Colossians 4:5)

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