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The Power and Responsibility of Speech

The ability to speak is a unique gift from Jehovah, setting humans apart from the animal kingdom. However, with this gift comes a great responsibility, as the words we choose to use can have a profound impact on others. The Bible teaches that speech has the power to both bless and curse, and James 3:10 highlights the inconsistency that can arise when the same mouth is used for both: “From the same mouth come both blessing and cursing. My brothers, these things ought not to be so.” This verse serves as a reminder that Christians must be vigilant in how they use their words, recognizing that careless or harmful speech can cause deep emotional wounds.

The book of Proverbs underscores this truth by comparing reckless speech to the thrusts of a sword: “There is one who speaks rashly like the thrusts of a sword, but the tongue of the wise brings healing” (Proverbs 12:18). This vivid imagery illustrates that words can cut and injure just as a physical weapon can, but they also have the potential to bring comfort and healing when used wisely. In a world where foul language, insults, and abusive speech have become increasingly common, Christians are called to stand apart by using their words to build up rather than tear down.

The Dangers of Obscene Jesting

Obscene language and jesting are not modern phenomena; they have been issues since ancient times. The apostle Paul addressed this problem directly in his letters, warning Christians against the use of obscene talk. In Colossians 3:8, he wrote, “But now you must put them all away: anger, wrath, malice, slander, and obscene talk from your mouth.” Paul’s admonition makes it clear that such speech is incompatible with the life of a believer.

Obscene jesting, particularly when it is sex-oriented, is prevalent in today’s culture, often seen in movies, television shows, and even casual conversations. Many people find such language entertaining, not realizing that it is offensive to God. Romans 1:28-32 describes how those who reject God are given over to a depraved mind, engaging in behaviors that are “not fitting.” Obscene jesting falls into this category, as it reflects a heart that is not aligned with God’s holiness.

Ephesians 5:3-4 further elaborates on this, stating, “But sexual immorality and all impurity or covetousness must not even be named among you, as is proper among saints. Let there be no filthiness nor foolish talk nor crude joking, which are out of place, but instead let there be thanksgiving.” This passage emphasizes that Christians are to avoid not only immoral behavior but also any form of speech that is unworthy of their calling. Obscene jesting is not a minor offense; it is a reflection of a corrupt heart and is therefore unacceptable for those who belong to Jehovah.

The Consequences of Harsh and Injurious Words

Injurious speech extends beyond obscene language; it includes insults, sarcasm, mockery, and harsh criticism. Such words can wound deeply, sometimes causing more lasting damage than physical injuries. James 3:2 acknowledges that controlling the tongue is challenging, stating, “For we all stumble in many ways. And if anyone does not stumble in what he says, he is a perfect man, able also to bridle his whole body.” Despite the difficulty, Christians are called to make every effort to avoid speech that harms others.

The Bible provides examples of how seriously Jehovah views injurious speech. In 2 Kings 2:23-24, a group of boys mocked the prophet Elisha by calling him “baldhead.” Their verbal abuse was met with swift judgment from Jehovah, who sent two bears to maul forty-two of the boys. This account underscores that Jehovah takes malicious speech seriously, and it serves as a warning against the dangers of mocking or insulting others.

Similarly, 2 Chronicles 36:16 recounts how the people of Israel “kept mocking the messengers of God, despising his words and scoffing at his prophets, until the wrath of Jehovah rose against his people, until there was no remedy.” Their verbal abuse of God’s prophets was one of the reasons for the divine judgment that eventually fell upon them. These examples highlight that Jehovah does not overlook injurious speech, especially when it is directed against His servants.

Christians are therefore encouraged to speak with kindness and respect toward everyone. Paul’s instruction to Timothy is applicable to all believers: “Do not rebuke an older man but encourage him as you would a father, younger men as brothers, older women as mothers, younger women as sisters, in all purity” (1 Timothy 5:1-2). This principle extends to interactions with all people, encouraging believers to “speak evil of no one, to avoid quarreling, to be gentle, and to show perfect courtesy toward all people” (Titus 3:2). By following these guidelines, Christians can avoid the pitfalls of harsh and injurious speech.

The Importance of Keeping Our Lips in Check

The Bible recognizes that the urge to respond to offenses with harsh words can be strong, but it encourages believers to exercise restraint. Proverbs 10:19 warns, “When words are many, transgression is not lacking, but whoever restrains his lips is prudent.” This verse reminds Christians that excessive talking increases the likelihood of sinning with their words, making it wise to be cautious in speech.

Even the angels, who are greater in power and might than humans, refrain from using abusive language. 2 Peter 2:11 notes, “Whereas angels, though greater in might and power, do not pronounce a blasphemous judgment against them before the Lord.” This example of restraint is a powerful reminder that, despite the wrongs we may observe or experience, it is better to leave judgment to Jehovah and refrain from speaking harshly.

Michael the archangel set an exemplary standard when he contended with the devil over the body of Moses. Jude 9 records that Michael “did not presume to pronounce a blasphemous judgment but said, ‘The Lord rebuke you.’” Even in a confrontation with the most wicked being in existence, Michael refrained from using abusive language, leaving the matter in Jehovah’s hands. Christians are called to follow this example, trusting that Jehovah will address wrongs in His perfect timing and manner.

Paul’s letter to the Romans offers additional counsel on this matter, advising believers, “Repay no one evil for evil, but give thought to do what is honorable in the sight of all. If possible, so far as it depends on you, live peaceably with all. Beloved, never avenge yourselves, but leave it to the wrath of God, for it is written, ‘Vengeance is mine, I will repay, says Jehovah’” (Romans 12:17-19). By resisting the urge to retaliate with harsh words and instead leaving judgment to Jehovah, Christians demonstrate their trust in God’s justice and their commitment to peace.

Even the tone and volume of our speech matter. Shouting and harsh tones can escalate conflicts and cause emotional harm, especially within families. Ephesians 4:31 advises, “Let all bitterness and wrath and anger and clamor and slander be put away from you, along with all malice.” Instead of raising our voices in anger, Christians are encouraged to follow Paul’s instruction to Timothy: “And the Lord’s servant must not be quarrelsome but kind to everyone, able to teach, patiently enduring evil” (2 Timothy 2:24). By adopting a gentle and patient approach, Christians can defuse potentially volatile situations and promote peace.

Choosing Words That Heal

In a world filled with harsh and injurious speech, Christians are called to stand out by choosing words that heal and build up others. Jesus’ command to “love your neighbor as yourself” (Matthew 22:39) provides the foundation for how believers should speak to and about others. This love motivates Christians to use their words to encourage, comfort, and strengthen those around them.

Paul’s counsel in Ephesians 4:29 offers practical guidance on how to use words constructively: “Let no corrupting talk come out of your mouths, but only such as is good for building up, as fits the occasion, that it may give grace to those who hear.” This verse highlights the importance of being intentional with our speech, choosing words that are appropriate for the situation and that benefit the listener.

The process of cultivating speech that heals begins with the mind. Jesus taught that “out of the abundance of the heart the mouth speaks” (Matthew 12:34), indicating that our words reflect the condition of our hearts. Therefore, Christians are encouraged to meditate on God’s Word and allow it to shape their thoughts and attitudes. James 1:21 advises, “Therefore put away all filthiness and rampant wickedness and receive with meekness the implanted word, which is able to save your souls.” By regularly reading and meditating on Scripture, believers can cleanse their minds of harmful thoughts and cultivate a heart that produces speech that edifies others.

In conclusion, the Bible provides clear guidance on the use of speech, emphasizing the importance of avoiding language that injures and instead using words that heal and build up others. Christians are called to follow the example of Jesus, who spoke with love, kindness, and truth, and to resist the harmful influences of a world that often uses speech destructively. By choosing their words carefully and speaking with the intent to bless others, believers can reflect Jehovah’s love and contribute to the spiritual well-being of those around them.

About the Author

EDWARD D. ANDREWS (AS in Criminal Justice, BS in Religion, MA in Biblical Studies, and MDiv in Theology) is CEO and President of Christian Publishing House. He has authored over 220+ books. In addition, Andrews is the Chief Translator of the Updated American Standard Version (UASV).