How Should the Language of a Christian Be?
As followers of Jesus, our lives are to be a reflection of His character. This includes not only our actions but also the very words that proceed from our mouths. Our language should be distinct, marked by the transforming power of the Holy Spirit within us. Scripture provides clear guidance on the kind of speech that befits those who bear the name of Christ. Let us examine these characteristics of godly language.
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A. Words of truth and sobriety (Acts 26:25; Ephesians 4:25)
"But I am not insane, most excellent Festus," Paul replied. "What I am saying are words of truth and reason." (Acts 26:25)
"Therefore each of you must put off falsehood and speak truthfully to your neighbor, for we are all members of one body." (Ephesians 4:25)
The foundation of Christian language is truth. Just as God is truth, our words should be honest, sincere, and free from deceit. Furthermore, our speech should be marked by sobriety, meaning it should be thoughtful, well-reasoned, and avoid foolishness or recklessness. We are called to speak with clarity and integrity.
B. Words that edify (Ephesians 4:29)
"Do not let any unwholesome talk come out of your mouths, but only what is helpful for building others up according to their needs, that it may benefit those who listen." (Ephesians 4:29)
Our words should have a positive impact, building others up spiritually, emotionally, and even practically. Rather than tearing down with criticism, gossip, or negativity, our speech should encourage, strengthen, and impart grace to those who hear us. We should consider the needs of our listeners and speak words that bring benefit and blessing.
C. Words of encouragement to those who are fainting (1 Thessalonians 5:14)
"And we urge you, brothers and sisters, warn those who are idle and disruptive, encourage the disheartened, help the weak, be patient with everyone." (1 Thessalonians 5:14)
As part of our care for the body of Christ, we are called to offer words of encouragement to those who are weary, discouraged, or feeling faint in their spiritual journey. Our language should be a source of strength and hope, lifting up those who are struggling and reminding them of God's faithfulness and love.
D. Words that comfort those who are sad (1 Thessalonians 4:18)
"Therefore encourage one another with these words." (1 Thessalonians 4:18)
In times of sorrow and grief, our words should bring comfort and solace. Drawing from the hope we have in Christ, particularly the promise of His return and the resurrection, we should speak words that offer peace, reassurance, and the unwavering love of God to those who are mourning.
E. Words of grace (Colossians 4:6)
"Let your conversation be always full of grace, seasoned with salt, so that you may know how to answer everyone." (Colossians 4:6)
Our speech should be characterized by grace – kindness, compassion, and unmerited favor. Even when addressing difficult topics or differing opinions, our words should be delivered with a spirit of gentleness and respect. The image of being "seasoned with salt" suggests that our words should also be wise, tasteful, and have a preserving quality, preventing decay and promoting understanding.
F. Words that are wholesome and blameless (Proverbs 12:18; Titus 2:8)
"The words of the reckless pierce like swords, but the tongue of the wise brings healing." (Proverbs 12:18)
"so that an opponent may be ashamed, because nothing bad we say can be found wrong." (Titus 2:8)
Our language should be wholesome, meaning it is sound, healthy, and morally good. It should also be blameless, giving no cause for offense or accusation. Like a healing balm, our words should mend and restore, rather than pierce and wound. Our speech should be so pure that even our adversaries can find no legitimate fault in it.
G. Without murmuring or disputing (Philippians 2:14)
"Do everything without grumbling or arguing," (Philippians 2:14)
As children of God living in a world prone to complaint and contention, our language should stand out for its lack of murmuring and disputing. Instead of complaining and arguing, our words should reflect contentment, peace, and a spirit of unity. This doesn't mean we avoid necessary discussions, but our tone and attitude should be marked by humility and a desire for harmony.
H. Words of gentleness and fear (1 Peter 3:15)
"But in your hearts revere Christ as Lord. Always be prepared to give an answer to everyone who asks you to give the reason for the hope that you have. But do this with gentleness and respect," (1 Peter 3:15)
When we share our faith and the hope that is within us, our language should be characterized by gentleness and respect (the word "fear" here refers to a reverent respect). Even when challenged or questioned, our response should be delivered with humility and a recognition of Christ's Lordship in our lives. Our goal is to persuade and invite, not to argue or alienate.
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The language of a Christian is to be a testament to the transforming power of the Gospel. It is to be truthful, edifying, encouraging, comforting, gracious, wholesome, blameless, free from murmuring and disputing, and spoken with gentleness and reverence. May the words of our mouths and the meditations of our hearts be pleasing in God's sight, reflecting the love and light of Christ to a world in need. Amen.
