OPINION (Ibelieve.Com) – You’ve probably seen the T-shirt or the meme that says, “I Love Jesus And I Cuss A Little! “It’s meant to be cute or funny– but is it really funny when you hold it up to the measuring stick of God’s Word? Cussing has become “cute” and something to laugh at. “Loosen up!” and “Don’t be so legalistic!” are often the responses given if one is confronted about their speech. In those situations, I feel frustrated. Then I begin to wonder if I’m wrong if maybe swearing isn’t that big of a deal. But when I to go back to the Word of God, my resolve is strengthened that yes, what comes out of our mouth does matter and is a big deal.
What Does the Bible Say about Swearing? – The Apostle Paul makes it clear what kind of speech Christians should use:
“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 (or benefit) to those who hear.” Ephesians 4:29
“But among you there must not be even a hint of sexual immorality, or of any kind of impurity, or of greed, because these are improper for God’s holy people. Nor should there be obscenity, foolish talk, or coarse joking, which are out of place, but rather thanksgiving” Ephesians 5:3-4.
The Apostle Peter likewise urges Christians to be careful with their words.
“For, whoever would love life and see good days must keep his tongue from evil and his lips from deceitful speech.” 1 Peter 3:10
James, the brother of Jesus, makes it clear that the lives of Christians should not be characterized by evil speech and that it is uncharacteristic for a believer to have both praise and cursing come from her mouth: “With the tongue we praise our Lord and Father, and with it we curse men, who have been made in God’s likeness. Out of the same mouth come praise and cursing. My brothers, this should not be. Can both fresh water and salt water flow from the same spring? My brothers, can a fig tree bear olives, or a grapevine bear figs? Neither can a salt spring produce fresh water.” James 3:9-12 – CONTINUE
