Obscene stories, foolish talk, and coarse jokes—these are not for you. Instead, let there be thankfulness to God.
Ephesians 5:4 NLT
In Ephesians 5:4, we see what God commands should and should not flow from our mouths. As believers, our words should reflect Kingdom speech, aligning with the values of God. Previously, we have established that there are characteristics of the Kingdom that shape how we, as believers, conduct ourselves. Today, we will examine the characteristics of our speech and what should proceed from our lips.
To start with, obscenity has no place in Kingdom speech. This means that no filthy or degrading words should be spoken by us. Obscene language is speech that is considered disgraceful and dishonourable. Colossians 3:8 instructs us: “But now is the time to get rid of anger, rage, malicious behaviour, slander, and dirty language” (NLT).
Dirty language is unnecessary, offensive, and impure. It is the kind of language we would not want our children to use—if it is not suitable for them, it is not suitable for us either. As followers of Christ, we are to rid ourselves of such speech.
Ephesians 4:29 further reinforces this by stating: “Don’t use foul or abusive language. Let everything you say be good and helpful, so that your words will be an encouragement to those who hear them” (NLT). God does not want His people to use foul language or speak in a way that dishonours Him. We are representatives of Jesus, citizens of heaven, and soldiers of Christ. Therefore, our words should be edifying, helpful, and uplifting to others.
As believers, foolish talk is not fitting for us because it contradicts Kingdom speech and disregards the authority of God’s Word. According to Psalm 14:1, a fool is someone who denies the existence of God. Foolish talk, therefore, is speech that ignores or disrespects God’s Word.
Foolish talk encourages people to seek happiness without considering God’s will. It trivialises spiritual truths and turns serious matters into jokes. Such talk is dangerous because it diminishes reverence for God and His principles. When people speak foolishly, they may mock Jesus, belittle God’s Word, and make light of matters that require sobriety and wisdom.
As followers of Jesus, our speech should honour God. When we discuss His Word, we must uphold its authority over our lives. Our conversations should reflect wisdom, compassion, patience, and understanding, bringing glory to God.
Furthermore, coarse joking is another form of speech that is not appropriate for believers. This does not simply refer to telling jokes but involves twisting words to make them inappropriate, suggestive, or vulgar. A person who engages in coarse joking turns innocent statements into something immoral, using wit to make light of serious matters.
Ephesians 5:4 warns against such behaviour and calls us to replace it with thanksgiving. Instead of engaging in obscene speech, foolish talk, or coarse joking, we should cultivate an attitude of gratitude.
The phrase “these are not for you” indicates that certain kinds of speech are inappropriate for believers. Instead of corrupt speech, we are to embrace thanksgiving. The term “instead” signifies a complete turnaround—it calls for a total replacement of ungodly speech with words of gratitude to God.
Thankfulness impacts every aspect of our lives, including how we speak, react, and perceive situations. It shifts our focus to God. When we cultivate gratitude, our words become seasoned with grace. Gratitude allows us to acknowledge the worth and significance of the people and circumstances in our lives, even when they challenge us.
Being thankful does not always mean that situations are easy. A difficult person or challenging situation can still serve as an instrument of growth, teaching us patience and selflessness. When we approach life with a heart of gratitude, we begin to see how God is working through all things for our good.
As believers, our words matter. Kingdom Speech contains purity, wisdom, and gratitude. Obscenity, foolish talk, and coarse joking have no place in our lives. Instead, God calls us to speak words that honour Him, build others up, and reflect our identity in Christ.
Let us, therefore, examine our speech. Do our words reflect the values of the Kingdom? Do they bring glory to God and edify others? May our conversations be filled with encouragement, wisdom, and gratitude, as we walk in the light of God’s truth.