If Only... Don't Say This Word - Choose Your Words Wisely

The sermon begins by emphasizing the importance of speech in human communication and life. Speech is the primary means by which we express thoughts, emotions, love, and knowledge. Scripture teaches extensively about speech, particularly in Proverbs with over 101 verses on this subject. The preacher explains that words have the power to revive a desperate person or kill a hopeful one, as Proverbs 18:20-21 demonstrates. To speak about the fruit of the Spirit without addressing speech would be a significant oversight, since the fruit of the Spirit (love, joy, peace, kindness) is most clearly manifested through our actions and words.

The sermon develops three main aspects of speech. First is the power of speech: God used words to create the universe; Christ is called the Word. Speech has the power to control, destroy, or nourish. One tempting word from Satan caused Adam and Eve to fall into sin; a slanderous word can destroy a person's reputation and entire life. Swords can be retrieved, but words cannot; they spread from person to person and grow more damaging in the retelling. James 3:1-12 describes speech through three images: a bridle controlling a horse and a rudder steering a ship (control), a fire destroying a forest (destruction), and a spring watering the earth (nourishment). Unlike sword wounds, wounds caused by words are often invisible and the speaker may not realize the harm they have caused.

Second is the character of speech: Scripture teaches five necessary qualities. (1) Truthful and honest speech without deception, because lies sow distrust and division. (2) Kind and gentle speech rather than mocking, harsh, or bitter words. A gentle answer turns away wrath; a soft tongue breaks down prejudice. (3) Wise speech—spoken at the right time, in the right way, to the right person. Abigail waiting until morning to speak to Nabal, and the prophet Nathan using a parable to convict King David, exemplify wisdom. (4) Bold and straightforward speech rather than evasive or double-meaning words. A frank rebuke is better than hidden love. (5) Restraint and discretion—speaking less rather than more. The wise keep their lips guarded; silence can make even a fool appear wise. Third is the restoration of speech: For speech to have healing and restorative power, the speaker's heart must first be healed by Christ. This is because "out of the abundance of the heart the mouth speaks" (Matthew 12:34). If the heart is full of jealousy, bitterness, or doubt, the mouth will speak accordingly. At the Tower of Babel, people wanted to prove themselves, so their speech caused division; at Jerusalem on Pentecost, the Holy Spirit dwelt in the disciples' hearts and transformed their thoughts and desires, so their words brought restoration and redemption. The purpose of speech must be to glorify Christ, not ourselves. The sermon concludes with two daily prayers and a reminder that we will be judged by our words on the day of judgment.