Forbidden Words – Corrupt Words
“Let no corrupt word proceed out of your mouth, but what is good for necessary edification, that it may impart grace to the hearers” (Ephesians 4:29). The Greek word for “corrupt” means rotten, putrefied, not fit for use. There are words in language that shouldn’t be used because they are corrupt. These words indulge the flesh and not to elevate the spirit. They are not gracious, edifying, or fruitful. We must avoid using these words. This prohibition covers any words that may be used for this purpose, whatever they might be. Words that refer to bodily waste would be included in this. Words that discuss the condemnation of another person are included—any word that refers to that which is corrupt, rotten, or putrid being used against another person or thing. This makes it a general prohibition that covers any are that we have not yet covered in this series of articles.
God is serious about how we use our tongue. He wants our words to be gracious, edifying, and fruitful. They should be words that honor and glorify Him. Our tongues do not belong to us; they belong to God! “Or do you not know that your body is the temple of the Holy Spirit who is in you, whom you have from God, and you are not your own? For you were bought at a price; therefore glorify God in your body and in your spirit, which are God’s.” It is for this reason that God commands us to use our tongues in a decent and honorable way.
Over the past several weeks, we have looked at many kinds of words the Bible forbids. Let’s resolve to use our tongues to honor and glorify God and His Son Jesus Christ.
God bless you, and I love you.
Kevin Cauley