Ephesians 5:4 Let there be no filthiness nor foolish talk nor crude joking, which are out of place, but instead let there be thanksgiving. Ephesians 4:29 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 to those who hear.
Anonymous: For example: if you're venting to some one and are really upset and you use swear words to describe your feelings is there not a better way to express them than saying "so and so is a b--th or I feel like s--t"? Is it going to help the problem by cursing someone or something? I think not.....
First, let's clear some stuff about what we are really talking about.
To swear in its original context has great implications - it is a great and serious matter. To swear means to abide by what you say, and that what you say is truth and you are willing to die on what you say.
Thus, swearing really only refers to oaths (like when Canada's Prime Minister gets sworn into office).
Swearing as we usually know it (expletive words) is not 'swearing,' thus at all.
Really, what we are talking about when we say 'swearing' is what is more appropriately called 'cursing.'
@ Anonymous: Dakota has previously posted two verses of scripture which very clearly define God's position on vulgar language. To try and justify vulgar language, quite simply, is trying to say that humans are wiser and have more authority on these matters than God does.
But I am sure, even if we can accept that, we might like to all know why that is a commandment of God.
Really, cursing, no matter what the actual word/phrase is, at its heart, a very strong request to a divine power to cause great ill harm on the person the curse is directed towards, or at least, that great ill comes to the other person.
Let us use an example:
"F*** you." You have just told the other person, basically, you hope that they get raped.
Not exactly things to wish so readily on people... and really, at all. As I think some-one has mentioned before, is there really any point? Words are words, and words are idle. It does not fix the situation to use them. It shows one who is quick to anger, quick to judge, has a tongue untamed, and who finds value in malice. These are all things not a part of God's character, and things he explicitly speaks out against.
As Christians, we are to follow Christ's example - not just follow it, but seek to be pure and holy people - does cursing accomplish this end? Since when did Christ do this?
Most of the time, when cursing it is used, it is over such petty and inconsequential matters - clearly that do not qualify for such language. And the situations where maybe a non-Christian could find justification for cursing, a Christian cannot, because as followers of Christ, we should seek meaningful and constructive reaction to what happens to us.
So, to wrap this up, why would God not want us to curse? Basically, since when has there been any situation where a Christian should have to act in a manner so unloving as to wish terrible destruction on others? And why would God appease our evil desire to destroy?
Really, what we are talking about when we say 'swearing' is what is more appropriately called 'cursing.'
@ Anonymous: Dakota has previously posted two verses of scripture which very clearly define God's position on vulgar language. To try and justify vulgar language, quite simply, is trying to say that humans are wiser and have more authority on these matters than God does.
But I am sure, even if we can accept that, we might like to all know why that is a commandment of God.
Really, cursing, no matter what the actual word/phrase is, at its heart, a very strong request to a divine power to cause great ill harm on the person the curse is directed towards, or at least, that great ill comes to the other person.
Let us use an example:
"F*** you." You have just told the other person, basically, you hope that they get raped.
Not exactly things to wish so readily on people... and really, at all. As I think some-one has mentioned before, is there really any point? Words are words, and words are idle. It does not fix the situation to use them. It shows one who is quick to anger, quick to judge, has a tongue untamed, and who finds value in malice. These are all things not a part of God's character, and things he explicitly speaks out against.
As Christians, we are to follow Christ's example - not just follow it, but seek to be pure and holy people - does cursing accomplish this end? Since when did Christ do this?
Most of the time, when cursing it is used, it is over such petty and inconsequential matters - clearly that do not qualify for such language. And the situations where maybe a non-Christian could find justification for cursing, a Christian cannot, because as followers of Christ, we should seek meaningful and constructive reaction to what happens to us.
So, to wrap this up, why would God not want us to curse? Basically, since when has there been any situation where a Christian should have to act in a manner so unloving as to wish terrible destruction on others? And why would God appease our evil desire to destroy?
Really, what we are talking about when we say 'swearing' is what is more appropriately called 'cursing.'
@ Anonymous: Dakota has previously posted two verses of scripture which very clearly define God's position on vulgar language. To try and justify vulgar language, quite simply, is trying to say that humans are wiser and have more authority on these matters than God does.
But I am sure, even if we can accept that, we might like to all know why that is a commandment of God.
Really, cursing, no matter what the actual word/phrase is, at its heart, a very strong request to a divine power to cause great ill harm on the person the curse is directed towards, or at least, that great ill comes to the other person.
Let us use an example:
"F*** you." You have just told the other person, basically, you hope that they get raped.
Not exactly things to wish so readily on people... and really, at all. As I think some-one has mentioned before, is there really any point? Words are words, and words are idle. It does not fix the situation to use them. It shows one who is quick to anger, quick to judge, has a tongue untamed, and who finds value in malice. These are all things not a part of God's character, and things he explicitly speaks out against.
As Christians, we are to follow Christ's example - not just follow it, but seek to be pure and holy people - does cursing accomplish this end? Since when did Christ do this?
Most of the time, when cursing it is used, it is over such petty and inconsequential matters - clearly that do not qualify for such language. And the situations where maybe a non-Christian could find justification for cursing, a Christian cannot, because as followers of Christ, we should seek meaningful and constructive reaction to what happens to us.
So, to wrap this up, why would God not want us to curse? Basically, since when has there been any situation where a Christian should have to act in a manner so unloving as to wish terrible destruction on others? And why would God appease our evil desire to destroy?
Our faith in him: A major part of that is following his commandments. To be faithful is to follow through with what you promise to do, right? And his statements on expletive language are part of what he commands us to follow.
I think you know that such language is against his will. To knowingly use such language and to state that you love God are contrary actions.
James 3 talks about taming the tongue, a small spark or sharp word can get way outta control fast. I think that Shaena actually said it best: swearing is something that does not build a person up.
The tongue is something that we both curse people with and praise God with at the same time. Fresh water and salt cannot flow from the same stream. I think that "cussing" or "putting down" someone is basically the same. Our walk has gotta match our talk.
James 3 also says it could corrupt the whole body. Say, repeated negative words, swear words and such could potentially lead to a negative attitude change, a shift in world view. Saying I love Jesus and I hate so-and-so, is kind of hypocritical.
It really bugs me when I see Christians casually swear without thinking of what is said.
okay, but what if you're not swearing AT someone, but you're just like "ah f***" because you forgot something, or you accidentally hurt yourself... that isn't tearing anyone down because it's not even directed at someone.
and cursing at people doesn't mean you're not a Christian. just the same as gossiping, arguing with siblings (mmmmm sunny smith...), and being arrogant, etc.... doesn't mean you're not Christian or that you don't have Christ's love, it just means there are areas where you still have to work on...
i'd never advocate cursing, i just thought this dicussion would go nowhere if nobody tried to disagree with you guys. :P
You have a really excellent point. I'm sorry I didn't see it earlier:( I don't think by any means cursing ect. doesn't make you a christ follower it's just an area that you need to work on. As for cursing under your breath because you forgot something or whatever. That shows that you're of the world. Christians are supposed to be set apart from others who are of the world.
And like others have stated. Why do we even need to say "ah F***" even to ourselves? Why must we be standing on the border of right and wrong, shouldn't we try to be as far away as possible?
20 comments:
I think that swearing is not good. We shouldn't be doing it because it doesn't bring glory to God!
What exactly is swearing?
Ephesians 5:4
Let there be no filthiness nor foolish talk nor crude joking, which are out of place, but instead let there be thanksgiving.
Ephesians 4:29
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 to those who hear.
Bang on Dakota :D
Does anyone else have any thoughts?
Are there not emotions/feelings, that can only be expressed through swearing?
I believe that swearing is anything that you say to someone that does not build them up.
Anonymous:
For example: if you're venting to some one and are really upset and you use swear words to describe your feelings is there not a better way to express them than saying "so and so is a b--th or I feel like s--t"?
Is it going to help the problem by cursing someone or something? I think not.....
Agree, disagree?
Hey! I totally agree Sunny! Btw, this is Destiny. I am just too lazy to sign in again. :) That is really good!
Dessy♥
P.S. To all of y'all who think that I am fake, I am not! I am really Destiny. Just ask Sunny! :)
First, let's clear some stuff about what we are really talking about.
To swear in its original context has great implications - it is a great and serious matter. To swear means to abide by what you say, and that what you say is truth and you are willing to die on what you say.
Thus, swearing really only refers to oaths (like when Canada's Prime Minister gets sworn into office).
Swearing as we usually know it (expletive words) is not 'swearing,' thus at all.
Really, what we are talking about when we say 'swearing' is what is more appropriately called 'cursing.'
@ Anonymous: Dakota has previously posted two verses of scripture which very clearly define God's position on vulgar language. To try and justify vulgar language, quite simply, is trying to say that humans are wiser and have more authority on these matters than God does.
But I am sure, even if we can accept that, we might like to all know why that is a commandment of God.
Really, cursing, no matter what the actual word/phrase is, at its heart, a very strong request to a divine power to cause great ill harm on the person the curse is directed towards, or at least, that great ill comes to the other person.
Let us use an example:
"F*** you." You have just told the other person, basically, you hope that they get raped.
Not exactly things to wish so readily on people... and really, at all. As I think some-one has mentioned before, is there really any point? Words are words, and words are idle. It does not fix the situation to use them. It shows one who is quick to anger, quick to judge, has a tongue untamed, and who finds value in malice. These are all things not a part of God's character, and things he explicitly speaks out against.
As Christians, we are to follow Christ's example - not just follow it, but seek to be pure and holy people - does cursing accomplish this end? Since when did Christ do this?
Most of the time, when cursing it is used, it is over such petty and inconsequential matters - clearly that do not qualify for such language. And the situations where maybe a non-Christian could find justification for cursing, a Christian cannot, because as followers of Christ, we should seek meaningful and constructive reaction to what happens to us.
So, to wrap this up, why would God not want us to curse? Basically, since when has there been any situation where a Christian should have to act in a manner so unloving as to wish terrible destruction on others? And why would God appease our evil desire to destroy?
Really, what we are talking about when we say 'swearing' is what is more appropriately called 'cursing.'
@ Anonymous: Dakota has previously posted two verses of scripture which very clearly define God's position on vulgar language. To try and justify vulgar language, quite simply, is trying to say that humans are wiser and have more authority on these matters than God does.
But I am sure, even if we can accept that, we might like to all know why that is a commandment of God.
Really, cursing, no matter what the actual word/phrase is, at its heart, a very strong request to a divine power to cause great ill harm on the person the curse is directed towards, or at least, that great ill comes to the other person.
Let us use an example:
"F*** you." You have just told the other person, basically, you hope that they get raped.
Not exactly things to wish so readily on people... and really, at all. As I think some-one has mentioned before, is there really any point? Words are words, and words are idle. It does not fix the situation to use them. It shows one who is quick to anger, quick to judge, has a tongue untamed, and who finds value in malice. These are all things not a part of God's character, and things he explicitly speaks out against.
As Christians, we are to follow Christ's example - not just follow it, but seek to be pure and holy people - does cursing accomplish this end? Since when did Christ do this?
Most of the time, when cursing it is used, it is over such petty and inconsequential matters - clearly that do not qualify for such language. And the situations where maybe a non-Christian could find justification for cursing, a Christian cannot, because as followers of Christ, we should seek meaningful and constructive reaction to what happens to us.
So, to wrap this up, why would God not want us to curse? Basically, since when has there been any situation where a Christian should have to act in a manner so unloving as to wish terrible destruction on others? And why would God appease our evil desire to destroy?
Really, what we are talking about when we say 'swearing' is what is more appropriately called 'cursing.'
@ Anonymous: Dakota has previously posted two verses of scripture which very clearly define God's position on vulgar language. To try and justify vulgar language, quite simply, is trying to say that humans are wiser and have more authority on these matters than God does.
But I am sure, even if we can accept that, we might like to all know why that is a commandment of God.
Really, cursing, no matter what the actual word/phrase is, at its heart, a very strong request to a divine power to cause great ill harm on the person the curse is directed towards, or at least, that great ill comes to the other person.
Let us use an example:
"F*** you." You have just told the other person, basically, you hope that they get raped.
Not exactly things to wish so readily on people... and really, at all. As I think some-one has mentioned before, is there really any point? Words are words, and words are idle. It does not fix the situation to use them. It shows one who is quick to anger, quick to judge, has a tongue untamed, and who finds value in malice. These are all things not a part of God's character, and things he explicitly speaks out against.
As Christians, we are to follow Christ's example - not just follow it, but seek to be pure and holy people - does cursing accomplish this end? Since when did Christ do this?
Most of the time, when cursing it is used, it is over such petty and inconsequential matters - clearly that do not qualify for such language. And the situations where maybe a non-Christian could find justification for cursing, a Christian cannot, because as followers of Christ, we should seek meaningful and constructive reaction to what happens to us.
So, to wrap this up, why would God not want us to curse? Basically, since when has there been any situation where a Christian should have to act in a manner so unloving as to wish terrible destruction on others? And why would God appease our evil desire to destroy?
@The Scotsman, you posted A LOT of comments, but I am glad you have lots to say!! :D
btw, I know who you are! ;P
Wow. That was really well put.
@The Scotsman
You posted both of your comments twice:P
Is there any outstanding thoughts?
is god's primary concern our transgressions or our faith in Him?
=P
Our faith in him: A major part of that is following his commandments. To be faithful is to follow through with what you promise to do, right? And his statements on expletive language are part of what he commands us to follow.
I think you know that such language is against his will. To knowingly use such language and to state that you love God are contrary actions.
I think that the Scotsman has it right.
It doesn't show God you're faithful to say you're faithful to him and have your actions say differently.
James 3 talks about taming the tongue, a small spark or sharp word can get way outta control fast. I think that Shaena actually said it best: swearing is something that does not build a person up.
The tongue is something that we both curse people with and praise God with at the same time. Fresh water and salt cannot flow from the same stream.
I think that "cussing" or "putting down" someone is basically the same. Our walk has gotta match our talk.
James 3 also says it could corrupt the whole body. Say, repeated negative words, swear words and such could potentially lead to a negative attitude change, a shift in world view. Saying I love Jesus and I hate so-and-so, is kind of hypocritical.
It really bugs me when I see Christians casually swear without thinking of what is said.
That's my two cents.
J.T.I.
okay, but what if you're not swearing AT someone, but you're just like "ah f***" because you forgot something, or you accidentally hurt yourself... that isn't tearing anyone down because it's not even directed at someone.
and cursing at people doesn't mean you're not a Christian. just the same as gossiping, arguing with siblings (mmmmm sunny smith...), and being arrogant, etc.... doesn't mean you're not Christian or that you don't have Christ's love, it just means there are areas where you still have to work on...
i'd never advocate cursing, i just thought this dicussion would go nowhere if nobody tried to disagree with you guys. :P
You have a really excellent point. I'm sorry I didn't see it earlier:(
I don't think by any means cursing ect. doesn't make you a christ follower it's just an area that you need to work on.
As for cursing under your breath because you forgot something or whatever. That shows that you're of the world. Christians are supposed to be set apart from others who are of the world.
And like others have stated. Why do we even need to say "ah F***" even to ourselves? Why must we be standing on the border of right and wrong, shouldn't we try to be as far away as possible?
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