August 2023
Nougat 18
Are you familiar with the concept of ‘four-letter words?’ Those are words that are seen as rude, foul, or offensive because of what they refer to. Represented by symbols or phrases like ’blankety-blank’, or ‘what’s-it-not’, or with the use of bleeps, they are often adjectives in a conversation. I remember being warned about four-letter words and people who used them. It was not complementary. And, the Bible had something to say about them! I suspect that today’s Holy Nougat
“Don’t let any foul words come out of your mouth. Only say what is helpful when it is needed for building up the community so that it benefits those who hear what you say.” Ephesians 4:29 CEB
Foul words
The elders were correct. The Bible does speak against the use of foul language. But, when we read the not-so-fine print, we note that ‘foul’ is relative. Although four-letter words probably
are included in the ‘filthy lucre’, as my elders would say direct from the KJV, that was not quite the essence.
The term used for foul is σαπρός, ά, όν, which means rotten, useless, corrupt or depraved. And on those grounds, the elders are correct. But if we stop at typical four-letter words, we miss the point being made. Our words ought to be fresh, fruitful, wholesome, uplifting, and encouraging. They should stimulate positivity, rather than leading us into depressive spaces. And the writer says that in so many words after shunning foul words.
“Only say what is helpful when it is needed for building up the community so that it benefits those who hear what you say.” In other words, ‘speak the truth in love.’ (Ephesians 4:15)
As the entire chapter is dedicated to visible unity among believers, one assumes that the issue the church faced in Ephesus was somewhat divisive. And not everyone’s responses were gentle and loving. Their curse words were probably more aligned to reminding others of their status and station in life, and less about sexual acts or body parts. Both are rotten. Both fail to encourage the other.
Our Nougat and the surrounding verses is a reminder that we will have frustrating moments, annoying ones even (I have had my fair share of them). But, we are encouraged to move beyond ourselves – our annoyance and frustration – to reflect Christ. Yes, Jesus sometimes used sharp words, but within particular contexts. Otherwise, His words encouraged the ‘vilest sinner’. Jesus was able to see the bigger picture – bringing glory to God.
In all our future interactions, I pray our words will build up and not be foul.
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May all we seek be found in Christ