Can Christians Curse? | Galatians 5:12

Is it okay for a Christian to use strong language?

Today, our call-out goes to David Garrett from Pasadena, MD. Thanks for your support!

I wish those who unsettle you would emasculate themselves! — Galatians 5:12

There are a few times in Scripture where we encounter very strong language. This is one of those accounts, if not the most vivid of all accounts.

But I would contest: this is not categorically strong language. It's extreme hyperbole (or exaggeration) that leaves room for imagination. Paul is doing something strategic. He is working out their logic. Paul, seasoned at debate, is playing out their theory regarding circumcision. In other words, if these people so adamantly support circumcision because they believe it will enhance a believer's experience, why just trim it up; cut that thing off.

Paul intends to illustrate the absurd nature of this religious ritual. If circumcision could have enhanced their relationship with God, then there would have been no need for Jesus. However, if it could by some means improve their relationship with God, why not cut the whole thing off? The progression of this logic suggests they would be even more holy.

I would put to task people who suggest it's okay because this text does not give us permission to curse. But if we were to emulate what Paul did here, it would permit us to play out flawed logic from woke teachers and use hyperbole to illustrate it that might be graphic and vivid. But Paul is not permitting us to curse.

In fact, this same man wrote other letters instructing believers to do the opposite. I have included those texts below.

So, to all my brothers who served in the military or spent time in prison and learned the F-word was a noun, verb, adjective, or adverb, you might want to find some more edifying words.

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. — Ephesians 4:29
Let there be no filthiness nor foolish talk nor crude joking, which are out of place, but instead let there be thanksgiving. — Ephesians 5:4
#ChristianLanguage #TongueTaming #SacredSpeech #WordsOfLife #GracefulCommunication

ASK THIS:

How can we balance authenticity and reverence in our speech, especially when faced with situations that might provoke strong emotions?
Reflect on a time when you've been tempted to use strong language. How could applying the principles of Ephesians 4:29 and 5:4 have changed the outcome of that situation?
DO THIS: Adjust those unedifying words.

PRAY THIS: Lord, help me to guard my tongue and use my words to build up others, reflecting Your love and grace in all my communication. May the words of my mouth and the meditations of my heart be pleasing to You, my Rock and my Redeemer. Amen.

PLAY THIS: I Speak Jesus.