“Let no corrupt communication proceed out of your mouth, but that which is good to the use of edifying, that it may minister grace unto the hearers.” Ephesians 4:29 (KJV)
Corrupt communication (logos sapros) has the connotation of rotten speech (i.e. stinking thinking). It includes profanity, negative comments, and doubt. Logos sapros also has the connotation of worn out words or improperly used words. It includes overworked clichés and improper references. Logos sapros is also poor quality (i.e. worthless) speech. It includes words or concepts that the hearers can not understand.
Good communication (logos agathos), however, gives careful consideration to several things. First, who is listening? Is this a private or public talk? Second, what is the need being addressed? What is the maturity level of the individual or group? Is the individual or group able to receive frank, honest challenges or is a more tactful approach necessary? Third, what can be said that will strengthen and encourage the individual or group? And finally, will this communication provide grace to the listener(s)?
As a pastor and preaching communicator, I am responsible to consider this each time I am preparing to enter the pulpit. But Paul’s words are to the Church as a whole. Every Christian is exhorted to speak good words that edify according to the need of others and to give grace to the hearer. Normal speech would screech to a halt if one had to stop and mentally go through the four steps outlined above. So what do we do?
We can make it a habit to speak words and concepts that are beneficial. Words of joy and encouragement. Words that promote personal and spiritual growth. Words that are an advantage to those who listen. Words that are in the interest of the other person.
It is in my best interest to make certain that what I say to others is in their best interests. Where grace is planted, grace is reaped. Strengthening the faith of others . . . encouraging the faith of others . . . is like rain in the midst of drought. It will change the landscape.
Dear Father, thank you for your words of mercy and grace. Thank you for speaking encouraging words that strengthen us and encourage our growth. Empower us to communicate with others for their benefit and need. Enable us to conform our speech so that grace is given to them. This I pray in Jesus’ name. AMEN
Let us praise God for his Word and live to his glory,