HOLINESS IN SPEECH

Title: HOLINESS IN SPEECH

By Rev. Samuel Arimoro

Main Text: Ephesians 4:29
"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."

Supporting Texts: James 3:5-10, Proverbs 18:21, Matthew 12:36-37, Colossians 4:6, Psalm 19:14

INTRODUCTION:
The way we speak reveals much about our hearts. As Christians, our speech should reflect the holiness of God, bringing encouragement, edification, and grace to others. Ephesians 4:29 challenges us to speak words that build up and avoid corrupt, harmful language. This Bible study will explore the importance of holiness in our speech, how to guard our words, and the impact of our words on those around us.

1. THE POWER OF WORDS

Our words carry great power, either to build up or tear down.

a) Words Can Build or Destroy
The words we speak can either encourage or discourage, heal or harm, depending on how we use them (Proverbs 18:21).

b) Words Reflect the Heart
What we say is a direct reflection of what is in our hearts (Matthew 12:34-35).

c) Words Can Influence Others
Our speech can have a lasting impact on the people around us, influencing their thoughts, emotions, and actions (Ephesians 4:29).

d) Words Are an Instrument of Healing
Just as words can harm, they can also heal, offering comfort and hope to those who need it (Proverbs 12:18).

e) Biblical Example:
Jesus used His words to heal the sick, restore the broken, and bring life to those who heard Him. His words were always edifying and full of grace (Matthew 9:35).

2. GUARDING AGAINST CORRUPT COMMUNICATION

To maintain holiness in speech, we must be intentional about avoiding harmful and corrupt language.

a) Avoiding Gossip and Slander
Gossip and slander tear down others and damage relationships. We are called to speak words that promote peace and unity (Proverbs 16:28).

b) Rejecting Cursing and Profanity
As believers, our speech should be pure, free from vulgar or profane language, which does not reflect the holiness of God (James 3:10).

c) Being Slow to Speak
Sometimes, avoiding harmful speech requires us to pause and think before we speak. Being slow to speak allows us to avoid rash and harmful words (James 1:19).

d) Speaking with Grace and Love
Even in difficult situations, our words should be filled with grace, patience, and love, aimed at building others up (Colossians 4:6).

e) Biblical Example:
The Apostle Paul exhorted the Ephesians to let their speech be gracious and seasoned with salt, so that it would minister grace to the hearers (Colossians 4:6).

3. THE IMPORTANCE OF EDIFYING SPEECH

Our words should serve to build up, encourage, and uplift others.

a) Words That Encourage
We are called to encourage one another through our speech, offering words of hope and support in both good times and bad (1 Thessalonians 5:11).

b) Words That Build Faith
Our speech should strengthen the faith of others, reminding them of God’s promises and goodness (Hebrews 10:24-25).

c) Words That Promote Unity
Our speech should seek to promote harmony and unity within the body of Christ, rather than division and discord (Ephesians 4:3).

d) Words That Reflect God’s Character
Our speech should reflect the character of Christ, speaking truth, love, and grace in all situations (Ephesians 5:1-2).

e) Biblical Example:
Barnabas was known as the “Son of Encouragement” because his words were always uplifting, helping to build up and strengthen the early church (Acts 4:36-37).

4. SPEAKING TRUTH IN LOVE

Holiness in speech is not only about avoiding bad words but also about speaking truth in a loving and respectful manner.

a) Speaking the Truth of God’s Word
As believers, we are called to speak the truth of God’s Word boldly and clearly, even when it is difficult (Ephesians 4:15).

b) Speaking with Respect and Gentleness
Even when speaking truth, we must do so with respect, gentleness, and humility, avoiding harshness or prideful speech (1 Peter 3:15).

c) Speaking for the Good of Others
Our speech should always be for the good of others, seeking to build them up, even when we are correcting or rebuking (Proverbs 15:1).

d) Speaking for God’s Glory
Our words should be used to glorify God, representing His kingdom well and pointing others to Christ (1 Corinthians 10:31).

e) Biblical Example:
Jesus always spoke the truth in love, even when challenging the religious leaders, His words were filled with grace and truth (John 1:14).

5. THE CONSEQUENCES OF UNHOLY SPEECH

Failing to guard our speech can lead to serious consequences for our relationship with God and others.

a) Grieving the Holy Spirit
Ungodly speech grieves the Holy Spirit, hindering our ability to experience the fullness of His presence and power (Ephesians 4:30).

b) Damaging Relationships
Harmful speech can cause division, hurt feelings, and broken relationships, damaging our witness as believers (Proverbs 12:18).

c) Bringing Judgment
Words that are not holy and edifying may lead to judgment, as we will give account for every idle word spoken (Matthew 12:36-37).

d) Losing the Blessing of God
A lack of holiness in speech may cause us to miss out on God’s blessings, as our words are a reflection of our hearts (Psalm 19:14).

e) Biblical Example:
Miriam, the sister of Moses, was struck with leprosy for speaking against her brother, demonstrating the serious consequences of unholy speech (Numbers 12:1-10).

CONCLUSION:
Our words hold great power. As Christians, we are called to speak words that honor God, edify others, and reflect His holiness. By guarding our speech, we align ourselves with God's will and foster an atmosphere of love, unity, and encouragement within the body of Christ. Let us commit to speaking with holiness and integrity, always mindful that our words have the potential to build or destroy.

PRAYER POINTS:

1. Lord, help me to guard my tongue and speak only words that honor You.

2. Father, remove from my mouth any corrupt communication that grieves Your Spirit.

3. Holy Spirit, give me the wisdom to speak words that edify and encourage others.

4. Lord, help me to speak truth in love, even when it is difficult.

5. Father, protect my relationships by helping me use my words to build, not tear down.

6. Lord, fill my heart with grace and love, so that my speech reflects Your character.

7. Father, forgive me for any harmful words I have spoken, and help me to repent and reconcile.

8. Lord, let my speech always be seasoned with grace and truth.

9. Father, help me to speak in a way that promotes unity within the body of Christ.

10. Lord, let my words bring You glory in everything I say and do.

PROPHETIC DECLARATIONS:

1. You will speak words of life that encourage and build others up.

2. Every spirit of gossip and slander is broken in your life in Jesus’ name.

3. You will speak truth with love, bringing healing and restoration to those around you.

4. Your words will reflect the character of Christ, and you will minister grace to those who hear you.

5. God will use your words to build relationships and foster unity in your church.

6. The Holy Spirit will give you the wisdom to know when to speak and when to remain silent.

7. You will speak with authority and clarity, advancing God’s kingdom through your words.

8. Your speech will be a testimony of the work of God in your life.

9. Every word you speak will bring glory to God and promote peace in your relationships.

10. God will bless you with the ability to speak words that lead to breakthrough and transformation in others' lives.