Farewell-Goodbye

By Jim Faughn     As far as I know, I’m not planning to take any extended trips anytime soon. I am also not planning on this being my last post on A Legacy of Faith.      Since only God knows the future, I was careful to use the word “planning” in those statements. I’m sure that you can think along with me of at least a couple of places in the Bible which deal with the mistakes made by people who are totally confident about their futures. It is interesting to me that the two passages that came immediately to my mind–Luke 12:16-20 and James 4:13-17–concern people who saw for themselves a bright future. I suppose that’s what we all desire, but, as most of us learn from experience, that may not always be the case.     Actually, this post comes from the weird way in which my mind works (when it does work). I was listening to something while I was walking one day. As I was listening, a word was used that, for some reason, kind of got stuck in my head. It’s a word that may not be used as often as it once was, but it is by no means a word I had never heard before. The word was farewell.     Until I started thinking about that word and then did a little research on it, I guess I thought that “farewell” was equivalent to “goodbye,” “so long,” “catch you later,” and other phrases people use when they are departing from one another. While we may use those words and phrases without thinking too much about them, I discovered that two words – the ones in the title of this post – actually carry with them a message.     There are actually two words within the word “farewell” – “fare” and “well.” When the definitions of those two words are put together in one word, a message is actually being sent that expresses a desire that the person or people from whom you are departing gets along (fares) well.     I also learned that, when I say “goodbye” to a person, I’m not just saying, “I’m leaving,” I’m getting off of the phone now,” etc. Instead, according to what I read, “goodbye” is a kind of shorthand way of expressing something that was more in vogue long ago. Over the years (centuries actually), “God be with you” became shortened to “goodbye.”     So what? Why in the world, you may be thinking, did I go to the trouble of looking all that up and why did I think that you would waste your time reading it?     Well, for one thing, I’ve already told you that my mind works in weird ways. The people who know me best can attest to that!     Yet another reason is that I sometimes get curious about things that some may see as inconsequential. I can tell you, however, that I have found out some very interesting things doing what some might refer to as “chasing rabbit trails”     I would like to think, though, that there is another reason or two for all of this. For one thing, the two words in the title sound a little more formal (and now meaningful) than some of the more flippant and casual words and phrases commonly used today.      I am far from being a person who is concerned about formality. At the same time, I often wonder if we haven’t lost something by being overly casual and informal.     I think that what prompted me the most to type all of this, though, was something that I need to consider. Maybe you do as well.      Each time that I open my mouth I am sending some sort of message. It might be advisable for me to understand the meanings of the words I am speaking and the message I am sending. This is not just true when I am leaving somebody, finishing a conversation, etc. It is true all of the time. We need to remember that it was Jesus who said…     I tell you, on the day of judgment people will give account for every careless word they speak, for by your words you will be justified, and by your words you will be condemned. (Matt. 12:36-37)     Since we seem to get bombarded daily with things that are negative, discouraging, and destructive, I think that it would be good to remember to send messages from time to time that are positive, encouraging, and helpful.     So – with that, I will say… farewell and goodbye.

- Jim Faughn serves as and elder for the Central Church of Christ in Paducah KY. Be sure to visit the following for more great articles: Faughn Family blog, A Legacy of Faith **

Count To Ten?

By Joe Slater       Few things bring us more regret than words we have spoken. Especially when a situation is heated by emotion, we tend to speak harshly rather than letting our speech be “with grace, seasoned with salt” (Colossians 4:6).     I remember a piece of advice: “Count to ten” before saying anything. Even ten might be insufficient, but the principle of thinking before speaking finds much support in Scripture.     “Do you see a man hasty in his words? There is more hope for a fool than for him” (Proverbs 29:20). That applies, by the way, to additional settings besides anger. Simple off-the-cuff remarks can devastate someone’s feelings even though you didn’t intend it.     But angry words are the culprit more often than not. An excellent song admonishes us: “Angry words, Oh, let them never from the tongue unbridled slip.” The writer obviously referred to James 1:26 where the Lord’s brother wrote, “If anyone among you thinks he is religious and does not bridle his tongue, but deceives his own heart, this one’s religion is useless.”     Just as a bridle controls a horse, we must control our tongue (i.e. our words). Hear again the wise King Solomon: “A fool vents all his feelings, but a wise man holds them back” (Proverbs 29:11). Someone protests, “I was just speaking my mind!” Perhaps so, but might it not have been better if you had thought it through first? “In a multitude of words sin is not lacking, but he who restrains his lips is wise” (Proverbs 10:19).

Joe Slater serves as minister of the Church of Christ in Justin, TX. He may be contacted through the congregation's website: http://justinchurchofchrist.com

Must You Tell Everything You Know?

By Joe Slater       Perhaps you’ve read “Anne of Green Gables” (or seen the videos, or both). “Tales of Avonlea” is a follow-up series of made-for-television programs featuring some of the same characters in the same quaint little town of Avonlea on Prince Edward Island about a century ago.     One of the many recurring themes in both the books and the television shows is the propensity of people to gossip. What someone said or did decades ago is hashed and rehashed. Who was seen with whom, and what it might mean, becomes grist for the rumor mill, replete with speculation, arguments, exaggeration, and an abundance of jumping to conclusions. Ironically, not even church diminishes the desire to dredge up dirt. No sooner have services concluded than the backbiting begins anew in their Sunday best! Of course, the author presents it in such a way that we say, “Shame on them! I would never do that!” But is that always true?     “A talebearer reveals secrets, but he who is of a faithful spirit conceals a matter” (Proverbs 11:13). Someone protests, “But everything I said is true!” Let’s suppose that’s true. The question is, “Must you tell everything you know?” Even if something is true, you might do better to keep it quiet. What if some salacious scrap of scandal surfaced about you? Would you want anyone who learns of it to broadcast it to the world?     Someone smarter than I recommended three tests before speaking: 1) Is it true? 2) Is it kind? 3) Is it necessary? I have a hunch that heeding those three tests would result in far less gossip.     “Where there is no wood, the fire goes out; and where there is no talebearer, strife ceases” (Proverbs 26:20).     You really don’t have to tell everything you know!

Joe Slater serves as minister of the Church of Christ in Justin, TX. He may be contacted through the congregation's website: http://justinchurchofchrist.com

How Do We Stop Gossip?

By Brian Mitchell       Where there is no wood the fire ceases. Fire needs 3 things to exist: Fuel, Oxygen and Heat. Without anyone of these elements there is no fire. Likewise gossip needs three things to exist, thrive, and do damage. It needs a victim, a tale bearer, and an audience. Again, without all of these constituent elements gossip will not take form and no damage can be done.     The first step to stopping gossip is the realization that none of us personally wants to be the subject of gossip, tale bearing, or slander. Once we admit that, then we move to the next step, which is the personal application of the Golden Rule. “Do unto others as you would have them do to you” Mt7:12. If you don’t want to be gossiped about or slandered, then don’t do it to others.     What do we do when we are tempted to gossip, be a tale bearer, or slander someone? Remember that no one benefits from gossip and slander. “A good name in a man or woman is the immediate jewel of the soul. He who steals my purse steals trash, but he who steals my good name robs me of that which enriches him not and makes me poor indeed” Shakespeare. In other words, no one benefits from gossip and slander. Slandering someone else’s good name not only does you no good, it many times does irreparable harm to those who are the victims of your slander.     Remember that gossip can and often does destroy your own trustworthiness and reputation—Prov.26:24-26. The more you gossip about others the less trustworthy you become. “He who gossips with you will gossip about you.” One of the gossiper’s main goals is to inflate their own reputation by tearing down the reputation of others, but in the end, it is really your reputation that suffers. Gossip is not befitting a child of God and must be done away with—Col.3:8-10.     Remember that once gossip and slander is out you can’t get it back. There was a story of the young man who slandered the name of an older preacher that he did not like very much. Upon realizing the error of his actions, he went to the old preacher and repented, he then asked how he could make things right. So the old preacher took the young man outside on a breezy day and tore open a feather pillow, and then as the wind scattered the feathers in every direction he told the young man to go out and retrieve each of those feathers. The point is obvious: “We are many times no more able to repair the damage that gossip does, than the young man would be able to gather all of those feathers back.”    Realize that your heart is the heart of the matter. “Out of the abundance of the heart the mouth speaks” Mt.12:34. Jesus teaches us that we speak about those things which are present in our minds, so if we are always dwelling upon negative things, those things are going to be manifested in our communications with others. So if gossip and slander come from the heart, and are themselves a direct result of that which I am focused on, then I need to change the things I focus on. If I am continually focused on the negative aspects of people and situations, then those are the kind of things I am going to share with others.     So we need to change our focus and look for the positive. Instead of dwelling on the fact that someone has done you wrong, and you must therefore get even by talking negatively to others about them, remember God who says “vengeance is mine I will repay.” So speak what is good for necessary edification” Eph.4:29.

- Brian Mitchell serves as a minister with the Jackson Church of Christ in Jackson, MO. He may be contacted through the congregation's website at https://www.jacksonchurchofchrist.net

Bridling the Tongue

By David R. Ferguson

 

    James 1:26 [NAS] says, “If anyone thinks himself to be religious, yet does not bridle his tongue but deceives his own heart, this person’s religion is worthless.” This isn’t just referring to what we say, it also refers to what we choose to post and share on social media. Pay attention to what you are saying. Your speech is one of the most important parts of your witness.

    No matter where you are, at home, at work, at play, at church, or in any organization or group you decide to join, your tongue reveals what’s in your heart. In fact, an argument can be made that what one posts and shares on social media is even more egregious than what we say.

    James also writes, “So also the tongue is a small part of the body, and yet it boasts of great things. See how great a forest is set aflame by such a small fire! And the tongue is a fire, the very world of unrighteousness; the tongue is set among our body’s parts as that which defiles the whole body and sets on fire the course of our life, and is set on fire by Hell. For every species of beasts and birds, of reptiles and creatures of the sea, is tamed and has been tamed by the human race. But no one among mankind can tame the tongue; it is a restless evil, full of deadly poison.” (James 3:5-8 [NAS] Since the tongue is untamed, sometimes we say things we immediately regret saying. So, it’s worse to post vile and despicable things than it is to speak them because posting involves forethought. When we do so, we are making a conscience choice to say something that is intended to hurt others. It isn’t simply reactionary as can happen with the tongue.

    The reason we react the way we do, however, is because of the condition of our heart. Remember, our Lord and Savior said, “For the mouth speaks from that which fills the heart.” He then added, “But I tell you that for every careless word that people speak, they will give an account of it on the day of judgment. For by your words you will be justified, and by your words you will be condemned.” (Matthew 12:36-37 [NAS]) For Christians, we need to make doubly sure that we bridle our tongue and think twice before posting and sharing on social media. We must do all in our power to live our life for Jesus Christ, never forgetting that we “were once darkness, but now [we] are light in the Lord; walk as children of light” (Ephesians 5:8 [NAS]).

    May God bless you as you serve Him!

- David R. Ferguson preaches for the Mentor Church of Christ in Mentor, OH.  He may be contacted through the congregation's website: http://mentorchurchofchrist.com/ or davidferguson61@yahoo.com

Words

By Joe Slater

 

    Jesus and the inspired New Testament writers had far more to say about our speech (words, tongue) than about baptism or the Lord’s Supper. That takes nothing away from the importance of immersion or communion. It simply exposes the need to pay heed to what we say.

    Is this a salvation issue? Listen to Jesus: “But I say to you that for every idle word men may speak, they will give account of it in the day of judgment. For by your words you will be justified, and by your words you will be condemned” (Matthew 12:36-37). “Idle” literally means “without work.” We speak idle words when we’re too lazy to do the work of thinking first. We carelessly “shoot from the lip!” We would do well to “start brain before engaging mouth.”

    It’s hard work to control our speech. James observed that “no man can tame the tongue. It is an unruly evil, full of deadly poison” (James 3:8). Though we can’t tame it, we must control that terrible tongue! “If anyone among you thinks he is religious, and does not bridle his tongue but deceives his own heart, this one’s religion is useless” (1:26).

    Paul exhorted, “Let no corrupt word proceed out of your mouth, but what is good for necessary edification, that it may impart grace to the hearers” (Ephesians 4:29). Apply that to your keyboard too! Take a second look before you send that post on social media. Are you glorifying God when you post vulgar words? Surely your vocabulary isn’t so limited that you can’t make your point without using crude language!

    “Let your speech always be with grace, seasoned with salt, that you may know how you ought to answer each one” (Colossians 4:6).

- Joe Slater serves as minister of the Church of Christ in Justin, TX. He may be contacted through the congregation's website: http://justinchurchofchrist.com

Be Careful What You Say

By Bill Brandstatter

 

    We live in a time when a person has to be careful what words are used. Many are looking for something that is wrong. The way something is said is often noticed. Sometimes even the intent is in question by some. What we say is important. Our words mean a great deal.

   Words are accountable. We are accountable for what we say. Jesus said, “For by your words you will be justified, and by your words you will be condemned.” (Matt.12:37 NKJV) What we say matters a great deal. Do we speak before we think? James advices us to be “swift to hear, slow to speak, slow to wrath.” (James 1:20) How many times have we said something only to regret it later? In a Bible class once, a lady stated, “We need to think twice and speak once.”

    Words are authentic. Words tell something about us. Jesus stated, “Out of the abundance of the heart, the mouth speaks.” (Luke 6:45) If a person talks long enough, the heart is revealed through the words that are spoken. Someone once stated, “It is better to keep silent and thought of as a fool than to open your mouth and remove all doubt.”

    Words are appropriate. Often there are the right words to say at the right time. Do we use appropriate words? Sometimes a person can say the right thing at the wrong time. There are right words to use at the right time. The apostle Paul helps in our understanding by stating “Let your speech always be with grace, seasoned with salt, that you may know how you ought to answer each one.” (Col. 4:6) Peter states Christians should be ready to give an answer for the hope that is in them. (1 Pet. 3:15)

    Words are aped. Our words may be copied or imitated. I was reminded of this recently when my two-year old granddaughter visited us. The way a toddler learns words is to repeat what is heard. If I don’t want my children to say certain words, I shouldn’t say them. I have heard individuals respond to a child’s language by stating, “Where did he hear that?” The best statement to follow about saying the right thing so it won’t be copied is found in Eph. 4:29. Paul writes, “Let no corrupt word proceed out of your mouth, but what is good for necessary edification, that it may impart grace to the hearers.” Someone is always listening to what we say. Do we want it repeated?

   Let us always remember that God knows us. He knows what we say. He knows who we are. Do we want God to hear what we say? Let us be careful to speak the words that will please Him.

- Bill Brandstatter preaches for the Marion Church of Christ in Marion, IL. He may be contacted through the congregation's website: http://marionchurchofchrist.com/

A Little Fire Does a Lot

By Bill Brandstatter

    I am amazed by the wildfires in California. As they are burning, we are seeing the smoke in Illinois. The fires started small as fires always do and grew to be huge. The effects are being seen hundreds of miles away.

    James describes our tongues as fire. He mentions; “How great a forest a little fire kindles!” (James 3:5b) It is true, isn’t it? Sometimes the smallest remark will produce a great  response. Something little that is no big deal can grow quickly and become something prominent. Jesus described how idle words will meet us at the judgment. Those words may be little in size but are big in result. (Matt. 12:23-24)

    Let us learn how to answer all people in all situations (Col. 4:6). Paul notes that what we say should provide “grace to the hearers.”

    Let us try to make little words become big words. Simple words like “Thank you,”; “You’re welcome”; “Excuse Me”; “Hope you don’t mind;” “Pardon me” are all small words but they make a big difference.

    Let us try to use the small words mentioned above in places we never used them before. Do you and your spouse say, “Please” and “thank you” to each other? Do husbands and wives say “You’re welcome” to each other? They should. A little bit goes a long way. If you don’t currently do that, try it and see the effect it will have. It might make a difference in your marriage. It might make a difference in your home and family. It might make a big difference in the world. “How great a forest a little fire kindles!”

- Bill Brandstatter preaches for the Marion Church of Christ in Marion, IL. He may be contacted through the congregation's website: http://marionchurchofchrist.com/

The Speech Test

By Al Behel

    James speaks of the power of the tongue. He says we can use the same tongue to praise God and curse other people. We have heard such speech. May I suggest that all speech should pass three acid tests before being uttered toward another.
    1) First, is it true? In Exodus 20:16 God said, “You shall not bear false witness against your neighbor.” An untrue statement about another can destroy that person for good.
    2) Second, is it needed? The Bible says, “...he who repeats a matter alienates a friend. Whatever we say about another should serve a worthy and noble cause. Otherwise, we should not say it.
    3) Third, is it kind? “The words of a talebearer are as wounds” (Proverbs 18:8). Nothing cuts more deeply or does more harm than the thoughtless words of a gossiper. It grows bigger the more times it is repeated. We should always strive for kindness in all that we say. 

- Al Behel preaches for the Great Smoky Mountains Church of Christ in Pigeon Forge, TN. He may be contacted through the congregation's website: http://greatsmokymountainschurchofchrist.com/

Corrupt Communication

By R.W. McAlister

     Are you as tired of hearing it as I am? It fills television shows, it’s heard at the grocery store, the ballgame, restaurants, the workplace, it’s found in movies and in novels – it’s seemingly everywhere! What am I talking about? Profanity!
     We hear it—not just from sailors (“cuss like a sailor”), or from the French (“pardon my ‘French’”)—but from all segments of society. It used to be the case that a gentleman would never use profanity in the presence of a lady, and deep down, he probably knew he shouldn’t use it in front of anyone. These days, I occasionally hear (or hear about) women who can swear as fluently as anyone. Even small children now can “cuss a blue streak.” It almost seems as if some of the first words they learn are “four-letter” words.
     A recent study by the Parents Television Council found the use of profanity during the so-called “family hour” (8:00 to 9:00 Eastern time) is up fifty-eight percent from two years ago, and the nature of the language (sexual explicitness) is getting worse.
     I was surprised just a couple of evenings ago when my wife was checking out a movie on the Internet (to see if it’s something we could watch), and she mentioned the words of foul language that were in it. The article continued by saying those words (I won’t repeat them here) “weren’t serious.” We’re like Israel of old – we’ve become so desensitized to profanity, we don’t even blush! (cf. Jer. 6:15).
     The Bible is not silent concerning the manner in which we speak. Paul wrote: “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).
     The term rendered “corrupt” is the Greek sapros, meaning, “rotten; putrefied.” It references that which provides no good service. Our words in the presence of others ought to be such as build men up, rather than degrading them (Job 4:4).
     Again, the inspired apostle wrote: “But now ye also put off all these; anger, wrath, malice, blasphemy, filthy communication out of your mouth” (Colossians 3:8). The term signifies that which is base; “foul or filthy” language.
     It used to be that if a child used foul language, he (or she) had their mouth “washed out” with soap. I think it’s time to get back to that, and not only for children! Let us dispense with corrupt communication, and use only speech which is “good to the use of edifying, that it may minister grace unto the hearers.”

- R. W. McAlister preaches for the Anna Church of Christ in Anna, IL.He may be contacted through the congregation's website: http://www.annachurchofchrist.com/

God Is Listening

By Ed Wittlif

     "It came about after the Lord had spoken these words to Job, that the Lord said to Eliphaz the Temanite, 'My wrath is kindled against you and against your two friends, because you have not spoken of Me what is right as My servant Job has'" (Job 42:7 NASB). When you read the book of Job you see that his three friends began well. They sat with Job for seven days and seven nights without speaking (Job 2:13). They must have been good comforters just by their presence. However, then they opened their mouths and spoke of things about God and His purpose that they didn't understand.
     God said, "You have not spoken of Me what is right." Have you ever considered that God is listening to what you say? I will admit that sometimes it seems that when I open my mouth, I disengage my brain. James tells us to be "slow to speak" (James 1:19c). We have a saying, "Think before you speak."
     Jesus warns us, "But I tell that every careless word that people speak, they shall give an accounting for it in the day of judgment. For by your words you will be justified, and by your words you will be condemned" (Matthew 12:36-37).
     It isn't just angry words that James was dealing with, or careless thoughtless words, or words that hurt. It is also what we say about God, like Job's friends. Misquoting God's words, or twisting His words like Satan, or presenting an untrue picture of God misrepresents God. God is listening to us even before the words come out of our mouths. "Even before there is a word on my tongue, Behold, O, Lord, You know it all" (Psalm 139:4).
     God not only hears us, but He knows our motive for saying it. Therefore, think carefully before speaking and let your words be seasoned with grace knowing that God is listening.

- Ed Wittlif is from Denver, CO; via the Church of Christ in Justin, TX. Joe Slater serves as minister and he may be contacted through the congregation's website: http://justinchurchofchrist.com

Salty or Seasoned With Salt?

By Jim Faughn

    Have you ever heard anybody’s speech/language described as “salty?”  You don’t hear that expression as much as has been the case in the past.  What it usually is referring to is what could also be described as “very colorful language.”  In other words, we are talking about something that is, at best, questionable and, at worst, vulgar.
    In those days when this expression was more common, “salty language” was offensive to most people.  To be sure, there were those who thought it was cute, funny, etc., but most people were turned off by both the language and the person using it.
    All of this came to mind when I recently thought of Paul’s admonition to Christians in Colossians 4:6 --- Let your speech always be gracious, seasoned with salt, so that you may know how you ought to   answer each person.
    I believe it is fairly obvious that Paul was not advocating rude, crude, vulgar, offensive, and/or suggestive language.  What, then, could he have meant?
    The answer may be found in our Lord’s dealing with a person we sometimes refer to as the “woman at the well” (cf. John 4:4ff).  As you read this account of His earthly ministry, you will notice that He was critical of both her lifestyle and her religion.  He made it very clear that He approved of neither.
    However, He was able to discuss these matters with her in a way that did not offend her.  Instead, He was able to communicate in a way that turned her into one of His “promoters.”  It could be said that His discussion of “living water” made her thirsty for something she did not have.  
   Speech that is gracious, seasoned with salt has a way of doing that.  Salty language does not!
   As I interact with people, I need to ask myself whether my speech and my lifestyle create in others a desire to know more about Jesus or if they alienate people.  Do I give people hope or do I make them feel hopeless?  Do I offer help or do I write people off? 
   How about you?  Is your speech salty or is it seasoned with salt?
   The eternal destiny of others --- and yourself --- may depend on your answer.

 - Jim Faughn serves as an elder and preacher for the Central Church of Christ in Paducah KY.  He may be contacted through the congregation's website.

Flattery

By Larry Pasley

    Flattery is saying positive things about people that you do not really believe, and it is condemned in the Bible.
    Flattery is a trap. Proverbs 29:5 asserts, "A man who flatters his neighbor Spreads a net for his feet."
    Flattery is used to gain advantage over someone. "These are grumblers, complainers, walking according to their own lusts; and they mouth great swelling words, flattering people to gain advantage" (Jude 1:16).
    Flattery is deceptive. Paul wrote, "Now I urge you, brethren, note those who cause divisions and offenses, contrary to the doctrine which you learned, and avoid them. ¹⁸ For those who are such do not serve our Lord Jesus Christ, but their own belly, and by smooth words and flattering speech deceive the hearts of the simple" (Romans 16:17-18).
    Flattery brings ruin. "A lying tongue hates those who are crushed by it, And a flattering mouth works ruin" (Proverbs 26:28).
    It is important that we are truthful in our speech toward others. But we need to be kind in speaking that truth.
    Our words should be filled with grace. "Let your speech always be with grace, seasoned with salt, that you may know how you ought to answer each one" (Colossians 4:6).
    Our words control our destiny. "But I say to you that for every idle word men may speak, they will give account of it in the day of judgment. ³⁷ For by your words you will be justified, and by your words you will be condemned" (Matthew 12:36-37).
    Say what you mean and mean what you say but don’t be mean with what you say.

 - Larry Pasley serves as a minister with the Jackson Street Church of Christ in Alexandria, LA. He may be contacted through the congregation's website.

Christian Communication (part 1)

By Robert Guinn

    Whether it is verbal or nonverbal, we are constantly communicating something to someone. It could be the blissful sigh one takes after drinking their first sip of coffee in the morning or the eyes that refuse to look someone in the eye while they are talking. Numerous surveys, studies, and observers have noted that one of the most common issues in relationships is the use of proper communication.
    Knowing that our communication reveals our inward selves (Mark 7:14 -23), Christians need to ask themselves what godly communication looks like. The Bible reveals that:
1. Our communication should be a reflection of the inward conversion of our hearts to no longer be self-serving (Romans 12:1-2). 
2. Our communication should be constructive in nature (Ephesians 4:29).
3. Our communication should be consistent (James 3).
4. Our communication should be thoughtful, not reactive (James 1:19).
5. Our communication should be tailored to the occasion (Colossians 4:5-6).
    Certainly these five guidelines are beneficial and, if implemented properly, can help transform our communication. We can talk about these five or other scriptural teachings, like speaking the "truth in love" (Ephesians 4:15), and even recognize their importance. The truth is, however, that we may not know exactly how to put this list into action.
    What does this type communication look like? There are three areas of communication that require the consideration of Christians while communicating to others.
    Culture has a major significance in how someone communicates and interprets what others communicate to them. We cannot ignore the fact that, in the United States, we are trying to communicate with a culture that is "unchurched."
    Gary Chapman authored a book titled The Five Love Languages. These languages include:  words of affirmation, gifts, physical touch, acts of service, and quality time. Chapman explains that these are five of the main ways that people communicate love, affection, and appreciation to others. One's Love Language helps determine their receptiveness to someone else’s communications of appreciation, hatred, or comfort. This helps explain why one kind of communication might hurt someone else more than it does another.
    The third thing Christians need to consider when communicating to others is Generational Differences. Each generation has unique beneficial qualities, yet what might be considered an insult or "fightin' words" for one generation may not be the same for someone of another generation.
    Effectively communicating with others is not an easy task.

- Robert Guinn preaches for the Central Church of Christ in Paducah KY.  He may be contacted through the congregation's website.

Christian Communication (part 2)

By Robert Guinn

    Culture plays a major role in how someone communicates to others and interprets communication of others. For example, in the United States if someone says they are “under the weather,” we know that they are sick or ill.  I have been told, however, that in Australia that same phrase indicates that someone has a hangover or is feeling the affects of intoxication.  There is an obvious difference in communication within cultures.
    The Bible tells us to, “Let your speech always be gracious, seasoned with salt, so that you may know how you ought to answer each person,” (Colossians 4:6). This teaches us the importance of being flexible in our methods of communication. If we truthfully desire to reach people with the Gospel of Jesus Christ, then our communication needs to adapt to the culture of those we are trying to reach. 
    Our national culture, for better or worse, is changing. We can no longer ignore the fact that the culture of the United States is switching to what historians and observers refer to as a Post-Christian culture. This means that the culture is becoming more and more “unchurched.” The trend seems to be that fewer people are actually being raised in a religious atmosphere. The average American’s knowledge base of the Bible appears to be decreasing. How should this alter our communication? We cannot assume that everyone we talk to believes in an Eternal Creator of the Universe (i.e. God), a Divinely inspired, inerrant written document of God’s word (i.e. the Bible), or that they believe in a crucified and risen Savior of the world (i.e. Jesus Christ). We may not be able to teach them about Jesus the first time we talk to them. An example of this is found in Acts 17 when Paul addresses the Athenians on Mars Hill. 
    Language varies from culture to culture. Aside from the obvious differences that exist when common languages differ, different cultures exist among those speaking the same language. Whether it is how something is said or a difference in vocabulary, each culture has its “fightin’ words” and its expressions of love and comfort. The cultures might vary due to geographic location, level of education, occupation, or socioeconomic status. How should this change our communication? The Bible teaches us that our communication should be constructive in nature (Ephesians 4:29). We should never seek to talk DOWN to or talk AT someone, but to communicate WITH them. It is not about proving our point or superiority. Rather, communicating the eternal love, mercy, grace, and justice of our Lord. 
    Relationships greatly impact our culture’s perspective. Living in an experience driven culture, the desire for deep meaningful relationships has been cultivated. How should this impact our communication? Attention needs to be given to non-verbal communication. Our culture is looking at the outward conviction of those professing their faith. They want to see that we actually have the personal relationship with God that we are advertising. Since there is such a stress on relationships, not only does our culture desire a sincere Heavenly relationship, but we also want to see the love among God’s people (John 13:34- 35).
    Paul, as God’s spokesman, altered his communication as fit best the culture of those he was teaching (1 Corinthians 9:19-23). He understood the need to adapt to the culture of others in order to reach them with the Gospel. May we, as God’s people, be willing to seek the best way of communicating to others, considering the importance of culture.    

- Robert Guinn preaches for the Central Church of Christ in Paducah KY.  He may be contacted through the congregation's website.

Stop Complaining

By Brian Mitchell

    The story is told of a circus owner walking into a restaurant and seeing everyone crowded around a table. On the table was an upside down pot that had a duck tap dancing on top of it. The circus owner was so impressed that he offered to buy the duck from its owner and after some negotiations he agreed to pay $10,000 for the duck and the pot. 
Three days later the circus owner returned to the restaurant in anger demanding his money be returned. He told the restaurant owner that his duck was a rip off because he had put him on that pot before an audience and he had not danced one bit. It was then that the duck’s former owner asked him if he had remembered to light the candle under the pot.
    While that may be one reason someone would put a lighted candle under a pot; that is not really what candles are for. In the Sermon on the Mount, Jesus said that candles are meant to be used to provide light to all who are in the house. That is what a light source is for, to provide illumination in the dark.
    In like manner, our lives as Christians were intended not to be hidden under a pot, but rather to shine before all men so that they may see clearly the way to our heavenly Father. We are supposed to be a positive influence on all those around us—Mt.5:13-16. The problem is that at times we spend too much time complaining and grumbling about life’s circumstances that our lives are anything but a shining light to those around us.
    In an appropriate text for this time of year, the Apostle Paul exhorts us “to do ALL things without complaining/grumbling and disputing.” (Ph.2:14). It is the complaining part that I want to focus on today. Paul says to “do all things without complaining” so that we might become blameless and without fault in the midst of a crooked and perverse world. And to “do all things without complaining” so that our lives might serve as a shining light to those living in darkness.
    Jesus said, “We are the salt of the earth” and the “light of the world.” Thus, all of us whether we realize it or not, have a degree of influence in the lives of others. We are all being watched by others who see what we do and hear what we say, especially if they know we are professing Christians. The question then is not are we influencing others; it is how are we influencing others? How is the way I live life, specifically when it comes to how I deal with less than pleasant circumstances, affecting those around me?
    What Paul says in essence is that our light or influence is enhanced or diminished by the way we deal with life’s circumstances. How do you react to daily life and living? Life has its share of difficulties and hardships for all men; do we grumble, complain and look to find fault? Or do we, as Paul elsewhere exhorts, “rejoice always”, “giving thanks in all things”—Ph.4:4, 1 Thess.5:18. The manner in which we influence others depend upon how we answer this question.
    What does it say to an unbelieving world when Christians are no better at handling the challenges of life without complaining than they are? It says that our relationship with God through His Son doesn’t really have the positive effect in our lives that we claim it does. So regardless of what life throws at you “do all things without complaining” and you just might be the light that leads some lost soul out of the darkness.

 - Brian Mitchell preaches for the Jackson Church of Christ in Jackson, MO.  He may be contacted through the congregation's website.

An Inadvertent Denial

By Jim Faughn

     The scene is familiar to most of us. It is one of many sad scenes that are connected to the crucifixion of our Lord.
     According to Matthew 26:69, Peter was “…sitting outside in the court-yard…” while Jesus was being put on trial. That phrase, put on trial, is used very loosely. If the term “kangaroo court” had been invented at that time, it would most assuredly have qualified.
     We probably remember how a servant girl recognized and identified Peter. We also remember and are saddened to read how the one who had earlier proclaimed Jesus to be “…the Christ, the Son of the living God” (Matt. 16:16) now was denying that he was ever with Jesus. Further, he denied that he even knew Jesus (cf. Matt. 26:70-72).
     Most of us probably remember that the girl informed Peter that he was being betrayed by his speech. We are informed by those who know the Greek language that she could have been talking about his dialect or his accent.
     At this point, Peter “upped the ante” and began to curse and swear. Those words may not be used in exactly the same way in which we use them when we talk about somebody cursing and/or swearing. We usually use those words to describe the language of somebody who is “talking dirty.” There is evidence to support the idea that Peter was suggesting that he should be under a curse if he was not telling the truth and was swearing as one might do in court-room.
     Even though that could be the case, let us not miss the point that Peter was using his language to try to deny that he knew Jesus. I’m wondering if the same thing is not being done by some today who claim to believe that Jesus is “…the Christ, the Son of the living God.”
     When I curse and swear in the sense in which those words are used in our current day, could I inadvertently be denying that I know Jesus? When those around me hear a steady string of expletives and/or euphemisms (words like gosh, golly, jeez, darn, etc.), do they get the idea that I really know Jesus and am doing my best to serve Him? When they see things that we post or tweet and see those not-so-cute little expressions like omg and others that will not be used here, am I denying that I know Jesus? Again, when I “share” or “retweet” something that may be innocent enough, but comes from a source that has one of those words in it, what am I saying about my allegiance to Christ?
     I realize that I’ve raised a lot of questions. Maybe it is time to state something I know for a fact. The One from whom Peter was trying to distance himself by his speech said:

A good man out of the good treasure of the heart bringeth forth good things: and an evil man out of the evil treasure bringeth forth evil things.  But I say unto you, That every idle word that men shall speak, they shall give account thereof in the day of judgment.  For by thy words thou shalt be justified, and by thy words thou shalt be condemned (Matt 12:35-37).

- Jim Faughn, a retired preacher, serves as an elder for the Central Church of Christ in Paducah KY.  He may be contacted through the congregation's website: http://www.centralchurchofchrist.org

Getting Away With Murder

By Gerald Cowan

     Each of us has a deadly weapon with which we are able to inflict great damage to those around us. This weapon is small in size, and so it is deceptively dangerous. Although it is potentially dangerous to others our tongues are most dangerous to ourselves. They get us into trouble we would rather not have. In our moments of anger we apply the tongue unmercifully, often to our own shame and regret when the fit of anger has passed. In our unguarded moments we allow unkind and uncalled-for statements to fall from our tongues, statements that damage lives and drive wedges between us and others. No one of us has enough friends that we can afford to lose even one. But even close friends can be alienated and driven away by unfriendly words.
     Our tongues bring judgment upon us (Matthew 7:1-4). They reveal what kind of persons we really are. The Lord said, “Out of the abundance of the heart the mouth speaks” (Matthew 12:34). When our tongues get out of control they reveal to others what is in us.
     The most despicable and dishonorable use of this weapon of ours is gossip, and for some reason it is the most widespread. People who would not dare to speak their minds face to face with those they criticize often sneak around and lay traps for them by turning others against them – gossips are a cowardly lot! When someone says to another, concerning some absent third party, “Oh, he is a nice enough person, but...” or, “He does a lot of good things, but...” you can be sure that murder is about to be committed. Some defenseless character is going to be assassinated. Of course, the one who listens to it or allows it to happen, or just accepts it without proving anything is an accessory to the crime – an accessory to murder!
     What is your reaction to all of this? Do you let others get away with murder? All of us may do so, at one time or another. We allow  others – even the church, the scripture, and the Lord himself – to be defamed, maligned, and perhaps blasphemed. We are accessories, partly responsible for the sins of others’ tongues. But do you ever commit murder with your own tongue? Do others let you get away with it, without holding you accountable for it? We must remember that all things are done in the sight of God. He will see to it that nobody ever gets away with murder, or with any other sin of the tongue.

- Gerald Cowan, a longtime preacher and missionary, is retired from full-time pulpit preaching. Gerald publishes an e-mail newsletter entitled GERALD COWAN’S PERSONAL PERIODICAL WRITINGS. He is available for Gospel Meetings and he may be contacted at Geraldcowan1931@aol.com

Words, Defeat, Victory

By Ron Thomas

    Communication is both a wonderful things and an occasion for much heartache. Jesus, the very logos (word) of God knew well how to communicate in all areas of life. There was never a time, in my view, wherein He did communicate exactly the Father’s will and in the perfect way demanded by the occasion. That does not mean, however, that His words were always understood as He intended them.
    On one occasion, a woman from outside the area of Israel came appealing to Jesus for her daughter, asking Him to heal her. Jesus replied to her that it was proper for the children to get the food, not the little dogs (Mark 7:24-30). Those who read the New Testament might wonder if Jesus was ascribing to her some inferior status, like many of the Jew did as they considered those outside Israel to be dogs (“Jews used the word for Gentiles who were considered to be ceremonially impure” p. 150, note in The Majority Text Greek New Testament Interlinear).
    How easy it would have been for this woman on that particular occasion to take exception to Jesus because the implication of the words can’t be missed by any who hear them! It might be an easy response, but the woman appealing to Jesus took the words much differently. Rather than finding fault, she clearly understood the figurative significance of the words and “[s]he turned the word of seeming approach, house dogs, into a reason for optimism, thereby transforming and impending defeat into a brilliant victory” (Hendriksen, p. 299).
    We can be defeated by the words of another, whether one intends to defeat us with those words or not, or we can take the words used and turn them into an opportunity to teach and bring glory to the Lord. Taking advantage like this brings victory. 

- Ron Thomas serves as preacher and an elder for the Highway Church of Christ, Sullivan, IL  He may be contacted through the congregation's website: http://www.highwaycofc.com

"The Outrage of Profanity"

By Bob Spurlin

    The dictionary defines "profanity" as "irreverence for God; impious, base, a profane act or utterance." Profane speech is typically language that involves taking God's name in vain, vile or vulgar, viciously degrading to others, or gutter in nature. The Bible regulates man's speech (Exodus 20: 7, James. 3: 10, Mt. 12: 36, 37).

1. The prevalence of profanity. According to some of the latest statistics, public profanity in America is up by 800 percent. One can expect to hear loud profanity in many public places; even those that attempt to provide a family atmosphere. Even women and children have been known to use profane language without shame or regard for others. A deceased relative used to say that one using profanity showed one of two things: (1) a lack of intelligence and limited vocabulary, or (2) a deliberate attempt to show ones lack of decency.

2. Common influences of profanity. The frequency of public and private obscenities comes to bear through many influences:

A. The entertainment industry deserves top billing in making shameful and corrupt speech more acceptable. Many movies once considered family oriented now contains vile, filthy, and cheap language. As people watch television, they become more desensitized to the language used. We have come a long way since "Gone with the Wind" in 1939. The turmoil over a four-letter word caused such upheaval that the movie almost failed to make it to the silver screen. The four-letter word used was a violation of God's principle of decency and virtue. Yet, today we see little restraint with the profanity used in the movie theaters of our nation.
B. The movement to promote filthy speech in America. According to the New York Times the three major television networks (ABC, CBS and NBC) have pledged: "to restore their endangered audiences by putting more dirty words on the air. The networks have decided to fill their scripts with every crude word imaginable, including one considered to be on the extreme reaches of decorum." This is not a joke dear reader it is a movement. The author continues: "Aaron Sorkin of NBC is hoping his network will break with tradition and allow one of his characters to 'curse in a way that uses the Lord's name in vain.' A ground swell of righteous indignation should spring from our voices, letters, and e-mail, while shunning those sponsoring such programming.
C. Most stand-up comedians would be speechless if all profanity was removed from their scripts. The goal, seemingly, leads to levels of vulgar language to the point of simply wallowing in the gutter. Another reason for the driving force of immoral language is to corrupt man (Matt. 15: 15-20). Preachers should fill the pulpit with outrage on this mater. We must declare with moral clarity that which the God of heaven states as sinful. Steve Allen, Red Skelton, Bob Hope and others developed their comedic craft, a generation ago without the use of dirty and gutter language. Today, however, it is easier for comedians to get a laugh by using language befitting of human ears.
D. Reading certain material and magazines contributes to the negative influence as well.

3. God's word condemns profane language of all types. Notice the list found in Ephesians 5:4.

A. "Foolish talking,” "Jesting," compare "vain words" (vs. 6). Albert Barnes, the renowned commentator states: "This word…does not occur elsewhere in the New Testament. It means talk, which is tasteless, senseless, stupid, and foolish; which does not teach, edify, profit, the idle chitchat, which is so common in the world" (Barnes on the New Testament Vol. 7, pg. 96, 97). Christians should make it their aim to use words that are sensible, sincere, and truthful. The word "jesting" occurs nowhere else in the New Testament. It properly refers to language that is easily turned to degraded speech and has a path that leads to shameful talk.
C. Speech involved in idleness or speaking against God (Mt. 12:36, 37, 24).
D. Language that curses man (James. 3: 9).
E. Common place oaths and euphemisms of all types (Mt. 5:34-37, James 5:12, proper oaths are not condemned, Heb. 6: 17, I Thess. 2: 10).
F. Language that blasphemes God and belittles man reveals the corrupt nature of the speaker and must be "put away" (Matt. 15: 20; Col. 3: 8; James. 3: 10-12).

4. Useless language must become replaced with good speech. Paul declares, "Let no corrupt communication” (speech) proceed out of your mouth, but that which is good to the use of edifying, that it may minister grace to the hearers" (Eph. 4: 29).

    Proper and scriptural language must come from the proper temperament resulting in pure speech (Col. 4: 6). Many do not like or appreciate the truth as the apostle Paul writes, "Am I therefore become your enemy, because I tell you the truth" (Galatians 4:16).
    Conclusion: The Christian must develop the proper vocabulary. Such language involves the use of acceptable words to speak spiritual truths (2 Tim. 1: 13). The words we use at the work place, at play or at the meeting house where we worship reveals volumes about our personality and moral fiber. Remember, the words we use are a vehicle that reveals our character.

- Bob Spurlin, the "horizontal" preacher, has been bedridden with Multiple Sclerosis for a number of years, yet continues to faithfully serve his Lord through a number of avenues, most notably his writing.  Bob can be contacted through his website, http://www.bobspurlin.com  (©2000-2006 BOB SPURLIN).