How can we avoid speaking "abusively against what they do not understand" today? Setting the Scene: Jude’s Warning Jude 1:10: “These men, however, slander what they do not understand; and like irrational animals, they will be destroyed by the things they do instinctively.” Jude exposes teachers who pour contempt on spiritual realities beyond their grasp, revealing hearts ruled by pride and unbelief. The Heart Behind Abusive Speech - Pride that refuses to admit ignorance (Proverbs 16:18). - Irreverence toward holy things (Ecclesiastes 5:2). - A tongue inflamed by sin (James 3:6). - Unbelief that mocks the supernatural (2 Peter 3:3–5). Principles to Guard Our Words Today 1. Recognize our limits 1 Corinthians 13:12: “Now we see but a dim reflection as in a mirror; then we shall see face to face…” Speak with humility where Scripture is silent or our knowledge is partial. 2. Let Scripture set the boundaries Acts 17:11 praises Bereans who “examined the Scriptures daily to see if these teachings were true.” 3. Slow the pace of conversation James 1:19: “Everyone should be quick to listen, slow to speak, and slow to anger.” 4. Season every word with grace Ephesians 4:29: “Let no unwholesome talk come out of your mouths, but only what is helpful for building up…” Colossians 4:6 says our speech should be “always gracious, seasoned with salt.” 5. Remember what belongs to God alone Deuteronomy 29:29: “The hidden things belong to the LORD our God, but the revealed things belong to us and our children forever…” Walking in Humility Toward Mystery - Some truths—like the Trinity or Christ’s return—are plainly taught yet infinitely deep. Instead of scoffing, we echo 1 Peter 1:12: even angels long to look into these things. - Phrases such as “I’m still learning” or “Scripture doesn’t fully explain” honor God more than confident ignorance. Engaging Others with Truth and Grace - Restore, don’t destroy (Galatians 6:1). - Correct opponents “with gentleness” so that “God may grant them repentance” (2 Timothy 2:24–25). - Give reasons for hope “with gentleness and reverence” (1 Peter 3:15). - A gentle answer defuses tension (Proverbs 15:1). Practices to Cultivate a Gentle Tongue • Daily absorb Scripture so God’s vocabulary replaces the world’s. • Invite the Spirit to search the heart (Psalm 139:23–24). • Memorize verses on speech (Proverbs 18:13; 21:23; James 3:9–10). • Use the pause-and-pray rule before responding to controversial claims. • Seek accountability—allow a trusted believer to flag careless words. • Turn unanswered questions into worship songs rather than sarcastic tweets. The Power of Christlike Speech When we refuse to speak abusively about what we do not understand, our words: - Preserve the unity Jesus prayed for (John 17:23). - Adorn the gospel before onlookers (Titus 2:10). - Shine as light in a skeptical world (Matthew 5:16). Psalm 19:14: “May the words of my mouth and the meditation of my heart be pleasing in Your sight, O LORD, my Rock and my Redeemer.” |
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