by Pastor Chuck Ryan
Impure Speech
Text: Ephesians 4:25-29
Thesis: Jesus said, “But I tell you that everyone will have to give account on the day of judgment for every
empty word they have spoken.” (Matthew 12:36)
I. The Apostle Paul warns against using “impure speech”. (vs29a))
A. The Greek word the Apostle uses for “unwholesome or impure is sapros which means “putrid, vile, morally
unwholesome.
1. This type of language is not Christ-like and is unbecoming for a Christian.
2. Jesus was not offended by the behavior and language of non-believers but was appalled at the bad
behavior from the religious leaders.
a. He called the religious leaders “snakes and vipers”; while defending the sinner by saying, “It is
the sick who need a physician.”
3. The Christian, because they have experience spiritual salvation and have the Holy Spirit living within
them are called to a higher standard of living.
4. The writer to the book of James teaches the tongue must be controlled because it has the power to either
curse or bless. (Read James 3:1-12).
B. How we speak is a learned behavior and God can transform our speech habits.
• “Do not conform to the pattern of this world but be transformed by the renewing of your mind. Then you will be
able to test and approve what God’s will is—his good, pleasing and perfect will.” (Romans 12:2)
1. The “Good News” is by the power of God, through Jesus Christ and the infilling of the Holy Spirit we
can change!!!
2. As parents and grandparents guard the listening ears of your children from impure speech.
• “Kids are like tape recorders, who are always recording; you just cannot control the play back button.”
(Unknown)
II. The Apostle Paul also states the “talk that comes out of our mouths should only be what is helpful in
building others up according to their need, that it may benefit those who listen.” (Vs 29b)
A. Part of our being made in the image of God is the ability to speak.
• “And God said, “Let there be light,” and there was light.” (Gen.1:3)
• For the director of music. A psalm of David. The heavens declare the glory of God; the skies proclaim
the work of his hands. Day after day they pour forth speech; night after night they reveal knowledge.”
(Psalms 19:1-2)
B. We are called “to be Holy as God is Holy.”
• But just as he who called you is holy, so be holy in all you do; for it is written: “Be holy, because I am
holy.”(1 Peter 1:15-16)
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