American novelist Nathaniel Hawthorne once wrote: “Words—so innocent and powerless as they are, as standing in a dictionary, how potent for good and evil they become, in the hands of one who knows how to combine them!”
The apostle Paul often talked about the way we speak. In the first three chapters of Ephesians, Paul instructed the church on the blessings of redemption, their regeneration from death to life, and the reconciliation of Jews and Gentiles in the church. Chapter 4 makes a clear transition to application: “Live a life worthy of the calling you have received” (v. 1). Living this worthy life involves maintaining unity in the Spirit (vv. 2–13), maturing in love (vv. 14–16), and trading the old self for the new (vv. 17–24).
Then Paul turns his attention to the tongue. The believers’ speech was the main way to build unity, and their words should reflect their transformed identity. First, Paul called them to truthfulness (v. 25). Lies fracture the body, destroying trust, but truth- telling brings members together. Next, Paul addresses anger (vv. 26–27). He acknowledges the existence of the emotion but calls the Ephesians to resolve it quickly. Unsettled anger festers, giving Satan a foothold.
Finally, Paul challenges the Ephesians to edification. “Do not let any unwholesome talk come out of your mouths” (v. 29). Our communication has the power to “encourage” (literally “to put heart into” someone). Christlike communication is not simply about avoiding bad words but actively participating in God’s work of renewal and unification. When our speech reflects truth, grace, and forgiveness, the church becomes a testimony to the transforming power of the gospel.
Go Deeper
We often focus on not saying negative words, but let’s consider how can we use our words in a positive way. How might you use words to build someone up today?
Pray with Us
Good Father, thank You for reminding us what Christ-focused communication looks like. As we interact with one another, may we prioritize truth, patience, and edification.
Do not let any unwholesome talk come out of your mouths, but only what is helpful for building others up according to their needs.Ephesians 4:29
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