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ESVLet no corrupting talk come out of your mouths, but only such as is good for building up, as fits the occasion, that it may give grace to those who hear.
NIVDo not let any unwholesome talk come out of your mouths, but only what is helpful for building others up according to their needs, that it may benefit those who listen.
NASBLet no unwholesome word come out of your mouth, but if there is any good word for edification according to the need of the moment, say that, so that it will give grace to those who hear.
CSBNo foul language should come from your mouth, but only what is good for building up someone in need, so that it gives grace to those who hear.
NLTDon’t use foul or abusive language. Let everything you say be good and helpful, so that your words will be an encouragement to those who hear them.
KJVLet 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.
THE HOLY BIBLE, NEW INTERNATIONAL VERSION®, NIV® Copyright© 1973, 1978, 1984, 2011 by Biblica®.
The Holy Bible, New Living Translation, Copyright© 1996, 2004, 2007. Used by permission of Tyndale House Publishers, Inc. Carol Stream, Illinois 60188.
The Holy Bible, English Standard Version® Copyright© 2001 by Crossway Bibles, a publishing ministry of Good News Publishers.
New American Standard Bible Copyright© 1960 - 2020 by The Lockman Foundation.
Christian Standard Bible®, Copyright© 2017 by Holman Bible Publishers. Used by Permission.
Paul transitions from a contrast between stealing and hard work (Ephesians 4:28) to contrasting corrupting speech with encouraging speech. In both cases, his intent is to explain how Christians need to make a conscious effort to live differently than in our pre-salvation days. Just as stealing is associated with unbelievers, so also corrupting talk is associated with those who do not know Christ.
Interestingly, Paul specifically indicates that we do indeed have control over what we say: "Let no corrupting talk come out of your mouths." This contradicts the common excuse of "I couldn't help saying it." According to the Bible, we are accountable for the words we use (Matthew 12:36). Only a tiny proportion of people suffer from medical conditions which interfere with control of vocabulary. And, even such people can be expected to use whatever control they have, as much as they can. Christians do have control of our words, which are a powerful influence in how the world perceives us.
Instead of using "corrupting" or negative talk, Paul provides two guidelines for how to speak. First, we are to speak in beneficial ways about meaningful things. Second, we are to speak in ways appropriate to the situation we are in. What might be completely acceptable in one circ*mstance might be rude or unkind in another. The goal is to show grace to those who are listening to our words. We are not supposed to prioritize our own feelings, but make it our intent to help others through our words.
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THE HOLY BIBLE, NEW INTERNATIONAL VERSION®, NIV® Copyright© 1973, 1978, 1984, 2011 by Biblica®.
The Holy Bible, New Living Translation, Copyright© 1996, 2004, 2007. Used by permission of Tyndale House Publishers, Inc. Carol Stream, Illinois 60188.
The Holy Bible, English Standard Version® Copyright© 2001 by Crossway Bibles, a publishing ministry of Good News Publishers.
New American Standard Bible Copyright© 1960 - 2020 by The Lockman Foundation.
Christian Standard Bible®, Copyright© 2017 by Holman Bible Publishers. Used by Permission.
As an expert with a deep understanding of biblical literature and textual analysis, I can confidently provide insights into the concepts and passages mentioned in the provided article. My expertise is rooted in a comprehensive knowledge of various Bible versions, including the ESV, NIV, NASB, CSB, and NLT.
The article begins by referencing a passage that advises against using corrupt or unwholesome language. The verses quoted are from Ephesians 4:29, and the article delves into the nuances of this biblical guidance across different translations. Each version emphasizes the importance of using speech that builds up and encourages others, aligning with the overall theme of living a life distinct from pre-salvation days.
The mentioned Bible versions—ESV (English Standard Version), NIV (New International Version), NASB (New American Standard Bible), CSB (Christian Standard Bible), and NLT (New Living Translation)—show slight variations in wording while preserving the core message. This showcases the richness and diversity of interpretations within the Christian community.
The analysis further connects these verses with the broader context of Paul's writings, specifically Ephesians 4:28, where Paul contrasts stealing with hard work. The overarching message is about the transformation that should occur in the lives of Christians, moving away from negative behaviors associated with non-believers.
The article emphasizes the accountability Christians have for their words, citing Matthew 12:36 as biblical support. It challenges the common excuse of being unable to control one's speech, asserting that Christians indeed have the power to choose positive, edifying language. This aligns with the broader biblical principle that emphasizes the impact of words on how Christians are perceived by the world.
Furthermore, the article provides practical guidelines derived from the biblical text. It encourages believers to speak in ways that are beneficial and appropriate to the situation, prioritizing the goal of showing grace to the listeners. This aligns with biblical teachings on self-control and the transformative power of faith.
In summary, the article uses a selection of Bible passages to explore the importance of positive speech and the transformative nature of a Christian life. It draws on a variety of Bible versions to highlight the richness of interpretation within the Christian tradition, providing a well-rounded perspective on the topic.
