Profanity in the Pulpit
I was asked the question by a few of my FBF (Facebook friends) if it was okay to use profanity in the pulpit. They said many Pastors are seemingly going that route now; and it appears to be acceptable.
Well… I always attempt to use the Bible to substantiate any response that I may offer. So the verse that immediately came to mind was Ephesians 4:29. In this verse the word corrupt was translated from the Greek word “σαπρός” (sapros). Profanity could definitely come in alignment with the definition of this word.
The Amplified Version states this verse as thus: “Let no foul or polluting language, nor evil word nor unwholesome or worthless talk [ever] come out of your mouth, but only such [speech] as is good and beneficial to the spiritual progress of others, as is fitting to the need and the occasion, that it may be a blessing and give grace (God’s favor) to those who hear it.” Ephesians 4:29
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I also thought about the amount of prestige or reverence…. (Or should I say the lack of reverence) that we now place upon the presence of the Most High God! Many standards that we now permit in our churches would not be tolerated by our judicial system, presidential cabinet nor permitted by the Judges in their courtrooms! Therefore, should we permit the incorporation and the infiltration of such words and phrases to be accepted when we are standing as representatives of the Almighty God? Should we release with ease into the atmosphere the negative effects and word curses which accompany some profane words? Have we forgotten that when we stand before the people, we do so as the very orator for such a deity as Our God?
We must never forget that we are in this world – but we as representatives of God do not have to partake of the measures expressed by the world in an attempt to convey God’s message. We are in this world – but we must not conform to this world (Romans 12: 1&2). We must always uphold the level of integrity and self-control that will permit us to never stray from “our ancient land mark”. (Proverbs 22:28 “Don’t stealthily move back the boundary lines staked out long ago by your ancestors.” - The Message Bible)
God has said:
“Experiences are meant to produce maturity. Your Relationship with Me produces Sensitivity. Discipline produces Obedience.
My leaders must become more equipped and establish an ear to hear my voice if they are going to win, to triumph and to spoil the strategic plans of the enemy in these last days. Lowering one’s standards to conform to what is pleasing to the flesh will never be as effective as standing on and trusting in the pure authority of My Word. When My leaders spend time….the proper time in My presence – they will have a more influential presence of My Spirit. Then they will be able to rely on My Spirit within them…. To flow from them…. to attract the people instead of using words that only excite the flesh.”
God has spoken; and it is so…. nothing else needs to be said!
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