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"Let no corrupt word proceed out of your mouth, but what is good for necessary edification, that it may impart grace to the hearers."

Text: Ephesians 4:29

CORRUPT WORDS

Paul dealt with one more problem in this text. What did he have in mind when he used the phrase “corrupt word”? The adjective “corrupt” (“sarpos”) may be translated “disgusting, rotten, foul”. The Ephesians, before they came to faith in the Lord Jesus were guilty of using “corrupt words” in their conversation.

ADMONISHMENT FROM THE LORD JESUS

The Lord Jesus once taught a very strong lesson on this subject. Let us recall what He taught, in the following text:-

But those things which proceed out of the mouth
come from the heart, and they defile a man.
For out of the heart proceed evil thoughts, murders…etc
MATTHEW 15:18-19

Jesus linked the mouth with the heart. The mouth reveals the heart. Evil thoughts, words and deeds only demonstrate the evil that is within the heart.

LET NO CORRUPT WORD PROCEED OUT OF YOUR MOUTH

There is no mistaking the strong sense of imperative in Paul’s statement.

1. Corrupt words

The believer is told plainly that he has no choice as to the language he must employ. He cannot use “corrupt” language at all.

2. The choice of words

The believer is held responsible for the words that he employs.

a) He is to make every effort not to let corrupt words escape from his mouth.

b) He must recognize that corrupt words are unacceptable in God’s sight.

c) The believer who has been genuinely born again will have no taste for “corrupt words”.

i) He will wince at the thought of using corrupt words.

ii) He will seek to rid himself of corrupt words.

iii) He will find new vocabulary to express himself.

3. An express command

Paul’s language was consistent. It was imperative that the believer puts off the old man entirely, or risk being corrupted badly once again. The believer must cease from lying, stealing, having a bad temper and speaking with corrupt words.