“The Power of Words” Ephesians 4:29-32

Ephesians 4:29-32
Do 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. (30) And do not grieve the Holy Spirit of God, with whom you were sealed for the day of redemption. (31) Get rid of all bitterness, rage and anger, brawling and slander, along with every form of malice. (32) Be kind and compassionate to one another, forgiving each other, just as in Christ God forgave you.

 Proverbs 18:21
“Death and life are in the power of the tongue, and those who love it will eat its fruit.”

Words can be used to   – (4:29, 31)

Unwholesome talk is anything that – injures others and sparks dissension.

Paul is teaching us to filter our words. To get rid of the things that damage and tear down others.

The thought of “grieving the Holy Spirit”

 Words can be used to   – (4:29, 32)

 William Barclay:
“One of the highest of human duties is the duty of encouragement … It is easy to pour cold water on their enthusiasm; it is easy to discourage others. The world is full of discouragers. We have a Christian duty to encourage one another. Many a time a word of praise or thanks or appreciation or cheer has kept a person on their feet.”

1 Thessalonians 5:11
“Therefore encourage one another and build each other up, just as in fact you are doing.”

Hebrews 10:24
“And let us consider how we may spur one another on toward love and good deeds.”

Three key words: kind, compassionate, forgiving.

 Conclusion

 Paul Tripp:  “Because our words have power and direction they always produce some kind of harvest.”

Proverbs 25:11 – “A word aptly spoken is like apples of gold in settings of silver.”