What does the Bible say about idle words?
Bible Topic · WEB
The Bible warns that careless, empty, and corrupt speech is sinful and calls believers to use their words for truth, love, and the building up of others. Jesus teaches in Matthew 12:36-37 that people will give account for every careless word, showing that speech reveals the heart. Proverbs 10:19 commends restraint, while Proverbs 15:2 contrasts wise speech with foolish words. James 1:26 warns that uncontrolled speech makes professed religion vain. Christians are therefore to put away slander, obscenity, and irreverent jesting, as Colossians 3:8 and Ephesians 5:4 teach, and to speak only what gives grace to those who hear (Ephesians 4:29). We need God's guarding grace, praying with Psalm 141:3 for a watch over our mouths.
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Rankings: OpenBible.info Topical Bible (CC BY) · Scripture: World English Bible
- Matthew 12:36
I tell you that every idle word that men speak, they will give account of it in the day of judgment.
- Proverbs 10:19
In the multitude of words there is no lack of disobedience, But he who restrains his lips does wisely.
- Matthew 12:36-37
[36] I tell you that every idle word that men speak, they will give account of it in the day of judgment. [37] For by your words you will be justified, and by your words you will be condemned."
- James 1:26
If anyone among you thinks himself to be religious while he doesn't bridle his tongue, but deceives his heart, this man's religion is worthless.
- 2 Timothy 2:16
But shun empty chatter, for they will proceed further in ungodliness,
- Proverbs 15:2
The tongue of the wise commends knowledge, But the mouth of fools gush out folly.
- Ephesians 4:29
Let no corrupt speech proceed out of your mouth, but such as is good for building up as the need may be, that it may give grace to those who hear.
- Ephesians 5:4
nor filthiness, nor foolish talking, nor jesting, which are not appropriate; but rather giving of thanks.
- Psalms 141:3
Set a watch, Yahweh, before my mouth. Keep the door of my lips.
- Colossians 3:8
but now you also put them all away: anger, wrath, malice, slander, and shameful speaking out of your mouth.
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