Fighting Words

We must watch our language when we are angry. James wrote:

“the wrath of man does not produce the righteousness of God.”

Many people have damaged or destroyed their reputation because they failed to control their tempers. Anger acts like an intoxicant (a substance that causes a loss of self-control), which can cause someone to lose control and do or say things they typically would not.

As Christians, we must keep our tempers under control and strive to “be angry and sin not.” Paul condemned the following types of wrathful language in Colossians 3:8:

• Anger: A violent passion or built-up hostility in the mind. W.E. Vine* suggests this is a settled, ongoing state of mind that often seeks revenge.
• Wrath: The outward, explosive outburst resulting from that inner anger.
• Malice: Wishing harm on others. David Lipscomb defined it as:

  “A disposition or intent to injure others for gratification of anger”

• Blasphemy (KJV – railing): Scornful and insulting language directed at God or other people. Lipscomb described this as “to blame with bitterness.”

Additional Forbidden Speech

• Gossip and Backbiting: Condemned in 2 Corinthians 12:20. Gossip tears others down just to lift the speaker up.

Speak to Edify, Not to Destroy

Wrathful language is never spoken in love, and it never builds others up. Instead, it tears people apart, like a wild animal devouring helpless prey.

When interacting with our spouses, parents, children, and friends, we must be careful. We cannot let closeness or familiarity become an excuse for hurtful speech.

Consider the wisdom of Proverbs 15:1-2:

“A soft answer turns away wrath, but a harsh word stirs up anger. The tongue of the wise uses knowledge rightly, but the mouth of fools pours forth foolishness.”

Ultimately, a wise and prudent (showing care for the future) person controls their anger (Proverbs 12:16).

*Vine’s Expository Dictionary of New Testament Words