1. In our lesson we are examining a number of passages that deal with "speaking properly." 2. This is a subject we need to study occasionally because many people today have a serious problem with speaking improperly. 3. Let us begin by showing that . . .
Discussion:
I. PROVERBS 10:19 STRESSES THE IMPORTANCE OF SPEAKING PROPERLY
A. The first part of this verse mentions "the multitude of words." 1. This refers to an uncontrolled tongue. 2. Where an uncontrolled tongue exists, sin will not be wanting. B. The latter part of this verse mentions one who "refrains" [restrains, controls] his lips. 1. One who "refrains his lips" is said to be "wise." 2. Not only is such a person wise, but he will also avoid the sins associated with a multitude of words. C. By making this contrast in Proverbs 10:19, Solomon stressed the importance of speaking properly.
II. THE SCRIPTURES CLEARLY CONDEMN THE PRACTICE OF SPEAKING IMPROPERLY
A. (Proverbs 8:13b) The Lord hates a "froward" [perverted] mouth. B. (Proverbs 13:3b) "Destruction" is in store for a person who opens wide his lips. C. (Matthew 12:36-37) We will be judged by our words. 1. We will give an account of the words that we speak. 2. We will either be justified or condemned by our words. D. (James 1:26) Religion that is accompanied by an unbridled tongue is "vain." E. Examples of sinful speech: backbiting, blasphemy, cursing, gossip, lying, railing, slander, whispering, being a busybody, etc.
III. GREAT BLESSINGS ARE ASSOCIATED WITH SPEAKING PROPERLY
A. (Proverbs 13:3a) One who "keeps" [guards] his mouth keeps his life. B. (Proverbs 17:27-28) Wisdom is associated with speaking properly. C. (1 Peter 3:10) Those who speak properly will enjoy long life and see good days.
IV. INSTRUCTIONS THAT WILL HELP US SPEAK PROPERLY
A. We might conclude from James 3:5-8 that we cannot control our speech. 1. This cannot be right because James 3:2 teaches that it can be done. 2. The point being made is that no one else can control your speech. 3. Speaking properly is a personal matter -- only the individual can do it, with the Lord's help. B. Suggestions: 1. Let us remember that God is aware of the things we say (Psalm 139:4). 2. Let us listen to the Lord's instructions (Psalm 34:13). 3. Let us determine to speak properly with the Lord's help (Psalm 39:1). 4. Let us learn to differentiate between times to speak and times to be silent (Ecclesiastes 3:7). 5. Let us keep the right things in our hearts (Matthew 12:34-35).
Conclusion:
1. God has blessed us with the ability to speak. 2. Let us use this blessing in a way that pleases Him.
