1. Recently we have been studying some important events that involve Christ. 2. Several of these events have already occurred, including: a. the Lord's death, burial, and resurrection (1 Corinthians 15:1-4) b. the Lord's ascension 40 days after His resurrection (Acts 1:3, 9). 3. Other events involving Christ will occur in the future, including: a. His return as announced by the angels when He ascended (Acts 1:10-11) b. the resurrection (John 5:28-29) c. the judgment (2 Corinthians 5:10). 4. At the judgment Christ will judge each person on the basis of: a. whether he knows God and obeys the Gospel (2 Thessalonians 1:7-9) b. how he receives the Lord's Word (John 12:48). 5. This lesson is based on the Lord's teaching in Matthew 12:36-37. 6. Jesus said that we will be judged by our words. a. We will give an account of the words that we speak. b. We will either be justified or condemned by our words.
Discussion:
I. WARNINGS THAT RELATE TO SPEAKING IMPROPERLY
A. (Proverbs 8:13b) The Lord hates a "froward" [perverted] mouth. B. (Proverbs 10:19a) Sin will accompany "the multitude of words." C. (Proverbs 13:3b) "Destruction" is in store for one who opens his lips wide. D. (James 1:26) Religion that is accompanied by an unbridled tongue is "vain." E. Examples of improper words: backbiting, blasphemy, cursing, gossip, lying, railing, slander, whispering, being a busybody, etc.
II.BLESSINGS ARE ASSOCIATED WITH SPEAKING PROPERLY
A. (Proverbs 10:19b; 17:27-28) A person who "refrains his lips" is said to be "wise." B. (Proverbs 13:3a) A person who "keeps" [guards] his words keeps his life. C. (Proverbs 25:11) Saying the right thing at the right time and in the right way is priceless. D. (1 Peter 3:10) Those who speak properly will enjoy long life and see good days.
III.INSTRUCTIONS THAT WILL HELP US TO SPEAK PROPERLY
A. (James 3:5-8) Do these verses teach that the tongue cannot be controlled? 1. This cannot be correct because vs.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 an individual responsibility -- no one can do it for us. B. Suggestions: 1. Let us ask God to help us speak properly (Psalm 19:14). 2. Let us listen to God's instructions (Psalm 34:13). 3. Let us determine to speak properly (Psalm 39:1). 4. Let us remember that God is aware of the words we speak (Psalm 139:4). 5. Let us distinguish between times for speaking and silence (Ecclesiastes 3:7). 6. Let us keep the right things in our hearts (Matthew 12:34-35). 7. Let us practice the instructions given in: a. Ephesians 4:29, 31 b. Colossians 4:6.
Conclusion:
1. God has blessed us with the ability to speak. 2. Let us use this blessing in a way that pleases Him now. 3. At the judgment "we will be judged by our words."