PROFANITY

The word profanity means abusive, vulgar, or irreverent language. Another meaning of profanity is vulgar or irreverent action. The word profane means irreligious, unholy, heathen, pagan, to defile or to debase. The word euphemism is the act or an example of substituting a mild, indirect, or vague term for one considered harsh, blunt, or offensive. It is sad to hear so many people use improper language. The Lord blessed us with a mouth, and with this mouth He gave us speech. The speech that He wants to hear is not always what is said. There are many different areas of profanity.

One area is the taking of the Lord's name in vain. A second area of profanity is swearing. A third area is the use of vulgar words or cursing. Also included are the tone of voice and the attitude that is shown. There is the use of euphemisms in our daily speech.

We are told in Colossians 3: 8 " But now you yourselves are to put off all these: anger, wrath, malice, blasphemy, filthy language out of your mouth. " Filthy language is heard in stores, streets, schools, homes, and anywhere people are. The Lord does not condone any profanity. In the Bible, He tells us to speak properly. In Exodus 20: 7 we find, " You shall not take the name of the Lord your God in vain, for the Lord will not hold him guiltless who takes His name in vain. "

For they speak against You wickedly; Your enemies take Your name in vain Psalm 139:20(NKJV)

You shall not take the name of the Lord your God in vain, for the Lord will not hold him guiltless who takes His name in vain Deuteronomy 5:11(NKJV)

Listed are some words that when they are used, the Lord's name is taken in vain. Here is the list: Gosh, Golly, Gee, etc.. Often people will exclaim, " Oh ,God!!!" This is another way of taking the Lord's name in vain. When God's name is spoken, it should be with the highest respect. The only way in which we should speak of God is to study, learn of Him, teach others about Him or in the singing of hymns.

Found in almost each television show and motion picture is the use of profanity. Boys think it sounds macho to be profane, and men think profanity will give the words used a powerful punch and makes them a BIG SHOT around others. This vice is done in full view of other people, and it is meant for others to hear.


Speaking profanity is a sin against God, and it is publicly discourteous to all. People who use profanity show to others their lack of an adequate vocabulary. When profanity is distinctly and loudly used in public, those who use it are offensive to people around them. When I see or hear someone either speak profanity or use a profane gesture, I regard it as a sign of poor mentality. It amazes me that there are people who do not give a second thought to using profanity around others who may not wish to hear their choice of words.


Found in James 5: 12 is " But, above all, my brethren, do not swear, either by heaven or by earth or with any other oath. But let your Yes be Yes and your No be No, lest you fall into judgment. " The use of euphemisms is not needed in our daily speech. We have read here that our speech should say what we mean. There is no need to add extra words to make our point. Think how hearing profanity and euphemisms affect your thinking.


As a sophomore in high school, I had an English teacher who was a Christian. His name was Mr. Jesse Beeson. He gave me permission to use his name. I did not know him from church services. He had just moved here from Missouri. One day after school, I asked him if he were a member of the Lord's church. He said,"Yes" and told me he taught in the church. His language and the way he handled situations identified him. He made an impact on me, and I am thankful to know him. May our language identify us as Christians.

The word blasphemy means an utterance or action concerning God or sacred things which lack respect. Another meaning is any irreverent speech directed at God, Jesus, the Holy Spirit, or the Lord's Church. We read in Isaiah 52:5 "Now therefore, what have I here," says the Lord, "That my people are taken away for nothing? Those who rule over them make them wail ," says the Lord, " and my name is blasphemed continually every day. "

Found in II Kings 19: 22," Whom have you reproached and blasphemed? Against whom have you raised your voice, and lifted up your eyes on high? Against the Holy One of Israel. "

Do they not blaspheme that holy name by which you are called?
James 2:7(NKJV)

... but he who blasphemes against the Holy Spirit never has forgiveness, but is subject to eternal condemnation..
Mark 3:29(NKJV)

Therefore I say unto you, every sin and blasphemy will be forgiven men, but the blasphemy against the Spirit will not be forgiven men.
Matthew 12:31-32(NKJV)

We are told how the Lord hates blasphemy. I often wonder how people can keep going about their daily lives as they speak this way. Some act as if they are proud of their sick remarks, it seems to be a great accomplishment for some. It is hard to fathom how they can continue to be rude and disrespectful to others. They are showing the stupidity of their thinking. They are being inconsiderate of God, the Lord Jesus and Holy Spirit and other people here on earth.

The sin of blasphemy against the Holy Spirit consists of attributing to Satan some miracles that Jesus Christ performed. Jesus Christ performed these miracles by "the finger of God " and by the Holy Spirit.

Discussion and study questions:
(1) What is wrong in using euphemisms?
(2) How should your language identify you?
(3) Why is blasphemy dealt with so harshly in the Bible?

                                                                                       Copyright 2007  Linda Lawrence