Words
“Dabar, word, speech, matter; Greek logos (word, reason) and rhema (spoken word)”
Summary
Scripture emphasizes the power and significance of words—both the eternal Word of God and human speech, which reveals the heart and will be brought into judgment.
☩Words of Christ
Jesus spoke gracious words that amazed His hearers. His words are spirit and life—not merely information but vehicles of divine power and truth. Peter recognized this when he said, 'Lord, to whom shall we go? You have the words of eternal life.' Those who hear Christ's words and reject them will be judged by those very words on the last day. The word of Christ is to dwell in believers richly, teaching and admonishing one another in wisdom.
☩Human Speech
Scripture contains extensive teaching on human words. The words of the wise are like goads, and like well-fastened nails. A word spoken at the proper moment is like apples of gold in filigree of silver. The tongue has power of life and death—it can heal or destroy, build up or tear down. Words of the hypocrite are smoother than butter but war is in his heart; words of the talebearer wound to the soul. James teaches that the complete person is one who can bridle the tongue.
☩Accountability for Words
Jesus warned that for every idle word spoken, people will give account on the day of judgment. Words reveal what is in the heart—out of the abundance of the heart the mouth speaks. Hasty words lead to folly, and in a multitude of words sin is not absent. Unprofitable words are to be avoided, while the words of a teacher should be plain and edifying. The goal is that one's words be acceptable to God, reflecting truth, grace, and wisdom.
Related Verses526 mentions
See Also
References
- 1.John McClintock and James Strong, "Words," in Cyclopedia of Biblical, Theological and Ecclesiastical Literature, vol. X (Harper & Brothers, 1867–1887).