By Pastor Dr. Aggrey Soyekwo
1 John 4:5-6 They are from the world and therefore speak from the viewpoint of the world, and the world listens to them. We are from God, and whoever knows God listens to us; but whoever is not from God does not listen to us. This is how we recognize the Spirit of truth and the spirit of falsehood." - NIV
John was guiding on how to differentiate between falsehoods and truth, false prophets and true messengers of God. A key factor to help in this, is the language they use. There is a worldly demonic language and a godly one spoken by people who belong either side. And recipients from either side listen to what suits them, what they understand and is inline with their beliefs.
Language is key to communication and identification. This is true in the spiritual world as well. It communicates beliefs and values. The kingdom of God and that of the devil have their languages. And people subscribe to each of them. Out of the abundance of what has filled people’s hearts from either kingdom, the mouth speaks.
Paul taught that the language of those in Christ should reflect who they represent. It should not be filthy, but wholesome, full of grace and kindness. It should bring peace, encouragement and life. The wicked are violent, sow discord and are filthy in their talk because that’s what is in their hearts. But they can be transformed in their hearts and their language will change.
Luke 6:45 "A good man brings good things out of the good stored up in his heart, and an evil man brings evil things out of the evil stored up in his heart. For the mouth speaks what the heart is full of."
Ephesians 4:29 "Do not let any unwholesome talk come out of your mouths, but only what is helpful for building others up according to their needs, that it may benefit those who listen."
Shalom children of God