Power Point - Sept. 20, 2006

September 20, 2006

 

“I tell you, on the day of judgment people will give account for every careless word they speak, for by your words you will be justified, and by your words you will be condemned.”

 

--Matthew 12:36-37

 

A famous pop song from the sixties said, “I heard it through the grapevine.” May I suggest that in the Church of Jesus Christ, that vine needs to be pruned! Phrases like “I heard” and “they said” are potent ways to spread slander, innuendo, and rumors.

 

Nehemiah’s enemies tried to slander him into quitting his work. The charge they leveled against him in chapter 6 was designed to destroy him, because treason was punishable by death! 

 

As believers, we need to be very careful with our words, because words can kill. Jesus was talking about the Day of Judgment when He said we will give an account of every careless word we speak.

 

Paul also warns us in Ephesians 4:29, “Let no corrupting talk come out of your mouths, but only such as is good for building up, as fits the occasion, that it may give grace to those who hear.” Or in other words, ask yourself this question when you’re tempted to gossip: “Does passing this information along honestly help solve the problem or help the parties involved?” If you can’t answer with an affirmative “yes,” then keep it to yourself!

 

You and I shouldn’t pass on any information we can’t sign our name to and stand behind. Determine in your heart today that the next rumor you hear will stop with you! 

 

WE NEED TO BE RUMORS-STOPPERS RATHER THAN RUMOR-MONGERS!