To swear or not to swear...

It's funny how years ago, people in Christian circles made sure not to swear, today it seems like there is a lessening of that because of statements like "Well those swear words we use aren't in the Bible so who's to say they're inappropriate for a Christian to use?" Here's the thing, our modern words are not in the Bible yes, but neither is anything about about illicit drug use or the internet or TV or movies or rock music, so does anything go then for those too?

Philippians 4:8 of course has that wonderful filter for us, but here's something to consider for our talk... Ephesians 4:29 says, 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.

Hmmm... okay what about this too... Ephesians 5:4 (AMPLIFIED) says, 4 Let there be no filthiness (obscenity, indecency) nor foolish and sinful (silly and corrupt) talk, nor coarse jesting, which are not fitting or becoming; but instead voice your thankfulness [to God].

So when we hear people swearing - does it lift us up? Even in school there are rules against it because it is considered inappropriate, when does it become okay to do then? If even society considers swearing obscene or indecent to do (just ask Sponge Bob even 0 they had an episode dealing with this...) then why is it okay for Christians to do? I can't picture Jesus walking down the street with His disciples and cussing like the next person on the street. He is our example, so if Jesus wouldn't do it... I think it's safe to say we shouldn't be. Now what words are considered obscene then? Some are the obvious ones... the F---, S---, B----, A-- (unless you're talking about an actual donkey as used in Scripture), etc... but there are other words that we instinctively makre sure our kids don't say that aren't "swear words" per se, but they are inappropriate still right? This needs to be made up in all our minds - if Christ would be embarrassed to hear it in front of Him and we know it, then delete the word from our vocabulary. We are called to higher living as believers - we are ambassadors of Christ. Let's live like it.