Topical Encyclopedia
Coarse joking, often referred to as crude or vulgar humor, is addressed in the Bible as a behavior unbecoming of a follower of Christ. The Apostle Paul specifically warns against such conduct in his epistles, highlighting the importance of purity in speech and the reflection of Christian values in all forms of communication.
In
Ephesians 5:3-4 , Paul writes, "But among you, as is proper among the saints, there must not be even a hint of sexual immorality, or of any kind of impurity, or of greed, nor should there be obscenity, foolish talk, or coarse joking, which are out of place, but rather thanksgiving." Here, coarse joking is listed alongside other behaviors that are considered inappropriate for believers, emphasizing the need for speech that edifies and reflects gratitude rather than vulgarity.
The context of this admonition is crucial. Paul is addressing the Ephesian church, urging them to live as children of light, distinct from the surrounding pagan culture. Coarse joking, often rooted in sexual innuendo or demeaning humor, is seen as incompatible with the holiness and purity expected of Christians. It is a form of communication that can lead to the degradation of moral standards and the desensitization to sin.
Proverbs 26:18-19 provides further insight into the nature of such humor: "Like a madman shooting firebrands and deadly arrows, so is the man who deceives his neighbor and says, 'I was only joking!'" This passage highlights the potential harm and deceit that can accompany coarse joking, as it often disguises malice or insensitivity under the guise of humor.
The call to avoid coarse joking is part of a broader biblical principle that emphasizes the power of words.
James 3:5-6 states, "In the same way, the tongue is a small part of the body, but it boasts of great things. Consider how small a spark sets a great forest ablaze. The tongue also is a fire, a world of wickedness among the parts of the body." This passage underscores the potential for words to cause significant harm, reinforcing the need for careful and intentional speech.
In contrast to coarse joking, believers are encouraged to engage in speech that builds up and encourages others.
Colossians 4:6 advises, "Let your speech always be gracious, seasoned with salt, so that you may know how to answer everyone." This directive calls for communication that is thoughtful, respectful, and reflective of the transformative work of Christ in the believer's life.
Ultimately, the avoidance of coarse joking is part of the broader Christian ethic of living a life that honors God in all aspects, including speech. By refraining from such humor, believers demonstrate a commitment to purity, respect, and the edification of others, aligning their conduct with the teachings of Scripture.
Topical Bible Verses
Ephesians 5:4Neither filthiness, nor foolish talking, nor jesting, which are not convenient: but rather giving of thanks.
Topicalbible.orgEphesians 4:29
Let no corrupt communication proceed out of your mouth, but that which is good to the use of edifying, that it may minister grace to the hearers.
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Colossians 3:8
But now you also put off all these; anger, wrath, malice, blasphemy, filthy communication out of your mouth.
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Exodus 20:7
You shall not take the name of the LORD your God in vain; for the LORD will not hold him guiltless that takes his name in vain.
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Philippians 4:8
Finally, brothers, whatever things are true, whatever things are honest, whatever things are just, whatever things are pure, whatever things are lovely, whatever things are of good report; if there be any virtue, and if there be any praise, think on these things.
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John 13:34
A new commandment I give to you, That you love one another; as I have loved you, that you also love one another.
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Colossians 3:9
Lie not one to another, seeing that you have put off the old man with his deeds;
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Library
Hymns, Festival and Occasional.
... "There is seldom any quarrelling orcoarse joking among them now," said the
superintendent with a smile. Dr. SF Smith's hymn of much the same tone and tenor"....
Significant Phrases
... nodding and blinking. noisy and scurrilous [scurrilous = vulgar,coarse, abusive
language].... wit and jocularity [jocularity = given tojoking]. withered and wan....
Useful Phrases
... clumsy talk. clustering trees.coarse necessity. coaxing eloquence.... tinkling cymbal.
tipsy jocularity [jocularity = given tojoking]. tip-toe curiosity....
Conclusion --Repent Ye, for the Kingdom of Heaven is at Hand.
... Some were smoking, nudging each other,joking, grinning, and laughing, others were
munching sunflower seeds and spitting out the husks with an air of dignity....
part ii
My Life in Christ. <....
Resources
What does the Bible say about fun and entertainment? | GotQuestions.orgWhat does the Bible say about mourning? | GotQuestions.orgWhat is biblical womanhood? | GotQuestions.orgCoarse: Dictionary and Thesaurus | Clyx.comBible Concordance •
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