Overcoming Profanity
Introduction:
Cursing
and the use of profanity has reached “epidimec” proportions in our nation. In a
public place, you are bound to hear someone using it. Watch network or cable
television? You will hear it. Go to work? Go to school? You will hear it. Because
we are around it so much, we may be prone to using foul language from time to
time. Something we must work on to make sure that it is eliminated from our
life. As Christians, our speech matters and makes an impression on those around
us. Colossians 4:6
I. What is Profanity?
A.
Speech
characterized by irreverence for God. Vile, vulgar language. It often viciously
degrades others.
B.
God’s word
speaks against this type of language:
1.
Exodus 20:7; Matthew
12:36-37; James 3:10
II. Profanity has become more acceptable in our
time.
A.
Statistics: 800%
increase in the use of profanity over the past few decades.
1.
Women and
children are using profanity more and more.
2.
No shame. No
regard for those who hear them speak.
B.
Barna Survey
– 8/25/2008
1.
3 in 10
Americans admitted to using profanity in
public at least once in the week leading up to the survey.
2.
Under 25? Number
jumps to 64%.
C.
Consider the
efforts of mass media to promote profanity in speech.
1.
NY Times article
– 11/25/2009
III. Because it is so prevalent, it is easy to
develop a bad habit.
A.
It is
everywhere. Job, gym, school, sports, etc.
B.
Why should this
type of language be refrained from?
1.
It hurts us
personally.
2.
It is bad for
society.
3.
It corrupts our
language.
IV. Scriptural prohibitions
A.
What we speak is
an indication of the heart - Matthew 15:17-20
B.
Ephesians
4:22-24 – put off the old person of sin & replace with the new person
of God.
1.
4:29 –
replace corrupt speech with speech that edifies.
2.
Col. 3:8 –
foul language has not been a problem just in our time.
V. How to win:
A.
Recognize that
using profanity does damage.
B.
Elminiate casual
swearing.
C.
Think positively
D.
Develop patience
E.
Learn to cope,
not cuss.
F.
Stop complaining
and whining.
G.
Try to be polite
H.
Think of what
you could have said.
I.
Work at it.
Conclusion:
A.
If this is a
problem that confronts you, pray about it. Give this to God & seek His
help.
1.
Ephesians
3:20-21 – He will help you.
2.
God actively
participates in the transformation process with you.