Everyday Speech

Reading: 1 Corinthians 14; Proverbs 29

When you proclaim his truth in everyday speech, you’re letting others in on the truth so that they can grow and be strong and experience his presence with you. (1 Corinthians 14:3 MSG)

Paul is writing about the contrast between speaking in tongues (praying in the Spirit) and communicating in everyday speech, specifically in public meetings of Christ-followers.

The thing that speaks to me from this is to make sure that we don’t use such religious and “Christianese” language that seekers and those who are new to the faith can’t understand what we’re trying to communicate.

Here are some of the key things I noticed in this chapter:

4…Proclaiming God’s truth to the church in its common language brings the whole church into growth and strength. 5 It’s…important that everyone have access to the knowledge and love of God in language everyone understands… (1 Corinthians 14:4-5 MSG)

Since you’re so eager to participate in what God is doing, why don’t you concentrate on doing what helps everyone in the church? (1 Corinthians 14:12 MSG)

So here’s what I want you to do. When you gather for worship, each one of you be prepared with something that will be useful for all: Sing a hymn, teach a lesson, tell a story, lead a prayer, provide an insight. (1 Corinthians 14:26 MSG)

I want to communicate the truths of God’s Word plainly, making them simple and easy to understand. I am determined to make every effort to avoid the use of “Christianese” and to use everyday speech, tell stories, and use simple and practical illustrations to communicate God’s wonderful truth.

Prayer:

Father, Thanks for today’s reminder to keep it simple and keep it clear. Help me and my friends to communicate your truths clearly and simply, whether in public speaking or private conversation. Amen.