Let’s play a little game. I am going to say a word, and I want you to say the first thing that comes to your mind.
- Kitten
- Cool
- Karen
- Sick
Then Jesus called the crowd to him and said to them, "Listen and understand: it is not what goes into the mouth that defiles a person, but it is what comes out of the mouth that defiles."
Language is a tricky thing. There is so much nuance and understanding that can go into a single word. How we say it, when we say it, the context in which we say it can make all the difference. Think, for example, about the difference between when the word kitten refers to a small animal, a term of endearment, or when it is used as a kind of catcall to belittle, typically a woman.
What comes out of the mouth can defile when language is used in ways that causes harm to other people. We know that this is done intentionally by some. There are words that have become prohibited because of the ways they have been used. There are anti-bullying programs in schools, and anti-discrimination policies in workplaces and governments. Yet, the problems persist and have been carried over into social media. It remains relevant that what comes out of the mouth (and the fingertips on a keyboard/keypad) can defile.
Then Jesus called the crowd to him and said to them, "Listen and understand: it is not what goes into the mouth that defiles a person, but it is what comes out of the mouth that defiles." Then the disciples approached and said to him, "Do you know that the Pharisees took offence when they heard what you said?"
It is also true that harm can happen even when it is not intended. We don’t always realise the impact of what we are saying or doing. It is easy to believe that, because our intentions are benevolent, what we say is good. Such was the case of the Pharisees. They were offended by Jesus’ proclamation because they truly believed that they were righteous and every judgment they made was true and good no matter how much harm it caused. Sound familiar? Do we know people in today’s world who likewise believe that what they say is good even though it causes harm?
Intent is not the same as impact. Sharing misinformation is harmful. Asking inappropriate personal questions is harmful. Unsolicited critiques about one’s identity, body, or perceived choices are harmful. Saying love the sinner, hate the sin does not absolve someone of the harm caused by judging another.
"Listen and understand: it is not what goes into the mouth that defiles a person, but it is what comes out of the mouth that defiles."
Jesus challenges the Pharisees, and us, to truly reflect on our language and how we use our words. We need to continually consider the impact of what we say and do. How might our words be heard from the perspective of others? How do we ensure that what comes out of our mouths doesn’t defile?
May we continually seek to speak in ways that are loving for all that hear. This we pray as we sing: (VT) 712 Beauty for Brokenness