The Bible refers to idle word as not mere utterance of the lips but an expression of abundance of evil in the heart. (Matt.12:34) Webster’s Dictionary defined ‘idle’ as ‘lacking in worth or basis’. Idle word can be summarised as word that expresses the abundance evil in the heart. Word that is lacking in worth or basis. Word that is divisive, slanderous, malicious, or injurious. Word that does not edify or of no benefit to the listener. Word that pulls down rather than build. Our Lord Jesus says, “But I say to you that for every idle word men may speak, they will give account of it in the last day of judgement.” (Matt.12:36)

The pharisees said word that lacks basis against Jesus when they accused Him of using the power of the ruler of the demon to heal men who were demon possessed, blind and mute. They said, “This fellow does not cast out demon except by Beelzebub, the ruler of the demons.” (Matt.12:22-24) The pharisees despised the power of the Holy Spirit who performs the healing and they were warned that blasphemy against the Holy Spirit is a sin that will not be forgiven. (Matt.12:31)

In a similar manner, Miriam and Aaron spoke divisive word against Moses because he married to an Ethiopian woman which in their own opinion was not right and because of that Miriam defied the God given leadership of Moses. The anger of the Lord aroused against Miriam and Aaron as a result of the divisive word spoke against Moses. Miriam became leprous, as white as snow as consequence of the idle word spoken against Moses. (Numbers.12:1-10)

Idle word is wickedness, so one who speak such word will reap the result of such wickedness. Jesus in conclusion says, “for by your words you will be justified, and by your words you will be condemned.” (Matt.12:37) Jesus words here call to attention the responsibility one has in reference to what comes out of his mouth. Sins of the mouth “Idle word” will condemn one because it manifests from the heart. And by good speech, the heart of a good man is judged good and accounted righteous before God. Therefore, by one’s speech one is judged either to be justified or condemned.

Apostle James in his teaching says the tongue is the hardest member of the body and the last thing to be brought under control in one’s life. There is no doubt about the fact because not many people including believers live without sometimes losing control of his or her tongue. He emphasises that “If anyone does not stumble in word, he is a perfect man able to bridle the body.” (James.3:2) He concluded that if one would be able to control the use of the tongue, he would be able to control all his actions, be a perfect man and would not commit sin. It is important therefore that one tames his tongues and be conscious of the word that comes out of one’s mouth.

Idle word repels people while gentle speech that comes forth from a meek heart draws people. We should develop a manner of speech that is inoffensive to all with whom we come into contact. The Bible says, “Let no corrupt word proceed out of your mouth, but what is good for necessary edification, that it may impart grace to the hearers.” (Eph.4:29) idle word will always damage the relationship between individuals, it must be replaced with speech that edifies one's fellow man.

Dear brethren, it is your responsibility to make special effort to control your tongue in order to speak words that encourage others. You must thrive to control your manner of speech. As Christian you must always be on guard concerning the word that comes out of your mouth. Remember, by one’s speech one is judged either to be justified or condemned.

May you and I never experience condemnation in the name of Jesus. Amen

Evangelism Jesus is a friend who sticks closer than a brother. Accept Him as your Lord and Saviour and become His friend today.

Rev. Shobayo Kayode The Gospel Study Centre