Church-Speak

Welcome, friends, to “Church-Speak” Recovery Class.

How often do I hear “Christians” offer shallow (less than heartfelt) religious platitudes when speaking to someone spiritually hurting. 

For a while I suspected that shallow religious “church-speak” were used because Christians lacked a basic understanding of God’s Word. 

However, after examining my own motives after using shallow religious platitudes, of my own, I realized that it is more (in my opinion) “thoughtlessness”. 

Face it, often when people are hurting and they voice their pain to you, it is inconvenient and time consuming.  So a quick hug and a mutter of, “I’ll be praying for you” makes you feel spiritual and removes you out of a uncomfortable situation. 

example: Romans 8:28 promises that all will work out for the best.             “we know that God causes everything to work together for the good of those who love God and are called according to his purpose for them.” Romans 8:28 NLT

example: 1 Corinthians 10:13 promises that God will never put more on you than you can handle.                                                                                

“The temptations in your life are no different from what others experience. And God is faithful. He will not allow the temptation to be more than you can stand. When you are tempted, he will show you a way out so that you can endure.” 1 Corinthians 10:13

example: 1 Samuel 12:23 “I’ll pray for you”                                             “As for me, I will certainly not sin against the LORD by ending my prayers for you. And I will continue to teach you what is good and right.” 1 Samuel 12:23                                                   

Face it, “church speak” is more confusing to those that are not familiar with religion.   

Personally, my concern is that “church-speak” will push people away from God ~ instead of drawing them closer to Him.

Examples: propitiation, apostate, dispensationalist, ecclesiastical, total depravity….  

When I use a Bible verse with someone who is “unchurched”, and I am aware that the words will present a difficult concept, I often show them the verse in my Bible, ask THEM to read it and then ask THEM to explain it to me. 

This opens the door for the Holy Spirit to illuminate their hearts and reveal His Truth to them. 

I am trying to challenge you to think about your word choices in an effort to speak clearly ~ and eliminate any obstacles standing between “unchurched” people and God’s Word.   

“Pray that I will proclaim this message as clearly as I should.” Colossians 4:4 NLT