Euphemisms “Thy Speech Maketh Thee Known” Matthew 26:73
Euphemisms Christians are to guard their speech (Prov. 21:23; Mt. 12:36; Eph. 4:29; 5:4; Col. 4:6; Tit. 2:8; Jas. 1:26; 3:9-12; 1 Pet. 3:10-12) Many would never think of using words of cursing, profanity, obscenity or vulgarity Yet, many will use “euphemisms” – the substitution of a mild, indirect, or vague expression for one thought to be offensive, harsh, or blunt
Euphemisms and Cursing Many will substitute… Heck for hell Darn for damn Gosh or golly for God Doggone for God damn Gee or gee-whiz for Jesus Crikey for Christ
Euphemisms and Sinful Conduct Many will substitute… “Alternative lifestyle” for homosexuality “Live in” or “affair” for adultery and fornication “Lady of the evening” for prostitution “Disease” or “alcoholism” for drunkenness “Revenue enhancement” or “gaming” for gambling “Stretching the truth” or “exaggerating” for lying “Termination of pregnancy” for abortion / murder
Why Euphemisms? Many want to get as close to the world without being just like the world (Rom. 12:1-2; 1 Jn. 2:15-17) Many don’t want to be different (1 Pet. 4:4) Many don’t want to give up their worldly friendships (Jas. 4:4) Many don’t want to be harsh or offensive (Rom. 12:9) Many don’t want to call sin what it is (Isa. 5:20)
Guard Your Tongue Rule #1 – think before you speak (Prov. 15:28) Rule #2 – speak only what is edifying and thankful (Eph. 4:29; 5:4; Col. 4:6) "Let the words of my mouth and the meditation of my heart Be acceptable in Thy sight, O Lord, my Rock and my Redeemer“ (Psalm 19:14)