What does the Bible say about swearing?

One of the great one-liners from the Andy Griffith Show comes from Opie’s dad, Andy, when little Opie has said something inappropriate. Andy looks at his son and says, “And to think I was glad when you learned to talk!” I would guess every parent feels this way about a child at least once in his life. I wonder if God ever feels that way about humankind.

You bet he does.

This podcast uncovers the meaning of Ephesians 5:4 where God’s word says, Nor should there be obscenity, foolish talk or coarse joking, which are out of place, but rather thanksgiving. (NIV)

Take a listen.

Oh — by the way, the story about the two pastors is something I heard a couple of years ago, but I don’t have the source. I should have prefaced it with the words, “I once heard an account of…” As I think about it, it could be a bit of an urban legend. Still — it makes the point well. ~Steve