UNSAFE WORD: FOOL

(Message by Tanny Keng)

0. Introduction

a) Many a time we use and speak word so easily without thinking much of whether such word is correct  to use in our daily conversation. We treat it lightly. Word such as "LUCK" is not found in the Bible and yet we often use it.

b) Why is it so necessary to learn to use and speak the correct word? Matthew 12:36-37 has a lot to say about it.

i) 36 But I say to you that for every idle word men may speak, they will give account of it in the day of judgment. 37 For by your words you will be justified, and by your words you will be condemned.” (Matthew 12:36-37 NKJV)

c) We will have to give an account of ourselves (Romans 14:12), every idle (careless, empty, thoughtless, worthless) word we speak (Matthew 12:36) and every work (deed) including every secret (hidden) thing whether good or evil (Ecclesiastes 12:14) in the day of judgment. For that reason, it compels us to use and speak the correct word or words especially God's Word. It's safe to use and we can learn a lot from its intended meaning.

d) Having said that, we know that there are some words that are unpleasant and contrary to God's desire and plan that we should discard such attitude or activity or way. There are unsafe for our lives.

1. Unsafe word:

a) Fool(s) - one deficient in an intellectual, practical, or moral sense. 

2. Biblical references:

a) Psalms 14:1 

i) The fool has said in his heart, “There is no God.” They are corrupt, They have done abominable works, There is none who does good. (Psalms 14:1 NKJV)    

b) Proverbs 1:7; 10:23; 12:15; 14:9; 24:7 

i) The fear of the Lord is the beginning of knowledge, But fools despise wisdom and instruction. (Proverbs 1:7 NKJV)

ii) 23 To do evil is like sport to a fool, But a man of understanding has wisdom. (Proverbs 10:23 NKJV)

iii) 15 The way of a fool is right in his own eyes, But he who heeds counsel is wise. (Proverbs 12:15 NKJV)

iv) Fools mock at sin, But among the upright there is favor. (Proverbs 14:9 NKJV)

v) Wisdom is too lofty for a fool; He does not open his mouth in the gate. (Proverbs 24:7 NKJV)

c) Matthew 5:22 

i) 22 But I say to you that whoever is angry with his brother without a cause shall be in danger of the judgment. And whoever says to his brother, ‘Raca!’ shall be in danger of the council. But whoever says, ‘You fool!’ shall be in danger of hell fire. (Matthew 5:22 NKJV)  

d) 1 Corinthians 4:10 

i) 10 We are fools for Christ’s sake, but you are wise in Christ! We are weak, but you are strong! You are distinguished, but we are dishonored! (1 Corinthians 4:10 NKJV)

e) 2 Corinthians 12:11

i) 11 I have become a fool in boasting; you have compelled me. For I ought to have been commended by you; for in nothing was I behind the most eminent apostles, though I am nothing. (2 Corinthians 12:11 NKJV)


The End ...

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