What Does the Bible Say About Swearing and Foul Language?

Bible Believing Christian
Sep 15
2 min read

What Does the Bible Say About Swearing and Foul Language?

Words carry enormous power. In an age where profanity saturates entertainment, social media, and even casual speech, Christians face a serious question: does foul language matter to God? Scripture gives a clear and challenging answer.

Biblical Foundation

Guard Your Mouth

“Let no unwholesome word come out of your mouth, but if there is any good word for edification according to the need of the moment, say that, so that it will give grace to those who hear.” (Ephesians 4:29, NASB)

The Greek word for “unwholesome,” σαπρός (sapros), literally means “rotten” or “decayed,” covering vulgar, abusive, or corrosive speech.

Avoid Filthy Talk and Crude Jokes

“But sexual immorality or any impurity or greed must not even be mentioned among you, as is proper among saints; and there must be no filthiness or foolish talk, or coarse joking, which are not fitting, but rather giving of thanks.” (Ephesians 5:3–4, NASB)

Speak as God’s Children

“With [the tongue] we bless our Lord and Father, and with it we curse people, who have been made in the likeness of God… these things should not be this way.” (James 3:9–10, NASB)

Jesus on the Heart Behind Words

“For the mouth speaks from that which fills the heart.” (Matthew 12:34, NASB)Profanity is ultimately a heart issue—what overflows from within.

Historical & Contextual Notes

Ancient Culture: Coarse speech and cursing were common in the Greco-Roman world, just as today. Paul’s commands directly challenged everyday habits of his readers.

Oaths vs. Profanity: Jesus warns against careless oath-taking (Matthew 5:34–37). While different from modern cussing, the principle is similar: let your yes be yes and your no be no.

Misconceptions & Objections

“They’re just words.”
Scripture teaches that words reveal and shape the heart (Proverbs 18:21). They are never “just words.”

“God only cares if I hurt someone, not if I use a four-letter word."
God calls His people to holiness even in speech, setting them apart from corrosive culture.

Theological Reflection

Speech reflects sanctification. As temples of the Holy Spirit (1 Corinthians 6:19), Christians represent God in every conversation. Clean speech is not about policing vocabulary but about truth, purity, and grace-filled influence.

Connection to Christ – Redeeming Our Words

Jesus is the Word made flesh (John 1:14). His perfect speech heals, blesses, and saves. By His Spirit, He transforms hearts so that our words give life:“Let the words of my mouth and the meditation of my heart be acceptable in Your sight, Lord, my rock and my Redeemer.” (Psalm 19:14, NASB)

Christ-Centered Conclusion

The Bible calls believers to reject foul language and to speak words that build up, give grace, and honor Christ. True change begins not with vocabulary lists but with a heart renewed by the gospel.