Titus VI
Remind them to be submissive to rulers and authorities, to be obedient, to be ready for every good work, to speak evil of no one, to avoid quarreling, to be gentle, and to show perfect courtesy toward all people. (Titus 3:1-3 ESV)
to speak evil of no one
This reminder dug into my heart.
Paul, a master of words… said exactly what God wanted him to say here.
He did not say, speak evil of no one, OTHER than dirty rotten sinners.
He did not say, speak evil of no one, OTHER than people who have proven themselves evil.
He did not say, speak evil of no one, OTHER than when people badmouth US.
He did not say, speak evil of no one, OTHER than our foolish, ignorant, stubborn, childish opponents.
He did not say, speak evil of no one, OTHER than Cain, Nebuchadnezzar, Judas Iscariot, Adolf Hitler, and THAT President you might despise.
Talk is not cheap, you see.
I think about Christ Jesus defending me before God’s throne. He could have PLENTY to say about me, honestly. But He chooses to speak no evil of me… but to take MY evil on Himself.
Speaking evil of others denies the hope the power of the gospel. The joy of fellowship possible in the Spirit. The love of the Father.
Speak the gospel instead of evil.