Scripture Text: Romans 10:8-18
Memory Verse: Death and life are in the power of the tongue, and those who love it will eat its fruit. Proverbs 18:21
Lesson Aim: To understand the importance and power of words.
Key Points - Words are creative forces. - They are containers which carry the thoughts and intents of the heart. - Words affect every part of our lives. - It is through the Word that we are able to use the power of our words.
Words are powerful! Webster’s New Collegiate Dictionary defines a word as a speech sound or series of speech sounds that symbolizes and communicates a meaning. Words can be spoken or written. They are creative forces. Words are containers. They carry the thoughts and the intents of the heart, and they bear the seeds to bring into existence things that never existed before.
Words affect every part of our lives. They affect our relationship with God. We need them to confess our sins and express our love, thankfulness and appreciation to God. It is through our words that we teach and impact our families. It is through words that we develop our relationships with other people.
As children we would say, “Sticks and stones may break my bones, but words can never hurt me.” This statement is not true. Words are powerful and they can do far more harm than sticks and stones. God uses much of the Bible to teach us about the importance of words. The Book of Proverbs is filled with verse after verse teaching us about our words.
As we recognize the power of words, we must understand that as the originator of language and communication, God knows how best to use words. After all, He sent His Son, the Living Word. The Word was made flesh and dwelt among us, and it is through the Word that we are able to use the power of our words to the glory and honor of God. The biblical teachings about words not only applies to what we say, but also to what we allow ourselves to hear.
The tongue is one of the most powerful instruments that God has placed at man’s command. It will control our life and destiny. James likens the tongue to the bit in a horse’s mouth or the rudder on a ship (James 3:3-4). Wise use of the tongue is a great blessing. Unwise use of the tongue results in curses. The tongue will bring increase or decrease, health or sickness, strength or weakness, victory or failure.
Questions and Discussion
- Words have creative power. What are some of the things that words can produce? Genesis 1:3; Psalms 33:6, 9; Proverbs 12:13-14, 17-18, 25; Proverbs 18:6-8, 13, 20-21; Matthew 8:8
- What is the significance of words in John 6:63, 68?
- Identify the different functions of words in Romans 10:8-10, 13-17.
- What role does listening play when it comes to the power of words and what are the advantages of thinking prior to speaking? Romans 10:17; Proverbs 4:1-4; James 1:19; Colossians 4:6
- Discuss Matthew 12:34-37.