Ephesians 4:29
Verse
Context
New Life in Christ
28He who has been stealing must steal no longer, but must work, doing good with his own hands, that he may have something to share with the one in need.29Let no unwholesome talk come out of your mouths, but only what is helpful for building up the one in need and bringing grace to those who listen.
Sermons






Summary
Commentary
- Adam Clarke
- Jamieson-Fausset-Brown
- John Gill
- Tyndale
Adam Clarke Bible Commentary
Let no corrupt communication - Πας λογος σαπρος. Kypke observes that λογος σαπρος signifies a useless, putrid, unsavory, and obscene word or conversation. 1. Useless, particularly that which has been rendered so by old age and corruption. 2. Putrid, impure; so Aristophanes in Lysistrat., p. 859, calls a bad woman σαπρα: εμοι συ λουτρον, ω σαπρα· Tune, Spurca! balneum mihi parabis? 3. Calumnious, or reproachful; whatever has a tendency to injure the name, fame, or interest of another. In short, it appears to mean any word or thing obscene, any thing that injures virtue, countenances vice, or scoffs at religion. In the parallel place, Col 4:6, the apostle exhorts that our speech may be seasoned with salt, to preserve it from putrefaction. See Kypke and Macknight. But that which is good to the use of edifying - To be good for a thing is a Graecism, as well as an Anglicism, for, to be fit, proper, suitable, etc.; so Achilles Tatius, lib. iv. p. 231: Αγαθον εις φιλιαν οιδα σε· I know thee to be good (formed) for friendship. And Appian, de Bell. Hisp., p. 439, terms both the Scipios, Ανδρας ες παντα αγαθους γενομενους, men who were good (suitable) for all things. And also Lucian, in Toxari, p. 53: Ου μονον αρα τοξευειν αγαθοι ησαν Σκυθαι· The Scythians were not good (expert) in archery only. See Kypke, from whom I quote. That it may minister grace - Ἱνα δῳ χαριν. This may be understood thus: 1. Let your conversation be pure, wise, and holy, that it may he the means of conveying grace, or Divine influences, to them that hear. 2. Let it be such as to be grateful or acceptable to the hearers. This is the meaning of Ἱνα δῳ χαριν in some of the most correct Greek writers. Never wound modesty, truth, or religion with your discourse; endeavor to edify those with whom you converse; and if possible, speak so as to please them.
Jamieson-Fausset-Brown Bible Commentary
corrupt--literally, "insipid," without "the salt of grace" (Col 4:6), so worthless and then becoming corrupt: included in "foolish talking" (Eph 5:4). Its opposite is "that which is good to edifying." communication--language. that which, &c.--Greek, "whatever is good." use of edifying--literally, "for edifying of the need," that is, for edifying where it is needed. Seasonably edifying; according as the occasion and present needs of the hearers require, now censure, at another time consolation. Even words good in themselves must be introduced seasonably lest by our fault they prove injurious instead of useful. TRENCH explains, Not vague generalities, which would suit a thousand other cases equally well, and probably equally ill: our words should be as nails fastened in a sure place, words suiting the present time and the present person, being "for the edifying of the occasion" (Col 4:6). minister--Greek, "give." The word spoken "gives grace to the hearers" when God uses it as His instrument for that purpose.
John Gill Bible Commentary
And be ye kind one to another,.... Good, affable, courteous; which appears in looks, words, and actions; by looking pleasantly on each other, speaking kindly to one another, and mutually doing every good office that lies in their way, and in their power: tender hearted: which is opposed to a being hard hearted to them that are in distress, and close at hand to the needy; to cruelty and severity to such who are subject to them, or have injured them; and to a rigid and censorious spirit to them that are fallen: forgiving one another, even as God for Christ's sake hath forgiven you; whatever offences are given, or injuries done by the saints one to another, and so far as they are committed against them, they should forgive, and should pray to God for one another, that he would manifest his forgiveness of them, as committed against him; and this should be done in like manner as God forgives in Christ, and for his sake; that is, fully and freely, and from their hearts; and so as to forget the offences, and not to upbraid them with them hereafter; yea, they should forgive them before they repent, and without asking for it, and that for Christ's sake, and because they are members of his: the Complutensian edition reads, "even as Christ hath forgiven us": the Arabic version also reads us, and so some copies: the words may be rendered, "giving freely to one another, even as God in Christ has given freely to you"; saints should give freely to one another, for outward support, where it is needful; and should impart spiritual gifts and experience for inward comfort, where it is wanted, and as they have ability; and that from this consideration, that all they have, whether in temporals or spirituals, is freely given by God in Christ, and for his sake; with whom he freely gives them all things; in whom he has given them grace, and blessed them with all spiritual blessings; as peace, pardon, righteousness, and eternal life. Next: Ephesians Chapter 5
Tyndale Open Study Notes
4:29 Believers are to learn new patterns of speech to be an encouragement to others (see also 5:3-4, 12).
Ephesians 4:29
New Life in Christ
28He who has been stealing must steal no longer, but must work, doing good with his own hands, that he may have something to share with the one in need.29Let no unwholesome talk come out of your mouths, but only what is helpful for building up the one in need and bringing grace to those who listen.
- Scripture
- Sermons
- Commentary
Tame Your Tongue
By David Wilkerson7.1K49:33PRO 18:21MAT 7:21MAT 12:341CO 13:1EPH 4:29COL 4:6JAS 3:1In this sermon, the preacher emphasizes the importance of taming one's tongue and the dangers of speaking evil. He compares the tongue to a treasure that can bring forth either good or evil. The preacher shares his personal conviction to be cautious with his words and to examine his own heart for any root of jealousy, envy, or covetousness. He also references the book of James, specifically James 3:11, which warns against the inconsistency of a fountain producing both sweet and bitter water. The sermon concludes with a call to control and tame the tongue, recognizing that every word spoken will be accounted for before the Lord.
1992 Missions Conference Talk - Part 1
By Richard Wurmbrand5.6K09:46PSA 127:3PRO 18:21ECC 4:2MAT 18:3MRK 12:29JHN 1:1EPH 4:29HEB 4:12JAS 1:19This sermon emphasizes the importance of listening to God and each other, highlighting a personal story of enduring love and faithfulness through trials. It delves into the concept of innocence and the eternal destiny of unborn children, shedding light on the significance of love and understanding in relationships. The speaker also touches on the Hebrew language's unique perspective on faith and the real essence of God's word, encouraging a deeper spiritual enrichment.
In the School of God
By Keith Daniel3.1K58:52Christian GrowthPRO 15:1PRO 18:21MAT 6:33EPH 4:292TI 4:12JAS 3:1In this sermon, the preacher reflects on the impact of words and the importance of being an example of a believer. He shares stories of individuals who excelled in their faith and passed every test they faced. The preacher also recounts a personal experience of being publicly attacked by another preacher, which led to a deep revelation about enduring trials. The sermon emphasizes the power of words and the need to guard one's tongue, as well as the love and forgiveness of God.
Growing in God
By Jim Cymbala2.9K45:36PSA 34:8MAT 4:4EPH 4:292TI 3:16HEB 4:12JAS 1:221PE 1:22This sermon emphasizes the importance of spiritual growth through the Word of God, highlighting the need to put away evil thoughts, deceit, hypocrisy, envy, and slander to truly grow in faith. It stresses the significance of being born again into a family of believers and the necessity of craving the pure spiritual milk of the Word for nourishment and growth.
1 Timothy 4:12
By George Verwer2.7K1:25:52Timothy1CO 2:9EPH 4:29COL 3:131TI 4:121TI 5:11TI 6:12JAS 3:6In this sermon, the speaker begins by praising God for the many answers to prayer and professions of faith that have occurred through various ministries. He then references the book of Timothy, specifically chapters 4, 5, and 6, and encourages the audience not to let others look down on their youthfulness but to speak with authority. The speaker shares a personal testimony of his own transformation through Jesus Christ, acknowledging his past sinful nature and the impact of encountering God's spirit in a prison. He also reflects on the tendency of young people to judge and gossip, emphasizing the importance of speaking positively about others. The sermon concludes with gratitude for Indian believers and the speaker's own background, highlighting the journey from materialism to a passion for God.
The Foremost Proof of Holiness
By Keith Daniel2.7K1:01:23HolinessPRO 18:21PRO 21:23ISA 55:11MAT 12:36EPH 4:29COL 4:6JAS 3:2In this sermon, the preacher reflects on his early days of preaching with great zeal but little wisdom. He emphasizes the importance of having both wisdom and fire in one's faith. The preacher also highlights the significance of controlling one's words and the potential harm that can come from an unruly tongue. He shares a personal story of a man whose wife's bitter and venomous words have caused great pain and destruction in their relationship. The sermon encourages listeners to seek God's guidance in controlling their speech and to understand the power of words in shaping their testimonies and relationships.
Preaching - a Sacred Responsibility - Part 1
By Art Katz2.5K51:09PreachingPSA 46:10PRO 18:21ISA 55:11MAT 6:331CO 14:1EPH 4:29JAS 3:1In this sermon, the speaker emphasizes the importance of the condition of the hearers in receiving the word of God. He criticizes the indifference and lack of reverence in the congregation, attributing it to their late-night activities and reliance on the preacher to deliver a spiritual experience. The speaker calls for the church to recognize its prophetic call and to correct preachers who have become too professional in their delivery. He also highlights the significance of silence and stillness in knowing and experiencing God.
Effective Prayer - Part 1
By William MacDonald2.3K28:36Effectual PrayerPSA 30:5PRO 15:1PRO 18:21MAT 6:33EPH 4:15EPH 4:29JAS 1:19In this sermon, the speaker emphasizes the importance of commenting on the answers we receive after asking questions. He highlights the joy that comes from someone sharing a thought that adds depth to the conversation. The speaker also mentions the significance of speaking the truth in love, referencing Ephesians 4:15. Additionally, he discusses the key of expecting meaningful conversations and the need to consciously think about our words. The sermon encourages taking the initiative in asking meaningful questions, being a good listener, and being mindful of the impact of our communication.
(Christian Leadership) Secure in the Love of God
By Zac Poonen2.2K1:02:35MAT 6:4JHN 7:4ROM 3:23GAL 5:22EPH 4:29In this sermon, the preacher emphasizes the difference between the law and grace in the gospel. He uses a poem to illustrate that while the law commands us to run, it does not provide us with the means to do so. On the other hand, the gospel bids us to fly and gives us wings to do so. The preacher highlights the role of the Holy Spirit in lifting us higher and enabling us to fulfill God's plan for our lives. He also emphasizes the importance of knowing God as our Father and finding our security in that relationship. The sermon encourages young people to understand that God has a plan for their lives and that His plan is always better than any plan they could make for themselves. The preacher concludes by stating that knowing God as Father is the foundation for progress in the Christian life, victory, and building the body of Christ.
A Warning to Would-Be Teachers
By Alistair Begg2.1K33:27WarningPRO 18:21PRO 21:23JER 45:5MAT 6:33EPH 4:29JAS 3:1In this sermon, the speaker emphasizes the importance of accountability for those who teach the word of God. He explains that teachers will not only be judged for the content of their teaching, but also for their conduct and motivations. The speaker uses the example of Ezekiel being appointed as a watchman over Israel, highlighting the responsibility to warn others of their sins. He also discusses the challenges faced by teachers and the need for honesty in acknowledging mistakes. Overall, the sermon emphasizes the need for teachers to fulfill their role with clarity, openness, and integrity.
Attack of the Devil - Part 2
By Joshua Daniel2.1K09:18NUM 13:23NUM 13:27PRO 16:28PRO 18:8EPH 4:29This sermon emphasizes the importance of courage and faith in facing challenges, using the story of Caleb and the spies sent to explore the promised land. Despite the obstacles and negative reports, Caleb believed they could overcome the giants and possess the land. It also highlights the tendency of human nature to focus on the negative and spread evil reports, likening it to the nature of a pig choosing sewage over a royal bed. The message warns against being drawn to and spreading negativity, urging listeners to guard against such fallen nature.
Making a Difference—an Exposition of Jude
By Aaron Hurst2.0K1:31:05False DoctrinesEPH 4:29In this sermon, the preacher emphasizes the importance of having compassion and making a difference in the lives of others. He uses the analogy of a man rescuing stranded sea creatures to illustrate the significance of helping even just one person. The preacher urges the congregation to show love and support to children who have been mistreated by their parents and to share the message of Jesus with those who are struggling with addiction and difficult circumstances. He also highlights the freedom and privilege of worshiping God in their nation. The sermon concludes with a mention of the book of Jude, which serves as a warning of God's judgment on sinners but also provides encouragement and guidance for believers.
Sound Doctrine, Sound Words
By Phil Johnson1.9K1:01:10ISA 6:5EPH 4:29EPH 5:4COL 3:8TIT 2:7This sermon emphasizes the importance of maintaining dignity, purity, and sound speech in ministry, contrasting the trend of using profanity and lewd content in preaching. It highlights the need for pastors to be examples of good works, integrity, and reverence, following the instructions given by Paul to Titus. The message warns against adopting worldly language and subject matter in the pulpit, stressing the significance of upholding sanctified behavior and speech in all aspects of ministry.
c.j. Mahaney: Faith Works in Humility
By Adrian Warnock1.9K1:04:17InterviewPRO 15:1PRO 17:14MAT 6:33ROM 12:18EPH 4:29HEB 3:12JAS 4:1In this sermon, CJ Mahaney introduces himself and expresses his gratitude for the support and prayers of the congregation. He emphasizes the importance of peacemaking and resolving relational conflicts. Mahaney encourages the congregation to connect the dots between their participation and the growth of a sovereign grace church in Sydney, Australia. The sermon then transitions to a discussion of James chapter 4, focusing on the power of words and the need to put faith into action in our speech.
Poison From the Tongue
By Erlo Stegen1.6K1:22:18TongueEXO 4:10PSA 103:13PRO 18:21PRO 21:23MAT 12:36EPH 4:29JAS 3:6In this sermon, the preacher emphasizes the importance of being cautious about the content we consume, particularly videos. He warns against allowing negative influences into our lives and encourages parents to monitor what their children watch. The preacher urges listeners to expose sin and confront it directly, seeking guidance from God. He also shares a personal story of overcoming anger through prayer and repentance. The sermon concludes with a reminder to reflect on the power of our words and to examine ourselves in light of God's standards.
3 Chapel of the Air Interviews of Leonard Ravenhill
By Leonard Ravenhill1.5K00:002CH 7:14PRO 27:17EPH 4:292TI 4:2HEB 10:24This sermon discusses the importance of spiritual revival, emphasizing the need for discipline, depth in understanding, and a return to the profound teachings of earlier generations. It touches on the challenges and potential misuse of religious media, urging for a strong, consistent message rooted in holiness and the majesty of God. The speaker reflects on the state of the church, the impact of radio and television ministries, and the hope for a national revival.
Couples Night - Part 6
By Keith Daniel1.4K08:48PRO 15:1PRO 18:21EPH 4:29EPH 5:25COL 3:191PE 3:7This sermon emphasizes the importance of maintaining tenderness and love in marriage, highlighting how a change in tone and lack of honor can erode the foundation of a Christian home. It challenges individuals to reflect on their interactions with their spouses, urging them to speak with kindness and honor, as it reflects their relationship with God and their commitment to love as Christ loved the church.
The Canadian Revival - Part 7
By Bill McLeod1.4K08:292CH 7:14PSA 139:23MAT 16:24ROM 6:6GAL 2:20EPH 4:29PHP 2:3HEB 12:1JAS 4:81JN 1:9This sermon emphasizes the transformative power of surrendering everything to Jesus, as seen through a powerful testimony of a man who encountered God's presence and was convicted to surrender his self completely. It highlights the importance of purity in speech and the impact of our words on others. The sermon also touches on the necessity of self-examination, repentance, and restitution when God reveals sin in our lives, leading to a deeper walk with Him and a revival of spiritual fervor.
The Fine Art of Getting Along
By William MacDonald1.2K47:13Long SufferingPRO 18:17MAT 18:15JHN 21:22ROM 12:1GAL 6:1EPH 4:29JAS 1:19In this sermon, the speaker emphasizes the importance of involving everyone in conversations and drawing them out from the sidelines. He uses the example of Jesus always having time for children and ministering to them. The speaker also discusses the importance of being a good listener and learning from others. He shares his frustration with people who talk about trivial matters instead of focusing on spiritual help. The sermon concludes with the reminder to keep our focus on following Jesus and not getting caught up in judging others or minding their business.
The Holy Spirit - Part 6
By Keith Daniel1.2K09:33PRO 15:1PRO 25:11EPH 4:29COL 4:6JAS 1:19This sermon emphasizes the importance of being led by the Holy Spirit in sharing the message of God, highlighting the need to avoid offending others and to wait for God's guidance before speaking about sin and judgment. It shares a personal story of a challenging child and the lesson of patience and maturity in dealing with difficult situations. The speaker stresses the value of being a gentleman or gentlewoman in representing Christ, avoiding unnecessary offense and relying on God's wisdom for effective communication.
Words of Power and Grace
By Joshua Daniel1.1K25:41PSA 107:20PRO 18:21ISA 40:8MAT 7:16MAT 12:36MRK 1:29LUK 4:22EPH 4:29This sermon emphasizes the importance of counting our blessings and acknowledging the works of God in our lives. It delves into the power of words and the impact they can have on others, highlighting the need for uplifting language and the avoidance of vulgarity. The sermon also touches on the significance of family dynamics and the role of prayer in bringing blessings to the family table. Additionally, it discusses the authority and power of Jesus in driving out evil spirits and the necessity of spreading the scriptures for the well-being of a nation.
Rise Up and Build 1997 Conference-37 Readable Writing
By William MacDonald1.1K57:46Readable WritingPSA 19:1MAT 6:33JHN 3:16ROM 12:21CO 10:31EPH 4:29COL 3:23The video discusses the characteristics of a bestselling book on preaching the word of God. The author emphasizes the importance of keeping the chapters short and simple, using familiar language to ensure understanding. The book promotes the idea of showing random acts of kindness and highlights the need for unity and coherence in writing. The speaker also advises against overusing adjectives and repeating significant words, as it can become tiresome for readers. Overall, the video encourages effective communication of the Christian message through concise and impactful writing.
David and Karen Davis, Singapore 2010
By David Davis1.1K59:27EPH 4:29JAS 4:8This sermon emphasizes the importance of not limiting God and allowing the Holy Spirit to work in and through us. It encourages worshiping in spirit and truth, celebrating victories by faith, and being open to God's limitless love, grace, and power. The message highlights the need to surrender to God's will, avoid limiting beliefs, and walk in obedience to the Holy Spirit for greater impact and miracles.
Hidden Sin - Part 6
By Joshua Daniel1.1K09:09PRO 18:21MAT 12:36EPH 4:29JAS 1:19This sermon emphasizes the importance of allowing the Holy Spirit to be the ultimate communicator, convicting hearts in various settings. It challenges individuals to assess the quality of their communication and the responsibility that comes with sharing God's message. The speaker highlights the need for genuine, Christ-like communication and the significance of true repentance and moral responsibility in worship and service.
The Christian Work Ethic
By Eric Ludy1.1K1:12:17Christian LifeGEN 1:31MAT 6:33EPH 4:29EPH 6:7PHP 2:14COL 3:231PE 1:19In this sermon, the speaker emphasizes the importance of having a strong work ethic as Christians. He highlights four key principles: having faith in Jesus as our Savior, joyfully serving in God's kingdom, being submissive to God's word and leading, and staying focused and alert in our tasks. The speaker also references the story of Andrew Summers Rowan, who was given a difficult mission but accomplished it without questioning or complaining. The sermon encourages believers to approach their work with excellence, integrity, and gratitude, whether it is in the business world, ministry, or family life.
- Adam Clarke
- Jamieson-Fausset-Brown
- John Gill
- Tyndale
Adam Clarke Bible Commentary
Let no corrupt communication - Πας λογος σαπρος. Kypke observes that λογος σαπρος signifies a useless, putrid, unsavory, and obscene word or conversation. 1. Useless, particularly that which has been rendered so by old age and corruption. 2. Putrid, impure; so Aristophanes in Lysistrat., p. 859, calls a bad woman σαπρα: εμοι συ λουτρον, ω σαπρα· Tune, Spurca! balneum mihi parabis? 3. Calumnious, or reproachful; whatever has a tendency to injure the name, fame, or interest of another. In short, it appears to mean any word or thing obscene, any thing that injures virtue, countenances vice, or scoffs at religion. In the parallel place, Col 4:6, the apostle exhorts that our speech may be seasoned with salt, to preserve it from putrefaction. See Kypke and Macknight. But that which is good to the use of edifying - To be good for a thing is a Graecism, as well as an Anglicism, for, to be fit, proper, suitable, etc.; so Achilles Tatius, lib. iv. p. 231: Αγαθον εις φιλιαν οιδα σε· I know thee to be good (formed) for friendship. And Appian, de Bell. Hisp., p. 439, terms both the Scipios, Ανδρας ες παντα αγαθους γενομενους, men who were good (suitable) for all things. And also Lucian, in Toxari, p. 53: Ου μονον αρα τοξευειν αγαθοι ησαν Σκυθαι· The Scythians were not good (expert) in archery only. See Kypke, from whom I quote. That it may minister grace - Ἱνα δῳ χαριν. This may be understood thus: 1. Let your conversation be pure, wise, and holy, that it may he the means of conveying grace, or Divine influences, to them that hear. 2. Let it be such as to be grateful or acceptable to the hearers. This is the meaning of Ἱνα δῳ χαριν in some of the most correct Greek writers. Never wound modesty, truth, or religion with your discourse; endeavor to edify those with whom you converse; and if possible, speak so as to please them.
Jamieson-Fausset-Brown Bible Commentary
corrupt--literally, "insipid," without "the salt of grace" (Col 4:6), so worthless and then becoming corrupt: included in "foolish talking" (Eph 5:4). Its opposite is "that which is good to edifying." communication--language. that which, &c.--Greek, "whatever is good." use of edifying--literally, "for edifying of the need," that is, for edifying where it is needed. Seasonably edifying; according as the occasion and present needs of the hearers require, now censure, at another time consolation. Even words good in themselves must be introduced seasonably lest by our fault they prove injurious instead of useful. TRENCH explains, Not vague generalities, which would suit a thousand other cases equally well, and probably equally ill: our words should be as nails fastened in a sure place, words suiting the present time and the present person, being "for the edifying of the occasion" (Col 4:6). minister--Greek, "give." The word spoken "gives grace to the hearers" when God uses it as His instrument for that purpose.
John Gill Bible Commentary
And be ye kind one to another,.... Good, affable, courteous; which appears in looks, words, and actions; by looking pleasantly on each other, speaking kindly to one another, and mutually doing every good office that lies in their way, and in their power: tender hearted: which is opposed to a being hard hearted to them that are in distress, and close at hand to the needy; to cruelty and severity to such who are subject to them, or have injured them; and to a rigid and censorious spirit to them that are fallen: forgiving one another, even as God for Christ's sake hath forgiven you; whatever offences are given, or injuries done by the saints one to another, and so far as they are committed against them, they should forgive, and should pray to God for one another, that he would manifest his forgiveness of them, as committed against him; and this should be done in like manner as God forgives in Christ, and for his sake; that is, fully and freely, and from their hearts; and so as to forget the offences, and not to upbraid them with them hereafter; yea, they should forgive them before they repent, and without asking for it, and that for Christ's sake, and because they are members of his: the Complutensian edition reads, "even as Christ hath forgiven us": the Arabic version also reads us, and so some copies: the words may be rendered, "giving freely to one another, even as God in Christ has given freely to you"; saints should give freely to one another, for outward support, where it is needful; and should impart spiritual gifts and experience for inward comfort, where it is wanted, and as they have ability; and that from this consideration, that all they have, whether in temporals or spirituals, is freely given by God in Christ, and for his sake; with whom he freely gives them all things; in whom he has given them grace, and blessed them with all spiritual blessings; as peace, pardon, righteousness, and eternal life. Next: Ephesians Chapter 5
Tyndale Open Study Notes
4:29 Believers are to learn new patterns of speech to be an encouragement to others (see also 5:3-4, 12).