Many countries have constitutional laws that protect freedom of speech. This is the right of an individual or community to articulate their opinions and ideas without fear of retaliation, censorship, or legal sanction. Even though we have the liberty to express ourselves, there may be repercussions. The Bible says we are accountable for every careless and useless word we speak (Mt 12:36). The golden rule says we are to "Do to others as we would have them do to us" (Lk 6:31). The Bible teaches that it is the responsibility of those who see potential danger coming to warn and deliver God's message. By warning those in jeopardy, such 'watchmen' deliver themselves from responsibility for the fate of those in danger (Ezek 3:18,19).
Christian Communication Principles
We are free to speak as Jesus would
believers should be known for their wholesome communication that builds others up in love and honesty, and for mouths that praise and worship God (1 Chr16:23-31; Ps 34:1, 51:15, 119:171; Eph 4:15). These instructions are encapsulated in "Let no unwholesome talk come out of your mouths, but only what helps build others up, as fits the occasion, that it may benefit those who hear" (Eph 4:29) and "Let your conversation be always full of grace, seasoned with salt" (Col 4:6). Even when defending our faith, this is to be done "with gentleness and respect" (1 Pet 3:15). The early church leaders said, "We must obey God rather than man," and were whipped because of their stance of speaking about Jesus (Act 4:19,20, 5:20,29,40). Paul was repeatedly maltreated because of his bold proclaiming of the gospel and stated believers should expect persecution because of their allegiance to Christ (2 Cor 11:23-28; Eph 6:20; 2 Tim 3:12).
Freedom of Speech vs. Hate Speech
A Christian should never participate in any form of hate speech intended to insult, intimidate, or cause prejudice against a person or people based on race, gender, age, sexual orientation, religious beliefs, political affiliation, occupation, disability, or physical appearance. Proclaiming that a certain belief is wrong or that a certain activity is sinful, based on biblical principles, is increasingly being included in the definition of hate speech (in our world of political correctness), as is stating that those who die without turning to Jesus will be doomed to torment in a lake of fire (Jn 3:16,36; Rom 6:23). We are to be respectful, forgiving, and peaceable, aware that careless or malicious words can deeply hurt others, yet we are also to speak the truth in love, while still naming sin for what it is (Eph 4:15).
Biblical Examples of Standing for Truth
Throughout history, believers have been persecuted because the expression of their beliefs did not align with those of the ruling authorities. Shadrach, Meshach, and Abednego refused to bow down to the king's idol and were thrown into a fiery furnace (Dan 3:16-18). God wants us to obey Him and to speak His Word faithfully, regardless of the possible consequences. Jesus told us that if someone insults us, we should respond mildly and without offense (Mt 5:38,39).
Reflection and Application:
- Consider how your speech reflects Christ in everyday conversations—do your words build others up or tear them down?
- Reflect on a time when speaking the truth in love was difficult—what would you do differently with biblical wisdom now?
- Ask yourself: Am I avoiding important conversations out of fear of conflict, or am I standing faithfully for truth with grace?
- Pray for discernment to speak boldly for your faith while showing kindness and respect to those who disagree.
See also: communication, consequences, courtesy, free will, hate speech, protests, persecution, political correctness, respect, rights (human and civil), speech.
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We wish you well in your Christian life.
On behalf of the team,
Bill