What is the definition of Matthew 12:36? ๐ ๐
But I say unto you, That every idle word that men shall speak, they shall give account thereof in the day of judgment.
Explanation:
Okay, letโs break down this verse from Matthew 12:36. Itโs a pretty serious warning about our words and how weโll be held accountable. Here's what it means in simpler terms:
The Core Idea:
Jesus is telling us to think carefully about what we say and ๐donโt๐ say. Heโs saying that
our words have consequences.
We canโt just talk without thinking, and those thoughts will be judged by God.
Let's unpack it piece by piece:
๐
โBut I say unto youโฆโ
โ This is Jesus using a slightly dramatic tone to emphasize his point. Heโs setting up a challenge.
๐
โโฆThat every idle word that men shall speak, they shall give account thereof in the day of judgment.โ
โ This is the big part. "Idle words" means anything we say that isn't really focused on God or His will. "The day of judgmentโ refers to a future time when God will look back on everything weโve done and decide what happens to us.
What does it mean in practical terms?
๐
Donโt Gossip:
Talking about others behind their backs is wrong, and it can hurt people.
๐
Say Something You Don't Mean:
If you say something hurtful or unkind, even if you don't intend for it to be, it will be judged.
๐
Waste Our Time:
Focusing on unimportant things or wasting time talking about ourselves will be seen as a waste of Godโs time and is not good.
Itโs about responsibility:
Jesus isn't saying we ๐shouldnโt๐ talk. He's emphasizing that
we need to be mindful of what we say and how it impacts others.
Our words are a gift, but they have a responsibility to be used wisely and with consideration for God and the people around us.
In short:
Think carefully before you speak! Your words matter, and God will eventually judge them.
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Do you want me to:
๐ Explain another verse?
๐ Discuss the significance of this passage in a specific context (like forgiveness)?