“Sticks and stones may break my bones, but words can never hurt me.” We used to say that when I was young. But as I grew older, I learned it was not true. Words possess power to give or take life.
Philip spoke life-giving words everywhere he went (8:40). By contrast Saul breathed out murderous threats against the Lord’s disciples. Saul was hunting for the followers of “The Way.” Jesus, the Way, was in Saul’s way. So he pursued and persecuted the followers of Jesus, and took them as prisoners. He arrested Christians until he was arrested by Christ.
Angry, hurtful words abound in our world. People say bad things to us and about us. We are tempted to use the world’s methods to accomplish our purposes. This would be a mistake. Let the sinful world say what it will, we must speak truth in love. This means we do not call names. Jesus said if we call others Raca (Empty-head) or fool, we are in danger of judgment. God works when his people bring good news. Let’s talk about Jesus more and other things less. Ready? Go!
