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What Does the Bible Say About Joking and Jesting? – Viral Believer
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What Does the Bible Say About Joking and Jesting?

Introduction

Humor and laughter are important parts of our daily lives, but what does the Bible say about joking and jesting? As Christians, we strive to live our lives in accordance with the teachings of the Bible, and this includes our speech and behavior.

The Bible has much to say about the power of our words, the danger of foolish talk, and the importance of humor in our lives.

In this blog post, we will explore what the Bible says about joking and jesting, and how we can apply these principles to our daily lives. We will examine key verses and passages, and discuss what they mean for us as Christians.

We will also explore the importance of humor in our lives, and how we can use it to glorify God and build up those around us.

Ultimately, as Christians, we are called to be mindful of our words and actions, and to use humor in a way that honors God and reflects His love for others.

By understanding what the Bible says about joking and jesting, we can strive to use our words in a way that brings joy and levity into our lives, while also building up those around us and glorifying God in all that we say and do.

joking in the Bible

The Danger of Foolish Talk

The Bible has much to say about the dangers of foolish talk. In Ephesians 5:4, we read, “Neither filthiness, nor foolish talking, nor jesting, which are not convenient: but rather giving of thanks.” (NKJV)

This verse warns us against engaging in foolish talk and jesting, and reminds us that such behavior is not appropriate for Christians.

Similarly, Proverbs 10:23 tells us that “A fool delights in airing his own opinions.” (NKJV) This verse reminds us that those who engage in foolish talk are often more concerned with their own opinions than with the well-being of those around them.

As Christians, we are called to use our speech to build others up, rather than tear them down. In Colossians 4:6, we read, “Let your speech always be with grace, seasoned with salt, that you may know how you ought to answer each one.” (NKJV)

This verse reminds us that our words should be gracious and respectful, and that we should use them to uplift and encourage those around us.

When it comes to joking and jesting, we should be cautious about engaging in behavior that may be hurtful or inappropriate. Jokes that are at someone else’s expense, for example, can be hurtful and undermine the Christian principles of kindness and compassion.

Similarly, jokes that rely on vulgarity or obscenity are not appropriate for Christians, as they do not reflect the values of purity and holiness that are emphasized throughout the Bible.

The Power of Words

The Bible also teaches us about the power of our words. In Proverbs 18:21, we read, “Death and life are in the power of the tongue, and those who love it will eat its fruit.” (NKJV) This verse reminds us that our words have the power to bring life or death, and that we should use them wisely.

Similarly, James 3:5-6 tells us that “the tongue is a little member and boasts great things. See how great a forest a little fire kindles! And the tongue is a fire, a world of iniquity.” (NKJV)

This passage reminds us that our words can have a powerful impact, and that we should be careful to use them in a way that is both truthful and compassionate.

As Christians, we are called to be stewards of our words, using them to glorify God and build up those around us. When we engage in joking and jesting, we run the risk of using our words in a way that is frivolous or hurtful.

The Importance of Humor

While the Bible warns us against foolish talk and jesting, it’s important to note that humor can play an important role in our lives. In Ecclesiastes 3:4, we read, “A time to weep, and a time to laugh; a time to mourn, and a time to dance.” (NKJV)

This verse reminds us that there is a time and a place for humor, and that laughter can be a powerful tool for bringing joy and levity into our lives.

Similarly, Proverbs 17:22 tells us that “A merry heart does good, like medicine, but a broken spirit dries the bones.” (NKJV) This verse reminds us that laughter and joy can have a positive impact on our physical and emotional well-being.

It’s important to remember, however, that humor should always be used in a way that is respectful and appropriate. As Christians, we should be mindful of our words and actions, and use humor in a way that honors God and reflects His love for others.

What Makes a Joke Inappropriate?

When it comes to joking and jesting, it can be difficult to know where to draw the line between appropriate and inappropriate behavior. Here are a few key factors to consider:

  • Is the joke hurtful or insensitive? Jokes that are at someone else’s expense, or that rely on stereotypes or offensive language, are not appropriate for Christians.
  • Does the joke reflect Christian values? As Christians, we should strive to use humor in a way that is respectful and reflects the values of kindness, compassion, and purity that are emphasized throughout the Bible.
  • Is the joke appropriate for the audience? Humor that may be appropriate among close friends may not be appropriate in other settings, such as the workplace or church.

Ultimately, it’s up to each individual Christian to discern what is appropriate when it comes to joking and jesting. We should be mindful of the impact of our words, and use humor in a way that reflects our commitment to honoring God and building up those around us.

Using Humor to Glorify God

While the Bible warns us against foolish talk and jesting that is hurtful or inappropriate, it also recognizes the power of humor to bring joy and levity into our lives. As Christians, we can use humor in a way that glorifies God and reflects His love for others.

Here are a few ways that we can use humor to glorify God:

  • Use humor to build relationships. Laughter and humor can help to break down barriers and bring people closer together. By using humor in a way that is respectful and appropriate, we can strengthen our relationships with others and reflect God’s love for His people.
  • Use humor to bring joy and comfort to others. In difficult times, humor can be a powerful tool for bringing comfort and levity. By using humor in a way that is sensitive and appropriate, we can help to ease the burden of those around us and reflect God’s love and compassion.
  • Use humor to share the Gospel. Humor can be a powerful tool for communicating important messages in a way that is engaging and memorable. By using humor to share the Gospel, we can help to spread the good news of Jesus Christ and reflect God’s love for all people.

Conclusion

In conclusion, the Bible has much to say about our use of speech, including our use of humor and joking. While the Bible warns us against foolish talk and jesting that is hurtful or inappropriate, it also recognizes the importance of humor and laughter in our lives.

As Christians, we are called to use our words in a way that honors God and reflects His love for others. We should be mindful of the impact of our words, and use humor in a way that is respectful and appropriate for all.

By doing so, we can bring joy and levity into our lives, while also building up those around us and glorifying God in all that we say and do.

Pastor Duke Taber
Pastor Duke Taber

Pastor Duke Taber

All articles have been written or reviewed by Pastor Duke Taber.
Pastor Duke Taber is an alumnus of Life Pacific University and Multnomah Biblical Seminary.
He has been in pastoral ministry since 1988.
Today he is the owner and managing editor of 3 successful Christian websites that support missionaries around the world.
He is currently starting a brand new church in Mesquite NV called Mesquite Worship Center, a Non-Denominational Spirit Filled Christian church in Mesquite Nevada.