We continue our study of the Ninth Commandment. A command like all
the others that has far-reaching consequences. A deep and pervasive call to check
the tongue and to guard our mouths. A reminder that all evil of hell is contained in the
ability of the tongue.
The Apostle Paul presents a helpful summary of the aspects that could be considered
as bad talk in 2 Corinthians 12:20. I want to use that list as the basis from which we will
attempt this exposition. Hear him state these clearly: “For I fear that perhaps when I come that perhaps there may be quarrelling, jealousy, anger, hostility, slander, gossip, conceit, and disorder.”
In the fifth century Augustine of Hippo wisely commented that no physician can heal
the wounds of the tongue. The tongue inflicts greater wounds than the sword. Cruel
words can kill. The scorpion carries his poison in his tail, the slanderer carries his poison
in his tongue.
