Irreverent Babble

Gangrene is a medical condition involving the decay or death of an organ or tissue caused by a lack of blood supply. This very serious condition can require amputation of extremities, in order to prevent further spreading. It can lead to death. Because it can spread with great speed, once diagnosed, gangrene must be treated as quickly as possible.

This background is important to help us understand Paul’s warning about the impact of “irreverent babble.” He used a compound Greek word literally meaning an empty sound. These are discussions on subjects that, in reality, are useless and without redeeming qualities.

This could describe the substance of countless discussions taking place every day in offices, neighborhoods, social media, and phone calls. This happens even among Believers.

But Paul warned that we should avoid this activity. Why? Because this can lead “into more and more ungodliness.” It leads away from God, filling our minds with thoughts that are displeasing to Him, which can poison our hearts. This is the context of his warning about spreading like “gangrene” (literally the meaning of the Greek word here).

Many Believers may be aware of Paul’s warnings, but do not take them seriously. They allow themselves to indulge in “irreverent babble,” considering this to be innocent and harmless. But the warning about gangrene should help us see the damage this can do and how dangerous it can be! In fact, because of this babble, some actually had “swerved from the truth” and upset the faith of others.

For this reason, Paul encouraged Believers “not to quarrel about words, which does no good, but only ruins the hearers.” Instead, we are to focus on God and the tasks for which He has called us.

In your life, heed these warnings. Stay focused, and avoid “irreverent babble.”