Words matter. They carry power that can soothe the soul and inflame the spirit (Prov. 15:1; 25:11). “The tongue of the wise uses knowledge rightly, but the mouth of fools pours forth foolishness” (Prov. 15:2). Jesus said there is a corresponding measure of responsibility and accountability for the words we use (Matt. 12:36-37). We must think before we speak, lest our words wound rather than heal and weaken rather than strengthen (Jas. 1:19-20; Eph. 4:29).

America’s social and political climate is being inflamed by hot rhetoric from both sides of the aisle. (And, lest we forget, religion has always had its rhetorical flash points, and still does.) So, what is rhetoric, and what is its place in society generally, and in communicating the gospel specifically?

The English word rhetoric means “the art of effective or persuasive speaking or writing, especially the exploitation of figures of speech and other compositional techniques” (lexico.com). Its synonyms include “oratory, eloquence, power of speech, command of language, expression, way with words, delivery, diction” (Ibid).

Rhetoric is not inherently evil. Apollos, for example, was an “eloquent” man (orator, skilled in speech) who was “mighty in the Scriptures” (Acts 18:24). No doubt this ability served him well when he learned “the way of God more accurately” and “vigorously refuted the Jews publicly, showing from the Scriptures that Jesus is the Christ” (Acts 18:26, 28). However, it is a problem when human wisdom is advanced through rhetorical flourishes that impress and persuade (1 Cor. 1:17). Paul did not draw attention to “eloquence or human wisdom” when he preached for fear that people’s faith would rest on the man and not in the power of God and His word (1 Cor. 2:1-5, NIV). Again we say, words matter. They carry power (Jas. 3:5-8). When our words are driven by emotion, human will, and man’s wisdom they can and will lead people away from the truth, away from peace, and away from salvation in Christ.

One of the difficulties with distinguishing helpful rhetoric (that focuses on facts and truth) versus disruptive rhetoric (that insights and inflames) is the tendency to assign impure motives before listening to what is said. We close our ears (minds) to meaningful dialogue, understanding, and progress when the rhetoric of someone with whom we disagree is only viewed as bombast and insincere pomposity (hot air).

Sometimes rhetoric is used intending to shut off communication, to label, and to intimidate. That is dishonorable and unjust. For example, to say someone is a “homophobe” because they have a Bible-based opposition to the sin of homosexuality has a chilling effect on meaning discussion. That sort of rhetoric stigmatizes, intimidates, and quarantines all who do not accept same-sex marriage as loving conduct.

The Pharisees are an object lesson for us to learn how not to treat others this way (Lk. 7:39; 15:1-2). Our words are to be humble and gracious when we answer those who oppose the truth, not caustic and bombastic (Col. 4:5-6; 2 Tim. 2:24-26). It is not a virtue to be disagreeable when we disagree with others.

As we choose our words we ought to be aware of the attitudes and values of heart from which they spring, as well as what our words actually express (Matt. 12:34-35). Why? “For by your words you will be justified, and by your words you will be condemned” (Matt. 12:37).