Should we post memes that contain bad language?
Question:
I have been talking to someone about the Facebook memes they post that contains offensive language. I was telling them that it's not right as a Christian, but he says things like, "Well, sometimes you have to to get the point across" and "Just ignore that part." He doesn't use foul language when talking, just when he sees a meme he likes despite the wording in it. How do I help him?
Thank you.
Answer:
"But immorality or any impurity or greed must not even be named among you, as is proper among saints; and there must be no filthiness and silly talk, or coarse jesting, which are not fitting, but rather giving of thanks. For this you know with certainty, that no immoral or impure person or covetous man, who is an idolater, has an inheritance in the kingdom of Christ and God. Let no one deceive you with empty words, for because of these things the wrath of God comes upon the sons of disobedience. Therefore do not be partakers with them; for you were formerly darkness, but now you are Light in the Lord; walk as children of Light" (Ephesians 5:3-8).
Paul argues that when you know that an action is wrong, such as fornication, then talking about it as if you find it acceptable is also wrong.
- It doesn't matter if you talking about doing it but claiming "It's just talk!" Such is filthy talk.
- It doesn't matter if you were just fooling around, being silly, and not really paying attention to what you said. Such is silly talk.
- It doesn't matter if you were telling a joke that you don't expect anyone to take seriously. Such is coarse jesting.
The problem with each is that gives the listener the impression that you find the sin acceptable and may actually participate in it yourself.
Profanity is never needed to get a point across. Posting memes (electronic posters) that contain profanity tells the world that you use profanity, that you approve of the use of profanity, and that you are involved in what the profanity truly expresses.
Personally, when someone posts profanity that ends up in my Facebook news feed, I will either unfriend them or hide their posts so I don't have to see them. I do the same with people who post inappropriate images.
