Msgr. Pope on Scripture and the Use of Colorful and Harsh Language

"In the Sermon on the Mount, the Lord warns of using uncivil and/or hateful words such as 'Raqa' and 'fool.' And yet the same Lord Jesus often used very strong language toward some of His opponents, sometimes calling them names such as vipers and hypocrites.

"We live in a world that often insists on the use of gentle language and euphemisms. While doing so is not a bad thing, we also tend to manifest a kind of thin-skinned quality and a political correctness that is too fussy about many things, often taking personally what is not meant personally.

"What is the overall teaching of Scripture when it comes to this sort of colorful language? . . ."

In a recent commentary based on various Scripture passages, Msgr. Charles Pope (pastor of Holy Comforter-Saint Cyprian Parish, Washington, DC) reflected on the role of charity and clarity in civil discourse, as well the hyper-sensitivity often displayed by some people.

To access Msgr. Pope's complete post, please visit:

Community in Mission:Biblical Teaching on the Use of Colorful and Harsh Language (23 JUL 24)