Cursing, whether through profanity, blasphemy, or speaking evil against others, is condemned in Scripture. Ephesians 4:29 says, “Let no corrupt word proceed out of your mouth, but what is good for necessary edification, that it may impart grace to the hearers.”
Jesus teaches in Matthew 15:11, “Not what goes into the mouth defiles a man; but what comes out of the mouth, this defiles a man.” Our words reveal the condition of our hearts. Matthew 12:34 says, “For out of the abundance of the heart the mouth speaks.”
James 3:9-10 rebukes the use of the tongue to both bless God and curse people: “Out of the same mouth proceed blessing and cursing. My brethren, these things ought not to be so.” The tongue must be bridled by the Spirit of God.
Profanity and coarse talk are also addressed. Ephesians 5:4 says, “Neither filthiness, nor foolish talking, nor coarse jesting, which are not fitting, but rather giving of thanks.” Our speech should reflect holiness and honor the Lord.
Blasphemy—speaking irreverently of God—is particularly serious. Leviticus 24:16 declares, “Whoever blasphemes the name of the Lord shall surely be put to death.” Though the civil penalty no longer applies, the seriousness remains.
The believer’s mouth should be used to praise, encourage, and declare truth. Colossians 4:6 says, “Let your speech always be with grace, seasoned with salt.” There is no place for cursing in the life of a child of God.
