Dictionary of Bible Themes: 5575 talk, idle

5575 talk, idle

Dictionary of Bible Themes

Dictionary of Bible Themes » 5000 Humanity » 5200 Human civilisation » 5575 talk, idle

Loose or careless speech, often motivated by curiosity, which can lead to unacceptable consequences. Scripture emphasises the importance of avoiding careless talk, and considering one's words with care.

Unfounded boasting is idle talk

2 Peter 2:17-19 See also Psalm 10:3; Psalm 49:6; Psalm 52:1; Proverbs 25:14; Proverbs 27:1; Acts 8:9-10; James 4:16

Human questioning of God is idle talk

Romans 9:20-21 See also Isaiah 29:16; Isaiah 45:9

Flattery is idle talk

Romans 16:18 See also Proverbs 7:21

Meaningless conversation is idle talk

Job 27:11-12 Job referring to the words of his comforters.

These criticisms of Job by his companions are unjustified:

Job 8:2; Job 11:2; Job 35:16 Proverbs 20:14

Examples of idle talk

1 Kings 20:10-11 See also Numbers 12:1-2; Judges 9:26-41; 1 Samuel 17:41-44

Idle talk is folly

A mark of the fool

Talking too much

Ecclesiastes 5:7 See also Proverbs 10:19; Proverbs 17:28; Proverbs 21:23; Ecclesiastes 5:3

Speaking rashly

Proverbs 20:25 See also Ecclesiastes 5:6; James 1:19

Idle talk is combated by upright living

1 Peter 2:15

Idle talk has no place in the church

1 Corinthians 4:20 See also Ephesians 4:29; Ephesians 5:4; Titus 1:10-11

All idle talk will be judged

Matthew 12:36-37