Empty Words

“Let no one deceive you with empty words, for it is be­cause of these things that the wrath of God comes upon the sons of disobedience. Therefore do not associate with them.” Verses 6-7.

Empty words are often said to be as light as air, but that is quite wrong. The air in which we live and breathe is a blessed gift of God, whereas empty words divert our attention from Him who speaks full and weighty words from heaven.

It is a well-known fact that people in the world use a great many empty words. Less well known is the fact that in religious assemblies people bandy about many worthless—even harmful—empty words, a product of the old and vain (but now religious) man. As a rule, these empty words are conceived during the excitement and enthusiasm of the moment, during dreams of religious greatness, and while seeking honor. But they collapse in the face of the realities of life and God’s Word. They did service as words of empty deceit for those who were willing to be deceived.

God’s Word is as pure as silver that has been purified seven times in the fire, whereas empty words burn up in the first test of fire. People can hear the Word of God for years without understanding it. Then one day it suddenly becomes living for them, and they are reminded of having heard that word from this or that person a number of years ago. Such words enter the ear and go down into the heart, whereas empty words go in one ear and out the other.