Speech, the communication or expression of thoughts in spoken words have either powerful or insignificant effect on the audience. As we’re aware that in order to speak and hear publicly, we need to have the freedom to do so. Freedom provides an opportunity to express ones’ ideas, opinions, etc., in a group setting, and ultimately this will lead to the self-governance or independence. In fact, this liberty is not free but is costly requiring the proper checks and balances of management system in place. Otherwise, the free speech right can be at risk of losing it.
What happens when the “freedom of speech” is being abused? Why do we want to lose our privilege by abusing or misusing it? Why do we want to create social disorders, but rather support and maintain the autonomy peacefully?
I think for Christians the privilege of having the freedom and speech rights have greater meaning and responsibilities. Because His words command and remind us of the “freedom” that “the Lord is the Spirit, and where the Spirit of the Lord is, there is freedom (2Co. 3:17 NIV).” “It is for freedom that Christ has set us free. Stand firm, then, and do not let yourselves be burdened again by a yoke of slavery (Gal.5:1 NIV).” “You, my brothers and sisters, were called to be free. But do not use your freedom to indulge the flesh; rather, serve one another humbly in love (Gal.5:13 NIV).” “Live as free people, but do not use your freedom as a cover-up for evil; live as God’s slaves (1Pe.2:16 NIV). “Who executes justice for the oppressed, who gives food to the hungry? The LORD gives freedom to the prisoners (Ps. 146:7 NKJV).”
Regarding our speech His word states that “Let your speech always be with grace, seasoned with salt, that you may know how you ought to answer each one (Col. 4:6 NKJV).” “Sound speech that cannot be condemned, that one who is an opponent may be ashamed, having nothing evil to say of you (1Tit.4:12 NKJV).” “To fear the LORD is to hate evil; I hate pride and arrogance, evil behavior and perverse speech (Pr.8:13 NIV).” “Why do you not understand My speech? Because you are not able to listen to My word. You are of your father the devil, and the desires of your father you want to do. He was a murderer from the beginning, and does not stand in the truth, because there is no truth in him. When he speaks a lie, he speaks from his own resources, for he is a liar and the father of it (Jn. 8:43-44 NKJV).”
We believers in Jesus Christ have the special privilege of our freedom and speeches; therefore, let us try to follow His word accordingly. May the good Lord guide and protect us in this effort.
Please, if you have any comment or thought share it. Appreciated.