Can You Say That In Church?
Remember when there were strict rules as to which words could not be uttered on television?
Yes, kids, right before the switch from black and white to amazing technicolor “word spotters” were very zealous in blocking certain words.
Today there are still words that can’t be said on television but these words are so vulgar and profane they are reserved for the darkest corners of the golf course.
Every once in a while (sing along if you know it) I’ll come across a particular phrase, anecdote, bumper sticker or pithy statement that I consider using as an example or illustration in a message.
The problem is there might be a particular word, theme or subject not considered appropriate for Sunday morning “from the pulpit.”
My rule of thumb up to this point, in the pursuit of discernment, has been “if I have to ask Beth if this is an appropriate thing to say then it probably isn’t appropriate.”
Of course this means I just quit asking her.
This Sunday I’ll be working through two metaphors Jesus uses to describe his followers. In the introduction to the message I will talk about metaphors and give some examples of some mixed metaphors.
For example: We could stand here and talk until the cows turn blue.
There is a particular metaphor that I’m considering how appropriate it would be to use. So, it’s your lucky day and time for another poll. (By the way, guess which new cool widget Randy discovered this week?)
Here’s the mixed metaphor: These hemorrhoids are a real pain in the neck.
Here’s the poll question: Should Randy reference the hemorrhoid metaphor as a message illustration?
The polls are open.
6 Responses to “Can You Say That In Church?”
Do you want input from a former preacher who used the phrase, “screw that horse!” during a series on Romans?
Greg brings up a good point - my input may be tainted as well since I’m the son of a man, a Deacon in the church, how after a multi-hour church business meeting made the following motion:
“Brother So and So, I make a move that we stop all this “b-_-_-ching” and go home!”
BTW - There was a moment of silence at our church until some piped up and said, “I second Brother Walker’s motion.”
That’s not a mixed metaphor, just misplaced geography.
Just don’t inflame your audience too much, it may not sit well with them.
I was the one who made a “Second” to Deacon Walker’s motion that we “stop our bi***ing and go home” which is still a high point in my preaching career!
In short…………yes.
Can I borrow Beth from time to time? I have this same dilemma.
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