Bearing Faithful Witness

It is important that we be careful, intentional, non-stereotypical, and respectful in our use of language.

The language we use influences us. It influences the way we see things, the way we think about them, and the way we act toward them. Sometimes, words that we think are merely descriptive, have connotations that others find hurtful. Sometimes, we are not aware of the damaging effects words can have on other individuals and groups. For example, sexist language is passed on from generation to generation until we are made aware of its damaging effects on women. To continue to use such words poses three problems:

1. we are disrespectful and hurtful to another individual or group,
2. we miscommunicate by using words that are heard in ways that we do not intend, and
3. our mistaken acceptance of the neutrality of the words may lead us to mistakenly and unconsciously accept larger prejudicial ideas that they convey.

Western languages and culture have been deeply influenced by the Bible. Biblical language continues to have an important impact on us. While celebrating this heritage, we must be mindful of some negative legacies (e.g. check the word, ‘pharisee’, in any standard dictionary). We do not want to continue using language simply because we find it in Scripture. It is important that we be careful, intentional, non-stereotypical, and respectful in our use of language.

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