Words are not enough

For our gospel did not come to you in word only, but also in power, and in the Holy Spirit and in much assurance, as you know what kind of men we were among you for your sake. – 1 Thessalonians 1.5

Words are great. We need words to spread the gospel. It is nonsense to think that we can preach the gospel – and use words when necessary. The words have to be spoken, but they are not enough.

I think of Hamlet musing over the thought ‘words, words, words’ and considering their import and their impact.

Words are indeed powerful things. Words can build or destroy. Words can bless or curse. Words can make or break.

But when it comes to salvation words are not enough. The gospel only works as blessed by the Holy Spirit and the the assurance that they are true. As we witness for Christ we must not just prepare a plan of what we are going to say – we also need a firm and absolute reliance on the guidance of the Holy Spirit and a reliance on Him to work in their hearts.

Praise God for words. May we think before we speak, watch our words, choose words full of grace seasoned with salt, words that build up and not tear down, and our pure. But as we speak those words may we do so with a firm reliance on the Holy Spirit to take those words and use them to draw men and women to the gospel.