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<!DOCTYPE html PUBLIC "-//W3C//DTD XHTML 1.0 Transitional//EN" "//www.w3.org/TR/xhtml1/DTD/xhtml1-transitional.dtd"><html xmlns="//www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><head><meta http-equiv="Content-Type" content="text/html; charset=utf-8" /><meta name="viewport" content="width=device-width, initial-scale=1" /><title>Ephesians 5:4 Nor should there be obscenity, foolish talk, or crude joking, which are out of character, but rather thanksgiving.</title><link rel="canonical" href="https://biblehub.com/ephesians/5-4.htm" /><link rel="stylesheet" href="/new9.css" type="text/css" media="Screen" /><meta property="og:image" content="https://biblehub.com/visuals/6/49_Eph_05_04.jpg" /><meta property="og:title" content="Ephesians 5:4 - Imitators of God" /><meta property="og:site_name" content="Bible Hub" /><meta property="og:description" content="Nor should there be obscenity, foolish talk, or crude joking, which are out of character, but rather thanksgiving." /><script type="application/javascript" src="https://scripts.webcontentassessor.com/scripts/8a2459b64f9cac8122fc7f2eac4409c8555fac9383016db59c4c26e3d5b8b157"></script><script src='https://qd.admetricspro.com/js/biblehub/biblehub-layout-loader-revcatch.js'></script><script id='HyDgbd_1s' src='https://prebidads.revcatch.com/ads.js' type='text/javascript' async></script><script>(function(w,d,b,s,i){var cts=d.createElement(s);cts.async=true;cts.id='catchscript'; cts.dataset.appid=i;cts.src='https://app.protectsubrev.com/catch_rp.js?cb='+Math.random(); document.head.appendChild(cts); }) (window,document,'head','script','rc-anksrH');</script></head><body><div id="fx"><table width="100%" border="0" cellspacing="0" cellpadding="0" id="fx2"><tr><td><iframe width="100%" height="30" scrolling="no" src="/vmenus/ephesians/5-4.htm" align="left" frameborder="0"></iframe></td></tr></table></div><div id="blnk"></div><div align="center"><table width="100%" border="0" cellspacing="0" cellpadding="0" class="maintable"><tr><td><div id="fx5"><table width="100%" border="0" cellspacing="0" cellpadding="0" id="fx6"><tr><td><iframe width="100%" height="245" scrolling="no" src="/bmc/ephesians/5-4.htm" frameborder="0"></iframe></td></tr></table></div></td></tr></table></div><div align="center"><table width="100%" border="0" cellspacing="0" cellpadding="0" class="maintable3"><tr><td><table width="100%" border="0" cellspacing="0" cellpadding="0" align="center" id="announce"><tr><td><div id="l1"><div id="breadcrumbs"><a href="/">Bible</a> > <a href="/ephesians/">Ephesians</a> > <a href="/ephesians/5.htm">Chapter 5</a> > Verse 4</div><div id="anc"><iframe src="/anc.htm" width="100%" height="27" scrolling="no" frameborder="0"></iframe></div><div id="anc2"><table width="100%" border="0" cellspacing="0" cellpadding="0" align="center"><tr><td><iframe src="/anc2.htm" width="100%" height="27" scrolling="no" frameborder="0"></iframe></td></tr></table></div></div><div id="ad1"><table width="100%" border="0" cellspacing="0" cellpadding="0" align="center"><tr><td><iframe src="/ad4.htm" width="100%" height="48" scrolling="no" frameborder="0"></iframe></td></tr></table></div></td></tr></table><div id="movebox2"><table border="0" align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0"><tr><td><div id="topheading"><a href="/ephesians/5-3.htm" title="Ephesians 5:3">◄</a> Ephesians 5:4 <a href="/ephesians/5-5.htm" title="Ephesians 5:5">►</a></div></tr></table></div><div align="center" class="maintable2"><table border="0" cellspacing="0" cellpadding="0" align="center"><tr><td><div id="topverse"> <a href="#audio" class="clickchap2" title="Context and Audio Bible"> Audio </a> <a href="#crossref" class="clickchap2" title="Cross References"> Cross </a> <a href="#study" class="clickchap2" title="Study Bible"> Study </a> <a href="#commentary" class="clickchap2" title="Commentary"> Comm </a> <a href="#lexicon" class="clickchap2" title="Lexicon"> Greek </a> </div><div id="leftbox"><div class="padleft"><div class="vheadingv">Verse<a href="/bsb/ephesians/5.htm" class="clickchap" style="color:#001320" title="Click any translation name for full chapter">  (Click for Chapter)</a></div><div id="par"><a href="/niv/ephesians/5.htm">New International Version</a> Nor should there be obscenity, foolish talk or coarse joking, which are out of place, but rather thanksgiving. <a href="/nlt/ephesians/5.htm">New Living Translation</a> Obscene stories, foolish talk, and coarse jokes—these are not for you. Instead, let there be thankfulness to God. <a href="/esv/ephesians/5.htm">English Standard Version</a> Let there be no filthiness nor foolish talk nor crude joking, which are out of place, but instead let there be thanksgiving. <a href="/bsb/ephesians/5.htm">Berean Standard Bible</a> Nor should there be obscenity, foolish talk, or crude joking, which are out of character, but rather thanksgiving. <a href="/blb/ephesians/5.htm">Berean Literal Bible</a> and filthiness, and foolish talking, or crude joking, which are not fitting, but rather thanksgiving. <a href="/kjv/ephesians/5.htm">King James Bible</a> Neither filthiness, nor foolish talking, nor jesting, which are not convenient: but rather giving of thanks. <a href="/nkjv/ephesians/5.htm">New King James Version</a> neither filthiness, nor foolish talking, nor coarse jesting, which are not fitting, but rather giving of thanks. <a href="/nasb_/ephesians/5.htm">New American Standard Bible</a> and there must be no filthiness or foolish talk, or vulgar joking, which are not fitting, but rather giving of thanks. <a href="/nasb/ephesians/5.htm">NASB 1995</a> and there must be no filthiness and silly talk, or coarse jesting, which are not fitting, but rather giving of thanks. <a href="/nasb77/ephesians/5.htm">NASB 1977 </a> and there must be no filthiness and silly talk, or coarse jesting, which are not fitting, but rather giving of thanks. <a href="/lsb/ephesians/5.htm">Legacy Standard Bible </a> nor filthiness and foolish talk, or coarse jesting, which are not fitting, but rather giving of thanks. <a href="/amp/ephesians/5.htm">Amplified Bible</a> Let there be no filthiness and silly talk, or coarse [obscene or vulgar] joking, because such things are not appropriate [for believers]; but instead speak of your thankfulness [to God]. <a href="/csb/ephesians/5.htm">Christian Standard Bible</a> Obscene and foolish talking or crude joking are not suitable, but rather giving thanks. <a href="/hcsb/ephesians/5.htm">Holman Christian Standard Bible</a> Coarse and foolish talking or crude joking are not suitable, but rather giving thanks. <a href="/asv/ephesians/5.htm">American Standard Version</a> nor filthiness, nor foolish talking, or jesting, which are not befitting: but rather giving of thanks. <a href="/cev/ephesians/5.htm">Contemporary English Version</a> Don't use dirty or foolish or filthy words. Instead, say how thankful you are. <a href="/erv/ephesians/5.htm">English Revised Version</a> nor filthiness, nor foolish talking, or jesting, which are not befitting: but rather giving of thanks. <a href="/gwt/ephesians/5.htm">GOD'S WORD® Translation</a> It's not right that dirty stories, foolish talk, or obscene jokes should be mentioned among you either. Instead, give thanks [to God]. <a href="/gnt/ephesians/5.htm">Good News Translation</a> Nor is it fitting for you to use language which is obscene, profane, or vulgar. Rather you should give thanks to God. <a href="/isv/ephesians/5.htm">International Standard Version</a> Obscene, flippant, or vulgar talk is totally inappropriate. Instead, let there be thanksgiving. <a href="/msb/ephesians/5.htm">Majority Standard Bible</a> Nor should there be obscenity, foolish talk, or crude joking, which are out of character, but rather thanksgiving. <a href="/net/ephesians/5.htm">NET Bible</a> Neither should there be vulgar speech, foolish talk, or coarse jesting--all of which are out of character--but rather thanksgiving. <a href="/nheb/ephesians/5.htm">New Heart English Bible</a> nor filthiness, nor foolish talking, nor jesting, which are not appropriate; but rather giving of thanks. <a href="/wbt/ephesians/5.htm">Webster's Bible Translation</a> Neither filthiness, nor foolish talking, nor jesting, which are not convenient: but rather giving of thanks. <a href="/wey/ephesians/5.htm">Weymouth New Testament</a> Avoid shameful and foolish talk and low jesting--they are all alike discreditable--and in place of these give thanks. <a href="/web/ephesians/5.htm">World English Bible</a> nor filthiness, nor foolish talking, nor jesting, which are not appropriate, but rather giving of thanks. <div class="vheading2">Literal Translations</div><a href="/lsv/ephesians/5.htm">Literal Standard Version</a> also filthiness, and foolish talking, or jesting—the things not fit—but rather thanksgiving; <a href="/blb/ephesians/5.htm">Berean Literal Bible</a> and filthiness, and foolish talking, or crude joking, which are not fitting, but rather thanksgiving. <a href="/ylt/ephesians/5.htm">Young's Literal Translation</a> also filthiness, and foolish talking, or jesting, -- the things not fit -- but rather thanksgiving; <a href="/slt/ephesians/5.htm">Smith's Literal Translation</a> And obscenity, and silly discourse, or wit, which things concern not; but rather thankfulness.<div class="vheading2">Catholic Translations</div><a href="/drb/ephesians/5.htm">Douay-Rheims Bible</a> Or obscenity, or foolish talking, or scurrility, which is to no purpose; but rather giving of thanks. <a href="/cpdv/ephesians/5.htm">Catholic Public Domain Version</a> nor any indecent, or foolish, or abusive talk, for this is without purpose; but instead, give thanks. <a href="/nabre/ephesians/5.htm">New American Bible</a> no obscenity or silly or suggestive talk, which is out of place, but instead, thanksgiving. <a href="/nrsvce/ephesians/5.htm">New Revised Standard Version</a> Entirely out of place is obscene, silly, and vulgar talk; but instead, let there be thanksgiving.<div class="vheading2">Translations from Aramaic</div><a href="/lamsa/ephesians/5.htm">Lamsa Bible</a> Neither cursing, nor foolish words, nor insults, nor words of flattery, none of which are necessary: but instead of these, let thanks be offered. <a href="/aramaic-plain-english/ephesians/5.htm">Aramaic Bible in Plain English</a> Neither abusive language, neither worthless words, nor of disgrace, nor of nonsense- these things that are unnecessary, but in place of these, thanksgiving.<div class="vheading2">NT Translations</div><a href="/anderson/ephesians/5.htm">Anderson New Testament</a> nor obscene language, nor foolish talking, nor jesting, which are not becoming; but rather the cheerful words of a thankful heart. <a href="/godbey/ephesians/5.htm">Godbey New Testament</a> and indecorum, or foolish talking, or indecent jesting, which is not becoming, but rather the giving of thanks: <a href="/haweis/ephesians/5.htm">Haweis New Testament</a> or obscenity, or foolish talk, or loose witticisms; things which become not a Christian, but rather thanksgiving. <a href="/mace/ephesians/5.htm">Mace New Testament</a> nor buffoonry, which they call pleasantry, but is indecent: be you rather exercised in social virtue. <a href="/wey/ephesians/5.htm">Weymouth New Testament</a> Avoid shameful and foolish talk and low jesting--they are all alike discreditable--and in place of these give thanks. <a href="/worrell/ephesians/5.htm">Worrell New Testament</a> nor filthiness, nor foolish talking, nor jesting, which are not becoming, but rather thanks-giving. <a href="/worsley/ephesians/5.htm">Worsley New Testament</a> nor ribaldry, nor buffoonery, nor wanton jesting, which are not meet: but rather giving of thanks. <a href="/parallel/ephesians/5-4.htm">Additional Translations ...</a></div></div></div><div id="centbox"><div class="padcent"><a name="audio" id="audio"></a><div class="vheadingv">Audio Bible</div><iframe width="100%" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/AfeSHen3sAQ?start=850" title="YouTube video player" frameborder="0" allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture; web-share" allowfullscreen></iframe> <div class="vheadingv">Context</div><a href="/bsb/ephesians/5.htm">Imitators of God</a> …3But among you, as is proper among the saints, there must not be even a hint of sexual immorality, or of any kind of impurity, or of greed. 4<a href="/greek/2532.htm" title="2532: kai (Conj) -- And, even, also, namely. ">Nor should there be</a> <a href="/greek/151.htm" title="151: aischrotēs (N-NFS) -- Obscenity, indecency, baseness. From aischros; shamefulness, i.e. Obscenity.">obscenity,</a> <a href="/greek/2532.htm" title="2532: kai (Conj) -- And, even, also, namely. "></a> <a href="/greek/3473.htm" title="3473: mōrologia (N-NFS) -- Foolish talking. From a compound of moros and lego; silly talk, i.e. Buffoonery.">foolish talk,</a> <a href="/greek/2228.htm" title="2228: ē (Conj) -- Or, than. A primary particle of distinction between two connected terms; disjunctive, or; comparative, than.">or</a> <a href="/greek/2160.htm" title="2160: eutrapelia (N-NFS) -- Low jesting, ribaldry. From a compound of eu and a derivative of the base of trope; witticism, i.e. ribaldry.">crude joking,</a> <a href="/greek/3739.htm" title="3739: ha (RelPro-NNP) -- Who, which, what, that. ">which</a> <a href="/greek/3756.htm" title="3756: ouk (Adv) -- No, not. Also ouk, and ouch a primary word; the absolute negative adverb; no or not."></a> <a href="/greek/433.htm" title="433: anēken (V-IIA-3S) -- Is due, becoming, suitable, proper. From ana and heko; to attain to, i.e. be proper.">are out of character,</a> <a href="/greek/235.htm" title="235: alla (Conj) -- But, except, however. Neuter plural of allos; properly, other things, i.e. contrariwise.">but</a> <a href="/greek/3123.htm" title="3123: mallon (Adv) -- More, rather. Neuter of the comparative of the same as malista; more) or rather.">rather</a> <a href="/greek/2169.htm" title="2169: eucharistia (N-NFS) -- Thankfulness, gratitude; giving of thanks, thanksgiving. From eucharistos; gratitude; actively, grateful language.">thanksgiving.</a> 5For of this you can be sure: No immoral, impure, or greedy person (that is, an idolater), has any inheritance in the kingdom of Christ and of God.…<div class="cred"><a href="//berean.bible">Berean Standard Bible</a> · <a href="//berean.bible/downloads.htm">Download</a></div> <a name="crossref" id="crossref"></a><div class="vheading">Cross References</div><div id="crf"><a href="/colossians/3-8.htm">Colossians 3:8</a> But now you must put aside all such things as these: anger, rage, malice, slander, and filthy language from your lips. <a href="/matthew/12-36.htm">Matthew 12:36-37</a> But I tell you that men will give an account on the day of judgment for every careless word they have spoken. / For by your words you will be acquitted, and by your words you will be condemned.” <a href="/james/3-5.htm">James 3:5-10</a> In the same way, the tongue is a small part of the body, but it boasts of great things. Consider how small a spark sets a great forest ablaze. / The tongue also is a fire, a world of wickedness among the parts of the body. It pollutes the whole person, sets the course of his life on fire, and is itself set on fire by hell. / All kinds of animals, birds, reptiles, and creatures of the sea are being tamed and have been tamed by man, ... <a href="/proverbs/4-24.htm">Proverbs 4:24</a> Put away deception from your mouth; keep your lips from perverse speech. <a href="/1_peter/3-10.htm">1 Peter 3:10</a> For, “Whoever would love life and see good days must keep his tongue from evil and his lips from deceitful speech. <a href="/colossians/4-6.htm">Colossians 4:6</a> Let your speech always be gracious, seasoned with salt, so that you may know how to answer everyone. <a href="/proverbs/10-32.htm">Proverbs 10:32</a> The lips of the righteous know what is fitting, but the mouth of the wicked is perverse. <a href="/james/1-26.htm">James 1:26</a> If anyone considers himself religious and yet does not bridle his tongue, he deceives his heart and his religion is worthless. <a href="/proverbs/15-2.htm">Proverbs 15:2</a> The tongue of the wise commends knowledge, but the mouth of the fool spouts folly. <a href="/matthew/15-11.htm">Matthew 15:11</a> A man is not defiled by what enters his mouth, but by what comes out of it.” <a href="/proverbs/17-7.htm">Proverbs 17:7</a> Eloquent words are unfit for a fool; how much worse are lying lips to a ruler! <a href="/1_corinthians/15-33.htm">1 Corinthians 15:33</a> Do not be deceived: “Bad company corrupts good character.” <a href="/proverbs/18-21.htm">Proverbs 18:21</a> Life and death are in the power of the tongue, and those who love it will eat its fruit. <a href="/romans/13-13.htm">Romans 13:13</a> Let us behave decently, as in the daytime, not in carousing and drunkenness, not in sexual immorality and debauchery, not in dissension and jealousy. <a href="/proverbs/21-23.htm">Proverbs 21:23</a> He who guards his mouth and tongue keeps his soul from distress.</div> <a name="tsk" id="tsk"><div class="vheading">Treasury of Scripture</div>Neither filthiness, nor foolish talking, nor jesting, which are not convenient: but rather giving of thanks.filthiness.<a href="/ephesians/4-29.htm">Ephesians 4:29</a> Let no corrupt communication proceed out of your mouth, but that which is good to the use of edifying, that it may minister grace unto the hearers.<a href="/proverbs/12-23.htm">Proverbs 12:23</a> A prudent man concealeth knowledge: but the heart of fools proclaimeth foolishness.<a href="/proverbs/15-2.htm">Proverbs 15:2</a> The tongue of the wise useth knowledge aright: but the mouth of fools poureth out foolishness.convenient.<a href="/romans/1-28.htm">Romans 1:28</a> And even as they did not like to retain God in their knowledge, God gave them over to a reprobate mind, to do those things which are not convenient;<a href="/philemon/1-8.htm">Philemon 1:8</a> Wherefore, though I might be much bold in Christ to enjoin thee that which is convenient,but.<a href="/ephesians/5-19.htm">Ephesians 5:19,20</a> Speaking to yourselves in psalms and hymns and spiritual songs, singing and making melody in your heart to the Lord; … <a href="/ephesians/1-16.htm">Ephesians 1:16</a> Cease not to give thanks for you, making mention of you in my prayers;<a href="/psalms/33-1.htm">Psalm 33:1</a> Rejoice in the LORD, O ye righteous: for praise is comely for the upright.<div class="vheading">Jump to Previous</div><a href="/ephesians/2-18.htm">Alike</a> <a href="/1_corinthians/16-4.htm">Appropriate</a> <a href="/galatians/6-12.htm">Avoid</a> <a href="/ephesians/4-22.htm">Behaviour</a> <a href="/numbers/15-21.htm">Coarse</a> <a href="/1_corinthians/16-12.htm">Convenient</a> <a href="/2_corinthians/7-1.htm">Filthiness</a> <a href="/galatians/1-16.htm">Fit</a> <a href="/ephesians/5-3.htm">Fitting</a> <a href="/galatians/3-3.htm">Foolish</a> <a href="/ephesians/4-28.htm">Instead</a> <a href="/genesis/19-14.htm">Jesting</a> <a href="/2_corinthians/4-9.htm">Low</a> <a href="/ephesians/1-16.htm">Praise</a> <a href="/ephesians/4-28.htm">Rather</a> <a href="/ephesians/5-3.htm">Right</a> <a href="/1_corinthians/14-35.htm">Shameful</a> <a href="/hosea/7-11.htm">Silly</a> <a href="/galatians/6-7.htm">Sport</a> <a href="/ephesians/4-29.htm">Talk</a> <a href="/2_corinthians/11-23.htm">Talking</a> <a href="/ephesians/1-16.htm">Thanks</a> <a href="/2_corinthians/9-12.htm">Thanksgiving</a> <a href="/ephesians/4-31.htm">Words</a><div class="vheading2">Jump to Next</div><a href="/hebrews/2-14.htm">Alike</a> <a href="/2_thessalonians/1-3.htm">Appropriate</a> <a href="/1_thessalonians/4-3.htm">Avoid</a> <a href="/ephesians/5-8.htm">Behaviour</a> <a href="/numbers/15-20.htm">Coarse</a> <a href="/philemon/1-8.htm">Convenient</a> <a href="/james/1-21.htm">Filthiness</a> <a href="/colossians/1-12.htm">Fit</a> <a href="/ephesians/6-18.htm">Fitting</a> <a href="/ephesians/5-6.htm">Foolish</a> <a href="/ephesians/5-11.htm">Instead</a> <a href="/genesis/19-14.htm">Jesting</a> <a href="/james/1-9.htm">Low</a> <a href="/ephesians/5-19.htm">Praise</a> <a href="/ephesians/5-11.htm">Rather</a> <a href="/ephesians/5-6.htm">Right</a> <a href="/ephesians/5-12.htm">Shameful</a> <a href="/1_timothy/4-7.htm">Silly</a> <a href="/2_peter/2-10.htm">Sport</a> <a href="/colossians/4-6.htm">Talk</a> <a href="/ephesians/5-32.htm">Talking</a> <a href="/ephesians/5-20.htm">Thanks</a> <a href="/philippians/4-6.htm">Thanksgiving</a> <a href="/ephesians/5-5.htm">Words</a><div class="vheading2">Ephesians 5</div>1. <a href="/ephesians/5-1.htm">After general exhortations to love;</a> 3. <a href="/ephesians/5-3.htm">to flee sexual immorality;</a> 4. <a href="/ephesians/5-4.htm">and all uncleanness;</a> 7. <a href="/ephesians/5-7.htm">not to converse with the wicked;</a> 15. <a href="/ephesians/5-15.htm">to walk carefully;</a> 18. <a href="/ephesians/5-18.htm">and to be filled with the Spirit;</a> 22. <a href="/ephesians/5-22.htm">he descends to the particular duties, how wives ought to obey their husbands;</a> 25. <a href="/ephesians/5-25.htm">and husbands ought to love their wives,</a> 32. <a href="/ephesians/5-32.htm">even as Christ does his church.</a> </div></div><div id="mdd"><div align="center"><div class="bot2"><table align="center" width="100%"><tr><td><div align="center"> <script id="3d27ed63fc4348d5b062c4527ae09445"> (new Image()).src = 'https://capi.connatix.com/tr/si?token=51ce25d5-1a8c-424a-8695-4bd48c750f35&cid=3a9f82d0-4344-4f8d-ac0c-e1a0eb43a405'; 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The term "obscenity" refers to language or behavior that is indecent or offensive. In the Greco-Roman world, where Ephesus was a major city, such language was common in public discourse and entertainment. The call to avoid obscenity reflects the transformation expected in believers, aligning with the holiness of God (<a href="/1_peter/1-15.htm">1 Peter 1:15-16</a>). This aligns with the broader biblical theme of purity in speech, as seen in <a href="/james/3-10.htm">James 3:10</a>, which emphasizes that blessings and curses should not come from the same mouth.foolish talk "Foolish talk" refers to senseless or empty conversation that lacks edification. In the cultural context of Ephesus, where philosophical debates and rhetoric were prevalent, Paul warns against engaging in discussions that do not build up or reflect the wisdom of God. <a href="/proverbs/15-2.htm">Proverbs 15:2</a> contrasts the speech of the wise with that of fools, highlighting the importance of speaking with purpose and understanding. This admonition encourages believers to use their words to reflect God's wisdom and truth.or crude joking "Crude joking" involves humor that is vulgar or inappropriate. In the ancient world, jesting often included sexual innuendos or derogatory remarks, which were common in social gatherings. Paul’s instruction here is to avoid humor that degrades or dishonors others, aligning with the call to love one's neighbor (<a href="/matthew/22-39.htm">Matthew 22:39</a>). This reflects the biblical principle of using speech to edify and encourage, as seen in <a href="/colossians/4-6.htm">Colossians 4:6</a>, which advises believers to let their conversation be full of grace.which are out of character The phrase "out of character" suggests that such behaviors are inconsistent with the identity of a believer. Christians are called to be imitators of God (<a href="/ephesians/5.htm">Ephesians 5:1</a>), and their conduct should reflect their new nature in Christ (<a href="/2_corinthians/5-17.htm">2 Corinthians 5:17</a>). This transformation is a key theme in Paul's letters, emphasizing that believers are set apart for God's purposes. The call to avoid these behaviors underscores the importance of living in a manner worthy of the calling received (<a href="/ephesians/4.htm">Ephesians 4:1</a>).but rather thanksgiving Thanksgiving is presented as the appropriate alternative to negative speech. This reflects a heart transformed by gratitude for God's grace and blessings. In the cultural context, where gratitude was often directed towards deities for favors, Paul redirects this to the one true God. Thanksgiving is a recurring theme in Paul's writings, such as in <a href="/philippians/4-6.htm">Philippians 4:6</a>, where believers are encouraged to present their requests to God with thanksgiving. This attitude fosters a spirit of contentment and joy, aligning with the peace of Christ that rules in believers' hearts (<a href="/colossians/3-15.htm">Colossians 3:15</a>).<div class="vheading2">Persons / Places / Events</div>1. <a href="/topical/p/paul_the_apostle.htm">Paul the Apostle</a> The author of the letter to the Ephesians, providing guidance to the early Christian church. 2. <a href="/topical/e/ephesus.htm">Ephesus</a> A major city in Asia Minor where the Ephesian church was located, known for its diverse culture and pagan practices. 3. <a href="/topical/e/early_christian_church.htm">Early Christian Church</a> The recipients of Paul's letter, who were navigating their faith amidst a predominantly non-Christian society.<div class="vheading2">Teaching Points</div><a href="/topical/g/guarding_our_speech.htm">Guarding Our Speech</a> As Christians, we are called to be mindful of our words, ensuring they reflect our faith and values. Obscenity and crude joking are inconsistent with a life transformed by Christ. <a href="/topical/c/cultivating_thanksgiving.htm">Cultivating Thanksgiving</a> Instead of engaging in negative speech, we should focus on gratitude. Thanksgiving is a powerful antidote to negativity and aligns our hearts with God's will. <a href="/topical/r/reflecting_christ's_character.htm">Reflecting Christ's Character</a> Our speech should be a reflection of Christ's character. By avoiding foolish talk, we demonstrate the transformative power of the Holy Spirit in our lives. <a href="/topical/i/influence_on_others.htm">Influence on Others</a> Our words have the power to influence those around us. By choosing words of encouragement and gratitude, we can positively impact our communities and bear witness to our faith. <a href="/topical/p/practical_steps_for_change.htm">Practical Steps for Change</a> Implementing practical steps such as accountability partners, prayer, and scripture memorization can help us align our speech with biblical principles.<div class="vheading2">Lists and Questions</div><a href="/top10/lessons_from_ephesians_5.htm">Top 10 Lessons from Ephesians 5</a> <a href="/q/what's_the_biblical_meaning_of_'coarse_jesting'.htm">What is the biblical meaning of "coarse jesting"?</a> <a href="/q/what_does_the_bible_say_on_romance.htm">What is the biblical meaning of 'coarse jesting'?</a> <a href="/q/what_does_the_bible_say_on_swearing.htm">What does the Bible say about using foul language?</a> <a href="/q/is_it_sinful_to_joke.htm">Is it sinful to joke?</a><a name="commentary" id="commentary"></a><div class="vheading2"><a href="/commentaries/ellicott/ephesians/5.htm">Ellicott's Commentary for English Readers</a></div>(4) Neither filthiness, nor foolish talking, nor jesting.--The word "filthiness" (unlike the "filthy communication" of the parallel passage in <a href="/colossians/3-8.htm" title=" But now you also put off all these; anger, wrath, malice, blasphemy, filthy communication out of your mouth.">Colossians 3:8</a>) is in itself a general word. But the connection with the words following, and the distinction from those going before, appear to show that St. Paul here uses it for "filthy talking." He is passing from impurity of the inward soul to impurity in outward expression. Of such foul speaking he appears to distinguish two forms. There is, first of all, "foolish talking," or the talk of "the fool," in the worst sense in which that word is used in Scripture (<a href="/matthew/5-22.htm" title="But I say to you, That whoever is angry with his brother without a cause shall be in danger of the judgment: and whoever shall say to his brother, Raca, shall be in danger of the council: but whoever shall say, You fool, shall be in danger of hell fire.">Matthew 5:22</a>; <a href="/matthew/23-17.htm" title="You fools and blind: for whether is greater, the gold, or the temple that sanctifies the gold?">Matthew 23:17</a>), as implying something worse than mere emptiness or blindness--describing the condition of the soul which has "lost its savour" (<a href="/matthew/5-13.htm" title="You are the salt of the earth: but if the salt have lost his flavor, with which shall it be salted? it is thereafter good for nothing, but to be cast out, and to be trodden under foot of men.">Matthew 5:13</a>), i.e., has ceased to distinguish what is right or wrong, wise or foolish, noble or base. There is then "jesting," i.e., properly, the more polished "versatility," which will find occasion for wit or levity in anything, however sacred, fearing nothing so much as to be dull, and mistaking all seriousness and reserve for dulness. It is notable that in classical Greek the word is sometimes used in a good sense, as a mean between "churlishness" and "obsequiousness," but yet hovers on the border of that condemnation which Christian gravity here pronounces unhesitatingly. The former kind of foul talking is coarse and brutal; the latter refined and deadly. Of both kinds Greek and Roman literature furnish specimens only too many and too striking.Which are not convenient.--That is, "which are out of character" in a Christian--a milder repetition (perhaps suggested by the ambiguous meaning of "jesting" noted above) of the indignant declaration in <a href="/ephesians/5-3.htm" title="But fornication, and all uncleanness, or covetousness, let it not be once named among you, as becomes saints;">Ephesians 5:3</a>, that it "becomes not saints that these foul things should be even named among them." They pollute the Christian mind and tongue even in condemning them. . . . <div class="vheading2"><a href="/commentaries/pulpit/ephesians/5.htm">Pulpit Commentary</a></div>Verse 4. - And filthiness; αἰσχρότης, implying that such things are disgraceful, ugly, revolting, the opposite of καλός, fair, comely, attractive. And foolish talking or jesting, which are not becoming. This would be well understood in sensual, frivolous Ephesus; a light, bantering, jesting kind of talk, seasoned with double entendres and obscene allusions, very pernicious in its moral effect. There is no reason to suppose that the apostle meant to condemn all play of humor, which is a Divine gift, and which in moderation has its own useful place as a means of refreshing and invigorating the spirit; it was the jesting associated with ribaldry that drew his reproof. But rather giving of thanks. Αὐχαριστία is somewhat similar in sound to εὐτραπελία, jesting: the reason for putting the one in opposition to the other is not very apparent; the meaning seems to be that, in place of giving vent to lively feelings in frivolous talk and jesting, it is better for Christians to do so by pouring out their hearts in thanksgivings to God for all his goodness. <a href="/commentaries/ephesians/5-4.htm">Parallel Commentaries ...</a> <a name="lexicon" id="lexicon"></a><div class="vheading">Greek</div>[Nor should there be] καὶ (kai) Conjunction <a href="/greek/strongs_2532.htm">Strong's 2532: </a> And, even, also, namely. obscenity, αἰσχρότης (aischrotēs) Noun - Nominative Feminine Singular <a href="/greek/strongs_151.htm">Strong's 151: </a> Obscenity, indecency, baseness. From aischros; shamefulness, i.e. Obscenity. foolish talk, μωρολογία (mōrologia) Noun - Nominative Feminine Singular <a href="/greek/strongs_3473.htm">Strong's 3473: </a> Foolish talking. From a compound of moros and lego; silly talk, i.e. Buffoonery. or ἢ (ē) Conjunction <a href="/greek/strongs_2228.htm">Strong's 2228: </a> Or, than. A primary particle of distinction between two connected terms; disjunctive, or; comparative, than. crude joking, εὐτραπελία (eutrapelia) Noun - Nominative Feminine Singular <a href="/greek/strongs_2160.htm">Strong's 2160: </a> Low jesting, ribaldry. From a compound of eu and a derivative of the base of trope; witticism, i.e. ribaldry. which ἃ (ha) Personal / Relative Pronoun - Nominative Neuter Plural <a href="/greek/strongs_3739.htm">Strong's 3739: </a> Who, which, what, that. are out of character, ἀνῆκεν (anēken) Verb - Imperfect Indicative Active - 3rd Person Singular <a href="/greek/strongs_433.htm">Strong's 433: </a> Is due, becoming, suitable, proper. From ana and heko; to attain to, i.e. be proper. but ἀλλὰ (alla) Conjunction <a href="/greek/strongs_235.htm">Strong's 235: </a> But, except, however. Neuter plural of allos; properly, other things, i.e. contrariwise. rather μᾶλλον (mallon) Adverb <a href="/greek/strongs_3123.htm">Strong's 3123: </a> More, rather. Neuter of the comparative of the same as malista; more) or rather. thanksgiving. εὐχαριστία (eucharistia) Noun - Nominative Feminine Singular <a href="/greek/strongs_2169.htm">Strong's 2169: </a> Thankfulness, gratitude; giving of thanks, thanksgiving. From eucharistos; gratitude; actively, grateful language. <div class="vheading">Links</div><a href="/niv/ephesians/5-4.htm">Ephesians 5:4 NIV</a> <a href="/nlt/ephesians/5-4.htm">Ephesians 5:4 NLT</a> <a href="/esv/ephesians/5-4.htm">Ephesians 5:4 ESV</a> <a href="/nasb/ephesians/5-4.htm">Ephesians 5:4 NASB</a> <a href="/kjv/ephesians/5-4.htm">Ephesians 5:4 KJV</a> <a href="//bibleapps.com/ephesians/5-4.htm">Ephesians 5:4 BibleApps.com</a> <a href="//bibliaparalela.com/ephesians/5-4.htm">Ephesians 5:4 Biblia Paralela</a> <a href="//holybible.com.cn/ephesians/5-4.htm">Ephesians 5:4 Chinese Bible</a> <a href="//saintebible.com/ephesians/5-4.htm">Ephesians 5:4 French Bible</a> <a href="/catholic/ephesians/5-4.htm">Ephesians 5:4 Catholic Bible</a> <a href="/ephesians/5-4.htm">NT Letters: Ephesians 5:4 Nor filthiness nor foolish talking nor jesting (Ephes. Eph. 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