Contributed by ~ Jonathan Tait ~ May 09, 2019
In 1999 Kathleen Norris wrote a book called Amazing Grace: a Vocabulary of Faith. In it she writes entries for various words of faith. Her book has been an inspiration to me. It has helped me to remember the importance of words, their meaning, and their use.
I’m astounded by the reactions I often get from other Christians when I employ words of faith. I’m saddened by how rarely we (and I) as followers of Jesus Christ use faith language intentionally.
Before I go any further I’ve already heard all (O.K. not all but many) of the arguments for using words that are easy to understand so as not to exclude anyone. But at what cost to faith vocabulary. Don’t get me wrong I’m not advocating using terms like eschatology or ecclesiology at every turn. But what about obedience, dependency, discipleship, grace, mercy, salvation, reconciliation, atonement, and so so many others.
“Avoid godless chatter, because those who indulge in it will become more and more ungodly.”
2 Timothy 2:16
Have we lost our vocabulary of faith?
Are we fearful of using words that … well … maybe only other Christians use?
I have to admit my vocabulary of faith was beginning to slip away on me and I consciously decided to reclaim it.
“But I tell you that everyone will have to give account on the day of judgment for every empty word they have spoken. For by your words you will be acquitted, and by your words you will be condemned.”
Matthew 12: 36-37
Reclaiming my faith vocabulary has most certainly helped me grow deeper in my faith and dependency on God as well as reorganizing my priorities. It has also led me to be more far more obedient. Words matter. The Word matters, and using faith language has enabled me to re-evaluate the meaning of so many words I either took for granted or didn’t even understand in the first place.
“Since, then, you have been raised with Christ, set your hearts on things above, where Christ is, seated at the right hand of God. Set your minds on things above, not on earthly things. For you died, and your life is now hidden with Christ in God. When Christ, who is your life, appears, then you also will appear with him in glory.”
Colossians 3:1-4
Employing more words of faith intentionally has guided me to set my mind on things above. It has also pointed me away from lazy and gratuitous language and thought.
Who knew?
I certainly didn’t know just how much the words I use affect the way I think … and act.
I have heard poetry described as “using the right word at the right time.”
In this sense, I hope to be the best and most faithful poet that I can be.
As a preacher and proclaimer (and there is a difference between the two – but that’s for another day) words are crucial.
I used to wince sometimes when I heard people speak “Christianese” now it garners my attention like never before.
Can words be stumbling blocks … for sure!
Can words close doors … for sure!
But they can also open doors, build bridges, plant seeds, and so much more.
As for me, I’m just trying to be more and more obedient to God.
I’m just trying to be more and more dependant on Him and lean further and further into His wisdom, goodness, beauty, and truth.
I’m just trying to reclaim a vocabulary of faith based on His good and beautiful Word.
As always to God be the glory.
Now … where is that scripture passage that has to do with patience and submission that I was thinking about last night?
CONTRIBUTOR ~ Jonathan Tait
HARP & STONES 