Failures of Community - Sarcasm

Failures in Christian Community - Sarcasm

This past Sunday as we discussed Christian Community, I began to think about the negative versions of community I have experienced in church. So for the next few days, I want to bring these to light. The first detriment to community I think about is sarcasm. 

Now, I know that I am one of the worst offenders of this. Sarcasm has become the cheap conversation substitute that has taken over our friendships, our churches, and our workplaces. I was at a ministry luncheon a few weeks back and the leader started the whole talk with this statement: “Sarcasm is the love language of this group.” While it got a few cheap laughs, it broke my heart to think that in a collection of ministry leaders we are choosing sarcasm over encouragement. 

I am reminded of Ephesians 4:29 today.

29 Let no corrupting talk come out of your mouths, but only such as is good for building up, as fits the occasion, that it may give grace to those who hear.

Sarcasm is fun. Sarcasm is funny. Sarcasm is not building up. Sarcasm does not give grace. Rather than joke sarcastically, what if we spoke intentionally? Rather than disparaging a friend in jest, we spoke highly of a friend seriously. Sarcasm is a cheap substitute for honest feelings and conversations. 

Today, I challenge you to fight the temptation to be sarcastic. Speak in a way that builds others up.