Expositor's Bible Commentary Commentary Ephesians 4:29

"Let no corrupt speech proceed out of your mouth, but such as is good for edifying as the need may be, that it may give grace to them that hear." — Ephesians 4:29 (ASV)

Not only will Christians do “the good” (v.28); they will also speak “what is helpful.” No unhealthy language will pass through their lips. “Unwholesome” is that which is itself rotten and disseminates rottenness. When joined with “talk” (GK 3364), it may signify not simply bad language but malicious gossip and slander; anything that injures others and sparks dissension is covered by this expression. Christians, however, will only say what is calculated to build up the church (Ephesians 2:21–22; 4:12, 16) by encouraging its members. This is to be done whenever the need arises, so that those who hear may receive a blessing. The ultimate source of all blessing is God himself. The channel may be human, and so even the everyday conversation of Christians may become a means of grace to others.