When WORDS get in the way

A condition which seems to afflict most groups of people when they’ve been together for any length of time is that they begin speaking in a different language. 

You’ve heard it. People ‘in the know’ using special words when talking about their particular area of expertise (or when trying to give that impression!). Sometimes they’re not even words but abbreviations, or a bunch of letters thrown together to form an obscure acronym; it’s like some kind of secret code.

Why do people do this?  On the positive side, using ‘jargon’ can be a useful way to convey complex ideas when conversing on a subject with others who have a common interest. Think how useful medical jargon is in the time-pressured environment of an emergency operating theatre. It can be life-saving.  However, as with any ‘foreign language’, jargon sadly can also act as a barrier, effectively preventing many from gaining any real understanding of some subjects.

God’s message for mankind found in the Bible is no exception. Some people inevitably perceive it as shrouded by unfamiliar and mysterious religious words. Perceived as this, many put it aside and conclude it’s not for them.  It turns out that God’s message is remarkably simple, straight forward and jargon-free when you take the time to read and understand it.  It’s logical, clear and incredibly insightful.

During all our activities at our home in Union Passage, we are acutely aware of the dangers of ‘religious jargon’. We never want words to get in the way of understanding – it’s too important for that. In fact, we invite you to tell us if you ever experience us doing so!

Put us to the test this month. July is ‘Simplifying Bible Jargon’ month, where we’ll be doing just that at 10am every Sunday morning. Come along and see how we do.  We’d love to see you.

Useful passage to look up: John ch3 v 16

Photo by Jason Rosewell on Unsplash