Walking Together Podcast · The Gathering Surf City

Ep. 33 - Cussin'

·43 min·4 clips

A former Marine explains how God convicted him to stop cussing and find better words.

This episode of the Walking Together Podcast features hosts Jordan, Nick, and Kyle alongside special guest John Hassel, a former U.S. Marine, exploring the topic of profanity from a Christian perspective. John identifies himself as a "former cusser," attributing his change to personal conviction and the influence of positive community. The group attempts to define terms like profanity, vulgarity, and blasphemy, noting cultural shifts in what is considered offensive language. Nick shares a personal story about his young daughter unexpectedly using strong language, highlighting how speech impacts others. The conversation references biblical passages, including Ephesians 4:29, which advises against "unwholesome talk" and encourages speech that builds others up. Another key verse discussed is James 3, which describes the tongue's power for both praise and cursing. A surprising moment involves a discussion of the Greek word "skubalon," used by the Apostle Paul in Philippians 3:8 and translated as "dung" or "rubbish," questioning its potential offensiveness in its original context. The hosts share personal testimonies of conviction, with Jordan recounting how he felt "icky" using profanity at a party after beginning his faith journey. John Crist's story is recounted, where a boss responded to a porn confession with empathy about his own pill addiction, illustrating grace over condemnation. The group debates whether avoiding certain words is legalistic, emphasizing the intention behind speech over a rigid list of banned terms. They reference 1 Corinthians 10:23, noting that while "everything is permissible," not everything is beneficial or constructive. An insightful analogy compares the tongue to a fire that can either warm or destroy. The tone is conversational, candid, and reflective, blending personal anecdotes with scriptural examination. This episode would appeal to Christians grappling with the intersection of faith, modern culture, and personal conduct, or anyone interested in a nuanced discussion about language. Listeners seeking a highly structured, academic theological debate might find the informal, meandering style less engaging.

As heard by us

A candid table talk on cussing, conviction, and grace.

Walking Together opens with a plain question about cussing and lets it grow into a careful talk about conviction, humility, surrender, and the place of wise counsel.

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Why you'd press play

For when you want a no-pretense conversation about cussing, conviction, and grace.

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