While scanning my emails the other day I say the word circumlocution as the word of the day in the subject line. It immediately caught my eye, so I stopped to open the email and get more information. Circumlocution means the use of many words where fewer would do, especially in a deliberate attempt to be vague or evasive.

Have you ever found yourself in a conversation where someone just couldn’t get to the point? They kept talking in circles, using more words than necessary to express a simple idea? That’s circumlocution for you.

Imagine this: you’re at a meeting, and instead of addressing the topic directly, someone starts rambling on and on, beating around the bush, and you’re left thinking, “Get to the point already!” That’s circumlocution in action.

But it’s not just about long-windedness. Circumlocution can also be about avoiding saying something directly, especially if it’s uncomfortable or sensitive. It’s like dancing around the issue instead of facing it head-on. 

It’s that fancy term for using more words than necessary to say something that could be said more clearly and directly. Now, think about the Bible. Some might say it’s full of circumlocution, right? It may seem daunting at first, but hear me out. 

God didn’t pen this intricate love letter to confuse us. No, He gave us His Word to guide, inspire, and reveal His truth to us. So, while it might take some time to grasp, the Bible isn’t a puzzle meant to baffle us. It’s a treasure trove of wisdom waiting to be uncovered. 

Let’s delve deeper into the Scriptures to reinforce this message: 

1. Psalm 119:105 (NIV): “Your word is a lamp for my feet, a light on my path.” This verse reminds us that God’s Word serves as a guiding light in our lives, illuminating our path and helping us navigate through life’s complexities with clarity. 

2. Proverbs 3:5-6 (NIV): “Trust in the Lord with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding; in all your ways submit to him, and he will make your paths straight.” When we trust in God and His Word, He promises to guide us and make our paths straight, cutting through the confusion and leading us with clarity. 

3. 2 Timothy 3:16-17 (NIV): “All Scripture is God-breathed and is useful for teaching, rebuking, correcting and training in righteousness, so that the servant of God may be thoroughly equipped for every good work.” This passage underscores the importance of Scripture in our lives, affirming that it equips us for every good work and provides clarity in our walk with God. 

4. James 1:5 (NIV): “If any of you lacks wisdom, you should ask God, who gives generously to all without finding fault, and it will be given to you.” When we encounter confusion or lack understanding, we can turn to God in prayer, asking for wisdom. He promises to give it to us generously, helping us navigate through any circumlocution we may encounter. 

5. 1 Corinthians 14:33 (NIV): “For God is not a God of disorder but of peace—as in all the congregations of the Lord’s people.” This verse reminds us that God is a God of clarity and order, not confusion. As we seek to understand His Word and communicate it to others, let’s do so in a spirit of peace and clarity, reflecting His character to the world. 

When it comes to discussing the Bible, we must strive for clarity. We shouldn’t overcomplicate things or dance around the truth. Instead, let’s communicate what we’ve learned with simplicity and honesty. After all, the essence of God’s message is crystal clear: love God, love others, and live in His truth. 

If you struggle or stumble around when talking about God’s word or the message of salvation you are not alone. There are instances in the Bible where individuals engaged in circumlocution or used many words to convey a message. One notable example is found in the story of Jonah. When God called Jonah to deliver a message of warning to the city of Nineveh, Jonah initially resisted and attempted to flee from God’s presence. However, after being swallowed by a great fish and experiencing God’s deliverance, Jonah reluctantly obeyed and went to Nineveh. 

Even though Jonah eventually delivered God’s message to the people of Nineveh, his approach could be seen as somewhat circumlocutory. Instead of directly proclaiming God’s judgment and calling for repentance, Jonah initially skirted around the issue and offered a vague warning of impending disaster. It was only after the people of Nineveh responded with genuine repentance that Jonah’s message became more direct and focused. 

Despite Jonah’s initial reluctance and indirect approach, God still used him to bring about repentance and salvation in Nineveh. This serves as a reminder that even when we stumble in our communication or struggle to convey God’s message clearly, He can still work through us to accomplish His purposes. 

Another example of circumlocution in the Bible can be seen in the interactions between Jesus and the religious leaders of His day. In many instances, the Pharisees and teachers of the law engaged in lengthy debates and used convoluted arguments to challenge Jesus and undermine His teachings. However, Jesus consistently responded with clarity and authority, cutting through their circumlocution and revealing the truth of God’s Word. 

In contrast to the circumlocution of the religious leaders, Jesus spoke with simplicity and directness, conveying profound truths in clear and accessible language. His example serves as a model for us as we seek to communicate God’s message to others. 

Ultimately, the Bible encourages us to speak the truth in love, avoiding unnecessary complexity or ambiguity in our communication. As we engage with God’s Word and seek to share it with others, let’s strive for clarity, sincerity, and humility, trusting that God will use our efforts to accomplish His purposes.

So, how do we navigate the waters of biblical understanding and communication? It starts with knowing the Bible for ourselves. Dive into its pages, seek understanding through prayer, and rely on the Holy Spirit to illuminate its truths. 

Once we’ve grasped its message, let’s communicate it boldly and clearly. Whether we’re sharing with a friend, leading a Bible study, or engaging in spiritual conversations, let’s speak with confidence, relying on the guidance of the Holy Spirit. 

And finally, let’s approach discussions about the Bible with humility and openness. We’re all on a journey of learning and growing in our faith, so let’s listen with empathy, share with clarity, and seek understanding together. 

Remember, the Bible isn’t meant to confuse us but to enlighten us. So, let’s embrace its message with clarity, confidence, and compassion as we journey together in faith.