What Does the Bible Say About Joking And Laughter?

What Does God Say About Jokes?

The sermon explores a Christian perspective on joking and humor, what does God say about jokes? Drawing on Proverbs 26:18-19, which warns against using deception and excusing it as a joke. This prompts an inquiry into whether joking aligns with biblical principles and the nature of Christ.

Biblical Context on Humor

• Scripture’s View on Humor: The Bible provides instances of sarcasm, such as Elijah mocking false gods (1 Kings 18), and laughter as a response to joy or mockery. However, laughter is often depicted as solemn, like God laughing at the folly of His enemies (Psalm 2:4).
• Coarse Jesting: Ephesians 5:4 condemns jesting that involves vulgarity, sexual innuendo, or crudeness, urging Christians to uphold purity in speech. Philippians 4:8 advises believers to focus on what is honorable, pure, and praiseworthy.
• Appropriate Laughter: Ecclesiastes 3:4 acknowledges a time to laugh, affirming that joyful laughter can uplift the spirit. Proverbs 17:22 highlights that “a joyful heart is good medicine.”

Practical Guidance for Christians

• Motivation and Impact: Humor should not humiliate, belittle, or harm others. It must align with Christlike humility and avoid prideful or condescending tones.
• Pranks and Jokes: Playful humor is acceptable if it fosters mutual joy without offense. Christians must gauge the intent and reaction, ensuring jokes do not lead to harm or misunderstanding.
• Entertainment Choices: Christians should evaluate the content of comedic material against biblical values, avoiding shows or humor that promote immorality or blasphemy. Philippians 4:8 serves as a guide for what believers should dwell on.

The Example of Christ

• While Scripture does not explicitly record Jesus laughing, He was fully human, capable of experiencing joy. His role as a “man of sorrows” (Isaiah 53:3) reflects the gravity of His mission, emphasizing the seriousness of life and the weight of eternal matters.

Key Takeaway:

Christians can embrace humor that is wholesome, uplifting, and God-honoring. Speech and laughter should glorify God, reflecting the character of Christ and edifying others. By filtering humor through biblical principles, believers maintain testimonies that glorify God.

For deeper study, refer to Tim Conway’s study, Are You a Man of Sorrows or Laughter?