Neither filthiness, nor foolish talking, nor jesting, which are not fitting: but rather giving of thanks.
All Commentaries on Ephesians 5:4 Go To Ephesians 5
John Chrysostom
AD 407
Let there be no obscenities, either in word or deed, that might quench the flame of the spirit. For words often lead the way to actions. Then, in order that it may not appear that he is a spoilsport or too austere, Paul gently shows that he is not an opponent of playfulness. For he qualifies this instruction by explaining its reason: You are not to indulge in that form of silly talk that is “not befitting” to this community. Better to offer thanksgiving than to spew out such talk. What good is it if you make an unbefitting witticism? All you have done is raise a laugh. Tell me, does the shoemaker use any instrument that does not befit his trade? Would he purchase a tool that does not contribute to his craft? Of course not. Similarly, that which is of no use to our purpose is nothing to us…. Inordinate levity may easily open the door to blasphemy, and the blasphemer heaps up countless other evils for himself. .
