Wording of this Handout:
A euphemism is a word which people use to cover another word. For example instead of saying "people" we can say "units", and instead of saying "Satanism" we can say "New Age", and instead of saying "wicked" we can say "mischievous".Here are some of the euphemisms which unbelievers use to cover sinful behavior : Gay, blotto, R18, liberation, Women's Lib, enlightenment, spiritual, spin-doctor, borrow, safe sex, adult entertainment, creative accounting, sleeping around, partner, politically correct, party, wicked, freedom fighters . . . all these words are used to cover something else - usually something which is immoral.When Jesus went about among the people He always spoke honestly. He never tried to cover His meanings. He spoke of "repentance" and "hell", "judgment" and "rewards". People were often offended at His straight-talking, but at least they always knew where He stood!Christians are encouraged to avoid euphemisms, and to speak the truth in a loving way. People may not agree with us but they will respect us for it.The Bible says: "But speaking the truth in love, may grow up into him in all/things". Ephesians 4:15 (King James version)