Why Clarity Beats Impressiveness in the Church

You remember those old Peanuts cartoons where Charlie Brown’s teacher talked? All you heard was: “Wah wah wah wah wah.” Real words were being spoken, but none of it landed.
That’s funny in a cartoon. It’s frustrating in a work meeting or a tech support call. But Paul says in 1 Corinthians 14 that when the church communicates God’s truth without clarity, that’s exactly what happens. People hear something, but it doesn’t help them follow Jesus. It just sounds like noise.

And here’s the point: God doesn’t call us to be impressive.

He calls us to be clear.

Paul told the Corinthians to “pursue love, and earnestly desire the spiritual gifts, especially that you may prophesy” (v.1). Why? Because prophecy—speaking God’s truth in plain, understandable words—builds up the church. It strengthens, encourages, and comforts. In contrast, tongues without interpretation, no matter how flashy, only confuse.

The same is true for us. A powerful sermon filled with theological jargon might impress people, but if it leaves them scratching their heads, it misses the point. Paul says he’d rather speak five words people can understand than ten thousand words that sound spiritual but make no sense (v.19).

That’s convicting, because if we’re honest, we live in a culture—even a church culture—that often values what looks impressive over what is truly helpful. But Paul makes it clear: if it doesn’t build others up, it isn’t love. And without love, our words are just clanging cymbals (13:1).

So what does this look like for everyday Christians?

Parents: When you talk to your kids about faith, don’t bury them in churchy words they can’t grasp. Explain truth simply. Tell them why Jesus matters in a way they can actually understand.

Small group leaders: Resist the urge to sound deep. Aim to be clear. Ask yourself: “Will this help people walk with Jesus on Thursday morning?”

Everyday conversations: When you share encouragement, pray aloud, or talk about the gospel at work, clarity is love. Choose words that connect instead of impress.

Here’s the takeaway: the most spiritual thing you may do this week isn’t using big words, but speaking simple, truthful ones that build someone’s faith.

When love leads, clarity wins. And when clarity wins, the church is strengthened.