For by your words you will be justified, and by your words you will be condemned.
In this saying, Jesus clearly shows the immense influence of speech on a person’s spiritual condition and on the final judgment. A person’s words reflect the depths of his heart—his thoughts, values, and faith. They can either testify to his righteousness or condemn him, depending on what those words are filled with. On the day of judgment, good, true, and honest words will testify to a person’s righteousness; conversely, evil, poisonous, and deceitful words will testify to his condemnation. This saying calls people to pay attention to their words, because they not only express their character, but also have spiritual and eternal consequences.