Is Verbal Communication Possible?

Despite what Postmodernism has espoused regarding verbal language, God created language as a primary means for human communication. Words are not a prison house as some postmodern philophers assert. On the contrary, by words we are able to effectively build, systematize, and communicate knowledge. Because God is the originator of language, we can trust that communication through verbal language is possible and reliable.

However, one may conceptualize something slightly different from another when an object is spoken of. For example, when one things of 'dog', a general concept is thought of, yet any number of people may immediately conceive of any variety of 'dog'. However, that does not negate the use of language, for it is sufficient to communicate the essence of what is being spoken of, which is why we can carry on a conversation and not simply talk past each other in constant confusion.

Though different conceptions of 'dog' will come to mind from person to person as mentioned previously, the fundamentals will not be different. The fundamentals of 'dog' would be something like 'four legged mammal that barks'. Nonetheless, this does not totally break it down because the words 'four legged mammal that barks' will bring to mind a variety of things also. For this reason, an alleged 'prison house' comes in to play, for we use words to describe other words ad infinitum. Nevertheless, there is enough understanding present to communicate in a meaningful way without talking past each other and being oblivious to what one is saying.

The irony of the debate is that those who deny language usefuleness must assume the reality of verbal language; otherwise, they would not make arguments against using words by using words!

The Biblical Worldview is the only worldview that substantiates the reality and understandability of this short piece of writing you are reading right this second. Because God is the fountain of language, we can trust the realiability of verbal communication, and by His very Word all things were made that came into being (John 1).

Why then do we have miscommunication? We live in a fallen world (Gen 3), and Adam's sin caused havoc on all facets of life, including communication. However, God grants enough grace to maintain verbal order while at the same time magnifying the destructive effects of sin.

Let us therefore thank God for verbal language and the grace he bestows upon us in all facets of life, espeically salvation! To Him be the glory alone! Amen!