Lalia (λαλιά) refers to the manner in which a person speaks. It is closely related to logos (λόγος), which generally means “word,” though lalia more specifically denotes the characteristics or mannerisms of spoken expression.
Peter’s manner of speech exposed him as a follower of the Messiah (Matthew 26:73). The Samaritans who came to investigate the testimony of the woman claiming the Messiah was at Jacob’s well did not believe because of her words alone, but because they heard Jesus’ manner of speech for themselves (John 4:42). The leaders of Israel could not experientially know Jesus’ speech because they were unable to listen to His words. This was because they were out from their father the devil and could not handle the truth (John 8:43).
In the term katalalias (καταλαλιὰς), the addition of the preposition kata (κατά) to lalia (λαλιά) conveys speech that demeans or denounces another person. Those who judge others while failing to uphold the very standards they impose often employ this form of speech to patronize those who confront them for their heretical ways (James 4:11). Unbelievers will use this manner of speaking against those who refuse to participate in their corrupt practices (1 Peter 3:16). When we encounter this type of opposition, our conduct should be honorable, not repaying wrong for wrong. In this way, when they speak against us as though we are the ones doing wrong, our good works will testify to a proper opinion of God on the day we are examined by others, and they will be put to shame (1 Peter 2:12).
Speech that speaks down to others arises from a carnal frame of mind (2 Corinthians 12:20). As children of the light, this type of speech has no place in our methods of communication (1 Peter 2:1). Speaking down is found alongside selfish ambition, inner burning anger, whisperings, and deceit, which are all works of the flesh. Although this type of speech is not a sin, it is classified as unrighteousness (Romans 1:30). How we speak is important, for words can have a profound impact on others. Thus, our words should also be with grace, seasoned with salt, that we may know how to answer properly—not returning wrong for wrong, but overcoming what is wrong with doing things properly (Romans 12:17). Rather than returning a person’s rancid or disrespectful speech in kind, we should respond with good speech, while speaking the truth (1 Peter 3:9).
Therefore, it is important to be slow to speak (James 1:19), because we are listening attentively to what is being said for the purpose of giving a response that is appropriate for the situation—not merely waiting for our turn to speak. We are to speak with an element of grace in our words, not speaking in a manner that relates to the merit of the individual, but in a way that meets the need of the situation, so that through our words we build up rather than tear down. We are not to use persuasive speech from human wisdom to manipulate others (1 Corinthians 2:4; Colossians 2:4). Instead, we are to speak the truth in love, and love always seeks the best for the one loved—for love will never accept a lie (Ephesians 4:15).