(Pastor Jamal Bryant preaching at New Birth Missionary Baptist Church)

Church congregations should pay special attention when pastors use violent rhetoric in the pulpit.

During his April 21st sermon, Jamal Bryant used symbolism to compare the wild animals on the ark who were not on a leash to the people in own congregation.

“Here’s the flip side, the flip side is the people on the boat that need to thank me cuz I knew you was a rat. God, y’all ain’t saying nothing to me. I knew you was nothing but a snake and I could have killed you myself …”

After preaching the sermon, Jamal Bryant shared on Instagram a video clip of the incendiary words with an explanation:

“Self restraint is an under appreciated discipline. Some people are really blessed that you have it because you had the power to damage brands, reputations and businesses. May your reward come to you swiftly!”

Bryant and his predecessor Eddie Long have both used the word “kill” frequently in sermons. A search for the word “kill” appears 773 times in sermon videos.

Televangelist Benny Hinn is another preacher known for using violent language.

In 1989, Hinn lashed out at his critics while speaking to Trinity Broadcasting Network viewers, “I’ve looked for one verse in the Bible. I just can’t seem to find it, one verse that said if you don’t like him kill him. I really wish I could find it… Sometimes I wish God would give me a Holy Ghost machine gun. I’ll blow your head off.”

Video of the infamous “Holy Ghost machine gun” quote is viewable on  YouTube.

Meanwhile, the Bible says that our words reveal what is in our heart. “The good person out of the good treasure of his heart produces good, and the evil person out of his evil treasure produces evil, for out of the abundance of the heart his mouth speaks.” – Luke 6:45 ESV