"Code" terms and phrases inspire certain audiences while remaining “off the radar” for others. Theologically progressive Christians, and many other religious people, primarily situate themselves in the “mainstream” culture. They use jargon specific to their faiths, but mostly only in the context of their faith communities. However, evangelical and fundamentalist Christians often use “code” language publicly to mark their identity as a distinct subculture in contrast and often in contradiction with the “mainstream” culture. Using this code language in public rhetoric can be powerful in making an emotional connection with people who are part of this subculture, while signifying little for those who aren’t.
Evangelical/Fundamentalist Christian “Code Terms”
God laid it on my heart
I have a heart for (“I have a heart for the special needs of the elderly”)
Let’s invoke a hedge of protection
I have discerned
I have a word of the Lord for you on that (an interpretation of scripture, or an opinion that feels like it came from God)
Let’s love up on people (“We need to love up on our school teachers”)
Let’s get prayed up (common in African American churches)
Let’s press into God (“Let’s press into God in prayer for….”)
Afterglow (after a spiritual moment)
Bathe it in prayer (“Let us bathe this decision in prayer”)
Missional (“My missional imagination is activated for making health care available to all Americans”)
Walk the aisle, pray the prayer
Blessed and favored
Name it and claim it (popular in “prosperity gospel” churches)
Christ-follower (rather than Christian – a current popular conception among evangelicals is that Christianity is not a religion – emphasizing that it is a way of life)
Set me on fire (for a cause, for a mission)
Put on the armor of God
Iron sharpens iron
Freedom in Christ
Wonder-working power (of the blood of Christ – from an old hymn)
Mormon (Latter Day Saints) Code Terms
A type and a shadow (something foretold or suggested from scripture or other tradition)
Nourish and strengthen (used in prayers and blessings)
Long and suffering (enduring something) -- Sustain -- Endure to the end
Heavenly Father (for God)
Good for our bodies -- Wholesome
Wherefore -- It came to pass
In the fullness of time
The more we give the more we will receive
Calling from God
Tender mercies
Bear testimony (telling one’s story)
Lengthen your stride (do more to help)
Magnify your calling (take on a task)
Provident (beneficial)
Unrighteous dominion (abuse of power)
Softened heart (open to accepting or doing something)