Conversation

Conversation in the King James Version does not primarily mean verbal dialogue but rather manner of life, conduct, or behavior — translating the Greek anastrophē (way of life) and politeuma (citizenship, manner of conduct) and the Hebrew derek (way). This archaic English usage captures a sense that has since narrowed: how one conducts oneself across the whole range of life rather than merely how one speaks. The distinction is important for interpreting many passages that modern readers might otherwise misread as addressing speech.

Paul speaks of the former conversation — the old manner of life — that believers have put off with the old self (Ephesians 4:22), and of walking worthy of the gospel in one's conversation (Philippians 1:27). Peter calls for honorable conversation among the Gentiles (1 Peter 2:12) and describes how the holy women of old adorned themselves with a meek and quiet spirit, not with outward appearance — their conversation was their witness. James similarly points to good conversation performed in the meekness of wisdom (James 3:13). The Psalmist uses the parallel Hebrew sense: to him that orders his conversation aright will I show the salvation of God (Psalm 50:23).