James 3:1-12
Introduction:
1. Though all sin results in the same separation from God if left unchecked, some sins are simply more prevalent than others.
2. Such is the case with the sin of misuse of the tongue.
3. James repeatedly warns of the danger of unchecked speech, as do so many other Bible writers.
Discussion:
I. Oh Be Careful Little Mouth…
A. James already introduced the need to control the tongue (1:26).
B. We will be judged for our words (Matthew 12:36-37).
C. A fool has more hope than the loose-lipped (Proverbs 29:10).
D. Three of seven things God hates involve speech (Proverbs 6:16-19).
E. James especially warned teachers of the word (3:1).
II. The Power of Speech
A. James says the tongue is the hardest part to control (vv. 2-8).
B. He made his case with four alarming descriptions of the tongue:
1. It is a fire with devastating potential (vv. 5-6)
2. It is a world of iniquity that defiles the whole person (vs. 6; Matthew 15:18)
3. It is a beast that cannot be tamed (vv. 7-8).
4. It is an “unruly evil full of deadly poison” (vs. 8).
C. However, if mastered, it has equal potential for good.
1. It can defuse hostility (Proverbs 15:1-2).
2. It can provide comfort from anxiety (Proverbs 12:25; 16:24).
3. It can give grace to the hearers (Ephesians 4:29; Colossians 4:6).
4. It can open the door for the gospel (Colossians 4:2-6).
5. It is the medium by which God chose to diffuse the gospel (Matthew 28:18-20; Mark 16:15-16; Romans 10:13-17; 2 Corinthians 4:7).
III. Types of Poisonous Speech
A. Obviously, James is concerned with teachers.
1. This would include at least two potential problems.
2. First, the unchecked tongue may teach falsehood (Matthew 7:15-20; Romans 16:17-18; Galatians 1:6-10; 1 Timothy 4:1-5; 1 John 4:1ff).
3. Second, the unchecked tongue may alienate listeners and close the door of opportunity (Ephesians 4:15; Colossians 4:3-6)
B. Irreverence in using God’s name (Exodus 20:7; Matthew 6:9).
C. Unwholesome language is another example and includes:
1. This includes foolish talk (Ephesians 5:4)
2. Improper humor (Ephesians 5:4).
3. Cursing human beings created in God’s likeness (James 3:9).
4. Any kind of destructive/corrupting language (Ephesians 4:29).
5. Gossip, which is one of the most common occurrences.
IV. Think Before You Speak
A. T- Is it true? (Proverbs 6:17; John 8:44; Ephesians 4:25)
B. H- Is it helpful? (Ephesians 4:29; 1 Thessalonians 4:18)
C. I- Is it inspiring? (Ephesians 5:19; Colossians 3:16; Hebrews 10:24; 1 Peter 4:11)
D. N- Is it necessary? (Proverbs 25:11; Matthew 12:36)
E. K- Is it kind? (Proverbs 16:24; Galatians 5:22; Ephesians 4:15; Colossians 4:5-6)
Conclusion:
1. Many of us heard from our parents, “If you don’t have anything nice to say, don’t say anything at all.”
2. It is true that we must sometimes have unpleasant conversations.
3. Nonetheless, we still must control our tongues and use them properly.
4. Let us speak as the oracles of God (1 Peter 4:11).
5. The price of letting this fire burn or this beast roam free is too great.