In these verses, James addresses the issue of controlling one's speech. He starts by cautioning that not everyone should be eager to become teachers, as teachers will be judged more strictly. James then uses the analogy of a bit in a horse's mouth and a rudder on a ship to emphasise the power of a small instrument to control a much larger entity. In the same way, the tongue, though a small part of the body, holds significant power to guide one's life. James highlights the paradox that even though the tongue is small, it can boast of great things. However, he warns about its potential for harm, comparing it to a small spark that can set a whole forest on fire. The key message is the importance of controlling one's speech and being aware of the impact words can have on oneself and others.
'Not many of you should become teachers, my fellow believers, because you know that we who teach will be judged more strictly. We all stumble in many ways. Anyone who is never at fault in what they say is perfect, able to keep their whole body in check.
'When we put bits into the mouths of horses to make them obey us, we can turn the whole animal. Or take ships as an example. Although they are so large and are driven by strong winds, they are steered by a very small rudder wherever the pilot wants to go. Likewise, the tongue is a small part of the body, but it makes great boasts. Consider what a great forest is set on fire by a small spark.' (James 3.1-6, NIV)
The Apostles Persecuted / Acts Bible Study (Part 15) / Chapter 5
The Apostles heal many people / Acts Bible Study (Part 14) / Chapter 5
Give God everything / Acts Bible Study (Part 13) / Chapter 5
The Power of the Resurrection / Acts Bible Study (Part 12) / Chapter 4
Filled with the Holy Spirit and Boldness / Acts Bible Study (Part 11) / Chapter 4
Salvation in the Name of Jesus / Acts Bible Study (Part 10) / Chapter 4
Live our lives in the Power of the Holy Spirit / Acts Bible Study (Part 9) / Chapter 3
Healing and Repentance / Acts Bible Study (Part 8) / Chapter 3
Faith in the Name of Jesus heals the sick / Acts Bible Study (Part 7) / Chapter 3
The Power of Jesus in you / Acts Bible Study (Part 6) / Chapter 2
The Power of Pentecost in your life / Acts Bible Study (Part 5) / Chapter 2
The key to power in your life / Acts Bible Study (Part 4) / Chapter 2
Life after death / Easter 2024 (featuring Vinesong)
I will not be afraid but believe / Good Friday message (featuring Vinesong)
God has chosen and anointed you / Acts Bible Study (Part 3) / Chapter 1
Transformed by the Holy Spirit / Acts Bible Study (Part 2) / Chapter 1
A transformed church / Acts Bible Study (Part 1) / Chapter 1
Led by the Lord / Romans 4 (Part 3)
Led by the Lord / Romans 4 (Part 2)
Led by the Lord / Romans 4 (Part 1)
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