Lesson 15: Fire in Your Mouth (part 1)
Read James 3:1-12 - www.bible.com/bible/59/jas.3.esv

 James has explained 2 characteristics of the mature Christian – Patient in troubles (James 1) and practicing the truth (James 2) Now he shares the third characteristic – Power over the tongue (James 3:1-12)

The Christians James was writing to were apparently having trouble with their tongues. Twice he had reminded them of this – James 1:19 – ‘Wherefore, my beloved brethren, let every man be swift to hear, slow to speak, slow to wrath’; James 1:26 – ‘If any man among you seem to be religious, and cannot bridle his tongue, but deceives his own heart, this man's religion is vain.’

We hear a great deal in our society today about freedom of speech. Everybody wants the right to say whatever they want. We are responsible for every word because God is listening in on our conversations (Matthew 12:36).

The tongue is the most dangerous weapon in the world. Medically it is only a 2-ounce slab of muscle, mucous, membrane and nerves. It allows us to chew, taste, and swallow food, and articulate words. But the Bible says it is used for the following:
*What do these verses say about the tongue? Psalm 50:19 _____, Psalm 52:2 _____, Psalm 52:4 _____, Psalm 57:4 _____, Proverbs 25:15, _____, Proverbs 25:23 _____, Proverbs 28:23 _____, Romans 3:13 _____.

The tongue is neither friend nor foe; it is simply the messenger of the dictates of a desperately sick heart - Matthew 15:10-11, 17-19.


James 3:1 – Teachers in the church are in very responsible roles. The position itself opens doors for influence and persuasion – see also Matthew 15:14 for negative aspects of being a teacher. This warning extends beyond the church to the home. Children look to their parents for guidance. Often it is not what we say but how we say it and how we live what we say that has the most impact.

The Christians James is writing to had converted from Judaism. As Jews, these people had been led by rabbis who were held in a very exalted position. Too often these men loved themselves and their positions, and demonstrated their false motives by lording it over the people. Often they placed on their followers requirements and burdens that they were unable to bear, requirements they were not willing to practice themselves - Matthew 23:5-7. Unfortunately some of that carnality had crept into the church. When unqualified teachers “seek” after teaching positions, the problem is made greater.

James therefore gives a strong admonition to those who teach. With that responsibility comes more accountability.