Taming the Tongue

For the week of November 2-8, 2025

FREE PREVIEW: James 3:1-12 - Taming the Tongue

This is a condensed preview of this week's full Bible study lesson, available exclusively to paid subscribers.

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Introduction

Of all the challenges we face in Christian living, few are more persistent or problematic than controlling our speech. We can go to church, read our Bibles, and pray regularly, yet still struggle with words that hurt, gossip that destroys, or speech that contradicts our faith.

James addresses this universal struggle with characteristic directness, showing us both the incredible power of the tongue and the urgent need to bring it under control. His message is clear: if we can't control our speech, we can't claim to have our spiritual lives under control.

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I. The Tongue is SMALL but Significant

Indeed, we put bits into the horses' mouths so that they may obey us, and we guide their whole body. Behold, the ships also, though they are so big and are driven by fierce winds, are yet guided by a very small rudder (James 3:3-4).

Though small in size, the tongue has enormous power to influence and direct our entire lives. Like a bit in a horse's mouth or a rudder on a ship, this small member can control much larger things.

II. The Tongue is DESTRUCTIVE by Nature

And the tongue is a fire. The world of iniquity among our members is the tongue, which defiles the whole body, and sets on fire the course of nature, and is set on fire by Gehenna (James 3:6).

The same tongue that can guide and influence can also destroy and defile. James uses vivid imagery of fire to show how destructive speech can spread quickly and cause lasting damage to relationships and reputations.

III. The Tongue is INCONSISTENT in Practice

With it we bless our God and Father, and with it we curse men, who are made in the image of God. Out of the same mouth comes blessing and cursing (James 3:9-10).

James points out the tragic inconsistency of using the same tongue to worship God and tear down people who are made in God's image. This contradiction reveals the need for heart transformation, not just speech modification.

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