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How to Think About Speech — 2/25/2025 10:00 AM
Today's speaker is Sam Allberry, Associate Pastor of Immanuel Church Nashville in Nashville, TN. Pastor Allberry directs our attention to James 3:1-12, exhorting us to exercise self-control in the use of our tongues, and to display grace in the things we say.
Notes
The Power of Words: Taming the Tongue
Words have immense power. They shape our world, guide our actions, and reflect our hearts. The book of James speaks extensively about the tongue and its ability to build up or destroy. In James 3:1-12, we see that the tongue, though small, has the power to steer our lives, for better or for worse. Let’s explore the insights from this passage and how they can guide our speech toward life-giving words.
1. Words Matter — The Responsibility of Teaching (James 3:1-2)
James begins by warning those who presume to be teachers. While teaching the Word of God is a noble calling, it comes with significant responsibility. Those who teach have the potential to influence others greatly — either for good or harm. James reminds us that we all stumble in many ways, and controlling our tongues is one of the greatest challenges. The ability to bridle our speech is a mark of genuine Christian faith (James 1:26). It’s a reminder for all of us that what we say, whether in conversation, a post, or a text message, can have far-reaching consequences.
2. The Tongue is Powerful (James 3:3-4)
James uses the analogies of a bit in a horse’s mouth and a rudder on a ship to illustrate how something so small can control something so much larger. Our tongues, though small in comparison to the rest of our bodies, have the ability to steer the direction of our lives. Think about it: How often have words shaped your day or influenced a key decision? Our speech has the power to guide, direct, and influence. We should be mindful of how we use it.
3. The Tongue is Destructive (James 3:5-6)
James doesn't hold back in his description of the tongue’s potential for destruction. Just as a small spark can ignite a raging forest fire, our words can cause significant damage. Whether spoken or typed, our words can hurt, poison, and leave scars that last a lifetime. James compares the tongue to poison — it stains our whole bodies and creates lasting harm. This destructive capacity is not just a minor issue; it’s a serious, hellish danger.
4. The Tongue Reveals the Heart (James 3:9-10)
Jesus teaches that “out of the abundance of the heart, the mouth speaks” (Matthew 12:34). The words we speak reflect what is inside us. When harsh words come out, the problem doesn’t lie with the other person — rather, it’s a reflection of what’s in our own hearts. We must examine ourselves regularly and ask, “Why did I say that?” or “Why was I harsh?” Our words are a mirror of our hearts.
5. What Can We Do?
While it’s impossible to fully tame the tongue on our own, with God’s help, we can learn to use it for good. James acknowledges the difficulty in controlling the tongue, but he also reminds us that what is impossible for man is wonderfully possible for God. Jesus used His words perfectly, and with the Holy Spirit’s help, we can use our tongues to bless others instead of cursing them. As Colossians 4:6 urges, let our words be “seasoned with salt,” meaning that they should bring flavor, encouragement, and life to others.