“Real Life” [James] Series [15] Taming the Tongue “Real Life” [James] Series [15] James 3:1-5a 2

WHAT DOES “REAL FAITH” LOOK LIKE IN REAL LIFE? 1:2-18 Trials & Suffering [Test of Real Faith] 1:19-5:6 True Godliness [Characteristics of Real Faith] 5:7-20 Trials & Suffering [Triumph of Real Faith]

WHAT DOES “REAL FAITH” LOOK LIKE IN REAL LIFE? 1:19-5:6 True Godliness/Spirituality [Characteristics of Real Faith] 1:19-27 The Word of God 2:1-13 Partiality 2:14-26 Works 3:1-12 The Tongue [TODAY & NEXT WEEK] 3:13-18 Wisdom 4:1-12 Quarrels, Worldliness, & Slander 4:13-17 Boasting about Tomorrow 5:1-6 Abusive Wealth

WHAT DOES “REAL FAITH” LOOK LIKE IN REAL LIFE? Preliminary observations and insights on the text [3:1-12] The problem is rooted in the heart, why focus on the tongue? Because the tongue is the most direct and frequent reflection of our inner heart [a Hebrew concept]. James’ approach is to give WARNING [not practical tips] concerning the seriousness of the tongue problem. Therefore, a threefold key to this passage is [1] to face our own “denial” with the tongue problem, [2] to face what’s really broken in us concerning the tongue problem, and [3] to be patiently attentive to James’ warnings. In today’s text (3:1-5a), our focus question on REAL FAITH is this: “What should we realize in order to tame the tongue?”

WHAT SHOULD WE REALIZE TO TAME THE TONGUE? 1) Realize that: we will be judged by every word we speak. Not many of you should become teachers, my brothers, for you know that we who teach will be judged with greater strictness.  (v.1) James’ point is not to discourage us to become teachers but to warn against seeking the honorable role flamboyantly without caution. Why? Teachers will be judged with “greater strictness” as we all are held accountable with what we speak.

Those like myself whose imagination far exceeds their obedience are subject to a just penalty; we easily imagine conditions far higher than any we have really reached. If we describe what we have imagined we may make others, and make ourselves, believe that we have really been there. C. S. Lewis  

WHAT SHOULD WE REALIZE TO TAME THE TONGUE? 1) Realize that: we will be judged by every word we speak. Not many of you should become teachers, my brothers, for you know that we who teach will be judged with greater strictness.  (v.1) James’ point is not to discourage us to become teachers but to warn against seeking the honorable role flamboyantly without caution. Why? Teachers will be judged with “greater strictness” as we all are held accountable with what we speak. So, the first warning is this: Don’t take what you say lightly—you will be judged by them!

How can you speak good, when you are evil? 34You brood of vipers! How can you speak good, when you are evil?  For out of the abundance of the heart the mouth speaks. 35 The good person out of his good treasure brings forth good, and the evil person out of his evil treasure brings forth evil.  36I tell you, on the day of judgment people will give account for every careless word they speak, 37for by your words you will be justified, and by your words you will be condemned." Matthew 12:34-37  

WHAT SHOULD WE REALIZE TO TAME THE TONGUE? 2) Realize that: we all stumble in many ways with our tongues. For we all stumble in many ways. And if anyone does not stumble in what he says,  he is a perfect man, able also to bridle his whole body. (v.2) James points out that all of us FAIL and SIN with it in many ways—e.g., incongruence, bragging, negativism/cynicism, lying, double-talk, gossip, slander, envy, self-absorption, cursing, manipulation, controlling, etc. One clear sign of spiritual maturity and the Spirit-filled life is an increasing sense of self-control with the tongue! James’ warning is this: Don’t stay in your DENIAL—you have a serious tongue problem!

I said, "I will guard my ways, that I may not sin with my tongue; I will guard my mouth with a muzzle, so long as the wicked are in my presence." Psalm 39:1  

WHAT SHOULD WE REALIZE TO TAME THE TONGUE? 3) Realize that: the tongue has the power to control us to a great extent. 3If we put bits into the mouths of horses so that they obey us, we guide their whole bodies as well.  4Look at the ships also: though they are so large and are driven by strong winds, they are guided by a very small rudder wherever the will of the pilot directs. 5So also the tongue is a small member, yet it boasts of great things. (vs.3-5a) The tongue is small but great in its power to control us. James’ two illustrations for this point: Controlling large horses with small bits in the mouths. Controlling a large ship with a small rudder. James’ warning: Don’t underestimate the power of the tongue—hence, give your full attention to your speech!

When words are many, transgression is not lacking,     but whoever restrains his lips is prudent. Proverbs 10:19  

PRACTICAL IMPLICATIONS FOR OUR EVERYDAY LIFE Confess God your DENIAL AND RATIONALIZATION about taming the tongue. Don’t take your tongue problem lightly. Admit the seriousness of your shortcomings—don’t rationalize your sins. Seek THE HOLY SPIRIT’S CONTROL on your tongue one day at a time. Ask the Spirit to control you moment by moment. Be guided by the Spirit in your speech daily.