18—Forty Days with James: The Untamable

Douglas Jacoby Podcast

For additional notes and resources check out Douglas’ website.

Reminders:

• All of chapter 3 addresses the tongue, and has special relevance for and application to church leaders.
• The influence of the tongue may be enormous, despite its minuscule size (like a rudder, bit, or spark). The body of Christ can be significantly influenced—for better or worse—through the words of a single person.
• James wants to ensure that his readers / audience appreciate the seriousness of the point, so he offers even more illustrations (two in vs. 7-8, and two more in vs. 9-12).
• Keep in mind that James is speaking into an already tense situation, both economically and politically.

James 3:7-8

• Taming animals is a cinch compared to taming the tongue.
• "Restless"—There's no end to the harm we can cause with our tongues, if we throw discretion to the winds and ignore what God’s Word says.
• The impact of our words can be poisonous.
• Selected proverbs on the tongue (NRSV): 6:16-19; 10:19-20; 12:18; 15:1-2; 18:21; 21:23; 25:15; 26:28; 28:23; 31:26.

Questions for self:

• In a conversation, do I usually dominate?
• Do others every tell me I talk too much?
• Am I typically the loudest voice in the room?
• Do I always have to have the last word?
• Do I make unfavorable comments about others (even if they’re true)?
• Do I ever use profanity?
• Do I ever use coarse language?
• When others talk, do they feel that I am listening—or distracted? What do my children say? My spouse?
• Do I break confidences?
• Am I a flatterer?
• Am I tempted to answer tough questions dishonestly, or do I speak frankly and truthfully?
• Do I make promises that I fail to keep—or never intended to keep in the first place?
• Do I talk about others (without their permission) to third parties?
• Do I repeat third-hand information?
• Do I often say hurtful things—even unintentionally?
• Do I ever lie?
• (Teachers) When I’m speaking on a complex or sensitive subject, have I done the appropriate research, or do I tend to be careless with study, preparation, and attribution of sources?
• (Leaders) Do others feel I have heard them out, when they have criticisms, suggestions, or other things on their heart?
• (Speakers) Do I tend to go overtime?

Things to work on immediately

• Notice when others gossip – and refuse to join in.
• Record myself—and listen. How is my tone?
• If I'm loquacious, count to 3 before speaking / answering.
• Ask my family / friends if they think I need to improve in my use of my tongue.
• Reread the Proverbs.

Next: a passage most churches ignore.