It has taken us many more days to rid the house of this fetid smell. Indeed, we put bits in horses’ mouths that they may obey us, and we turn their whole body. ILLUSTRATION - After a long Sunday morning service, a family sat down to eat lunch. NKJ James 3:7 For every kind of beast and bird, of reptile and creature of the sea, is tamed and has been tamed by mankind. This was emphasized by James when he said, "Pure religion and undefiled before God and the Father is this, To visit the fatherless and widows in their affliction" (James 1:27). Do you tend to criticize others? "Whoso loveth wisdom rejoiceth his father" (Proverbs 29:3). 3 [Forasmuch as ye are] manifestly declared to be the epistle of Christ ministered by us, written not with ink, but with the Spirit of the living God; not in tables of stone, but in fleshy tables of the heart. He even used Scripture. He is implying that if we are genuine believers we should bring forth fruit or water (so to speak) that is consistent with our new birth and the new power of the indwelling Spirit to produce "good fruit" or "fresh water. (Faith, Love & Hope: An Exposition of the Epistle of James), THOUGHT - This reminds me of Jesus' command to let our light shine in Matthew 5 - “You are the light of the world. Woe! . James 3:8 But no one can tame the tongue; it is a restless evil and full of deadly poison. "The wise shall inherit glory" (Proverbs 3:35). We all need to ask ourselves - Who is the pilot? "The rich answereth roughly" (Proverbs 18:23). ESV James 3:8 but no human being can tame the tongue. KJV James 3:11 Doth a fountain send forth at the same place sweet water and bitter? (Rom. "The legs of the lame hang loose; So is a parable in the mouth of fools" (Proverbs 26:7). 3:17. All rights reserved). Anon. David and his men were hiding from Saul in a cave when Saul entered (1 Sam. Luck: "Remember, as indicated earlier, that no man can tame the tongue, but there is One who can. This Christlike attitude lines up with the absence of spiritual competition James called for in his epistle (James 3:14-17). THOUGHT - Just from this simple analysis of who can and cannot tame their tongue, can you see why it is dangerous for a believer to knowingly marry an unbeliever? Scripture speaks of believers blessing with their tongue and not cursing. Morris Gilber, A sanctified heart is better than a silver tongue. 3. 11:38). To put failure behind you, face up to it. Anon. Most of us would be amazed, if we just knew how much we rattle on. The verb "flow from" (bruei), used only here in the New Testament, denotes something that is full to bursting; it indicates that the spring copiously gushes forth its water. As such, it is used here as a synonym for Satan and the demons. Notice phusis is used twice, first for species, then for (human) race. And peaceable, God's wisdom will endure. In the Epistle of James this adjective means “bitter” in the metaphoric passage describing the unruly tongue (James 3:11) and in the subsequent passage about true wisdom (James 3:14). Stephen Charnock, Wisdom must be from God, because it can be found only in relation to him. Don Anderson - If our lives are under the control of the HOLY SPIRIT, the Spirit will produce within us TONGUE CONTROL as one of the EVIDENCES OF HIS WORK. Indeed she thought would gain wisdom, which she did, but it was earthly, natural and demonic and ultimately deadly!. 3:14; Jas. Words are like dynamite. Here are all 11 uses of prautes in the NT - 1 Co. 4:21; 2 Co. 10:1; Gal. It is a restless evil, full of deadly poison. For the mouth speaks out of that which fills the heart. BDAG says epistemon pertains "to being knowledgeable in a way that makes one effectual in the exercise of such knowledge." As we draw on God’s wisdom through His Word, we can smother the sparks of dissension and instead speak words of peace. Ellen G. White. When we ask, His wisdom will begin to rise in us and pour itself out to others. He who has a constant longing for wisdom will persistently pray for it. But Hiss for Hiss return'd with forked Tongue J Vernon McGee's comment also alludes to the heart - It is interesting to note that Paul said, "That if thou shalt confess with thy mouth the Lord Jesus, and shalt believe in thine heart that God hath raised him from the dead, thou shalt be saved" (Ro 10:9, italics mine). That will mark the beginning of harmony—not havoc. Besides, he brings up his sons to follow his steps; and if he finds in any of them a foolish timorousness, (for so he calls the first appearance of a tender conscience,) he calls them fools and blockheads, and by no means will employ them in much, or speak to their commendations before others. 2:22; Jas. John Lyly, When the hands are idle, the tongue is usually very active. Books related to Holy Bible, New King James Version (NKJV) Skip this list. "), with Whom there is no variation or shifting shadow." It is distinguished by a life well lived. — Ecclesiastes 5:2 Phusis is “that which belongs to a person or thing by virtue of its origin,” then, “its essential character.” Nature speaks of the inherent character or basic constitution of a person or thing. reliance on the empowerment of the Holy Spirit. People with bitter envying may be intelligent, talented, and educated, but they resent anyone who appears to threaten their territories or careers (Journey into Faith That Works: A Study of James), John Phillips on bitter jealousy - To have "bitter envying" in one's heart toward a wiser, more gifted, and more successful brother is the very opposite of wisdom. Whenever we speak out of fear, anger, ignorance, or pride—even if what we say is true—those who listen will hear more than our words. We have a choice (and responsibility) regarding how we can respond, but it a mysterious truth that while we are 100% responsible, we are also 100% dependent on the Spirit to work out our salvation in fear and trembling. Bitter waters were made sweet at Marah when a divinely revealed tree was cast into them (Exod. A sharp tongue is the only edged tool that grows keener with constant use. But if the heart is filled with love, God will light the fire. GNT καρπὸς δὲ δικαιοσύνης ἐν εἰρήνῃ σπείρεται τοῖς ποιοῦσιν εἰρήνην. Hiebert thinks this "is probably an allusion to the poison of the serpent's tongue (Ps 58:4; 140:3)." Ron Mehl who is a pastor in Portland, Oregon has written a great little book called Right With God. Every species is a generalization, for no one has ever trained a crocodile or a hippopotamus. Practically speaking, believers need to imitate Jesus' example of gentleness (cf 1 Cor 11:1) and the only way we can manifest gentleness like He being enabled by the Holy Spirit. 20:8; Jer. That calm hostility. (Today in the Word), Wisdom and knowledge are two elements of human life which, though immaterial, are real and determine the use of the material tongue. It caused the archangel Lucifer to fall from the heavens (Isa. "Keep sound wisdom and discretion" (Proverbs 3:21). When we see someone with more wealth than we have or with qualities we lack, we become jealous. 1:5+ - But if any of you lacks wisdom, let him ask of God, who gives to all generously and without reproach, and it will be given to him. But the true wisdom at all times brings people closer to one another and to God. Only God can turn bitter water sweet. to be overcome, The picture James paints of the tongue is similar to the wild man in Mark 5 who was demon-possessed, When He got out of the boat, immediately a man from the tombs with an unclean spirit met Him, 3and he had his dwelling among the tombs. There is a kind of cruel wisdom which takes a delight in hurting others with clever but cutting words. Reprinted by permission. With the person who says, 'Oh, I know I talk too much,' and laughs it off, James is not amused. And if one is unable to obey this command and instead continually exhibits a persistent attitude of arrogance, this person is not a believer! When Eve was faced with her sin, she employed her tongue to blame the Evil One and his beguiling words. 3:13; 1 Pet. It took us two days to discover the rotting potatoes hidden in a bin out of view! Full of deadly is the combination word thanatephoros (from thánatos = death + phérō = to bring) is literally death bearing or death bringing and is used only here in the NT. (Louw-Nida) It is an expression of a feeling of one's comparative superiority and so to look down upon another, boasting at the expense of another (negative sense in Ro 11:18, James 3:14). Its work can be so subtle that it sometimes escapes notice until the damage is done.". (Ps 90:12), Ultimately spiritual wisdom comes from the Spirit of Jesus Christ and was modelled perfectly by our Lord about Whom Isaiah prophesied "The Spirit of the LORD will rest on Him (Mt 3:16), The spirit of wisdom and understanding, The spirit of counsel and strength, The spirit of knowledge and the fear of the LORD. All of these behaviors indicate a heart that is like the heart of the Father. KJV (Narrated) NKJV (Narrated) NKJV (Dramatized) NLT (Dramatized) NIV (Narrated) NIV (Dramatized) NASB (Narrated) RVR60 (Español) Christ’s Epistle. turn our hearts toward the wisdom that comes When one speaks of his wisdom and knowledge, it is a sure sign that he has little of either. But even better is to daily rest in God’s Spirit, hearing Paul’s challenge, “Let your conversation be always full of grace” (Colossians 4:6), so that our words will not only honor our Lord, but lift up and encourage those around us. We must draw on “the wisdom that is from above”—wisdom that is “pure, then peaceable, gentle, willing to yield, full of mercy and good fruits” (James 3:17). - The rhetorical question expects a strong negative reply. (Our Daily Bread, Copyright RBC Ministries, Grand Rapids, MI. 2 For (C)we all stumble in many things. — Reprinted by permission. Paul tells us to crucify the flesh and to walk in the Spirit. "A worthless witness mocketh at justice" (Proverbs 19:28). All rights reserved). Ronald Blue has a picturesque interpretation of the course of our life - It is as though the tongue is at the center or hub of the wheel of nature and, like a fireworks display, the wheel is set on fire at the center. New King James Version: Par John the Baptist Prepares the Way. There are only twelve of them, but they work. All rights reserved), Take my lips, and let them be (Pr 10:32) The lips of the righteous bring forth what is acceptable, But the mouth of the wicked what is perverted. Charles Simeon, We can be certain that God wants us to be wise, just as we are sure that he wants us not to sin. Think of the hours we spend talking, whether in casual conversations about trivia or deep discussions about important issues. Matthew Henry, It is bad to think ill, but it is worse to speak it. It is not surprising that eritheia is found in Paul's long list of the deeds of the flesh ("disputes") in Gal 5:20+. 16:20-23). What an impact we would make in our society if all of us who profess to believe on Jesus would follow their example! The other man lost both of his eyes. The begs the question - Does my daily conduct demonstrate that I am living my life energized by heavenly wisdom or earthly wisdom? Even with the temptation of Christ the devil was slick and sly (cf Lk 4:1-13+). "The lip of truth shall be established for ever" (Proverbs 12:19). Francis Burkitt, The vice of the tongue spreads and prevails over every part of life. But, unfortunately, we all battle the world, the flesh and the devil. Ah, brethren, this is because we have taken in Satan’s conception of manliness instead of God’s. 15 Therefore it is not surprising if his servants also disguise themselves as servants of righteousness, whose end will be according to their deeds. Words come from our thoughts, and thoughts come from the mind; therefore, it is possible to control our words by controlling our minds. Awful, hateful, ungodly, vile things emanate from this master of disaster. "Answer a fool according to his folly, Lest he be wise in his own conceit" (Proverbs 26:5). Is it wise to be selfishly ambitious—and then brag about what your ambition brings you? In James 3:14 it is used figuratively to describe jealousy as bitter, which speaks of resentful attitude (harsh, cruel). JAMES 3:8 (Ibid), Steven Cole says that in James 3:13-18 he is "showing us God’s wisdom that will lead to harmonious relationships. TECHNICAL NOTE - The Textus Receptus has the word akataschetos (from a = without + katecho = hold back or control) which means that which cannot be restrained, uncontrollable, untameable, unruly. The project was inaugurated in 1975 with two meetings (Nashville and Chicago) of 68 interested persons, most of them prominent Baptists but also with some conservative Presbyterians. 37 “For by your words you will be justified (YOUR SPEECH WILL SPEAK OF WHO YOU REALLY ARE - LOST OR BORN AGAIN! NRS James 3:8 but no one can tame the tongue-- a restless evil, full of deadly poison. James 3:9. Society does the inventing and reinventing of words. By: Bill Crowder (Our Daily Bread, Copyright RBC Ministries, Grand Rapids, MI. Both captains were aware of the other ship's presence and could have taken evasive action to avert the collision. Stulac - Earthly origin, in frequent New Testament usage, implies inferiority to heavenly origin. The challenge to the wise to show his wisdom (James 3:13) ", Ron Blue - Small and influential, the tongue must be controlled; satanic and infectious, the tongue must be corralled; salty and inconsistent, the tongue must be cleansed. From strife and enmity; (Sermon), But what comes out of the mouth comes from the heart, and this defiles a man.—Matthew 15:18, The Bible stresses that what you say is an accurate indicator of what is in your heart. Sinclair Ferguson, True wisdom is always humble. We expect the fountain to flow with sweet water at all times, and we expect the fig tree to bear figs and the olive tree to bear olives. "A false witness, deceit" (Proverbs 12:17). James 3:16 Where envy and self-seeking exist, confusion and every evil thing will be there. She showed her shopping list to the girl helping her and said, “It’s in two tongues (lenguas).” But she meant to say that she had written it in two languages (idiomas). Nothing less wide of range than this is involved in the word ‘pure’ here. Help me evaluate each thought This wisdom does not require a high IQ or a great SAT score. That is true, and it had already been said in the declaration that heavenly wisdom is first pure, then peaceable. "The words of a man's mouth are as deep waters; The wellspring of wisdom is as a flowing brook" (Proverbs 18:4). Let him show by good conduct that his works are done in the meekness of wisdom. They apply heavenly counsel to earthly conduct." defiles the whole body” (James 3:6). ESV Study Bible on world of iniquity - The tongue represents and puts into expression all the wickedness of the world. 18:9; Matt. The use of the perfect tense "have been tamed" adds that history is replete with such examples....It is standing proof of the inherent superiority of human nature over animal nature.". They say and do the right things at the right time for the right reasons. "The perverse tongue shall be cut off" (Proverbs 10:31). One incendiary remark can kindle an inferno of emotional harm. 8:64; 2 Ki. In this context it means to take a position, to come forward, to appear. For more discussion on this principle see "Paradoxical Principle of 100% Dependent and 100% Responsible" (100/100). It is that ultimate self-elevation rampant in the world today which is the antithesis of what the humble, selfless, giving, loving, and obedient child of God is called to be. Pseúdomai therefore involves not only the communication of a falsehood but also the intent to deceive. (Lectures Exegetical and Practical on the Epistle of James), John MacArthur - There is an inexorable causal relationship between godly wisdom, genuine righteousness, and peace. This negative connotation describes envy of someone else’s possessions, achievements, or advantages. But, as you know, brethren, in man, as he now is by nature, the spirit is darkened, perverted, and weakened; it is dethroned through sin; and only the enlightening and strengthening energy of God’s Spirit can enable our spirits to take their rightful dignity and rule. Lenski - Although the tongue is so small and is caged in man's own mouth, which man needs only to shut in order to master the tongue completely, "no one of men" is able to subdue it by any power belonging to his phusis (nature). 3:15 No uses in the Septuagint. Life Application Study Bible. Matthew Henry, Unaided wisdom, with its strongest wing, can only flutter in the vale of vanity. The tongue is the totality or sum total of iniquity, which John defines clearly as "sin" writing that "All unrighteousness (adikia) is sin. As Cole says "In other words, godly wisdom is not theoretical, but practical. NIV James 3:6 The tongue also is a fire, a world of evil among the parts of the body. Natural (worldly-minded, lower nature, animal, sensual) (5591)(psuchikos from psuche = soul) is literally "soulish" and pertains to the natural man versus the spiritual nature of man. 1:4; Dan. 3:1-7), the apostle Peter cites from Psalm 34, “He must turn away from evil and do good; he must seek peace and pursue it” (1 Pet. The tongue sets our lives on fire, and is itself set on fire from hell. Full up, you get not heed, attend unto my wisdom… (. Μου, συκῆ ἐλαίας ποιῆσαι ἢ ἄμπελος σῦκα ; οὔτε ἁλυκὸν γλυκὺ ποιῆσαι ὕδωρ n't true,,... Only way to know God, effected by placing one 's `` ''. Each was crushed in the heart the mouth. misused tongue may affect the cycle of life shall among... 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