James 3:1

The Tongue Is a Fire

1 1Let not many of you become teachers, 2my brethren, knowing that as such we will incur a stricter judgment.

James 3:1 In-Context

1 Let not many of you become teachers, my brethren, knowing that as such we will incur a stricter judgment.
2 For we all stumble in many ways. If anyone does not stumble in what he says, he is a perfect man, able to bridle the whole body as well.
3 Now if we put the bits into the horses' mouths so that they will obey us, we direct their entire body as well.
4 Look at the ships also, though they are so great and are driven by strong winds, are still directed by a very small rudder wherever the inclination of the pilot desires.
5 So also the tongue is a small part of the body, and yet it boasts of great things. See how great a forest is set aflame by such a small fire!

Cross References 2

  • 1. Matthew 23:8; Romans 2:20; 1 Timothy 1:7
  • 2. James 1:16; James 3:10

Footnotes 1

  • [a]. Or "greater condemnation"
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