REAL WISDOM EXPRESSED IN WORDS

How can you tell if someone is wise? One way is by his/her speech. James, under the inspiration of the Holy Spirit, writes about speech in James 3:1-12. After writing about real religion and real faith, he now turns his attention to real wisdom. This passage teaches us that to express real wisdom in our words, we must understand four things.

First, to express real wisdom in our words, we must understand: THE PROFESSION OF THE TONGUE. (vv. 1-2)

James addresses those who aspire to be teachers of the faith. He wants these teachers to realize two things:

He wants them to realize the responsibility of teachers. James warns people not to aspire to be a teacher (of the faith) lightly, because teachers will be judged more strictly.

Also, He wants them to realize the stumbling of teachers. James also confesses that all of us stumble from time to time. Those who aspire to teach should realize this fact. Know that you will stumble, and you will be judged more severely for it. Knowing this will cause you to approach the task of teaching with humility and love.

The old preachers used to advise young men who wanted to go into the ministry, “If you can do anything else, do it.” I used to think that was a terrible thing to say to a young man who wants to follow God’s call on his life. After having served in the ministry in different capacities for 15 years, I realize the wisdom of that statement.

Ministry is not for the faint of heart. It is not a career, it is a calling. You must practice what you preach, or your preaching becomes ineffective.

Second, to express real wisdom in our words, we must understand: THE PERFECTION OF THE TONGUE. (v. 2)

Controlling the tongue is a sign of:

Maturity – The word translated “perfect” in the NKJV may also be translated “mature.” Controlled speech is a sign of spiritual maturity.

Self-control – The person who controls his/her tongue is able to control the whole body. Controlling one’s speech is the supreme test of self-control.

When children go to the doctor for their check-up, the doctor will take several measurements to make sure the child is growing properly. The doctor will measure height and weight. The doctor will check the eyes and ears, and take other measurements. The measurements indicate the physical maturity of the child.

Spiritual maturity cannot be measured in the same way. One of the few ways human beings can measure spiritual maturity is by monitoring speech. Controlled speech indicates spiritual maturity and wisdom. How controlled is your speech?

Third, to express real wisdom with our words, we must understand: THE POWER OF THE TONGUE. (vv. 3-5)

The tongue is a very powerful thing. It possesses:

Power to turn. Just as a bit can turn a horse and a rudder can turn a ship, the tongue can turn a person – it can change a person’s life forever.

Power to burn. James likens the tongue to a fire, "set on fire by hell." The tongue, when used incorrectly, can cause a great deal of damage.

Nuclear energy has great potential. It can be used to power homes and equipment. It can also be used to create terrible weapons of mass destruction. It can fuel the nation, or destroy it.

The tongue also has great potential. It can be used to guide people to build relationships with God and men, or it can be used to destroy those relationships. How do you use your tongue?

Fourth, to express real wisdom with our words, we must understand: THE POISON OF THE TONGUE. (vv. 6-12)

James describes the destructive nature of the tongue. He describes it as:

Corrosive. It defiles the whole body.

Untamable. It cannot be tamed.

Hypocritical. With the same tongue, we praise God and curse people.

Revealing. Just as a tree is known by its fruit and the water in a spring comes from within, the tongue indicates what is in a person’s heart. What we say reveals what is in our hearts.

Gasoline can be very useful if it is used in a car, lawn mower, or power equipment, but is poisonous if you drink it.

Although the tongue can be used for great good, in the right circumstances, it can be used for evil. Use it carefully.

Respect the profession of the tongue – be careful when you teach.

Realize the perfection of the tongue – display spiritual maturity with your words.

Recognize the power of the tongue – the tongue is powerful; use it wisely.

Recognize the poison of the tongue – the tongue can be dangerous; use it carefully.

To learn more about how to follow Jesus, click here.

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This is a synopsis of a sermon presented on 8-16-2009 at Hatch Bend Baptist Church, by Paul A. Coleman.

Unless otherwise noted, Scripture taken from the New King James Version. Copyright 1982 by Thomas Nelson, Inc. Used by permission. All rights reserved.