James: The Power of Words

Last Week

Faith without works is DEAD

Chapter three James talks about our works bringing about fruit.

He talks about fruit in the context of our words.

James 3:1-12

James 3:13-18

Words Have Power

Story of German King Frederick II

Wanted to know about the origin of language. He wondered, “What language would a person speak if they were never spoken to as a child?”

Some thought maybe it would be Hebrew?

The babies couldn’t speak, but it was because they died. Literally we need language and communication to live.

We need words to live.

The Bible says, your words don’t only wish good, but they impart good.

This is also true about the power of our not so nice words.

Words are Poison

The Bible says, your words don’t only wish good, but they impart good. (Proverbs 12:8)

The bad that we say of others imparts evil on them.

Sticks and Stones may break bones but words will never hurt me… Bull.

Actions speak louder than words, but words still speak

Just because you don’t say it to someone’s face doesn’t make it okay.

There is one who speaks rashly, like a piercing sword; but the tongue of the wise brings healing. Proverbs 12:18

We come at this from two angles.

1. We have all been hurt by words

2. We all have hurt others with our words.

Jesus is the Solution

Jesus has a solution for both of these. Jesus is THE word (John 1), he sustains us by his word (Hebrews 1:3) his blood speaks a better word on our behalf (Hebrews 12:24), and he tells us that we are his beloved and that we are forgiven, and are his treasure.

So is Jesus the word that defines your life?

Questions:

What kinds of words are you using? Words of Power or Poison?

Based on the passage, how can you tame your tongue?

Why do quiet people often seem wise?

Does being quiet make you wise?

Are you seeing the fruit that James talks about in verses 17 and 18 in your life?

How are you going to apply this to your life this week?