Speak Faithfully and Wisely

Introduction

Good morning, beloved in Christ. It is with joy that I welcome you to our morning worship this Lord's Day, where we gather to praise God for His unfailing faithfulness and the nourishment we receive from His Word. Let us rejoice together in His presence and the blessings He bestows upon us.

Welcome back to our series on the Book of James.

Over the past two Sundays, the Word of God has deeply challenged us on the inconsistency of our faith as we learned that faith and works are inseparable. Through the ministry of God's Word, we have come to understand the significance of ensuring that our actions are in synergy with our profession of faith as a child of God. Similarly, we are exhorted to be mindful that our profession of faith should be evident in our thoughts, intentions, motivations, reactions, and behaviour, so that others may witness and experience the authenticity of our salvation.

My prayers for you, my loved ones, are that you are not just challenged but be moved by God’s word so that our words and lives reflect God’s faithfulness, and people may witness and experience His grace through us. Please open your Bibles to James 3:1-12 and place your best bookmark in there as we explore the new topic of "The Tongue is a Fire." Over the past two Sundays, we've examined how James makes an appeal to the Jewish Christians.

I want you to take note of these three words in James 2:12.

James appeals to the Christians to speak and act in accordance with the law of liberty, knowing they will be judged by it.

In James 1:5 If any of you lack wisdom, let him ask of God, that giveth to all men liberally, and upbraideth not; and it shall be given him.

How do you speak? Ask God.

How do you act? Ask God.

How do you think? Ask God.

James exhorts the Jewish Christians who have scattered outside of Jerusalem that if they do not know how to deal with certain tests or trials, they should go and ask God because God is generous in providing wisdom and He doesn’t withhold His blessings from anyone who asks. He is always available to meet us, and His provisions of wisdom are unlimited. His faithfulness never wanes or diminishes; it never changes.

But there’s a condition; verse 6 says, "You must ask it in faith," believing that God is sovereign to provide you with wisdom because He is the good and perfect God.

In James 1:19-20 19 Wherefore, my beloved brethren, let every man be swift to hear, slow to speak, slow to wrath:

20 For the wrath of man worketh not the righteousness of God.

James encouraged the Jewish Christians that their faith should demonstrate a willingness to pursue God’s words (swift to hear). Their speech should reflect their holy and righteous faith (slow to speak), and their behaviour is governed by the wisdom that comes from above so that they will not be controlled by their anger. (slow to wrath)

In the second chapter, James focused on their profession of faith and how their works don't reflect what they've claimed. He provided three illustrations: the man with the gold ring, the poor man, and the brethren. These illustrations serve as tests. To James's disappointment, not only did they fail each test, but with each one, the results worsened.

And so, he provided three examples of how consistent and genuine faith manifests in behaviours and actions. He turned to historical examples, citing the devil's belief, Abraham's faith, and Rahab's faith. Each illustration demonstrates not only excellence over the Jewish Christian’s professions of faith but also underscores the inseparability of faith and works. Each example of faith and works improves progressively as he presents them.

So, we can see how James is preparing them by answering objections, exhorting them towards true faith, holiness, and righteousness. He exhorts them that not only should their faith reflect in their works, but also that their works should reflect their faith.

By the end of chapter 2, James has thoroughly exhorted them regarding faith and works. He provided three examples of dead faith that yields no fruit, followed by two examples of living faith of Abraham and Rahab that exhibit tangible evidence of its authenticity.

We have now reached Chapter 3, where James shifts the focus from the theme of faith to wisdom. Remember, his three themes are trials, faith and wisdom. This time, he exhorts them that their wisdom should be evident in their speech, and that their speech should reflect their wisdom, both of which are guided by their faith. We learned in chapter 2 that using words to profess faith is not enough. Faith and works must be exhibited together. Now here at chapter 3, James exhorts them against the misuse of their words.

Let's all please stand and read James 3:1-12 altogether.

Prayer

Almighty Father

You are the ultimate source of wisdom and understanding. You've promised to grant wisdom to those who seek it with faith, and we humbly come before You now, asking for Your guidance.

In a world filled with confusion and turmoil, we need Your help to distinguish truth from falsehood. Grant us the clarity to see things from Your perspective and to understand Your ways. Lead us along the path of righteousness.

Teach us to prioritize Your kingdom and glory above all else, and to trust in You completely, without relying solely on our own understanding. We commit to acknowledging You in all aspects of our life and following Your lead.

Grant us the discernment to make wise choices, to distinguish between what's true and what's not, and to walk in righteousness. Help us to serve You faithfully and obediently with all our heart, soul, and mind.

May Your divine wisdom shine through out actions and speech, as we seek to honour You and bring glory to Your name. Guide, comfort, and sustain us with Your wisdom throughout so that we may be sanctified.

We pray all these things in the name of our Saviour, Jesus Christ. Amen.

The title of our message for this morning is:

Speak Faithfully and Wisely

Propositional Statement First and foremost, I want to make it absolutely clear that we acknowledge God's sovereignty and His will and purpose prevailing even in our moments of unfaithfulness. However, today, my focus is on our pursuit of holiness, faithfulness, and righteousness, and how our sanctified faith is cultivated through our words and wisdom. My goal this morning is to demonstrate from God’s word that our speech should be guided by the wisdom stemming from our sanctified faith. This ensures that when we make declarations, converse, or engage with people, God receives glory through our words.

I aim for God’s word to unveil the sinfulness of speaking to offend, speaking without restraint, and speaking without faith. I pray that this message would propel us toward holiness in our speech and in our minds.

The three points we want to focus on are:

1. Speak without Offence v1-2

2. Speak with Control v3-4

3. Speak Faithfully v5a

Speak Without Offence

James 3:1-2 1 My brethren, be not many masters, knowing that we shall receive the greater condemnation.

2 For in many things we offend all. If any man offend not in word, the same is a perfect man, and able also to bridle the whole body.

Take a look at the beginning of verse 1 as James says, “1 My brethren, be not many masters. He warns the Jewish Christians about the role of being a master for the wrong reason.

What is a master? Being a master implies having significant authority over others. A Rabbi for example, is a master. This signifies a form of leadership. But authority in what exactly? James specifies knowledge. Therefore, this master is a teacher.

Why did James warn them about becoming teachers? Over the last two Sundays, we learned that a profession of faith should be reflected in our actions, and our actions should reflect our profession. Faith and works are inseparable.

So, James warns them that a teacher holds a position of authority over their students. Teachers would "profess" (that’s why we have teachers called Professors in universities) a certain body of teachings, beliefs, or doctrines. Naturally, teachers would impart their knowledge to their students and shape their beliefs and convictions, thus making their students have the same knowledge, beliefs, and convictions. The Lord says in Luke 6:40 40 The disciple is not above his master: but every one that is perfect shall be as his master.

When a student finish studying with their teacher, the student who is fully trained will resemble their teacher. Therefore, if a teacher is leading their student into false doctrines, teachings, beliefs, or wisdom, the student will adopt the same false doctrines, teachings, beliefs, and wisdom.

The Lord also says in Matthew 23 about the Scribes and Pharisees, most of whom are Rabbis, how they relish their position. (See Matthew 23:1-12.)

The Lord exposed the pride of the Scribes and Pharisees. They position themselves in the seat of Moses, giving instructions to people that they themselves don’t follow. Their deeds are performed to garner acknowledgment and honour. They crave the spotlight, attention, praise, and the title of Rabbi.

Let’s go back to our main text in James 2.

James commands them, "Let not many of you become teachers." What he implies is to refrain from taking up the role of teaching.

Why do people desire to become teachers? In those ancient times, teachers were highly esteemed. They were seen as masters, leaders, influencers, and creators of their own doctrines, beliefs, and convictions.

However, from a Christian perspective, James cautions, "Do not let many become teachers." Why does he caution against teaching? Because a false teacher will lead their students astray.

And if the Jewish Christians profess their faith without works, what kind of students will they most likely produce? Barring of course the sovereignty of God. Teaching, specially in a church setting, isn't merely a prestigious privilege. Look the end of verse 1, "knowing that we shall receive the greater condemnation.”

Pay attention to the word “knowing,” as it is better rendered as “because you know.” As Christians, they have personally experienced and already grasp the preciousness of the Word of God.

James 1:25 says, 25 But whoso looketh into the perfect law of liberty, and continueth therein, he being not a forgetful hearer, but a doer of the work, this man shall be blessed in his deed.

And because they are aware of its weight and importance, they also comprehend and accept the strict judgment of God. It’s God’s word.

When a pastor or preacher responds to the call of God to proclaim His words, the pastor knows his responsibility. He knows he is accountable for everything he says for God. Thus, he also comprehends the weight of his calling.

Continuing from verse 1 of chapter 3 of James, it states, “We shall receive the greater condemnation.” Did you notice that James included himself among those vulnerable to condemnation when he used the word “we”? Throughout his exhortation to these Jewish Christians, he addresses them as “ye” or "all of you". However, when he speaks about being a teacher, he includes himself in his own exhortation.

James doesn’t consider himself perfect or exempted because he is the half brother of Christ who became a disciple and author of this letter. He doesn’t separate himself from those he is writing to or exhorting.

James understands the importance of handling God’s word with care. He realizes that he must be accurate and precise, never stating anything that God did not say. He sees himself simply as God’s servant – His mouthpiece.

Given the heightened accountability before God for teachers, there exists a significant risk of misusing the teacher's role, manipulating beliefs, and mishandling scripture. As one takes on the responsibility of teaching, it becomes imperative to ensure that their words are not only devoid of offense but also remain true and accurate, given the sacred nature of imparting God’s word.

The Lord says in Matthew 15:14 14 Let them alone: they be blind leaders of the blind. And if the blind lead the blind, both shall fall into the ditch.

James exhorts the Jewish Christians, emphasizing the significant responsibility and accountability that come with teaching God’s Word. As teaching primarily involves speech, James cautions them about the potential for errors as they instruct others. They are more susceptible to the dangers of misusing their tongue, making them vulnerable to sin and potentially leading others astray from the truth.

My loved ones, as you engage in studying God’s word during your private devotions or family worship, strive for accuracy. Avoid relying solely on your own understanding or emotions to interpret the word of God.

2 Timothy 2:15

15 Study to shew thyself approved unto God, a workman that needeth not to be ashamed, rightly dividing the word of truth.

Instead, endeavour to grasp the original author's intent and the purpose behind their writing to their audience. By placing ourselves in the context of the ancient world and imagining the people who first received this letter, we can better understand why it was written and how its timeless truths can be applied in our contemporary lives.

Let’s go back to our main text, James 3 in the middle of verse 1. Take note of the words "we shall receive." This refers to the future. When will an offending teacher receive the greater condemnation? Ultimately, it will be at the final judgment. This means that for false teachers, it will occur during the Great White Throne Judgment. For true believers who teach in offence, this will happen in the form of correction from God in this life or at the judgment seat of Christ.

Romans 14:10-12 for we shall all stand before the judgment seat of Christ.

11 For it is written, As I live, saith the Lord, every knee shall bow to me, and every tongue shall confess to God.

12 So then every one of us shall give account of himself to God.

Let’s go back to our main text in James 3:2

2 For in many things we offend all. If any man offend not in word, the same is a perfect man, and able also to bridle the whole body.

Look at the beginning of verse 2, “2 For in many things we offend all.” The better rendering of this part is “We all stumble in many ways”.

Again, James included himself when he used the word “we”, and he reinforce that no one, not even him or any of the Apostle and disciple of Christ are immune to causing offense through words by teaching. Everyone and anyone because of our sinful nature has the capacity to cause offence through our speech.

Take a closer look at the word "offend." It means to cause someone to stumble, stagger, fall, or make a false step. It's true that we all, in many ways, do things that are wrong. James is saying that we make these mistakes not necessarily out of malice or with intention, but due to minor errors in judgment.

Have you ever found yourself blurting something out without fully considering the consequences, only to realize it's too late to retract?

This is precisely what James implies: we can easily offend others with our speech due to our lack of judgment (swift to hear), our poor choices of words (slow to speak), or even from lacking control of our emotions (slow to anger). We often speak without thinking! My loved ones, this not only demands great concentration and physical focus as we practice being slow to speak but also requires the application of wisdom coupled with a sanctified faith.

Let’s look again at verse 2 “If any man offend not in word, the same is a perfect man, and able also to bridle the whole body.”

In the second part of verse 2, James describes this person as a “perfect man”. We’ve studied this word before with its Greek word “teleios” and this word "perfect" can carry two meanings: 1) absolute perfection, suggesting that no one is qualified to become a teacher except Christ. 2) "Perfect" can also mean mature or complete, and I believe this sense is more appropriate since James, being a disciple of Christ, is spiritually mature who was given the authority to teach.

The idea here is that if a person does not cause offense with what they say, then this is evidence of a heart of wisdom that is applied through sanctified faith. Moreover, since their speech is full of wisdom, it also indicates that they are applying this wisdom to control their actions, reactions, behaviours, and attitudes.

This is James's caution to the Jewish Christians, urging them not to become teachers for the wrong reasons. They should be mindful of the harm (p) false instruction can cause to students. Moreover, their faith should guide their wisdom to produce words that edify, are true, and accurate.

So my loved ones, ensure that your speech is without offence.

2. Speak With Control

James 3:3-4 3 Behold, we put bits in the horses’ mouths, that they may obey us; and we turn about their whole body.

4 Behold also the ships, which though they be so great, and are driven of fierce winds, yet are they turned about with a very small helm, whithersoever the governor listeth.

Starting from verse 3, James provides three comparisons and pictures of the tongue. We find this first comparison here when he says, Behold, we put bits in the horses’ mouths.

What is this “bits” that James is referring to? The old English word “bita” was used to refer to a piece or part which eventually evolved to mean the metal mouthpiece used in a horse’s bridle.

A horse's bridle is a piece of equipment used to control and guide a horse while riding or working with it. It typically consists of a headpiece that fits over the horse's head, with a bit (metal mouthpiece) that goes into the horse's mouth. The bridle also has reins attached, which the rider holds to communicate with the horse.

James provides this object lesson to demonstrate how we can control the movement of a horse through the use of a contraption like a bit in its mouth.

And so, this tiny contraption that goes into a horse’s mouth can control the whole body of a horse, highlighting the incredible power of something so small.

This illustration vividly portrays how our small tongue, in our mouth, has the power to control our entire body. It emphasizes the importance of taking control of our speech.

He previously says in James 1:26

26 If any man among you seem to be religious, and bridleth not his tongue, but deceiveth his own heart, this man’s religion is vain.

Do you see how James emphasizes the importance of speaking with control? Sometimes, we blame our mouths for seeming to have a mind of their own, making it difficult for us to fully control the words that come out of our lips.

However, that's not entirely accurate. The problem is not that our tongue is out of control, but rather that we willingly relinquish control. We fail to apply sanctified faith in our speech. Sanctification involves being set apart. We have not separated our speech, conduct, and conversation from the ways of the world when we say things without the wisdom that comes God.

James observes that the Jewish Christians may consider themselves religious, yet their words are uncontrolled and unfiltered. They deceive themselves because their words reveal the true intentions of their hearts, proving their religion to be worthless.

My loved ones, what does your words reveal about you at work with your colleagues, at home with your family, at leisure with your friends? What do they hear from you? Do they hear you talking about someone behind their back and maligning them? Do they hear gossips that tears down a person’s character? Do they hear insults, whining, cursing, or even using God’s name in vain?

Are we using words that demonstrate the fruit of the Spirit or deeds of the flesh? Are we guiding our words with wisdom that we've sought from God?

Look again at verse 3

3 Behold, we put bits in the horses’ mouths, that they may obey us; and we turn about their whole body.

The better rendering of this verse is,

“When we put bits into the mouths of the horses to make them obey us, we can guide the whole animal”.

James explains that there's a condition for the horse to obey its rider, and that condition depends on the rider. The horse will only obey when the rider places the bit into its mouth. Do you understand James’s illustration?

Similarly my dear ones, to control our speech, we must apply something crucial: wisdom that we seek from God in faith. When we speak without wisdom from God, our words become uncontrolled like a horse without its bit. Uncontrolled speech often reflects deeds of the flesh.

Look at the end of verse 3. “and we turn about their whole body.”

This term "body" as an example, encompasses the entirety of a person. James urges the Jewish Christians that if they can control their tongues against sin, it will also help control their entire bodies from sin. However, we recognize the impossibility of controlling our tongues due to our sinful nature. That’s applied wisdom and faith.

So, how do we gain control? Through faith. We control our tongues by relying on God who’s gifted us with sanctified faith—enabled by the Holy Spirit. This idea ties into the concept of "perfection," as when the Holy Spirit governs our speech, exemplified by being slow to speak, and speaking and doing according to the law of liberty, we move closer to maturity or perfection.

I love this quote by John MacArthur on his New Testament Commentary on the book of James.

When a person’s speech is Christ-exalting, God-honouring, and edifying, one can be sure the rest of his life is spiritually healthy- and vice versa.

Look at verse 4 where we will find his second picture and example of a tongue.

James 3:4 4 Behold also the ships, which though they be so great, and are driven of fierce winds, yet are they turned about with a very small helm, whithersoever the governor listeth.

The largest ship we have nowadays would dwarf the great ship that James describes. The largest ship built in our present day is called the Seawise Giant, an oil supertanker with a length of 458 meters built in 1979. For comparison, the length of the Empire State Building in New York City is approximately 443 meters, so the Seawise Giant is slightly longer than the Empire State Building.

I want you to take note of how James emphasizes, compares, and describes the size of the ship and the helm or rudder:

“the ships, which though they be so great

yet are they turned about with a very small helm”

James's point is that although a ship may be large and powerful, driven by fierce winds, it is directed and steered by a very small rudder. However, it's not the size of the rudder that controls it. James's point is how this tiny rudder turns this mighty ship, which is truly remarkable.

What did James say at the end of verse 4 that controls the ship? whithersoever the governor listeth.

The direction of a ship's rudder depends on its pilot, who determines its course. It is the will of the pilot that dictates where to turn the mighty ship by manoeuvring the rudder.

Similarly, just as the bit in a horse's mouth is controlled by its rider, the rudder on a ship is controlled by its pilot. Do you see the significance? Regardless of the size of the object being controlled, it is the guiding force behind it that determines its direction.

My loved ones, what is your guiding force? Is it your mere profession of faith that is workless, empty, dead, futile, vain, and untested? Let go of such faith and instead, cling to a faith characterized by holiness and righteousness, empowered by the work of the Holy Spirit that sanctifies you. Control your speech.

Consider this: a small tongue, when under the control of sanctified faith, can steer the body wherever wisdom directs. In essence, faith influences our ability to guide our actions and choices in alignment with wisdom. I invite you to take a look at the middle of verse 4 “the ships, which though they be so great, and are driven of fierce winds”

James highlights in his example two mighty opposing forces against a tiny rudder. Consider this: the size of the ship, described as 'so great,' represents its inherent character, while the strong winds that drive the ship symbolize external forces. Despite the immense size of the ship and the fierce strength of the winds, the tiny rudder has the remarkable ability to turn the entire ship.

This analogy underscores the profound impact of small things in influencing larger outcomes. James uses this example to illustrate the power of even the smallest elements in navigating through challenges and obstacles. Just as the tiny rudder can steer the mighty ship against great odds, so too can our small tongue that is guided by wisdom of God through sanctified faith, direct our lives through trials and adversity and through correct teaching.

My loved ones, don’t relinquish the control of your speech to mere professions of faith no matter the size and strength of your testing and trials. Instead, entrust the control of your speech to the Sovereign God. Remain within His will, for He will grant you wisdom, guide your paths, give you endurance, nurture your spiritual maturity, and bestow joy in your life despite facing various trials.

Consider how you can practically yield control to God in your words and actions, seeking His guidance in decision-making, nurturing relationships, and navigating daily challenges. Trusting in God's sovereignty empowers you to find strength, peace, and purpose in all circumstances, knowing that He is faithful to fulfill His promises and lead you through every trial.

In these examples, James highlights why it's crucial for Jewish Christians to reconsider pursuing roles as teachers. Their inability to control their speech, vividly demonstrated in their interactions with individuals of different social statuses, exposes a significant flaw in their testimony of faith. Speaking with control is essential, my loved ones.

Consider their treatment of the wealthy man, where they sought to impress him despite his blasphemous behaviour, while showing contempt towards the poor man, and neglecting their brethren in need. These actions reveal a loss of control in speech, driven by societal biases and superficial judgments rather than genuine compassion and love.

James underscores the importance of aligning speech and actions with genuine faith and obedience to God, drawing upon examples of faith from Abraham and Rahab. Abraham's unwavering obedience to God's command to sacrifice his son Isaac, and Rahab's courageous act of protecting the Israelite spies, exemplify individuals who acted in faith despite challenging circumstances.

Through these examples, James urges us to prioritize speaking with control and aligning our actions with our faith, resisting societal pressures and personal biases. By doing so, we demonstrate genuine obedience to God and reflect His love and grace to those around us.

My loved ones, speak with control.

3. Speak Faithfully

James 3:5a

5 Even so the tongue is a little member, and boasteth great things.

James concludes by comparing the bit in a horse's mouth and the rudder of a ship to the tongues of Jewish Christians who aspire to become teachers.

He once more draws a comparison, highlighting the small yet significant nature of the tongue. Just as the bit on a horse's bridle, though small, can control the entire body of the horse, and as a small rudder can steer a mighty ship in the direction desired despite fierce winds, so too can the tongue dictate the actions of an individual. James suggests that either the one aspiring to be a teacher lose control of their tongues due to their faith without works, or they willingly surrender control of their tongues to the sovereignty of God.

The small tongue possesses incredible and remarkable power. James warns that an untrained, inexperienced, and untested teacher may struggle to control and harness the power of their own tongue.

How does a small tongue wield such great power? James sheds light on this phenomenon, attributing it to human tendencies towards unfaithfulness, pride, inconsistent love, and unjust judgment. When individuals succumb to these negative traits, their tongues often become tools of arrogance. They boast of their own glory, goodness, wisdom, or self-righteousness, unknowingly causing widespread destruction. Relationships, friendships, families, marriages, and even churches can suffer. The ramifications extend further, as tongues can spark conflicts on a national scale, leading to acts of murder and warfare. Thus, it becomes imperative to exercise self-awareness and self-control, recognizing the potential harm our words can inflict and striving to use our tongues responsibly and positively.

How can we control our small yet powerful tongue? We do so by speaking faithfully, guided by the wisdom bestowed upon us by God. This entails surrendering our control and entrusting it to the Sovereign God. As a result, our speech becomes seasoned with the fruit of the Spirit, comprising gracious, kind, uplifting, edifying, comforting, blessing, and encouraging words. These words are characterized by faith, humility, kindness, love, and grace, reflecting the wisdom found in God's word. Achieving this level of speech is attainable only when a teacher has matured in faith and is filled with the Holy Spirit, thereby wholly submitting to God’s sovereignty.

Prayer

Heavenly Father,

We come to you with hearts full of praise, worshiping you, O Father. We are grateful for your faithful words, which have the power to uproot us from sin and envelop us in the comfort of your amazing grace.

Forgive us, Father, for our transgressions against you. Forgive us for seeking self-righteousness and indulging in pride, neglecting to apply the sanctifying faith that should set us apart from this world.

May we meditate upon your words, prioritizing spiritual growth and maturity over fame and prestige. Humble our hearts, Father, to yearn for your teachings, instilling in us a hunger that can only be satisfied by feasting upon your words.

We desire to honour and please you with our testimony and actions. Let our words reflect our faith, and may our faith be evident through our words.

Father, empower us to be blessings to the people and places where you have placed us.

All honour and glory belong to you.

In Christ's precious name,

Amen.