The Standard for the Tongue

James tells us we must not behave as the unbelievers do. We have a different standard for what we say and how we say it. He continues his characterization of the tongue as uncontrollable and as evil, then gives us a call to control the tongue.

James 3:7-12

I.) The Untamable Tongue: V7-8

A.) Man’s Control of Animals: Genesis 1:26-30, Genesis 6:11-22, Genesis 7:1-16, Genesis 7:18-24, Genesis 8:1-5, Genesis 8:12-22

B.) Man’s Inability to Control His Tongue: Psalm 141:3, Romans 7:8, Galatians 5:17, Genesis 3:12, Acts 2:11

C.) The Tongue is a Venomous Evil: Psalm 64:1-10, Deuteronomy 32:33, Ecclesiastes 10:11

1.) King Saul Kills Priests Because of Lies about David: 1 Samuel 22:9-19
2.) King Hanun’s Army Killed Because of Lies: 2 Samuel 10:1-19
3.) Ahab and Jezebel Kill Naboth: 1 Kings 21:1-13
4.) Christ Put To Death By Lies: Matthew 26:57-61
5.) Martyrdom of Stephen: Acts 6:8-15, Acts 7:51-60

II.) The Tongue of Compromise: V9

A.) The Tongue Should Bless God: Psalm 30:12, Psalm 35:28, Psalm 51:14, 1 Chronicles 29:10, 1 Chronicles 29:20

B.) The Evil Tongue Curses Man: 2 Samuel 16:5, Psalm 109:17-18, Romans 3:14

C.) Man is the Image of God: Genesis 1:26-27, Genesis 9:6, 1 Corinthians 11:7

III.) The Standard for the Tongue: V10-12, Matthew 7:16-18, Matthew 5:37, Ephesians 5:3-4, Colossians 3:8-9

Food for thought: Only the Holy Spirit can control your tongue.