Destructive Words
KEY VERSES
Let not many of you become teachers, my brethren, knowing that as such we will incur a stricter judgment. James 3:1, NASB
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.
James 3:2, NASB
Now if we put the bits into the horses’ mouths so that they will obey us, we direct their entire body as well. James 3:3, NASB
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. So also the tongue is a small part of the body, and yet it boasts of great things.
James 3:4-5a, NASB
See how great a forest is set aflame by such a small fire! And the tongue is a fire, the very world of iniquity… James 3:5b-6a, NASB
“…the tongue is set among our members as that which defiles the entire body, and sets on fire the course of our life, and is set on fire by hell.
James 3:6b, NASB
“Listen,” he said, “and try to understand. It’s not what goes into your mouth that defiles you; you are defiled by the words that come out of your mouth.”
Matthew 15:10b-11, NLT
Useless people make evil plans, and their words are like a burning fire.
Proverbs 16:27, NCV
CENTRAL IDEAS
My Speech Has the Potential of Condemning Me.
My Speech Has the Potential of Controlling Me.
Not only does the tongue have great potential for bringing us into a strict judgment, it also has the potential for a strong testimony.
People are led into a relationship with Jesus Christ because they have heard THE WORDS of the gospel. They experience eternal life because someone else talks to them. Our words Matter!
My Speech Has the Potential of Being Consuming.
It all depends on what we have in our hearts. Pastor Chuck Swindoll suggests four steps to silence people who love to gossip and spread rumors.
Identify sources by name.
Support evidence with facts.
Ask the person, “May I quote you?”
Openly admit, “I don’t appreciate hearing that.”
My Speech Has the Potential of Being Corrupting.
For every species of beasts and birds, of reptiles and creatures of the sea, is tamed and has been tamed by the human race. But no one can tame the tongue; it is a restless evil and full of deadly poison. James 3:7-8, NASB
My Speech Has the Potential of Compromising Me.
With it we bless our Lord and Father, and with it we curse men, who have been made in the likeness of God; from the same mouth come both blessing and cursing. My brethren, these things ought not to be this way. Does a fountain send out from the same opening both fresh and bitter water? Can a fig tree, my brethren, produce olives, or a vine produce figs? Nor can salt water produce fresh. James 3:9-12, NASB
Making up with a friend you have offended is harder than breaking through a city wall. Proverbs 18:19, CEV
APPLICATION
THINK before you speak.
Is it True?
Is it Helpful?
Is it Inspiring?
Is it Necessary?
Is it Kind?
Talk Less.
Memorize more.
WANT TO DIVE DEEPER?
Joining a group is a great way to know people and strengthen your relationship with Jesus Christ. Take a look at available groups to get plugged in to and find the group that is right for you.
GIVING
Everything that happens at LCC is because of your generous gifts. When you give to God through LCC, you're helping reach thousands with the Gospel each week and are making a difference for the Lowcountry and around the world.