The Bible Says Commentary on James 3

James 3:1-5 warns against the problem of too many believers trying to become teachers in their church community. Teachers will be judged with greater scrutiny by Jesus, because if they teach falsely, they lead those who listen to them away from God's will. There are many kinds of mistakes we make and ways we can sin, but one way which causes widespread damage is what we say, if we speak wrongly. Our tongue, though it is a small part of us, can cause powerful results, like a bit guiding a horse or a rudder steering a great ship, or a small flame burning down an entire forest. So, we should be very careful with what we teach and say.

James 3:6-12 continues the warning about being careful with what we teach and say. The tongue is like a fire which can create great harm. It can destroy lives if used carelessly. Though humans can tame any kind of bird or beast, we cannot tame the tongue. With our tongues we reveal our inability to control ourselves, sometimes saying good things, like praise to God, and other times cursing our fellow man with hatred. This kind of harmful speech is not God's will for how we should live.

James 3:13-18 prompts James's readers to ponder what kind of wisdom they value. He contrasts heavenly wisdom with earthly, evil wisdom. The man who has heavenly wisdom exhibits it by being good and gentle toward others. But the man with earthly wisdom is a ladder-climber, motivated by his ambition to step over others and gain influence. He is full of selfishness and jealousy, which creates chaos and other sins, corrupting those who listen to him. Godly wisdom is pure and leads to peace, reason, and mercy. Wise men who follow God do not show hypocrisy but inspire harmony among other believers and right living that honors God.