Chapter 3
-The works of teaching, the taming of the tongue, and the
attitude of the heart are the main emphasis in chapter three as James continues
to give advice on the working out aspects of our faith in practice. Not many
should become teachers because they will incur a stricter judgment (James 3:1).
In the same respect, to whom much is given, much is expected (Luke 12:48).
Therefore, if you are called to teach and lead others, do so, but do it with
fear and reference as unto the Lord, not out of selfish ambition. *Application*
Having an administration in the house of God is a vital calling and one that
should not be taken lightly as we see here in this short, but powerful verse.
The judgment of God is on those who lead people’s souls if they do not do it
well. This should humble us and make us astutely aware of the consequences of
not managing the people of God in a manner worthy of our calling. However, as
the Scripture says, “If anyone aspires to
the office of overseer, he desires a noble task (1 Timothy 3:1).”
-The tongue is a small
member in proportion to our entire body, but it directs the course of our life
in many respects as words coming pouring out of it directly from the intentions
of the heart (Luke 6:45). We can speak life or death in any given situation.
Our words should display good fruit because so much damage can come from an
uncontrolled mouth. The only One who can tame it is Christ Jesus working
through His Holy Spirit to produce in us the peaceful fruit of righteousness in
blessing rather than restless evil and deadly poison in curses (James 3:2-12).
*Application* Think about what you say. Obey the Holy Spirit and guard your
tongue. Instead of reacting to
things that frustrate, anger, and agitate you, respond with the love of the Lord and be guided by His mind in you
(1 Corinthians 2:16). Lord forgive us when we speak death rather than life. It
happens way too often if we care to admit it.
-The wise and understanding will conduct himself in meekness
rather than jealousy and selfish-ambition from the heart in boasting and
falseness to the truth (James 3:13-14). Jealousy and selfish-ambition is
earthly, unspiritual, and demonic wisdom, which leads to disorder and every
evil practice (James 3:15-16). On the other hand, the wisdom that comes from
above (God) is pure, peaceable, gentle, open to reason, full of mercy and good
fruits, impartial, and sincere. It produces a harvest of righteousness, which
is sown in peace by those who make peace (James 3:17-18). *Application* Jesus
said that the peacemakers will be called the sons of God (Matthew 5:9). Making
peace in a fallen world is hard work and cannot be done without the work of the
Holy Spirit within us as we yield to Him. There is a certain humility in this
that is supernatural. It comes only from above and we must not stand in His
way. Go with the Spirit’s promptings and make peace in Godly wisdom. Resist the
natural temptation to be envious, jealous, and selfish in your life.
Verses to memorize:
James 3:1, 5, 16-17
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