Speaking and Boasting (James 3:1-12, 17)

Sermon on 20 April 2025 by Pastor Justin

Introduction

Boasting comes from pride, and the bible tells us that pride goes before destruction.

Message

For we all stumble in many things. If anyone does not stumble in word, he is a perfect man, able also to bridle the whole body. Indeed, we put bits in horses’ mouths that they may obey us, and we turn their whole body. Look also at ships: although they are so large and are driven by fierce winds, they are turned by a very small rudder wherever the pilot desires. Even so the tongue is a little member and boasts great things. See how great a forest a little fire kindles! And the tongue is a fire, a world of iniquity. The tongue is so set among our members that it defiles the whole body and sets on fire the course of nature, and it is set on fire by hell. - James 3:2-6

James provided metaphors about the tongue. In the first illustration, the horse is so powerful, but with a bit in the horse’s mouth, we can control the horse. Similarly, if we control our tongue, we can control everything. On the contrary, if we let our tongues loose, there will be anger and resentment in our lives. In the second illustration, a ship is controlled by a very small rudder. In the third illustration, the tongue is like a fire. It can create but it can also destroy.

Whatever proceeds from the mouth comes from the heart. A good man with a good heart will bring forth good things. Speaking and boasting can amplify sins that affect individuals and the community. Careless or harmful words can cause irreversible damage. We are responsible to God for our words.

Words are powerful. They have the power to influence. They have the power to build up, but also the power to tear down. They have the power to encourage, but also to discourage and destroy. Let us speak words that build up.

1. Control your tongue; control anything

Life and death are in the power of the tongue (Proverbs 18:21). Let us refrain our tongues from evil and lips from deceit (1 Peter 3:10).

2. The remedy for all untamable tongue

No one can tame the tongue, full of deadly poison (James 3:8). The only way is through the wisdom of God. We can tame the tongue with humility.

With it we bless our God and Father, and with it we curse men, who have been made in the similitude of God. - James 3:9

Humble yourselves in the sight of the Lord, and He will lift you up. - James 4:10

But if you have bitter envy and self-seeking in your hearts, do not boast and lie against the truth. - James 3:14

Jealousy is corrosive to one’s spiritual life (Proverbs 14:30). Boasting is pride, contrary to humility and repentance.

A peaceful heart leads to a healthy body; jealousy is like cancer in the bones. - Proverbs 14:30

Closing

Consider how speaking and boasting affects your church and family relationships. The tongue is a powerful tool that can both build up and destroy. Let our words come to life this day forth. Be life-giving, uplifting to others, encouraging, and filled with humility.

Let your speech always be with grace, seasoned with salt, so you may know how to answer each one. - Colossians 4:6

For by your words, you will be justified, and by your words you will be condemned.” - Matthew 12:37