Power of the Tongue (1-5): James turns his attention to the issue of the tongue (and words[1]) once again,[2] and he helps us see the enormous power therein. He first brings up the teachers in the church as they demonstrate the great impact of the tongue. With this, James reminds us this is not a role to take lightly since teachers will face divine accountability.[3] James then draws two pictures to show us the immense usefulness of the tongue from everyday life. The tongue is like the bit and bridle by which the horse is controlled. It is like the small rudder that can steer a ship as gigantic as the freighter. The tongue has such a useful power when used properly. Those who are wise understand its power and use it for good and avoid evil.[4]
Detriment of the Tongue (6): James then shifts his focus on the detrimental effects of the uncontrolled tongue. He compares it to a small fire that can engulf the entire forest in its flames. Likewise, the tongue is “the very world of iniquity,” a seemingly neutral instrument of communication that can convey and instigate sins of many kinds. The examples of this abound in Scripture.[5] The tongue, if unbridled and allowed to sin, will drag a person into hell.
[1] In the digital age, ideas can be communicated without the use of the physical tongue. Hence, the application of this passage goes beyond the physical organ to the use of words in every medium available to us today.
[2] This is an important facet of the believer’s life. James also gives due attention to this important topic (1:19, 26) as does Paul (Eph. 4:15, 25, 29; 5:3-4, 19-20).
[3] Scripture repeatedly speaks of this accountability (1 Cor. 4:4-5; 1 Thess. 2:3-4; 2 Tim. 2:4, 15; 4:1-2) while condemning men’s evaluation/applause (1 Cor. 4:3; 1 Thess. 2:5-6; 2 Tim. 4:3-4).
[4] Proverbs is fraught with lessons on the wise and foolish use of the tongue: Prov. 10:11, 14, 31; 11:9, 11; 12:6, 18; 13:2-3; 14:3; 18:7, 21; 21:23; 26:28; 31:26. Cf. also Eph. 4:15, 25, 29.
[5] Examples: the lads mocked Elisha and were ripped up by bears (2 Kings 2:23-24), Goliath taunted the ranks of Israel and was decapitated by David (1 Sam. 17:10, 51), the adulteress ruins herself and her lover with her words (Prov. 2:16-19; 5:3-6; 6:24), Judas took the path to suicide and damnation with one question (Matt. 26:15; 27:5; John 17:12), revilers and liars do not inherit the kingdom of God (1 Cor. 6:9-10; Rev. 21:8), etc.