RSV ~ James 3 Notes

Jas 3:1-12 | ISB Notes

An appeal for prudent and wholesome speech (1:19). Several illustrations are marshaled to demonstrate how an unbridled tongue can cause considerable damage in the world (Prov 16:27; Sir 28:17-26). Examples of misusing the tongue include blasphemy (Jas 2:7), cursing (3:9), slander (4:11), boasting (4:16), grumbling (5:9), and illicit oath swearing (5:12) (CCC 2148, 2479-81).

• James shows how great an evil is man’s tongue, so great that it cannot be tamed, even though men have tamed wild animals. He spoke, not with the intention that we should tolerate this evil, but in order that we might ask God for the grace to tame our tongues (St. Augustine, On Nature and Grace 15).

Jas 3:1 | ISB Notes

teachers: Christian educators bear great responsibility for their teaching and influence. Since their mission involves extensive speaking, they are at greater risk than most for making “mistakes” in what they say (3:2). The prospect of a stricter judgment should restrain them from uttering careless words (Mt 12:33-37) and teaching what they themselves do not understand (Sir 5:11-13).

Jas 3:6 | ISB Notes

unrighteous world: The tongue is a microcosm of the fallen world, where sin and hurt prevail. It is extraordinarily difficult to bring under control.

cycle of nature: Every stage of life, from youth to old age.

hell: Literally, “Gehenna”.

See word study: Hell at Mk 9:43.

Jas 3:9 | ISB Notes

we bless … we curse: Using the tongue in worship is contradicted by abusing the tongue in conversation. Despite our praise, the Father is not truly honored when our neighbor is dishonored and discouraged by harmful words.

Jas 3:13-18 | ISB Notes

These verses continue to address the teachers mentioned in 3:1. The teacher who claims to be wise but is controlled by “jealousy and selfish ambition” (3:14) is really a fool whose wisdom stems from the world (3:15). True wisdom transforms the mind and heart of the teacher and is manifest through a pure and peaceable life (3:17). It is a divine gift that comes down from the Father above (1:17). See note on Jas 1:5.