James 3
Epiphanytide
Jesus says “the things that come out of a person’s mouth come from the heart, and these defile them.” In the third chapter of James, we engage with dramatic metaphors on the power of the tongue. The tongue can be used in ways that give life like a fresh water spring or steal it away like a deadly poison. Followers of Jesus have to tend to our character and learn to tame our speech.
Scripture passage: James 3
Week 5 of our James sermon series
Respond together:
James uses powerful and dramatic metaphor to show us how life can be stolen or destroyed when you use your tongue in harmful ways. In what ways have words been spoken (to you or by you) that have set forests ablaze?
With the tongue we can praise and bless and we can curse others who are made in God’s likeness. Who are those people or that person that is made in God’s likeness that you find it hard to bless? May you identify this person, in your mind and heart take some time to bless or pray for them this week.
James identifies differences between earthly wisdom and wisdom that comes from heaven. What are the unique ways in which heavenly wisdom contrasts or counters what would be considered common ‘wisdom’ today? What wells of wisdom (books, podcasts, online) do you commonly drink from? Which wisdom do you live and practice?
Our songs together:
Great are you Lord - All Sons and Daughters
His Mercy is More - Matt Papa
Yet Not I But Through Christ In Me - City Alight