As you read through this text, what are some of the reasons that James gives for why Christians need to be careful with their words?

What does James mean when he says that teachers will be judged with greater strictness (3:1)? How should that inform our speech, as Christians (many of whom have the responsibility of teaching and helping others)?

According to James 3:2, what does James think is the area of life where it is most difficult to overcome sin? Does this comport with your experience? What areas of your life do you find it most difficult to overcome sin?

James likens the tongue to a horse’s bridle (3:3), and a ship’s rudder (3:4), and a small fire that starts a huge forest fire (3:5). What is the meaning of these analogies? What are they calling us to? How should we respond, in view of them?

How does James describe the danger that our speech represents to us in James 3:6-8?

How does James describe (3:9-12) the absurdity of the tension of using our speech to bless God, while also using it to curse people? How do these verses press back against our sinful speech, and help us to have a vision for godly speech?

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