The Untamable Tongue

1My brothers, let not many become teachers, knowing that we shall receive greater judgment.

2For we all stumble in many ways. If anyone does not stumble in word, he is a mature man, able also to bridle the whole body.

3Consider that we put bits in horses' mouths that they may obey us, and we guide their whole body.

4Consider also the ships: although they are so large and are driven by strong winds, they are guided by a very small rudder wherever the impulse of the pilot desires.

5Even so the tongue is a small member and it boasts great things. See how great a forest is kindled by such a small fire!

6And the tongue is a fire, the very world of iniquity. Thus the tongue is set among our members, as that which defiles the whole body, and sets on fire the course of nature; and it is set on fire by hell.

7For every kind of both beasts and birds, of both reptiles and sea creatures, is tamed and has been tamed by mankind.

8But no man can tame the tongue. It is an unrestrainable evil, full of deadly poison.

9With it we bless our God and Father, and with it we curse men, who are made in the likeness of God.

10Out of the same mouth come blessings and curses. My brothers, these things ought not to be so.

11The spring does not pour forth from the same opening both the sweet and the bitter water, does it?

12It is not possible, my brothers, for a fig tree to produce olives, or a vine to produce figs, is it? Thus no spring is able to produce both salt and sweet water.

Wisdom from Above

13Is there anyone wise and understanding among you? Let him show by his good conduct that his works are in meekness of wisdom.

14But if you have bitter jealousy and strife in your heart, do not boast and lie against the truth.

15This wisdom is not that which comes down from above, but is earthly, sensual, demonic.

16For where jealousy and strife exist, there is turmoil and every evil work.

17But the wisdom from above is first pure, then peaceable, gentle, willing to yield, full of mercy and good fruits, without partiality and without hypocrisy.

18Now the fruit of righteousness is sown in peace by those making peace.