James 3

KJ3 Literal Translation — Chapter 3 of 5

1 My brothers, do not become many teachers, knowing that we will receive greater judgment.

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

3 Behold, we put bits in the mouths of the horses, for them to obey us; and we turn about their whole body.

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Chapter Summary

1 We are not rashly or arrogantly to reprove others, 5 but rather to bridle the tongue. 13 They who be truly wise are mild and peaceable.

Key Greek Words

τε also, and, both, even, then,, whether G5037
πολλοὶ abundant, altogether, common G4183
οὐ long, nay, neither G3756
εἰς against, among, as G1519
Μὴ any but (that), X forbear, God forbid G3361

People & Context

Teachers Face Greater Judgment

Not many should become teachers, knowing they will receive greater judgment. Everyone stumbles in many ways. The one who does not stumble in speech is…

Small Things Control Great Things

Bits control horses and small rudders steer great ships. So the tongue is a small member but boasts great things. A little fire kindles a vast forest.

The Tongue Is a Fire

The tongue is a fire, the world of unrighteousness set among our members. It defiles the whole body and inflames the course of nature, itself being in…

Timeline

Teachers Face Greater Judgment

Not many should become teachers, knowing they will receive greater judgment. Everyone stumbles in many ways. The one who does not stumble in speech is mature and able to bridle the whole body.

James 3:1-2
Small Things Control Great Things

Bits control horses and small rudders steer great ships. So the tongue is a small member but boasts great things. A little fire kindles a vast forest.

James 3:3-5
The Tongue Is a Fire

The tongue is a fire, the world of unrighteousness set among our members. It defiles the whole body and inflames the course of nature, itself being inflamed by Hell. Every species of creature has been tamed, but no one can tame the tongue — an unrestrainable evil full of deadly poison.

James 3:6-8

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Word-for-word literal translation with Greek interlinear, Strong's numbers, and audio.

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