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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

γλῶσσα tongue G1100
σοφία wisdom G4678
διδάσκαλος teacher G1320
ζῆλος jealousy, envy G2205
ἐριθεία contention, strife G2052
εἰρήνη peace G1515

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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