James 3:1-2
What is written? (ESV)
Not many of you should become teachers, my brothers, for you know that we who teach will be judged with greater strictness. For we all stumble in many ways. And if anyone does not stumble in what he says, he is a perfect man, able also to bridle his whole body.
What does it say?
There should not be many brethren wanting to take on the grave responsibility of teaching [God’s word], since those that teach will be judged more stringently. Everyone stumbles in various ways, and all of us stumble in speech, otherwise, you would be perfect and able to control your flesh completely.
What is its immediate context?
James’ practical words to Christians on how to live faithfully. In chapter three, he turns to address those among the brotherhood that might teach others (vs 1) and from here begins to talk about the tongue and its power, particularly for evil. He says that “It is a restless evil, full of deadly poison” (vs 8).
How James 3:1-2 is applied across Bible answers
What is required to understand the Bible?
Teachers of God's word must be very careful as they "will be judged with greater strictness."
