CHAPTER 3
Not
many of you
should become
teachers,
my
brothers,
because you know
that
we who teach will be
judged
more strictly.
We all stumble
in many ways.
If
anyone
is never
at fault
in
what he says,
he is
a perfect
man,
able
to control
his
whole
body.
When
we put
bits
into
the
mouths
of the
horses
to make
them
obey
us,
we can guide
the
whole
animal.
Consider
ships
as well.
Although they are
so large
and
are driven
by
strong
winds,
they are steered
by
a very small
rudder
wherever
the
pilot
is inclined.
In the same way,
the
tongue
is
a small
part of the body,
but
it boasts of
great things.
Consider
how small
a spark
sets
a great
forest ablaze.
The
tongue
also
is a fire,
a
world
of wickedness
among
the
parts
of the body.
It pollutes
the
whole
person,
sets
the
course
of his life on fire,
and
is itself set on fire
by
hell.
All
kinds
of animals,
birds,
reptiles,
and
creatures of the sea
are being tamed
and
have been tamed
by
man,
With
the tongue
we bless
our
Lord
and
Father,
and
with
it
we curse
men,
who
have been made
in
God’s
likeness.
My
brothers,
can
a fig tree
grow
olives,
or
a grapevine
bear figs?
Neither can
a salt spring
produce
fresh
water.
Who
is wise
and
understanding
among
you?
Let him show it
by
his
good
conduct,
by
deeds done
in
the humility
that comes from wisdom.
But
if
you harbor
in
your
hearts
bitter
jealousy
and
selfish ambition,
do not
boast in it
or
deny
the
truth.
But
the wisdom
from above
is
first
of all
pure,
then
peaceable,
gentle,
accommodating,
full
of mercy
and
good
fruit,
impartial,
and sincere.