Posted on 06/03/2026 9:14:05 PM PDT by metmom
"Let everyone be . . . slow to speak" (James 1:19). Don’t rush into the role of a Bible teacher.
It is reported that when the Scottish Reformer John Knox was called to preach, he shed many tears and withdrew himself to the privacy of his room. He was grieved and greatly troubled at the prospect of such an awesome responsibility. Only the compelling grace of the Holy Spirit Himself enabled Knox to fulfill his calling.
John Knox understood the importance of being slow to speak. He knew that God holds teachers of the Word accountable for what they say, and will dispense a stricter judgment to them if they violate their ministry (James 3:1- 2).
In one sense, God holds everyone accountable for what they say. You are to "let no unwholesome word proceed from your mouth, but only such a word as is good for edification according to the need of the moment, that it may give grace to those who hear" (Eph. 4:29). But being slow to speak doesn't refer to vocabulary or opinions. It refers to teaching the Word. You are to pursue every opportunity to hear God's Word, but exercise reluctance in assuming the role of a teacher. Why? Because the tongue reveals the subtle sins of one's heart and easily offends others (James 2:2).
Does that mean you should never teach the Bible? No, because God commands every believer to "make disciples . . . teaching them to observe all" that Jesus taught (Matt. 28:19-20, emphasis added). And the Spirit gifts many believers to be preachers and teachers of the Word. Paul said, "I am under compulsion; for woe is me if I do not preach the gospel" (1 Cor. 9:16).
You must take every opportunity to share the gospel with others, and if God has called and gifted you to teach the Word, be faithful to do so. But remember, those are serious and sacred responsibilities. Be sure your motives are pure and your teaching accurate. If someone is offended, let it be by the convicting power of the Word, not by something you said at an unguarded moment.
Suggestions for Prayer
-Ask the Lord to teach you to guard your tongue and to speak only what is edifying to others.
For Further Study
-Read Proverbs 10:19, 13:3, 17:28, and 29:20, noting what each teaches about wise speech.
Studying God’s Word ping
Thanks for sharing it MetMom..
Just finished a GREAT message from Pastor Jack on The Second Coming.
Moves me to pray more for the lost...
The book of Proverbs offers numerous insights into the dangers of excessive speech.
Proverbs 10:19 states, “When words are many, sin is unavoidable, but he who restrains his lips is wise.”
This verse underscores the idea that an abundance of words often leads to sin,
suggesting that restraint is a mark of wisdom.
Similarly, Proverbs 17:27-28 advises,
“A man of knowledge restrains his words, and a man of understanding maintains a calm spirit.
Even a fool is considered wise if he keeps silent, and discerning when he holds his tongue.”
Sadly, so many THINK they have good motives and their teaching correct, but when compared to the WORD - come up short.
(Eph. 4:29)
I was thinking of this verse as so as I read the title of the thread.
I should put it on a t-shirt, in mirror text, so I can read it when standing before a mirror.
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