James 3: Group Study Handout

How to use: read James 3 aloud together, then take the questions in order. One page is enough for an evening.

Overview

James cautions that not many should become teachers because they will face stricter judgment (v. 1). Everyone stumbles in many ways, but one who does not stumble in speech is perfect and can control their whole body (v.

Key verse

“So the tongue is also a little member, and boasts great things. See how a small fire can spread to a large forest!”
James 3:5 (WEB)

Outline

James 3:1–2 Warning Against Teaching
James 3:3–5 Control Through Small Means
James 3:6–8 The Tongue's Destructive Nature
James 3:9–12 Inconsistency of Speech
James 3:13–16 True Wisdom vs. Earthly Wisdom
James 3:17–18 Fruit of Righteousness

Discussion questions

In v2, what does James say about a 'perfect man' and control over the tongue?
What image does James use in v4 to describe the guidance of a ship?
James discusses 'jealousy and selfish ambition' in v14: what is the consequence of these traits?
In v8, why does James describe the tongue as 'a restless evil'?
When has your tongue caused confusion or harm, as discussed in v10?

Go deeper

Passages that echo James 3: Matthew 5, Galatians 5, James 1.

Before next time: read James 4.