Tongue on Fire: Ethics of Speech in James

Abstract

James 3:1–12 supplements routine exhortations to guard against the speech which follows from particular vices (1:19–20, anger; 1:26, false piety; 4:11, slander) with a wisdom speech on the tongue, which appears to make the project impossible. Limiting the reflection on out of control or destructive speech to those seeking recognition as teachers (v. 1) introduces examples of destructive false teaching not present in James. The moralists’ distinction between those who require moral reprimand, those serious about making progress in virtue, and the “wise” as employed in Pauline exhortation resolves the tension between goal and difficulty noted in James. James 3:1–12 cautions “those in progress” against considering themselves “the perfect” (v. 2). Positive speech within the community, encouragement, mutual correction, healing, and prayer (5:7–20) do not require instruction by the wise.