A Matter of Life and Death!
The power of our words can bring either life or death, and it is essential to use our tongues wisely.
Theodore Epp emphasizes the profound impact of our words in his sermon 'A Matter of Life and Death!', drawing parallels between fire and the tongue. He illustrates how words can hurt deeply, spread quickly, and consume lives if left unchecked, much like a fire. Epp warns that a single bitter word can lead to irreparable damage, and encourages believers to use their tongues wisely to avoid causing harm to others. He highlights the biblical truth that the power of life and death lies in our speech, urging Christians to be mindful of their words to prevent spreading gossip and negativity.
Text
James 3:1-6
Consider four parallels that a fire has with words spoken by the tongue: It hurts, it spreads, it consumes, but it can have a good use under control.
It only takes one false or bitter word to hurt deeply. In fact, the hurt may be so deep that recovery is impossible.
Just as fire spreads, so do spoken words. Some people are always willing to listen to destructive words about others, and they spread the words further so the damage becomes even more extensive.
Just as fire consumes, so do words spoken by a tongue that is out of control. Fire will destroy anything combustible that lies within its path. Words, too, have been known to destroy careers and lives. This is especially seen in the news media when political viewpoints are at stake.
We who know Jesus Christ as Saviour need to think solemnly about this matter so our tongues are not used to the disadvantage of others. Proverbs 18:21 says, "Death and life are in the power of the tongue, and those who love it will eat its fruit" (NASB).
Think of it! The power of death and life reside in the tongue. And the last phrase of this verse especially applies to those who spread gossip: "Those who love it will eat its fruit."
"Whoso keepeth his mouth and his tongue keepeth his soul from troubles" (Prov. 21:23).
Sermon Outline
- The Power of the Tongue
- Four parallels between fire and words spoken by the tongue
- Hurt caused by words
- Spread of destructive words
Key Quotes
“Death and life are in the power of the tongue, and those who love it will eat its fruit” — Theodore Epp
“Whoso keepeth his mouth and his tongue keepeth his soul from troubles” — Theodore Epp
“It only takes one false or bitter word to hurt deeply” — Theodore Epp
Application Points
- We must think solemnly about the power of our words and use them wisely to avoid hurting others.
- Those who spread gossip will face the consequences of their actions.
- We can prevent our tongues from being used to disadvantage others by using them wisely and lovingly.