1. The power of the tongue (1-6)

Bible teachers have tremendous influence over others and thus will be judged more strictly by God. Teaching is very difficult because it makes use of our powerful but uncontrollable tongues. Anyone whose speech is never at fault is perfect - but there is no such person. The tongue is relatively small, like a bit for a horse or a ship's rudder. But as those things can set a horse or ship's direction, so the tongue has power to steer a person's life direction. When uncontrolled, the tongue can corrupt our life and lead us to hell.

2. How do you use your tongue? (7-12)

No one can tame the tongue. It is a restless evil, able to poison ourselves and others, with its words. The same tongue we use to praise God is also used to curse people. This should not be. A spring cannot bring forth both fresh and salt water. A plant cannot produce the fruit of a different plant. Likewise, our tongues should praise God and build up others with its words rather than tear others down. May God have mercy on our tongues!