A look at the tongue

16 September 2015
Opening Prayer/Worship

Hymn: Abide with me
Theme: Spirit of Life

Topic: A Look at the Tongue
Reading: James 3:1-12
Introduction
The tongue, although small, is a powerful part of our body.  There are several sayings in Scripture that allude to the power of the tongue, e.g.‘…it is not what goes into the mouth that kills but what comes out.’  It is with the same tongue that we praise God and bless people that we also curse and proclaim profanities.  As Christians, this should not be the case.  In the Book of James, we are encouraged to apply strict control of our tongues.  This is as difficult as other aspects of Christian living and may likely be the most difficult.  However, with the power of the Holy Spirit we will have control over what we say, as well as why, how and when we say it.  Gossiping, boasting, profane talk, quarrelling, cursing and any kind of speech that is not worthy of our calling should not be part of our lives.  Having control over the tongue is one of the proofs that we are controlled by the Holy Spirit.

Questions/Discussion

1. Why is the tongue described as a powerful part of the body?  Matthew 12:31-37; Matthew 15:1-20; James 3:2-10.
2. Should we be mindful of what we say about people and what people say about us?  Mark 8:27-38.
3. Discuss ways we can control our tongues.  Psalm 19:1-14; Proverbs 4:1-5, 20-27; James 1:21-27.
Intercession/Worship

Conclusion
With the power of the Holy Spirit we will have control over what we say, as well as why, how and when we say it.  Having control over the tongue is one of the proofs that we are controlled by the Holy Spirit.
 
Closing Prayer (Collect for Sixteenth Sunday after Pentecost)
Almighty God, you call your Church to witness that in Christ we are reconciled to you. Help us so to proclaim the good news of your love, that all who hear it may turn to you; through Jesus Christ our Lord, who lives and reigns with you and the Holy Spirit, one God, now and for ever.  Amen.