1
BSB
Not many of you should become teachers, my brothers, because you know that we who teach will be judged more strictly.
2
BSB
We all stumble in many ways. If anyone is never at fault in what he says, he is a perfect man, able to control his whole body.
3
BSB
When we put bits into the mouths of horses to make them obey us, we can guide the whole animal.
4
BSB
Consider ships as well. Although they are so large and are driven by strong winds, they are steered by a very small rudder wherever the pilot is inclined.
5
BSB
In the same way, the tongue is a small part of the body, but it boasts of great things. Consider how small a spark sets a great forest ablaze.
6
BSB
The tongue also is a fire, a world of wickedness among the parts of the body. It pollutes the whole person, sets the course of his life on fire, and is itself set on fire by hell.
7
BSB
All kinds of animals, birds, reptiles, and creatures of the sea are being tamed and have been tamed by man,
8
BSB
but no man can tame the tongue. It is a restless evil, full of deadly poison.
9
BSB
With the tongue we bless our Lord and Father, and with it we curse men, who have been made in God’s likeness.
10
BSB
Out of the same mouth come blessing and cursing. My brothers, this should not be!
11
BSB
Can both fresh water and salt water flow from the same spring?
12
BSB
My brothers, can a fig tree grow olives, or a grapevine bear figs? Neither can a salt spring produce fresh water.
13
BSB
Who is wise and understanding among you? Let him show it by his good conduct, by deeds done in the humility that comes from wisdom.
14
BSB
But if you harbor bitter jealousy and selfish ambition in your hearts, do not boast in it or deny the truth.
15
BSB
Such wisdom does not come from above, but is earthly, unspiritual, demonic.
16
BSB
For where jealousy and selfish ambition exist, there will be disorder and every evil practice.
17
BSB
But the wisdom from above is first of all pure, then peace-loving, gentle, accommodating, full of mercy and good fruit, impartial, and sincere.
18
BSB
Peacemakers who sow in peace reap the fruit of righteousness.
BSB: Berean Standard Bible (BSB). Dedicated to the public domain by the rights holder.