Life and Death in the Power of the Tongue
VBC Albuquerque · Sep 17, 2023
The sermon explores the power of the tongue based on Proverbs 18:21 and James 3. Human speech has three primary powers: control, destruction, and nourishment. You must govern your words to live righteously and avoid the negative consequences of careless speech.
The sermon begins by exploring the theme of tongue power and speech in human life. Proverbs 18:21 emphasizes that "life and death are in the power of the tongue," meaning your words determine life or death. The pastor quotes various proverbs from different cultures (Confucius, Nguyễn Trãi, Pascal) to demonstrate that carefulness in speech is a universal principle. Scripture teaches that God's Word is the creative power that formed the universe (John 1:1-4, Hebrews 11:3), so human speech carries great significance.
The second section develops the three powers of the tongue, beginning with the power of control. James 3:3-4 compares the tongue to a horse's bridle and a ship's rudder—small objects that govern the entire large body. Gracious words (Colossians 4:6) and good speech (Ephesians 4:29) can direct human life. The sermon then emphasizes the destructive power of the tongue. James 3:5-8 depicts the tongue as a small fire that burns down a vast forest, a "restless evil full of deadly poison." Proverbs 26 shows that contentious words, deception, and false witness are things God hates. Proverbs 6:16-20 lists a lying tongue as one of seven things the Lord abominates most.
The third section presents the nourishing power of the tongue—using it to praise God and help others. James 3:9-12 highlights the contradiction of one mouth producing both blessing and curse, like a spring that cannot simultaneously flow with both fresh and salt water. Proverbs 18:4 and 10:11 describe the righteous person's mouth as "a fountain of life," issuing forth wisdom and healing. Truthful speech is healing medicine for the soul (Proverbs 12:18). You will reap the fruit of your own tongue—life or death depending on how you use it.
The final section applies the message to Christian living practice. Matthew 12:33-37 warns that on judgment day, every careless word will be brought into account, because your speech reveals what your heart truly is. James 1:26 cautions that if you think yourself religious but fail to bridle your tongue, your faith is useless. Psalm 141:3-4 is a prayer asking God to guard your mouth and lips from evil. William George Jordan illustrates how countless pillows are soaked with tears, hearts are broken, friendships are shattered—all because of the sins of the human tongue. Therefore, you must be vigilant, control your words, use your tongue to praise God and give grace to others, because life and death truly rest in the power of your tongue.