1 Let not many of you become teachers, my brethren, knowing that as such we will incur a [a]stricter judgment.

Taming the tongue

James, true to form, jumps to another topic. Most of this chapter will focus on speech and taming the tongue. “Those in his line of sight are evidently leaders who are summoned to control and guide the course of the church’s life and destiny. Hence the twin imagery of the horse’s bit (v 3) and the ship’s rudder (v 4).”[Martin quoted in Constable commentary] But certainly all followers of Christ can benefit from applying this teaching.

Tough to be a teacher

He starts the discussion about speech by focusing on teachers. His focus is teaching about spiritual content. It’s directed to those in a more formal teaching role in ministry we suspect. Because he says, “let not many”, he seems to be encouraging (and warning) would-be teachers to seriously consider their motive and aspiration. If it’s to earn a reputation or motivated by pride, don’t pursue it. When someone seeks to be a teacher of the Bible or theology or maybe even a counselor, they need to give thoughtful consideration. Why?

Stricter judgment?

What is this “stricter judgment”? We can get a clue from Jesus’ warning: “From everyone who has been given much, much will be required; and to whom they entrusted much, of him they will ask all the more.” (Luke 12:48) The judgment could come from other people listening and critiquing the teaching. And there are certainly not a dearth of critics in any audience! But ultimately, the judgment comes from God who will hold each accountable for the words we speak. (Matthew 12:36-37)

As well, these verses serve as a guardrail for teaching in the church – to keep our teaching on the “straight and narrow”. We should be careful to thoroughly and prayerfully research what we teach.

RЯeflection

• Are you a teacher of the Bible in one form or another? Let’s take this caution seriously. If we can’t, then consider giving up the teaching role, at least for a time. If we’re in it for the glory or pleasure, then we surely should consider stepping down.

• Maybe you are not a teacher per se. Are you faithfully praying for those who you receive teaching from? Do you encourage them in their ministry work? How about contributing to their needs?