Sundays at All Hallows (Sunday, September 15, 2024)
You may have had the experience of a child coming home from school in tears because a classmate was spreading rumors about them and their other classmates were giving them the cold shoulder because of these rumors. Or perhaps you heard or read about a teenager who committed suicide because a group of other teenagers ganged up on the teenager on the internet and were bullying them. One of the other teenager’s mothers even joined in the bullying. These are just two examples of how words can be used to harm others.
In this Sunday’s message we take a look at what the Bible says on the topic of using the tongue and words for good and for evil and how it applies to Christians. .
GATHERING IN GOD’S NAME
Open a link in a new tab to hear Dale A. Witte’s arrangement of the Venite, “Come, O Come, Let Us Sing to the Lord Our Savior!”
Come, O come, let us sing to the Lord our Savior!
Come, O come, let us sing to the Lord!
1 Let us make a joyful noise to the rock of our salvation.
Let us come into his presence with thanksgiving.
Let us make a joyful noise to him with songs of praise.
Come, O come, let us sing to the Lord our Savior!
Come, O come, let us sing to the Lord!
2 For the Lord is a great God and great King above all gods.
The deep places of the earth are in his hands.
The heights of the hills are his also.
The sea is his, for he made it,
and his and formed the dry land.
Come, O come, let us sing to the Lord our Savior!
Come, O come, let us sing to the Lord!
3 Oh, come let us worship and bow down;
let us kneel before our Maker.
For he is our God, and we are his people,
the people of his pasture and the sheep of his hand.
Come, O come, let us sing to the Lord our Savior!
Come, O come, let us sing to the Lord!
Our Lord Jesus Christ said:
You shall love the Lord your God with all your heart, and
with all your soul, and with all your mind, and with all your
strength. This is the great ad first commandment. And
a second is like it: You shall love your neighbour as yourself.
On these two commandments hang all the law and the prophets.
Matthew 23: 37-40; Mark 12: 30-31
Knowing the goodness of God and our failure to respond
with love ad obedience, let us confess our sins.
Silence
Heavenly Father,
you have loved us with an everlasting love,
but we have broken your holy laws
and have left undone what we ought to have done.
We are sorry for our sins and tur away from them.
For the sake of your Son who died for us,
forgive us, cleanse us, and change us.
By your Holy Spirit,
enable us to live for you;
through Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen.
Merciful Lord, grant to your faithful people pardon and peace,
that we may be cleansed from all our sins,
and serve you with a quiet mind;
through Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen.
Open this link in a new tab to hear “Glory to God” from Marty Haugen’s Beneath the Tree of Life Mass.
Glory to God, glory to God, glory to God in the highest,
and peace to God’s people, peace to God’s people,
peace to God’s people on earth.
Lord God, heavenly King,
almighty God and Father,
we worship you, we give you thanks,
we praise you for your glory.
Glory to God, glory to God, glory to God in the highest,
and peace to God’s people, peace to God’s people,
peace to God’s people on earth.
Lord Jesus Christ, only Son of the Father,
Lord God, Lamb of God,
you take away the sin of the world:
have mercy on us;
you are seated at the right hand of the Father:
receive our prayer.
Glory to God, glory to God, glory to God in the highest,
and peace to God’s people, peace to God’s people,
peace to God’s people on earth.
For you alone are the Holy One,
you alone are the Lord,
you alone are the Most High, Jesus Christ,
with the Holy Spirit,
in the glory of God the Father,
Amen.
Glory to God, glory to God, glory to God in the highest,
and peace to God’s people, peace to God’s people,
peace to God’s people on earth.
The Lord be with you.
The Lord bless you.
Let us pray.
Silence
God of mercy,
help us to forgive as you have forgiven us,
to trust you, eve when hope is failing
and to take up our cross daily
and follow you in your redeeming work;
through Jesus Christ our Lord,
who lives and reigns with you and the Holy Spirit,
one God, now and forever. Amen.
THE MINISTRY OF THE WORD
A reading from the Book of Isaiah (chapter 50, beginning at verse 4).
The Sovereign Lord has given me his words of wisdom,
so that I know how to comfort the weary.
Morning by morning he wakens me
and opens my understanding to his will.
The Sovereign Lord has spoken to me,
and I have listened.
I have not rebelled or turned away.
I offered my back to those who beat me
and my cheeks to those who pulled out my beard.
I did not hide my face
from mockery and spitting.
Because the Sovereign Lord helps me,
I will not be disgraced.
Therefore, I have set my face like a stone,
determined to do his will.
And I know that I will not be put to shame.
He who gives me justice is near.
Who will dare to bring charges against me now?
Where are my accusers?
Let them appear!
See, the Sovereign Lord is on my side!
Who will declare me guilty?
All my enemies will be destroyed
like old clothes that have been eaten by moths!
Silence
Open this link in a new tab to hear Marty Haugen's “I Will Walk I the Presence of God” (Psalm 116).
For the love of the One who has heard my cry:
I will walk in the presence of God.
God has heard my distress, and I shall not die:
I will walk in the presence of God.
I will walk in the presence of God.
in the land, in the land of the living.
For the love of the One who has heard my cry:
I will walk in the presence of God.
In the cords of my death, I was tangled ‘round:
I will walk in the presence of God.
Those who seek you in anguish shall not be bound:
I will walk in the presence of God.
I will walk in the presence of God.
in the land, in the land of the living.
For the love of the One who has heard my cry:
I will walk in the presence of God.
God has raised up my soul from the gates of death:
I will walk in the presence of God.
God has dried all my tears and renewed my breath:
I will walk in the presence of God.
I will walk in the presence of God.
in the land, in the land of the living.
For the love of the One who has heard my cry:
I will walk in the presence of God.
What return can I give for the gifts I claim?
I will walk in the presence of God.
Lift the cup of salvation and praise your name:
I will walk in the presence of God.
I will walk in the presence of God.
in the land, in the land of the living.
For the love of the One who has heard my cry:
I will walk in the presence of God.
Silence
A reading from the Letter of James (chapter 3, beginning at verse 1).
Dear brothers and sisters, not many of you should become teachers in the church, for we who teach will be judged more strictly. Indeed, we all make many mistakes. For if we could control our tongues, we would be perfect and could also control ourselves in every other way.
We can make a large horse go wherever we want by means of a small bit in its mouth. And a small rudder makes a huge ship turn wherever the pilot chooses to go, even though the winds are strong. In the same way, the tongue is a small thing that makes grand speeches.
But a tiny spark can set a great forest on fire. And among all the parts of the body, the tongue is a flame of fire. It is a whole world of wickedness, corrupting your entire body. It can set your whole life on fire, for it is set on fire by hell itself.
People can tame all kinds of animals, birds, reptiles, and fish, 8 but no one can tame the tongue. It is restless and evil, full of deadly poison. Sometimes it praises our Lord and Father, and sometimes it curses those who have been made in the image of God. And so blessing and cursing come pouring out of the same mouth. Surely, my brothers and sisters, this is not right! Does a spring of water bubble out with both fresh water and bitter water? Does a fig tree produce olives, or a grapevine produce figs? No, and you can’t draw fresh water from a salty spring.
Silence
Open this link in a new tab to hear “Alleluia” from Marty Haugen’s Beneath the Tree of Life Mass.
Alleluia, alleluia, alleluia.
Alleluia, alleluia, alleluia.
Speak O Lord, we are listening
for you have the word of life.
Alleluia, alleluia, alleluia.
Alleluia, alleluia, alleluia.
Come, O Spirit, renew us,
reveal your word in our hearts.
Alleluia, alleluia, alleluia.
Alleluia, alleluia, alleluia.
The Gospel of our Lord Jesus Christ according to Mark (chapter 8, beginning at verse 27).
Glory to you, Lord Jesus Christ.
Jesus and his disciples left Galilee and went up to the villages near Caesarea Philippi. As they were walking along, he asked them, “Who do people say I am?”
“Well,” they replied, “some say John the Baptist, some say Elijah, and others say you are one of the other prophets.”
Then he asked them, “But who do you say I am?”
Peter replied, “You are the Messiah.”
But Jesus warned them not to tell anyone about him.
Then Jesus began to tell them that the Son of Man must suffer many terrible things and be rejected by the elders, the leading priests, and the teachers of religious law. He would be killed, but three days later he would rise from the dead. As he talked about this openly with his disciples, Peter took him aside and began to reprimand him for saying such things.
Jesus turned around and looked at his disciples, then reprimanded Peter. “Get away from me, Satan!” he said. “You are seeing things merely from a human point of view, not from God’s.”
Then, calling the crowd to join his disciples, he said, “If any of you wants to be my follower, you must give up your own way, take up your cross, and follow me. If you try to hang on to your life, you will lose it. But if you give up your life for my sake and for the sake of the Good News, you will save it. And what do you benefit if you gain the whole world but lose your own soul? Is anything worth more than your soul? If anyone is ashamed of me and my message in these adulterous and sinful days, the Son of Man will be ashamed of that person when he returns in the glory of his Father with the holy angels.”
Silence
This is the Gospel of the Lord,
Praise to you, Lord Jesus Christ.
Contrary to the old adage, “sticks and stones may break my bones, but words can never hurt me,” people can be hurt by unkind or unpleasant things that are said to them. They can also be hurt by the gossip that others share about them and their private lives. Gossip is conversations or reports that are unkind, disapproving, or untrue.
Words can do inestimable harm in more ways than one, harm which is extremely great or is too great to be described or expressed. From what psychologists and sociologists tell us, it can affect subsequent generations of people, and a body of research suggests that it can cause changes in our DNA.
Words can damage an individual’s self-confidence. They can ruin someone’s reputation. They can strongly influence a child’s perceptions of themselves, others, and the world. They can dehumanize and devalue a particular group of people. They can foster prejudices, inflame hatred, and incite physical violence. As we learn from the history of the twentieth century, they can be responsible for the deaths of millions, in concentration camps and on the battlefield.
In this Sunday’s New Testament reading the apostle James, Jesus’ brother, also known as James the Just, draws to the attention of those to whom he was writing and to our attention, how the human tongue can be used to do good and to do evil. James was not saying anything new. He was reiterating what is written in the Old Testament as survey of its passages containing the word “tongue” or “words” shows.
Let us take a look at a number of these passages.
Psalm 52:3-4 draws our attention to how some people love evil more than good and lies more than truth and how they love to destroy others with their words. Psalm 55:20-22 warns that smooth words, even soothing words, can conceal an individual’s real intentions, which may be violent. Psalm 64:2-4 tells us that those intent on doing wrong “sharpen their tongues like swords and aim their bitter words like arrows.” Their words are meant to cause injury to those at whom they are directed. Psalm 109:2-4 tells us that the wicked will slander those whom they seek to harm and tell lies about them. They will “surround with hateful words” those they are intent on harming and try to destroy them with false accusations.
Proverbs 2:11-13 warns against evil people whose words are twisted, people who have turned from the right way and now walk in dark paths. It counsels that wisdom and understanding are the best protection against such people. Proverbs 10:10-12 offers this advice: “The words of the godly are a life-giving fountain; the words of the wicked conceal violent intentions.” Proverbs 10:31-32 further counsels us, “The mouth of the godly person gives wise advice, but the tongue that deceives will be cut off. The lips of the godly speak helpful words, but the mouth of the wicked speaks perverse words.” Proverbs 12:5-6 goes on to say, “The plans of the godly are just; the advice of the wicked is treacherous. The words of the wicked are like a murderous ambush, but the words of the godly save lives.”
Among the other proverbs which merit our attention are these proverbs.
An honest witness tells the truth; a false witness tells lies. Some people make cutting remarks, but the words of the wise bring healing. Truthful words stand the test of time, but lies are soon exposed. Proverbs 12:17-19
A gentle answer deflects anger, but harsh words make tempers flare. The tongue of the wise makes knowledge appealing, but the mouth of a fool belches out foolishness. Gentle words are a tree of life; a deceitful tongue crushes the spirit. Proverbs 15: 1-2;4
The heart of the godly thinks carefully before speaking; the mouth of the wicked overflows with evil words. Proverbs 15: 28
From a wise mind comes wise speech; the words of the wise are persuasive. Kind words are like honey—sweet to the soul and healthy for the body. There is a path before each person that seems right, but it ends in death. Proverbs 16:23-25
Scoundrels create trouble; their words are a destructive blaze. A troublemaker plants seeds of strife; gossip separates the best of friends. Proverbs 16:27-28
A truly wise person uses few words; a person with understanding is even-tempered. Even fools are thought wise when they keep silent; with their mouths shut, they seem intelligent. Proverbs 17:27-28
(This proverb particularly resonates with me. My grandmother was wont to say, “An empty vessel makes the most sound.” Another favorite adage of hers was “A still tongue in a wise head.” A wise person knows what they do not know. A wise person also knows that there are times when it is best to keep one’s own counsel and to say nothing. On the other hand, a foolish person will pretend to know much more than they do know and will open their mouth, revealing their ignorance.)
Don’t envy evil people or desire their company. For their hearts plot violence, and their words always stir up trouble. Proverbs 24: 1-2
Rumors are dainty morsels that sink deep into one’s heart. Smooth words may hide a wicked heart, just as a pretty glaze covers a clay pot. People may cover their hatred with pleasant words, but they’re deceiving you. Proverbs 26:22-25
A lying tongue hates its victims, and flattering words cause ruin. Proverbs 26: 28
It is evident from these passages and other passages of the Old Testament that the people who lived in those times recognized that the human tongue could be used for good and for evil.
What then is the connection between written in the Old Testament and James’ letter on this topic and Jesus’ own teaching. I see three connections. They may not be the only connections, but they are notable ones.
The first connection is found in the Sermon on the Mount, in Matthew’s Gospel, specifically in Matthew 5: 21-30. In these passages Jesus equates becoming angry with someone, calling them names, saying ugly things about them, and wishing them ill with breaking the commandment against murder. He equates looking at a woman with very strong sexual desire for her wit breaking the commandment against adultery. These actions reveal the disposition of our heart, not the organ that sends blood around our body, but our character, or the place within us from which our feelings or emotions are considered to come.
The second connection is also found in the Sermon o the Mount, in Matthew 7: 1-5. Jesus warns his disciples about being too quick to judge others and being too severe in their judgement. He further warns the that others will judge them by the standard that they judge others. He instructed them to deal with their own faults before offering to help someone deal with their faults. Our words reveal the opinion that we have formed about someone or the decision which we have made abut them. They also reveal our obsessions, our prejudices, our distorted thinking, and our lack of knowledge, understanding, and empathy, the ability to put ourselves in someone else’s place and to appreciate their circumstances. They further reveal the extent that Jesus’ teaching and example influences us and the degree to which we grasp what he taught and represented.
The third connection is found in Matthew 15: 1-20. Jesus calls a crowd to him and tells the crowd, “It’s not what goes into your mouth that defiles you; you are defiled by the words that come out of your mouth.” Later on, he explains to his disciples, “Anything you eat passes through the stomach and then goes into the sewer. But the words you speak come from the heart—that’s what defiles you. For from the heart come evil thoughts, murder, adultery, all sexual immorality, theft, lying, and slander. These are what defile you. Eating with unwashed hands will never defile you.” Our words reveal the disposition of our hearts.
James is not the only apostle who warns us about how the tongue can be used for good and evil. In his final instructions in his letter to the church at Rome, the apostle Paul writes:
And now I make one more appeal, my dear brothers and sisters. Watch out for people who cause divisions and upset people’s faith by teaching things contrary to what you have been taught. Stay away from them. Such people are not serving Christ our Lord; they are serving their own personal interests. By smooth talk and glowing words they deceive innocent people. Romans 16: 17-18
In our day this warning would extend to individuals who make a pretense of embracing the Christian faith and way of life for their own advantage, but it is clear from their words and actions that their convictions are not genuine and what they promote is the opposite of what Jesus taught and represented. They are always criticizing other people in a way that shows they do not respect or value them. They typically appeal to people’s worst instincts and not to their best instincts and to what is worst in our society and not to what is best. Their remarks are peppered with all kinds of fallacies and may expose to public view a vengeful, unforgiving spirit.
In his letter to the church at Ephesus Paul urges the members of that church, “Don’t use foul or abusive language. Let everything you say be good and helpful, so that your words will be an encouragement to those who hear them.” Ephesians 4:29
Further on in the letter, he writes, “Get rid of all bitterness, rage, anger, harsh words, and slander, as well as all types of evil behavior. Instead, be kind to each other, tenderhearted, forgiving one another, just as God through Christ has forgiven you.” Ephesians 4: 31-32
What Paul urges the Ephesian Christians to do, we would not be wrong in concluding are what Jesus himself would want all his followers to do. Use our tongues for good and not evil. Use our words to build up those who hear them and not to tear them down. Let our words reveal a heart which the Holy Spirit is transforming, a heart filled with faith, hope, and but most of all with love.
As Jesus told his disciples, what may not be humanly possible is not impossible for God. It is the Spirit of God that is working in us, giving us the will and the power to do what pleases God, renewing God’s image in us, and remaking us into the likeness of God’s Son, Jesus Christ, our Saviour and Lord.
Silence
Open this link in a new tab to hear Becki Slagle Mayo’ arrangement of Shakeress Polly Rupe’s “Gentle Words.”
What the dew is to the flower,
gentle words are to the soul,
and a blessing to the giver,
and so dear to the receiver
we should never withhold.
Gentle words, kindly spoken,
often soothe the troubled mind,
while links of love are broken
by words that are unkind.
Then O, thou gentle spirit,
my constant Guardian be,
"Do to others," be my motto,
"as I'd have them do to me."
Words of friendship, words of peace,
words of hope and care,
sharing words of comfort, words of love,
spreading kindness everywhere, everywhere—
What the dew is to the flower,
gentle words are to the soul,
and a blessing to the giver,
and so dear to the receiver
we should never withhold.
Gentle words, kindly spoken,
often soothe the troubled mind,
while links of love are broken
by words that are unkind
sharing words of comfort, words of love,
gentle words.
Let us confess our faith, as we say:
I believe in God, the Father almighty,
creator of heaven and earth.
I believe in Jesus Christ, his only Son, our Lord,
who was conceived by the Holy Spirit
and born of the virgin Mary.
He suffered under Pontius Pilate,
was crucified, died, and was buried;
he descended to hell.
The third day he rose again from the dead.
He ascended to heaven
and is seated at the right hand of God the Father almighty.
From there he will come to judge the living and the dead.
I believe in the Holy Spirit,
the holy catholic church,
the communion of saints,
the forgiveness of sins,
the resurrection of the body,
and the life everlasting. Amen.
THE MINISTRY OF PRAYER
Almighty God, your Son Jesus Christ has promised that you
will hear us when we ask in faith: receive the prayers we offer.
For the nation
We give thanks for…. We pray for….
Guide with your wisdom and power the leaders of the
nations, so that everyone may live in peace and mutual trust,
sharing with justice the resources of the earth. Give the people
in this land a spirit of unselfishness, compassion, and fairness
in public and private life.
Lord, in your mercy
Hear our prayer.
For the Church
We give thanks for…. We pray for.…
Send out the light and truth of your gospel and bring people
everywhere to know and love you. Enable those who minister
among us to commend your truth by their example and
teaching. May we gladly receive and obey your word.
Lord, in your mercy
Hear our prayer.
For those in need
We give thanks for…. We pray for….
We commend to your fatherly care, merciful God, all who are
in sorrow, sickness, discouragement or any other trouble.
Deliver them from their distress and succor them in their need.
Give them patience in the face of adversity and a firm trust in
But Jesus warned them not to tell anyone about him.
Then Jesus began to tell them that the Son of Man must suffer many terrible things and be rejected by the elders, the leading priests, and the teachers of religious law. He would be killed, but three days later he would rise from the dead. As he talked about this openly with his disciples, Peter took him aside and began to reprimand him for saying such things.
Jesus turned around and looked at his disciples, then reprimanded Peter. “Get away from me, Satan!” he said. “You are seeing things merely from a human point of view, not from God’s.”
Then, calling the crowd to join his disciples, he said, “If any of you wants to be my follower, you must give up your own way, take up your cross, and follow me. If you try to hang on to your life, you will lose it. But if you give up your life for my sake and for the sake of the Good News, you will save it. And what do you benefit if you gain the whole world but lose your own soul? Is anything worth more than your soul? If anyone is ashamed of me and my message in these adulterous and sinful days, the Son of Man will be ashamed of that person when he returns in the glory of his Father with the holy angels.”
Silence
This is the Gospel of the Lord,
Praise to you, Lord Jesus Christ.
How to Use the Tongue: The Choice Christians Face
Contrary to the old adage, “sticks and stones may break my bones, but words can never hurt me,” people can be hurt by unkind or unpleasant things that are said to them. They can also be hurt by the gossip that others share about them and their private lives. Gossip is conversations or reports that are unkind, disapproving, or untrue.
Words can do inestimable harm in more ways than one, harm which is extremely great or is too great to be described or expressed. From what psychologists and sociologists tell us, it can affect subsequent generations of people, and a body of research suggests that it can cause changes in our DNA.
Words can damage an individual’s self-confidence. They can ruin someone’s reputation. They can strongly influence a child’s perceptions of themselves, others, and the world. They can dehumanize and devalue a particular group of people. They can foster prejudices, inflame hatred, and incite physical violence. As we learn from the history of the twentieth century, they can be responsible for the deaths of millions, in concentration camps and on the battlefield.
In this Sunday’s New Testament reading the apostle James, Jesus’ brother, also known as James the Just, draws to the attention of those to whom he was writing and to our attention, how the human tongue can be used to do good and to do evil. James was not saying anything new. He was reiterating what is written in the Old Testament as survey of its passages containing the word “tongue” or “words” shows.
Let us take a look at a number of these passages.
Psalm 52:3-4 draws our attention to how some people love evil more than good and lies more than truth and how they love to destroy others with their words. Psalm 55:20-22 warns that smooth words, even soothing words, can conceal an individual’s real intentions, which may be violent. Psalm 64:2-4 tells us that those intent on doing wrong “sharpen their tongues like swords and aim their bitter words like arrows.” Their words are meant to cause injury to those at whom they are directed. Psalm 109:2-4 tells us that the wicked will slander those whom they seek to harm and tell lies about them. They will “surround with hateful words” those they are intent on harming and try to destroy them with false accusations.
Proverbs 2:11-13 warns against evil people whose words are twisted, people who have turned from the right way and now walk in dark paths. It counsels that wisdom and understanding are the best protection against such people. Proverbs 10:10-12 offers this advice: “The words of the godly are a life-giving fountain; the words of the wicked conceal violent intentions.” Proverbs 10:31-32 further counsels us, “The mouth of the godly person gives wise advice, but the tongue that deceives will be cut off. The lips of the godly speak helpful words, but the mouth of the wicked speaks perverse words.” Proverbs 12:5-6 goes on to say, “The plans of the godly are just; the advice of the wicked is treacherous. The words of the wicked are like a murderous ambush, but the words of the godly save lives.”
Among the other proverbs which merit our attention are these proverbs.
An honest witness tells the truth; a false witness tells lies. Some people make cutting remarks, but the words of the wise bring healing. Truthful words stand the test of time, but lies are soon exposed. Proverbs 12:17-19
A gentle answer deflects anger, but harsh words make tempers flare. The tongue of the wise makes knowledge appealing, but the mouth of a fool belches out foolishness. Gentle words are a tree of life; a deceitful tongue crushes the spirit. Proverbs 15: 1-2;4
The heart of the godly thinks carefully before speaking; the mouth of the wicked overflows with evil words. Proverbs 15: 28
From a wise mind comes wise speech; the words of the wise are persuasive. Kind words are like honey—sweet to the soul and healthy for the body. There is a path before each person that seems right, but it ends in death. Proverbs 16:23-25
Scoundrels create trouble; their words are a destructive blaze. A troublemaker plants seeds of strife; gossip separates the best of friends. Proverbs 16:27-28
A truly wise person uses few words; a person with understanding is even-tempered. Even fools are thought wise when they keep silent; with their mouths shut, they seem intelligent. Proverbs 17:27-28
(This proverb particularly resonates with me. My grandmother was wont to say, “An empty vessel makes the most sound.” Another favorite adage of hers was “A still tongue in a wise head.” A wise person knows what they do not know. A wise person also knows that there are times when it is best to keep one’s own counsel and to say nothing. On the other hand, a foolish person will pretend to know much more than they do know and will open their mouth, revealing their ignorance.)
Don’t envy evil people or desire their company. For their hearts plot violence, and their words always stir up trouble. Proverbs 24: 1-2
Rumors are dainty morsels that sink deep into one’s heart. Smooth words may hide a wicked heart, just as a pretty glaze covers a clay pot. People may cover their hatred with pleasant words, but they’re deceiving you. Proverbs 26:22-25
A lying tongue hates its victims, and flattering words cause ruin. Proverbs 26: 28
It is evident from these passages and other passages of the Old Testament that the people who lived in those times recognized that the human tongue could be used for good and for evil.
What then is the connection between written in the Old Testament and James’ letter on this topic and Jesus’ own teaching. I see three connections. They may not be the only connections, but they are notable ones.
The first connection is found in the Sermon on the Mount, in Matthew’s Gospel, specifically in Matthew 5: 21-30. In these passages Jesus equates becoming angry with someone, calling them names, saying ugly things about them, and wishing them ill with breaking the commandment against murder. He equates looking at a woman with very strong sexual desire for her wit breaking the commandment against adultery. These actions reveal the disposition of our heart, not the organ that sends blood around our body, but our character, or the place within us from which our feelings or emotions are considered to come.
The second connection is also found in the Sermon o the Mount, in Matthew 7: 1-5. Jesus warns his disciples about being too quick to judge others and being too severe in their judgement. He further warns the that others will judge them by the standard that they judge others. He instructed them to deal with their own faults before offering to help someone deal with their faults. Our words reveal the opinion that we have formed about someone or the decision which we have made abut them. They also reveal our obsessions, our prejudices, our distorted thinking, and our lack of knowledge, understanding, and empathy, the ability to put ourselves in someone else’s place and to appreciate their circumstances. They further reveal the extent that Jesus’ teaching and example influences us and the degree to which we grasp what he taught and represented.
The third connection is found in Matthew 15: 1-20. Jesus calls a crowd to him and tells the crowd, “It’s not what goes into your mouth that defiles you; you are defiled by the words that come out of your mouth.” Later on, he explains to his disciples, “Anything you eat passes through the stomach and then goes into the sewer. But the words you speak come from the heart—that’s what defiles you. For from the heart come evil thoughts, murder, adultery, all sexual immorality, theft, lying, and slander. These are what defile you. Eating with unwashed hands will never defile you.” Our words reveal the disposition of our hearts.
James is not the only apostle who warns us about how the tongue can be used for good and evil. In his final instructions in his letter to the church at Rome, the apostle Paul writes:
And now I make one more appeal, my dear brothers and sisters. Watch out for people who cause divisions and upset people’s faith by teaching things contrary to what you have been taught. Stay away from them. Such people are not serving Christ our Lord; they are serving their own personal interests. By smooth talk and glowing words they deceive innocent people. Romans 16: 17-18
In our day this warning would extend to individuals who make a pretense of embracing the Christian faith and way of life for their own advantage, but it is clear from their words and actions that their convictions are not genuine and what they promote is the opposite of what Jesus taught and represented. They are always criticizing other people in a way that shows they do not respect or value them. They typically appeal to people’s worst instincts and not to their best instincts and to what is worst in our society and not to what is best. Their remarks are peppered with all kinds of fallacies and may expose to public view a vengeful, unforgiving spirit.
In his letter to the church at Ephesus Paul urges the members of that church, “Don’t use foul or abusive language. Let everything you say be good and helpful, so that your words will be an encouragement to those who hear them.” Ephesians 4:29
Further on in the letter, he writes, “Get rid of all bitterness, rage, anger, harsh words, and slander, as well as all types of evil behavior. Instead, be kind to each other, tenderhearted, forgiving one another, just as God through Christ has forgiven you.” Ephesians 4: 31-32
What Paul urges the Ephesian Christians to do, we would not be wrong in concluding are what Jesus himself would want all his followers to do. Use our tongues for good and not evil. Use our words to build up those who hear them and not to tear them down. Let our words reveal a heart which the Holy Spirit is transforming, a heart filled with faith, hope, and but most of all with love.
As Jesus told his disciples, what may not be humanly possible is not impossible for God. It is the Spirit of God that is working in us, giving us the will and the power to do what pleases God, renewing God’s image in us, and remaking us into the likeness of God’s Son, Jesus Christ, our Saviour and Lord.
Silence
Open this link in a new tab to hear Becki Slagle Mayo’ arrangement of Shakeress Polly Rupe’s “Gentle Words.”
What the dew is to the flower,
gentle words are to the soul,
and a blessing to the giver,
and so dear to the receiver
we should never withhold.
Gentle words, kindly spoken,
often soothe the troubled mind,
while links of love are broken
by words that are unkind.
Then O, thou gentle spirit,
my constant Guardian be,
"Do to others," be my motto,
"as I'd have them do to me."
Words of friendship, words of peace,
words of hope and care,
sharing words of comfort, words of love,
spreading kindness everywhere, everywhere—
What the dew is to the flower,
gentle words are to the soul,
and a blessing to the giver,
and so dear to the receiver
we should never withhold.
Gentle words, kindly spoken,
often soothe the troubled mind,
while links of love are broken
by words that are unkind
sharing words of comfort, words of love,
gentle words.
Let us confess our faith, as we say:
I believe in God, the Father almighty,
creator of heaven and earth.
I believe in Jesus Christ, his only Son, our Lord,
who was conceived by the Holy Spirit
and born of the virgin Mary.
He suffered under Pontius Pilate,
was crucified, died, and was buried;
he descended to hell.
The third day he rose again from the dead.
He ascended to heaven
and is seated at the right hand of God the Father almighty.
From there he will come to judge the living and the dead.
I believe in the Holy Spirit,
the holy catholic church,
the communion of saints,
the forgiveness of sins,
the resurrection of the body,
and the life everlasting. Amen.
THE MINISTRY OF PRAYER
Almighty God, your Son Jesus Christ has promised that you
will hear us when we ask in faith: receive the prayers we offer.
For the nation
We give thanks for…. We pray for….
Guide with your wisdom and power the leaders of the
nations, so that everyone may live in peace and mutual trust,
sharing with justice the resources of the earth. Give the people
in this land a spirit of unselfishness, compassion, and fairness
in public and private life.
Lord, in your mercy
Hear our prayer.
For the Church
We give thanks for…. We pray for.…
Send out the light and truth of your gospel and bring people
everywhere to know and love you. Enable those who minister
among us to commend your truth by their example and
teaching. May we gladly receive and obey your word.
Lord, in your mercy
Hear our prayer.
For those in need
We give thanks for…. We pray for….
We commend to your fatherly care, merciful God, all who are
in sorrow, sickness, discouragement or any other trouble.
Deliver them from their distress and succor them in their need.
Give them patience in the face of adversity and a firm trust in
your goodness. Help those who care for them, and bring us all
into the joy of your salvation.
Lord, in your mercy
Hear our prayer.
For our ourselves, our fellow Christians, our families, our neighbors
Lord, in your mercy
Hear our prayer.
For our ourselves, our fellow Christians, our families, our neighbors
and our friends
We give thanks for…. We pray for….
We entrust to your safekeeping, Father, ourselves and each other, our families, our neighbours, and our friends. Enable us by your Spirit to live in love for you and for one another.
Lord, in your mercy
Hear our prayer.
Thanksgiving for the faithfully departed
We give thanks for the life and work of ….
We praise you for all your servants whose lives have
honoured Christ. Encourage us by their example, so that we
run with perseverance the race that lies before us, and
share with them the fullness of joy in your kingdom.
Accept our prayers through Jesus Christ our Lord, who taught us to pray:
Our Father, who art in heaven,
hallowed be thy name,
thy kingdom come,
thy will be done,
on earth as it is in heaven.
Give us this day our daily bread.
And forgive us our trespasses,
as we forgive those who trespass against us.
And lead us not into temptation,
but deliver us from evil.
For thine is the kingdom,
the power, and the glory,
for ever and ever. Amen.
THE SENDING FORTH OF GOD’S PEOPLE
Holy and everliving God,
by your power we are created
and by your love we are redeemed;
guide and strengthen us by your Spirit,
that we may give ourselves to your service,
and live each day in love to one another and to you,
through Jesus Christ our Lord.
Amen.
Let us bless the Lord.
Thanks be to God.
Those present may extend their palms toward each other in a gesture of blessing.
May God, Creator, bless us and keep us,
may Christ be ever light for our lives,
may the Spirit of Love be our guide and path,
for all our days. Amen.
Open this link in a new tab to hear Fred Kaan and Joel Raney’s “Put Peace into Each Other’s Hands.”
Put peace into each other's hands
and like a treasure hold it;
protect it like a candle flame,
with tenderness enfold it.
Put peace into each other's hands
with loving expectation;
be gentle in your words and ways,
in touch with God's creation.
Put Christ into each other's hands,
he is love's deepest measure;
in love make peace, give peace a chance
and share it like a treasure.
Share peace, share peace, share peace
Put peace into each other's hands,
like bread we break for sharing;
look people warmly in the eye:
our life was meant for caring.
Share hope and joy and gladly serve
This world that we are part of
and though we may not do great things,
we can do small things,
we can do small things with great love,
with great love
Put Christ into each other's hands,
he is love's deepest measure;
in love make peace, give peace a chance
and share it, and share it, and share it like a treasure.
Share peace, share peace, share peace,
share peace, share peace, share peace,
share peace, share peace
Put peace into each other’s hands
We give thanks for…. We pray for….
We entrust to your safekeeping, Father, ourselves and each other, our families, our neighbours, and our friends. Enable us by your Spirit to live in love for you and for one another.
Lord, in your mercy
Hear our prayer.
Thanksgiving for the faithfully departed
We give thanks for the life and work of ….
We praise you for all your servants whose lives have
honoured Christ. Encourage us by their example, so that we
run with perseverance the race that lies before us, and
share with them the fullness of joy in your kingdom.
Accept our prayers through Jesus Christ our Lord, who taught us to pray:
Our Father, who art in heaven,
hallowed be thy name,
thy kingdom come,
thy will be done,
on earth as it is in heaven.
Give us this day our daily bread.
And forgive us our trespasses,
as we forgive those who trespass against us.
And lead us not into temptation,
but deliver us from evil.
For thine is the kingdom,
the power, and the glory,
for ever and ever. Amen.
THE SENDING FORTH OF GOD’S PEOPLE
Holy and everliving God,
by your power we are created
and by your love we are redeemed;
guide and strengthen us by your Spirit,
that we may give ourselves to your service,
and live each day in love to one another and to you,
through Jesus Christ our Lord.
Amen.
Let us bless the Lord.
Thanks be to God.
Those present may extend their palms toward each other in a gesture of blessing.
May God, Creator, bless us and keep us,
may Christ be ever light for our lives,
may the Spirit of Love be our guide and path,
for all our days. Amen.
Open this link in a new tab to hear Fred Kaan and Joel Raney’s “Put Peace into Each Other’s Hands.”
Put peace into each other's hands
and like a treasure hold it;
protect it like a candle flame,
with tenderness enfold it.
Put peace into each other's hands
with loving expectation;
be gentle in your words and ways,
in touch with God's creation.
Put Christ into each other's hands,
he is love's deepest measure;
in love make peace, give peace a chance
and share it like a treasure.
Share peace, share peace, share peace
Put peace into each other's hands,
like bread we break for sharing;
look people warmly in the eye:
our life was meant for caring.
Share hope and joy and gladly serve
This world that we are part of
and though we may not do great things,
we can do small things,
we can do small things with great love,
with great love
Put Christ into each other's hands,
he is love's deepest measure;
in love make peace, give peace a chance
and share it, and share it, and share it like a treasure.
Share peace, share peace, share peace,
share peace, share peace, share peace,
share peace, share peace
Put peace into each other’s hands
The peace of the Lord Jesus Christ be with you always.
And also with you.
Those present may exchange a gesture of peace with these or similar words:
Peace be with you.
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