One must take into consideration the impact that the message they preach. In the book of James we read of the impact of the tongue over the whole body. Now for most of us, we relate this to the physical body and how we live our lives, but what if there is more to this message than an understanding of how to live a common sense Christian life. After studying this passage, I believe this could also apply to the Body of Christ. As the tongue goes so does the body. Understanding this could allow us to find some of the open doors that God has provided for us.
We must begin by understanding that the tongue of the Body of Christ is really represented in two parts. The tongue (voice) is composed of several parts, but lets focus on two specifics. The language or words used to speak are the Scriptures that we have been given. It is the language of the faith that we so dearly believe, and without it we are voiceless. We can not cast it and its message to the side to please the ears of those around us. The Word of God is the first part, because without it we have no reason to speak. The second part of the tongue (voice) is the tone. This is a key portion of the message that I honestly believe we miss sometimes. We must understand that the pulpit sets the tone for the whole congregation, and the Christians who fill the pews each time the doors are open. This means the message that is being presented from the pulpit directly influences the attitudes and lives of the individuals which attend there. A constant message of negativity creates a congregation which faces internal turmoil, and likely will begin to see the amount of attendance begin to drop. A dismal air will take hold and members will quickly become disheartened. Am I advocating that we remove any preaching about Hell or sin? No. We must understand that the tone of our message must be as the message which Jesus preached. The Kingdom coming and hope of salvation were the keystones of his message. This message was one that took a dismal future and offered a positive alternative and escape that gave the people confidence and hope. This message of positivity is one that we too should follow.
When James describes the tongue, he describes it in several ways. First, he compares the tongue to the bit in the mouth of a horse. James is describing how the message has the ability to control the power and influence over the whole body. Second, James compares it to a ship which describes the influence the message has over the direction of the congregation. The message presented can lead a congregation to spiritual and numerical success or cripple the same congregation from being fruitful, and it's all dependent on the tone of the message preached. Third, James compares the tongue to a small fire. Passionate speaking and messages can inspire us to do great things, and to live a life more passionately. The Message of God preached passionately and positively has the ability to truly change the lives of those that it touches.
The tongue has great ability and power within it, and for the Church the tongue is the message that is presented to Christians. We must realize that it sets the tone for the Church, and it directs, empowers, and guides us as Christians.
