Often when we think about living in the world and testifying for Christ, we are concerned about grand gestures or conflicts. In reality, it is most often the small things that show the difference Christ makes in our lives. One of the most important, and hardest to control, is our tongue.

I. The Importance of the Tongue (3:1-5a)
A. Revealing Our Need
B. Words Have Influence

II. The Impact of the Tongue (3:5b-8)
A. Words Can Destroy
B. Words Cannot Be Controlled by Man

III. The Inconsistency of the Tongue (3:9-12)
A. Words Can Drown Out Our Testimony
B. Words Can Testify to God’s Power

Questions for consideration: (1) Are you conscious of the things you say? Does it bother you if others are offended by your speech? Why would that be important? (2) What practical steps can you take to glorify God with your speech? (3) How can our speech (in general, not just in the words said at that moment) help or hinder evangelism?