[1] Not many of you should become teachers, my brothers and sisters, because you know that we will be judged more strictly. [2] For we all stumble in many ways. If someone does not stumble in what he says, he is a perfect individual, able to control the entire body as well. [3] And if we put bits into the mouths of horses to get them to obey us, then we guide their entire bodies. [4] Look at ships too: Though they are so large and driven by harsh winds, they are steered by a tiny rudder wherever the pilot's inclination directs. [5] So too the tongue is a small part of the body, yet it has great pretensions. Think how small a flame sets a huge forest ablaze. [6] And the tongue is a fire! The tongue represents the world of wrongdoing among the parts of our bodies. It pollutes the entire body and sets fire to the course of human existence-and is set on fire by hell. [7] For every kind of animal, bird, reptile, and sea creature is subdued and has been subdued by humankind. [8] But no human being can subdue the tongue; it is a restless evil, full of deadly poison. [9] With it we bless the Lord and Father, and with it we curse people made in God's image. [10] From the same mouth come blessing and cursing. These things should not be so, my brothers and sisters. [11] A spring does not pour out fresh water and bitter water from the same opening, does it? [12] Can a fig tree produce olives, my brothers and sisters, or a vine produce figs? Neither can a salt water spring produce fresh water. [13] Who is wise and understanding among you? By his good conduct he should show his works done in the gentleness that wisdom brings. [14] But if you have bitter jealousy and selfishness in your hearts, do not boast and tell lies against the truth. [15] Such wisdom does not come from above but is earthly, natural, demonic. [16] For where there is jealousy and selfishness, there is disorder and every evil practice. [17] But the wisdom from above is first pure, then peaceable, gentle, accommodating, full of mercy and good fruit, impartial, and not hypocritical. [18] And the fruit that consists of righteousness is planted in peace among those who make peace.
