I don’t do a lot of social media . . . but, I guess, enough. Enough to have seen the video clip from a Senate Committee hearing of a rude exchange over a geographically misplaced basketball game. What was supposed to be a “gotcha” moment fizzled as it turned out the senator’s facts were apparently not factual. It’s the sort of video clip that thrives within social media feeds because of how “cringe-y” it is. A little embarrassing, even to watch. Maybe that’s why James’ exhortation jumps off the page this morning.

Not many of you should become teachers, my brothers, for you know that we who teach will be judged with greater strictness. For we all stumble in many ways.

(James 3:1-2a ESV)

For we all stumble in many ways . . . That’s what I’m chewing on this morning.

James, the pragmatic, has been talking about “religion that is pure and undefiled” (James 1:27a). He has been highlighting external indicators that reveal something of one’s spiritual condition. Things like showing partiality (James 2:1-13), things like genuine faith being accompanied by good works (James 2:14-28). This morning, things like the corruption that can be wrought through communication (James 3:1-12).

And James doesn’t hold back. The corruption can be catastrophic for “the tongue is a fire, a world of unrighteousness.” This “small member” capable of “staining the whole body.” This hidden part able to set on fire “the entire course of life” with the very fire of hell. Somewhat pessimistic? Or realistic? Over the top? Or on point?

So, says James, you who think you have something to say to others, be careful. For we all stumble in many ways . . .

Oh, the self-regulation that comes from the sober admission that we all stumble in many ways.

As Calvin puts it:

For there is nothing which serves more to moderate extreme rigor
than the knowledge of our own infirmity.

Ours is a loud, combative age. Quick to speak. Ready to pounce. And that, too often, within the church, as well. But humility comes from honest self-realization. Grace is generated when we remember that we all stumble in many ways.

Know this, my beloved brothers: let every person be quick to hear, slow to speak, slow to anger; for the anger of man does not produce the righteousness of God.

(James 1:19-20 ESV)

True religion, pure religion, while a bold religion, is also a tender religion.

Because we all stumble in many ways.

That’s why we need abundant grace. That why God gets all the glory.