2. Earning the Right to Be Heard God's Ideal Gospel Teacher (Jas. 3)

3. Recognizes the seriousness of the role of teaching “Let not many become teachers for we shall receive the greater condemnation” (v. 1) James is not discouraging people from wanting to teach, but urging them to enter the role of teaching with soberness.

4. Application Each opportunity to teach should be approached prayerfully. Those lost in sin and error deserve a prolonged and carefully thought out presentation of truth rather than a one- minute bottom line lecture. We earn the right to be heard by revealing a concerned heart for the lost and not a casual desire to prove oneself right!

5. Has learned to control his tongue. It is difficult to control (v. 2) It has great potential for damage (v. 3-8) It may be used inconsistency (v. 9-12)

6. Application We must discuss the Bible with kindness and respect. Talk to people in such a way that the door is open for further discussion rather than slammed shut for all others! We have earned the right to be heard when we can speak to others with love and self- control.

7. Has proven his wisdom by his good life. This wisdom is shown in meekness rather than jealousy and selfish ambition. This wisdom results in order and peace rather than chaos and conflict. This wisdom is seen in the holy personality and life of the teacher.

8. A closer look at the “wisdom which comes from above” First pure--(hognos) clean, uncorrupted, holy Peaceable--(eirenike) striving for harmony rather than conflict Gentle--(epieikes) moderate, considerate of others and patient with them even when they are not their best.

9. Reasonable--(eupeithes) compliant to the will of God, the opposite of obstinate and self-seeking Full of mercy and good fruits--Doing what is right, always ready to help others Unwavering--not dubious, ambiguous, uncertain Without hypocrisy--without pretense or sham, but sincere

10. Application We must be motivated by love and not self- interests. We must create an atmosphere of respect and reason. We must gain credibility by lifestyle, not position.

11. Anybody can take the occasion to talk; but God wants us to earn the right to be heard! Let's communicate the word with soberness, with self-control, and with the demonstrable proof of wisdom in how we live every day. When we have earned the right to be heard, people around us will listen to us!