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Anyone who is never at fault in what they say is perfect, able to keep their whole body in check. <a href="/nlt/james/3.htm">New Living Translation</a> Indeed, we all make many mistakes. For if we could control our tongues, we would be perfect and could also control ourselves in every other way. <a href="/esv/james/3.htm">English Standard Version</a> For we all stumble in many ways. And if anyone does not stumble in what he says, he is a perfect man, able also to bridle his whole body. <a href="/bsb/james/3.htm">Berean Standard Bible</a> We all stumble in many ways. If anyone is never at fault in what he says, he is a perfect man, able to control his whole body. <a href="/blb/james/3.htm">Berean Literal Bible</a> For we all stumble in many ways. If anyone does not stumble in what he says, this one is a perfect man, able indeed to bridle the whole body. <a href="/kjv/james/3.htm">King James Bible</a> For in many things we offend all. If any man offend not in word, the same is a perfect man, and able also to bridle the whole body. <a href="/nkjv/james/3.htm">New King James Version</a> For we all stumble in many things. If anyone does not stumble in word, he is a perfect man, able also to bridle the whole body. <a href="/nasb_/james/3.htm">New American Standard Bible</a> For we all stumble in many ways. If anyone does not stumble in what he says, he is a perfect man, able to rein in the whole body as well. <a href="/nasb/james/3.htm">NASB 1995</a> For we all stumble in many ways. If anyone does not stumble in what he says, he is a perfect man, able to bridle the whole body as well. <a href="/nasb77/james/3.htm">NASB 1977 </a> For we all stumble in many ways. If anyone does not stumble in what he says, he is a perfect man, able to bridle the whole body as well. <a href="/lsb/james/3.htm">Legacy Standard Bible </a> For we all stumble in many ways. If anyone does not stumble in what he says, he is a perfect man, able to bridle the entire body as well. <a href="/amp/james/3.htm">Amplified Bible</a> For we all stumble and sin in many ways. If anyone does not stumble in what he says [never saying the wrong thing], he is a perfect man [fully developed in character, without serious flaws], able to bridle his whole body and rein in his entire nature [taming his human faults and weaknesses]. <a href="/csb/james/3.htm">Christian Standard Bible</a> For we all stumble in many ways. If anyone does not stumble in what he says, he is mature, able also to control the whole body. <a href="/hcsb/james/3.htm">Holman Christian Standard Bible</a> for we all stumble in many ways. If anyone does not stumble in what he says, he is a mature man who is also able to control his whole body. <a href="/asv/james/3.htm">American Standard Version</a> For in many things we all stumble. If any stumbleth not in word, the same is a perfect man, able to bridle the whole body also. <a href="/cev/james/3.htm">Contemporary English Version</a> All of us do many wrong things. But if you can control your tongue, you are mature and able to control your whole body. <a href="/erv/james/3.htm">English Revised Version</a> For in many things we all stumble. If any stumbleth not in word, the same is a perfect man, able to bridle the whole body also. <a href="/gwt/james/3.htm">GOD'S WORD® Translation</a> All of us make a lot of mistakes. If someone doesn't make any mistakes when he speaks, he would be perfect. He would be able to control everything he does. <a href="/gnt/james/3.htm">Good News Translation</a> All of us often make mistakes. But if a person never makes a mistake in what he says, he is perfect and is also able to control his whole being. <a href="/isv/james/3.htm">International Standard Version</a> For all of us make many mistakes. If someone does not make any mistakes when he speaks, he is perfect and able to control his whole body. <a href="/msb/james/3.htm">Majority Standard Bible</a> We all stumble in many ways. If anyone is never at fault in what he says, he is a perfect man, able to control his whole body. <a href="/net/james/3.htm">NET Bible</a> 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. <a href="/nheb/james/3.htm">New Heart English Bible</a> For in many things we all stumble. If anyone does not stumble in word, this one is a perfect person, able to bridle the whole body also. <a href="/wbt/james/3.htm">Webster's Bible Translation</a> For in many things we all offend. If any man offendeth not in word, the same is a perfect man, able also to bridle the whole body. <a href="/wey/james/3.htm">Weymouth New Testament</a> For we often stumble and fall, all of us. If there is any one who never stumbles in speech, that man has reached maturity of character and is able to curb his whole nature. <a href="/web/james/3.htm">World English Bible</a> For we all stumble in many things. Anyone who doesn’t stumble in word is a perfect person, able to bridle the whole body also. <div class="vheading2">Literal Translations</div><a href="/lsv/james/3.htm">Literal Standard Version</a> for we all make many stumbles; if anyone does not stumble in word, this one [is] a perfect man, able to also bridle the whole body; <a href="/blb/james/3.htm">Berean Literal Bible</a> For we all stumble in many ways. If anyone does not stumble in what he says, this one is a perfect man, able indeed to bridle the whole body. <a href="/ylt/james/3.htm">Young's Literal Translation</a> for we all make many stumbles; if any one in word doth not stumble, this one is a perfect man, able to bridle also the whole body; <a href="/slt/james/3.htm">Smith's Literal Translation</a> For in many things we all stumble. If any stumble not in word, this a perfect man, able to govern by a bridle also the whole body.<div class="vheading2">Catholic Translations</div><a href="/drb/james/3.htm">Douay-Rheims Bible</a> For in many things we all offend. If any man offend not in word, the same is a perfect man. He is able also with a bridle to lead about the whole body. <a href="/cpdv/james/3.htm">Catholic Public Domain Version</a> For we all offend in many ways. If anyone does not offend in word, he is a perfect man. And he is then able, as if with a bridle, to lead the whole body around. <a href="/nabre/james/3.htm">New American Bible</a> for we all fall short in many respects. If anyone does not fall short in speech, he is a perfect man, able to bridle his whole body also. <a href="/nrsvce/james/3.htm">New Revised Standard Version</a> For all of us make many mistakes. Anyone who makes no mistakes in speaking is perfect, able to keep the whole body in check with a bridle.<div class="vheading2">Translations from Aramaic</div><a href="/lamsa/james/3.htm">Lamsa Bible</a> For in many things we all stumble. Anyone who does not offend in word, this one is a perfect man, and able also to subdue his whole body. <a href="/aramaic-plain-english/james/3.htm">Aramaic Bible in Plain English</a> For all of us stumble much Everyone who does not slip in his speech is a perfect man who can subdue also his whole body.<div class="vheading2">NT Translations</div><a href="/anderson/james/3.htm">Anderson New Testament</a> For in many things we all offend. If any one offends not in word, he is a perfect man, able also to bridle the whole body. <a href="/godbey/james/3.htm">Godbey New Testament</a> For we all fail in many things; if any one fails not in word, the same is a perfect man, able even to bridle the whole body. <a href="/haweis/james/3.htm">Haweis New Testament</a> For in many things we all offend. If any man offend not in word, he is a perfect man, and capable of reining in the whole body. <a href="/mace/james/3.htm">Mace New Testament</a> for we are all liable to frequent mistakes, he that does not give too great a loose to his tongue, is an accomplish'd person and fit to moderate the whole church. <a href="/wey/james/3.htm">Weymouth New Testament</a> For we often stumble and fall, all of us. If there is any one who never stumbles in speech, that man has reached maturity of character and is able to curb his whole nature. <a href="/worrell/james/3.htm">Worrell New Testament</a> For in many things we all stumble. If anyone stumbles not in word, the same is a perfect man, able to restrain also the whole body. <a href="/worsley/james/3.htm">Worsley New Testament</a> and if any offend not in word, he is a compleat man, able to manage also the whole body. <a href="/parallel/james/3-2.htm">Additional Translations ...</a></div></div></div><div id="centbox"><div class="padcent"><a name="audio" id="audio"></a><div class="vheadingv">Audio Bible</div><iframe width="100%" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/0xUBCzqsAGw?start=477" title="YouTube video player" frameborder="0" allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture; web-share" allowfullscreen></iframe> <div class="vheadingv">Context</div><a href="/bsb/james/3.htm">Taming the Tongue</a> 1Not many of you should become teachers, my brothers, because you know that we who teach will be judged more strictly. 2<a href="/greek/1063.htm" title="1063: gar (Conj) -- For. A primary particle; properly, assigning a reason."></a> <a href="/greek/537.htm" title="537: hapantes (Adj-NMP) -- All, the whole, altogether. Absolutely all or every one."></a> <a href="/greek/4417.htm" title="4417: ptaiomen (V-PIA-1P) -- To stumble, fall, sin, err, transgress. A form of pipto; to trip, i.e. to err, sin, fail.">We all stumble</a> <a href="/greek/4183.htm" title="4183: polla (Adj-ANP) -- Much, many; often. ">in many ways.</a> <a href="/greek/1487.htm" title="1487: ei (Conj) -- If. A primary particle of conditionality; if, whether, that, etc.">If</a> <a href="/greek/5100.htm" title="5100: tis (IPro-NMS) -- Any one, some one, a certain one or thing. An enclitic indefinite pronoun; some or any person or object.">anyone</a> <a href="/greek/3756.htm" title="3756: ou (Adv) -- No, not. Also ouk, and ouch a primary word; the absolute negative adverb; no or not.">is never</a> <a href="/greek/4417.htm" title="4417: ptaiei (V-PIA-3S) -- To stumble, fall, sin, err, transgress. A form of pipto; to trip, i.e. to err, sin, fail.">at fault</a> <a href="/greek/1722.htm" title="1722: en (Prep) -- In, on, among. A primary preposition denoting position, and instrumentality, i.e. A relation of rest; in, at, on, by, etc.">in</a> <a href="/greek/3056.htm" title="3056: logō (N-DMS) -- From lego; something said; by implication, a topic, also reasoning or motive; by extension, a computation; specially, the Divine Expression.">what he says,</a> <a href="/greek/3778.htm" title="3778: houtos (DPro-NMS) -- This; he, she, it. ">he is</a> <a href="/greek/5046.htm" title="5046: teleios (Adj-NMS) -- From telos; complete; neuter completeness.">a perfect</a> <a href="/greek/435.htm" title="435: anēr (N-NMS) -- A male human being; a man, husband. A primary word; a man.">man,</a> <a href="/greek/2532.htm" title="2532: kai (Conj) -- And, even, also, namely. "></a> <a href="/greek/1415.htm" title="1415: dynatos (Adj-NMS) -- (a) of persons: powerful, able, (b) of things: possible. From dunamai; powerful or capable; neuter possible.">able</a> <a href="/greek/5468.htm" title="5468: chalinagōgēsai (V-ANA) -- To bridle, curb, restrain, sway. From a compound of chalinos and the reduplicated form of ago; to be a bit-leader, i.e. To curb.">to control</a> <a href="/greek/3588.htm" title="3588: to (Art-ANS) -- The, the definite article. Including the feminine he, and the neuter to in all their inflections; the definite article; the.">his</a> <a href="/greek/3650.htm" title="3650: holon (Adj-ANS) -- All, the whole, entire, complete. A primary word; whole or all, i.e. Complete, especially as noun or adverb.">whole</a> <a href="/greek/4983.htm" title="4983: sōma (N-ANS) -- Body, flesh; the body of the Church. From sozo; the body, used in a very wide application, literally or figuratively.">body.</a> 3When we put bits into the mouths of horses to make them obey us, we can guide the whole animal.…<div class="cred"><a href="//berean.bible">Berean Standard Bible</a> · <a href="//berean.bible/downloads.htm">Download</a></div> <a name="crossref" id="crossref"></a><div class="vheading">Cross References</div><div id="crf"><a href="/proverbs/10-19.htm">Proverbs 10:19</a> When words are many, sin is unavoidable, but he who restrains his lips is wise. <a href="/matthew/12-36.htm">Matthew 12:36-37</a> But I tell you that men will give an account on the day of judgment for every careless word they have spoken. / For by your words you will be acquitted, and by your words you will be condemned.” <a href="/proverbs/21-23.htm">Proverbs 21:23</a> He who guards his mouth and tongue keeps his soul from distress. <a href="/proverbs/17-27.htm">Proverbs 17:27-28</a> A man of knowledge restrains his words, and a man of understanding maintains a calm spirit. / Even a fool is considered wise if he keeps silent, and discerning when he holds his tongue. <a href="/ecclesiastes/5-2.htm">Ecclesiastes 5:2-3</a> Do not be quick to speak, and do not be hasty in your heart to utter a word before God. For God is in heaven and you are on earth. So let your words be few. / As a dream comes through many cares, so the speech of a fool comes with many words. <a href="/psalms/39-1.htm">Psalm 39:1</a> For the choirmaster. For Jeduthun. A Psalm of David. I said, “I will watch my ways so that I will not sin with my tongue; I will guard my mouth with a muzzle as long as the wicked are present.” <a href="/proverbs/13-3.htm">Proverbs 13:3</a> He who guards his mouth protects his life, but the one who opens his lips invites his own ruin. <a href="/1_peter/3-10.htm">1 Peter 3:10</a> For, “Whoever would love life and see good days must keep his tongue from evil and his lips from deceitful speech. <a href="/proverbs/18-21.htm">Proverbs 18:21</a> Life and death are in the power of the tongue, and those who love it will eat its fruit. <a href="/proverbs/15-1.htm">Proverbs 15:1-2</a> A gentle answer turns away wrath, but a harsh word stirs up anger. / The tongue of the wise commends knowledge, but the mouth of the fool spouts folly. <a href="/matthew/15-11.htm">Matthew 15:11</a> A man is not defiled by what enters his mouth, but by what comes out of it.” <a href="/colossians/3-8.htm">Colossians 3:8</a> But now you must put aside all such things as these: anger, rage, malice, slander, and filthy language from your lips. <a href="/ephesians/4-29.htm">Ephesians 4:29</a> Let no unwholesome talk come out of your mouths, but only what is helpful for building up the one in need and bringing grace to those who listen. <a href="/proverbs/12-18.htm">Proverbs 12:18</a> Speaking rashly is like a piercing sword, but the tongue of the wise brings healing. <a href="/psalms/141-3.htm">Psalm 141:3</a> Set a guard, O LORD, over my mouth; keep watch at the door of my lips.</div> <a name="tsk" id="tsk"><div class="vheading">Treasury of Scripture</div>For in many things we offend all. If any man offend not in word, the same is a perfect man, and able also to bridle the whole body.in.<a href="/1_kings/8-46.htm">1 Kings 8:46</a> If they sin against thee, (for there is no man that sinneth not,) and thou be angry with them, and deliver them to the enemy, so that they carry them away captives unto the land of the enemy, far or near;<a href="/2_chronicles/6-36.htm">2 Chronicles 6:36</a> If they sin against thee, (for there is no man which sinneth not,) and thou be angry with them, and deliver them over before their enemies, and they carry them away captives unto a land far off or near;<a href="/proverbs/20-9.htm">Proverbs 20:9</a> Who can say, I have made my heart clean, I am pure from my sin?If.<a href="/james/3-5.htm">James 3:5,6</a> Even so the tongue is a little member, and boasteth great things. Behold, how great a matter a little fire kindleth! … See on ch.<a href="/james/1-26.htm">James 1:26</a> If any man among you seem to be religious, and bridleth not his tongue, but deceiveth his own heart, this man's religion is vain.<a href="/psalms/34-13.htm">Psalm 34:13</a> Keep thy tongue from evil, and thy lips from speaking guile.<a href="/proverbs/13-3.htm">Proverbs 13:3</a> He that keepeth his mouth keepeth his life: but he that openeth wide his lips shall have destruction.a perfect.<a href="/james/1-4.htm">James 1:4</a> But let patience have her perfect work, that ye may be perfect and entire, wanting nothing.<a href="/matthew/12-37.htm">Matthew 12:37</a> For by thy words thou shalt be justified, and by thy words thou shalt be condemned.<a href="/colossians/1-28.htm">Colossians 1:28</a> Whom we preach, warning every man, and teaching every man in all wisdom; that we may present every man perfect in Christ Jesus:to bridle.<a href="/1_corinthians/9-27.htm">1 Corinthians 9:27</a> But I keep under my body, and bring it into subjection: lest that by any means, when I have preached to others, I myself should be a castaway.<div class="vheading">Jump to Previous</div><a href="/james/1-21.htm">Able</a> <a href="/james/2-26.htm">Body</a> <a href="/james/1-26.htm">Bridle</a> <a href="/1_corinthians/14-39.htm">Check</a> <a href="/james/2-22.htm">Complete</a> <a href="/james/1-2.htm">Fall</a> <a href="/james/1-5.htm">Fault</a> <a href="/hebrews/6-1.htm">Maturity</a> <a href="/james/2-10.htm">Offend</a> <a href="/hebrews/10-11.htm">Often</a> <a href="/james/2-22.htm">Perfect</a> <a href="/colossians/1-6.htm">Reached</a> <a href="/james/2-10.htm">Slip</a> <a href="/titus/2-8.htm">Speech</a> <a href="/2_corinthians/11-29.htm">Stumble</a> <a href="/james/2-10.htm">Stumbles</a> <a href="/titus/2-9.htm">Talk</a> <a href="/james/2-10.htm">Whole</a> <a href="/james/1-23.htm">Word</a> <a href="/james/2-4.htm">Wrong</a><div class="vheading2">Jump to Next</div><a href="/james/3-8.htm">Able</a> <a href="/james/3-3.htm">Body</a> <a href="/revelation/14-20.htm">Bridle</a> <a href="/genesis/30-33.htm">Check</a> <a href="/james/3-3.htm">Complete</a> <a href="/james/5-12.htm">Fall</a> <a href="/jude/1-16.htm">Fault</a> <a href="/hosea/12-3.htm">Maturity</a> <a href="/job/34-31.htm">Offend</a> <a href="/james/3-4.htm">Often</a> <a href="/1_peter/1-13.htm">Perfect</a> <a href="/james/5-4.htm">Reached</a> <a href="/deuteronomy/32-35.htm">Slip</a> <a href="/2_peter/2-16.htm">Speech</a> <a href="/1_peter/2-8.htm">Stumble</a> <a href="/proverbs/24-17.htm">Stumbles</a> <a href="/1_peter/2-15.htm">Talk</a> <a href="/james/3-3.htm">Whole</a> <a href="/1_peter/1-23.htm">Word</a> <a href="/james/4-3.htm">Wrong</a><div class="vheading2">James 3</div>1. <a href="/james/3-1.htm">We are not rashly or arrogantly to reprove others;</a> 5. <a href="/james/3-5.htm">but rather to bridle the tongue, a little member, </a> 9. <a href="/james/3-9.htm">but a powerful instrument of much good, and great harm.</a> 13. <a href="/james/3-13.htm">The truly wise are mild and peaceable, without envy and strife.</a> </div></div><div id="mdd"><div align="center"><div class="bot2"><table align="center" width="100%"><tr><td><div align="center"> <script id="3d27ed63fc4348d5b062c4527ae09445"> (new Image()).src = 'https://capi.connatix.com/tr/si?token=51ce25d5-1a8c-424a-8695-4bd48c750f35&cid=3a9f82d0-4344-4f8d-ac0c-e1a0eb43a405'; </script> <script id="b817b7107f1d4a7997da1b3c33457e03"> (new Image()).src = 'https://capi.connatix.com/tr/si?token=cb0edd8b-b416-47eb-8c6d-3cc96561f7e8&cid=3a9f82d0-4344-4f8d-ac0c-e1a0eb43a405'; </script>  <div id='div-gpt-ad-1529103594582-2'> </div>  <div id='div-gpt-ad-1529103594582-0' style='max-width: 300px;'> </div>  <div id='div-gpt-ad-1529103594582-3'> </div>  <div id='div-gpt-ad-1529103594582-1' style='max-width: 300px;'> </div>  <div align="center" id='div-gpt-ad-1531425649696-0'> </div> <ins class="adsbygoogle" style="display:inline-block;width:200px;height:200px" data-ad-client="ca-pub-3753401421161123" data-ad-slot="3592799687"></ins> <script> (adsbygoogle = window.adsbygoogle || []).push({}); </script> </div> </td></tr></table></div></div></div><div id="combox"><div class="padcom"><a name="study" id="study"></a><div class="vheading"><table width="100%"><tr><td width="99%" valign="top"><a href="/study/james/3.htm">Study Bible</a></td><td width="1%" valign="top"><a href="/study/james/" title="Book Summary and Study">Book ◦</a> <a href="/study/chapters/james/3.htm" title="Chapter summary and Study">Chapter </a></tr></table></div>We all stumble in many ways. This phrase acknowledges the universal human condition of imperfection and sinfulness. The Greek word for "stumble" (ptaio) implies moral failure or sin. This aligns with <a href="/romans/3-23.htm">Romans 3:23</a>, which states that all have sinned and fall short of the glory of God. The acknowledgment of human fallibility is a recurring theme in Scripture, emphasizing the need for grace and redemption. The phrase also reflects the Jewish understanding of sin as a deviation from God's law, which was central to the moral and religious life of the early Christian community.If anyone is never at fault in what he says, Speech is a significant theme in biblical teaching, as words have the power to build up or destroy. <a href="/proverbs/18-21.htm">Proverbs 18:21</a> highlights that "death and life are in the power of the tongue." The ability to control one's speech is seen as a mark of wisdom and maturity. In the cultural context of the early church, where oral communication was primary, the integrity of one's words was crucial. This phrase suggests that controlling one's speech is a rare and commendable achievement, reflecting inner spiritual maturity.he is a perfect man, The term "perfect" (teleios) in this context refers to spiritual maturity and completeness rather than sinless perfection. This concept is echoed in <a href="/matthew/5-48.htm">Matthew 5:48</a>, where Jesus calls His followers to be perfect as the Heavenly Father is perfect. The idea of perfection here is about reaching the intended purpose or goal, which in the Christian life is to reflect the character of Christ. This aligns with the process of sanctification, where believers grow in holiness and Christlikeness.able to control his whole body. The ability to control one's speech is indicative of self-discipline and mastery over one's entire being. This reflects the biblical principle that self-control is a fruit of the Spirit (<a href="/galatians/5-22.htm">Galatians 5:22-23</a>). The imagery of controlling the body suggests that the tongue, though small, has a disproportionate influence over one's actions and life direction, similar to how a rudder steers a ship (<a href="/james/3-4.htm">James 3:4</a>). This underscores the importance of aligning one's speech and actions with God's will, as a reflection of inner transformation and obedience to Christ.<div class="vheading2">Persons / Places / Events</div>1. <a href="/topical/j/james.htm">James</a> The author of the epistle, traditionally identified as James, the brother of Jesus and a leader in the early Jerusalem church. He is known for his practical teachings on Christian living. 2. <a href="/topical/e/early_christian_communities.htm">Early Christian Communities</a> The audience of the letter, likely Jewish Christians scattered outside of Palestine, facing trials and needing guidance on living out their faith. 3. <a href="/topical/t/the_tongue.htm">The Tongue</a> A central theme in this chapter, representing speech and the power of words, which James discusses as a significant aspect of Christian maturity.<div class="vheading2">Teaching Points</div><a href="/topical/t/the_universality_of_human_imperfection.htm">The Universality of Human Imperfection</a> James acknowledges that "we all stumble in many ways," reminding us of our shared human frailty and the need for grace and forgiveness. <a href="/topical/t/the_power_of_speech.htm">The Power of Speech</a> The ability to control one's tongue is a mark of spiritual maturity. Our words have the power to build up or tear down, and we must strive to use them wisely. <a href="/topical/p/pursuit_of_perfection.htm">Pursuit of Perfection</a> While perfection in speech is an ideal, it is also a goal that reflects our growth in Christ. We should aim to reflect Christ's character in our communication. <a href="/topical/s/self-control_as_a_fruit_of_the_spirit.htm">Self-Control as a Fruit of the Spirit</a> Controlling the tongue is part of broader self-control, a fruit of the Spirit. It requires daily surrender to the Holy Spirit's guidance. <a href="/topical/t/the_role_of_humility.htm">The Role of Humility</a> Recognizing our tendency to stumble should lead us to humility, encouraging us to seek God's help in our weaknesses.<div class="vheading2">Lists and Questions</div><a href="/top10/lessons_from_james_3.htm">Top 10 Lessons from James 3</a> <a href="/q/bible's_view_on_sin_relapse.htm">What does the Bible say about sin relapse?</a> <a href="/q/why_should_few_aspire_to_be_teachers.htm">Why should few aspire to be teachers?</a> <a href="/q/bible's_view_on_failure.htm">What is the Bible's perspective on failure?</a> <a href="/q/how_does_the_tongue_affect_us.htm">How does the tongue influence our lives and relationships?</a><a name="commentary" id="commentary"></a><div class="vheading2"><a href="/commentaries/ellicott/james/3.htm">Ellicott's Commentary for English Readers</a></div>(2) For in many things we offend all.--Better thus, For in many things we all offend: not, what might be inferred, "we are an offence to all," as <a href="/matthew/24-9.htm" title="Then shall they deliver you up to be afflicted, and shall kill you: and you shall be hated of all nations for my name's sake.">Matthew 24:9</a>; <a href="/1_corinthians/4-13.htm" title="Being defamed, we entreat: we are made as the filth of the world, and are the offscouring of all things to this day.">1Corinthians 4:13</a>, et al. Humble, indeed, was the holy mind of James, but this confession of error uplifts him in all right appreciation, and in no way casts him down. The very human weakness of Peter, and Paul, and James, endears them to us; for so we know assuredly that they were "men of like passions" with ourselves (<a href="/acts/14-15.htm" title="And saying, Sirs, why do you these things? We also are men of like passions with you, and preach to you that you should turn from these vanities to the living God, which made heaven, and earth, and the sea, and all things that are therein:">Acts 14:15</a>), and, where they succeeded, we, by the like grace of God, may also win the crown.If any man offend not in word, the same is a perfect man.--If any man: much more one who fain would teach his fellows. To "offend" means to stumble over something, and fall, and in this sense we get the exact meaning of "offending" by an unguarded allusion to a subject painful in the mind of another. "A constant governance of our speech, according to duty and reason, is a high instance, and a special argument of a thoroughly sincere and solid goodness," says Isaac Barrow; but the meekest of men failed once, and blessed indeed is he who takes heed to his ways that he sins not with his tongue (<a href="/psalms/39-1.htm" title="I said, I will take heed to my ways, that I sin not with my tongue: I will keep my mouth with a bridle, while the wicked is before me.">Psalm 39:1</a>).Able also to bridle the whole body.--Not that if the tongue be stilled all the members of the body are consequently in peace; but, because the work of ruling the one rebel is so great, that a much less corresponding effort will keep the others in subjection.<div class="vheading2"><a href="/commentaries/pulpit/james/3.htm">Pulpit Commentary</a></div>Verse 2. - Γὰρ gives the reason for this κρίμα. We shall be judged because in many things we all stumble, and it is implied that teachers are in danger of greater condemnation, because it is almost impossible to govern the tongue completely. With the thought comp. <a href="/ecclesiastes/7-20.htm">Ecclesiastes 7:20</a>, "There is not a just man upon earth that doeth good and sinneth not." Πολλά is adverbial, as in <a href="/matthew/9-14.htm">Matthew 9:14</a>, and may be either (1) "in many things," or (2) "oft." Ἅπαντες. No se ipsos quidem excipiunt apostoli (Bengel). If any stumbleth not in word (R.V.). "Control of speech is named, not as in itself constituting perfection, but as a crucial test indicating whether the man has or has not attained unto it" (Plumptre). Τέλειος (see <a href="/james/1-4.htm">James 1:4</a>). Ξαλιναγωγεῖν (cf. <a href="/james/1-26.htm">James 1:26</a>). It is only found in these two passages; never in the LXX. <a href="/commentaries/james/3-2.htm">Parallel Commentaries ...</a> <a name="lexicon" id="lexicon"></a><div class="vheading">Greek</div>We all stumble πταίομεν (ptaiomen) Verb - Present Indicative Active - 1st Person Plural <a href="/greek/strongs_4417.htm">Strong's 4417: </a> To stumble, fall, sin, err, transgress. A form of pipto; to trip, i.e. to err, sin, fail. in many ways. πολλὰ (polla) Adjective - Accusative Neuter Plural <a href="/greek/strongs_4183.htm">Strong's 4183: </a> Much, many; often. If εἴ (ei) Conjunction <a href="/greek/strongs_1487.htm">Strong's 1487: </a> If. A primary particle of conditionality; if, whether, that, etc. anyone τις (tis) Interrogative / Indefinite Pronoun - Nominative Masculine Singular <a href="/greek/strongs_5100.htm">Strong's 5100: </a> Any one, some one, a certain one or thing. An enclitic indefinite pronoun; some or any person or object. {is} never οὐ (ou) Adverb <a href="/greek/strongs_3756.htm">Strong's 3756: </a> No, not. Also ouk, and ouch a primary word; the absolute negative adverb; no or not. at fault πταίει (ptaiei) Verb - Present Indicative Active - 3rd Person Singular <a href="/greek/strongs_4417.htm">Strong's 4417: </a> To stumble, fall, sin, err, transgress. A form of pipto; to trip, i.e. to err, sin, fail. in ἐν (en) Preposition <a href="/greek/strongs_1722.htm">Strong's 1722: </a> In, on, among. A primary preposition denoting position, and instrumentality, i.e. A relation of rest; 'in, ' at, on, by, etc. what he says, λόγῳ (logō) Noun - Dative Masculine Singular <a href="/greek/strongs_3056.htm">Strong's 3056: </a> From lego; something said; by implication, a topic, also reasoning or motive; by extension, a computation; specially, the Divine Expression. he [is] οὗτος (houtos) Demonstrative Pronoun - Nominative Masculine Singular <a href="/greek/strongs_3778.htm">Strong's 3778: </a> This; he, she, it. a perfect τέλειος (teleios) Adjective - Nominative Masculine Singular <a href="/greek/strongs_5046.htm">Strong's 5046: </a> From telos; complete; neuter completeness. man, ἀνήρ (anēr) Noun - Nominative Masculine Singular <a href="/greek/strongs_435.htm">Strong's 435: </a> A male human being; a man, husband. A primary word; a man. able δυνατὸς (dynatos) Adjective - Nominative Masculine Singular <a href="/greek/strongs_1415.htm">Strong's 1415: </a> (a) of persons: powerful, able, (b) of things: possible. From dunamai; powerful or capable; neuter possible. to control χαλιναγωγῆσαι (chalinagōgēsai) Verb - Aorist Infinitive Active <a href="/greek/strongs_5468.htm">Strong's 5468: </a> To bridle, curb, restrain, sway. From a compound of chalinos and the reduplicated form of ago; to be a bit-leader, i.e. To curb. [his] τὸ (to) Article - Accusative Neuter Singular <a href="/greek/strongs_3588.htm">Strong's 3588: </a> The, the definite article. Including the feminine he, and the neuter to in all their inflections; the definite article; the. whole ὅλον (holon) Adjective - Accusative Neuter Singular <a href="/greek/strongs_3650.htm">Strong's 3650: </a> All, the whole, entire, complete. A primary word; 'whole' or 'all', i.e. Complete, especially as noun or adverb. body. σῶμα (sōma) Noun - Accusative Neuter Singular <a href="/greek/strongs_4983.htm">Strong's 4983: </a> Body, flesh; the body of the Church. From sozo; the body, used in a very wide application, literally or figuratively. <div class="vheading">Links</div><a href="/niv/james/3-2.htm">James 3:2 NIV</a> <a href="/nlt/james/3-2.htm">James 3:2 NLT</a> <a href="/esv/james/3-2.htm">James 3:2 ESV</a> <a href="/nasb/james/3-2.htm">James 3:2 NASB</a> <a href="/kjv/james/3-2.htm">James 3:2 KJV</a> <a href="//bibleapps.com/james/3-2.htm">James 3:2 BibleApps.com</a> <a href="//bibliaparalela.com/james/3-2.htm">James 3:2 Biblia Paralela</a> <a href="//holybible.com.cn/james/3-2.htm">James 3:2 Chinese Bible</a> <a href="//saintebible.com/james/3-2.htm">James 3:2 French Bible</a> <a href="/catholic/james/3-2.htm">James 3:2 Catholic Bible</a> <a href="/james/3-2.htm">NT Letters: James 3:2 For in many things we all stumble (Ja Jas. Jam) </a></div></div></td></tr></table></div><div id="left"><a href="/james/3-1.htm" onmouseover='lft.src="/leftgif.png"' onmouseout='lft.src="/left.png"' title="James 3:1"><img src="/left.png" name="lft" border="0" alt="James 3:1" /></a></div><div id="right"><a href="/james/3-3.htm" onmouseover='rght.src="/rightgif.png"' onmouseout='rght.src="/right.png"' title="James 3:3"><img src="/right.png" name="rght" border="0" alt="James 3:3" /></a></div><div id="botleft"><a href="#" onmouseover='botleft.src="/botleftgif.png"' onmouseout='botleft.src="/botleft.png"' title="Top of Page"><img src="/botleft.png" name="botleft" border="0" alt="Top of Page" /></a></div><div id="botright"><a href="#" onmouseover='botright.src="/botrightgif.png"' onmouseout='botright.src="/botright.png"' title="Top of Page"><img src="/botright.png" name="botright" border="0" alt="Top of Page" /></a></div><div id="bot"><iframe width="100%" height="1500" scrolling="no" src="/botmenubhnew2.htm" frameborder="0"></iframe></div></td></tr></table></div></body></html>