James 3:2

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.

Catholic Public Domain Version

In The King James Version

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 Context

1My brothers, not many of you should choose to become teachers, knowing that you shall receive a stricter judgment.

3For so we put bridles into the mouths of horses, in order to submit them to our will, and so we turn their whole body around.

Read all of James 3

Cross References

1 Kings 8:46But if they sin against you, for there is no man who does not sin, and you, being angry, deliver them to their enemies, and they will have been led away as captives to the land of their enemies, whether far or near,

Job 15:13Why does your spirit stir against God, so as to utter such speeches from your mouth?

Proverbs 13:3Whoever guards his mouth guards his soul. But whoever gives no consideration to his speech shall experience misfortunes.

Ecclesiastes 7:20Wisdom has strengthened the wise more than ten princes of a city.

Matthew 12:37For by your words shall you be justified, and by your words shall you be condemned.”

Romans 7:21And so, I discover the law, by wanting to do good within myself, though evil lies close beside me.

Matthew Henry on James 3:2-13

Government of the Tongue. ( a. d. 61.) 1 My brethren, be not many masters, knowing that we shall receive the greater condemnation. 2 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. 3 Behold, we put bits in the horses' mouths, that they may obey us; and we turn about their whole body. 4 Behold also the ships, which though they be so great, and are driven of fierce winds, yet are they turned about with a very small helm,… Read the whole commentary →

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