A Helpful Analysis

Chuck Swindoll expounds further on the use of the tongue in thanksgiving, wisdom, and praise.

Introduction

  • Brief background on Clarence McCartney and his interests in history, especially the Civil War and Puritan divines
  • Story about a Puritan minister's encounter with a woman with a sharp tongue

The Power and Impact of Words

  • The consequences of an uncontrolled tongue
  • Will Norris and his wisdom on speaking with care
  • James 3: Blessings and curses coming from the same mouth

Personal Reflections on Controlling the Tongue

  • Anecdote about avoiding gatherings that encouraged negative speech
  • Reflection on the tongue as an expression of the heart, with a reference to Luke 6:45

Proverbs on the Use of the Tongue

  • Overview of the frequency and significance of references to the tongue in Proverbs
  • Proverbs 15:2 and 18:21 highlighted to contrast wise and foolish speech
  • Plan to explore both positive and negative uses of the tongue through Proverbs

Positive Uses of the Tongue

  • Wise Counsel and Sound Advice
    • Proverbs references on the value of wise counsel
    • Personal anecdote about seeking counsel from Dr. Richards
  • Reproof, Rebuke, and Exhortation
    • Proverbs references on the importance of accepting reproof
    • The significance of receiving and giving correction with love
  • Encouragement and Affirmation
    • Proverbs references on the power of encouraging words
    • Anecdote about the importance of encouragement in ministry and family life
  • Teaching and Comforting
    • Proverbs references on the deep impact of wise teaching
    • Personal reflections on the importance of teaching and its life-changing effects

Negative Uses of the Tongue

  • Deceitful Flattery
    • Proverbs references on the dangers of flattery
    • Warnings against using insincere compliments for personal gain
  • Slander, Tale Bearing, and Gossip
    • Proverbs references condemning slander and gossip
    • Emphasis on stopping the spread of harmful tales
  • Arguments and Angry Words
    • Proverbs references on the strife caused by foolish speech
    • Caution against using the pulpit as a place to vent anger
  • Boasting and Empty Talk
    • Proverbs references on the wisdom of restraint in speech
    • The value of silence and listening over excessive talking

Concluding Reflections

  • Call for the wise and humble use of words, inspired by Psalm 19:14
  • Encouragement to blend knowledge with kindness
  • Final prayer for guidance in using words wisely and kindly, invoking a spirit of humility and compassion

*The above summary is AI-generated, so discrepancies may exist. Please refer to the audio or video file to verify accuracy.

About the Contributors

Charles R. Swindoll

Charles R. Swindoll has devoted his life to the accurate, practical teaching and application of God’s Word and His grace. A pastor at heart, Chuck has served as the founder and senior pastor-teacher of Stonebriar Community Church in Frisco, Texas. His leadership as president and now Chancellor Emeritus of Dallas Theological Seminary has helped prepare and equip a new generation for ministry. Chuck and his wife Cynthia, have four grown children, ten grandchildren, and two great-grandchildren.