The Power of Your Words: How What You Say Can Change Everything | James 3 | Chris Teien

Have you ever said something you immediately regretted? Your words can encourage someone, strengthen a relationship, and point people toward Jesus. But careless words can also cause conflict, spread gossip, damage relationships, and leave lasting wounds. In this practical Bible message from James 3:1–12, Pastor Chris Teien explains why our words matter to God and how we can speak with greater wisdom, honesty, self-control, and love. James compares the tongue to a small rudder steering a large ship and a tiny spark starting a destructive forest fire. Although our tongues are small, what we say can influence the direction of our lives and the lives of those around us. IN THIS MESSAGE 1. OUR WORDS HAVE THE POWER TO INFLUENCE OTHERS (James 3:1) Discover why God holds Bible teachers accountable, why we need to handle Scripture carefully, and how Christians can become better equipped to encourage others and make disciples. 2. OUR WORDS REVEAL OUR IMPERFECTIONS (James 3:2) Nobody speaks perfectly. Learn why we sometimes react poorly when we're angry or hurt and how listening carefully can prevent misunderstandings and unnecessary conflict. 3. OUR WORDS CAN STEER THE COURSE OF OUR LIVES (James 3:3–5) Just as a small bit controls a horse and a rudder steers a ship, our words influence relationships, decisions, opportunities, and the direction of our lives. 4. OUR WORDS CAN CAUSE DAMAGE AND DESTRUCTION (James 3:5–8) A small spark can start an enormous fire. Discover how gossip, exaggeration, dishonesty, and careless words can cause lasting harm, and why sincere apologies matter. 5. OUR WORDS CAN PRAISE GOD OR CURSE OTHERS (James 3:9–12) How can we praise God on Sunday and then tear down people made in His image? Learn why our speech reveals what's happening in our hearts and how following Jesus should change the way we communicate. PRACTICAL TAKEAWAY Before you speak, consider whether your words are truthful, helpful, encouraging, and honoring to God. When you make a mistake, be willing to apologize. Ask the Holy Spirit to reveal harmful patterns of speech and help you grow in Christlike character. SCRIPTURE James 3:1–12 Additional references: Proverbs 15:1; Luke 6:45 BIBLE STUDY RESOURCE Have questions about the Bible or want to become better equipped to share your faith? Explore biblical answers and Scripture references at: https://www.gotquestions.org/ ABOUT ROCKWELL CHURCH Rockwell Church is a Bible-centered Christian church serving Virginia, Eveleth, and the surrounding Iron Range communities in Northern Minnesota. We share practical, Christ-centered teaching to help you grow in faith, understand God's Word, follow Jesus, and apply Scripture to everyday life. JOIN US IN PERSON Rockwell Church Sundays at 10:15 AM 93 Midway Dr. Virginia, MN 55792 https://rockwell.church SERMON AUDIO PODCAST https://wellfaith.buzzsprout.com FAITH & MINISTRY RESOURCES https://christeien.com STAY CONNECTED Request Prayer: https://rockwell.church/prayer Give to Support This Ministry: https://rockwell.church/give Facebook:   / rockwellchurch218   Instagram:   / rockwellchurch218   YouTube:    / @rockwellchurch218   Subscribe to @rockwellchurch218 for more Bible-centered sermons, practical Christian teaching, worship, and encouragement. SHARING THE WORD October 25, 2026 | Pastor Chris Teien | Rockwell Church #James3 #PowerOfWords #ChristianLiving #BibleTeaching #PastorChrisTeien #RockwellChurch218 #ChristianEncouragement #VirginiaMN #IronRange Songs and videos included in services are used with permission. CCLI Copyright License #368246 CCLI Streaming License #20381803