New International VersionNot many of you should become teachers, my fellow believers, because you know that we who teach will be judged more strictly.
New Living TranslationDear brothers and sisters, not many of you should become teachers in the church, for we who teach will be judged more strictly.
English Standard VersionNot many of you should become teachers, my brothers, for you know that we who teach will be judged with greater strictness.
Berean Standard BibleNot many of you should become teachers, my brothers, because you know that we who teach will be judged more strictly.
Berean Literal BibleNot many of you should be teachers my brothers, knowing that we will receive greater judgment.
King James BibleMy brethren, be not many masters, knowing that we shall receive the greater condemnation.
New King James VersionMy brethren, let not many of you become teachers, knowing that we shall receive a stricter judgment.
New American Standard BibleDo not become teachers in large numbers, my brothers, since you know that we who are teachers will incur a stricter judgment.
NASB 1995Let not many of you become teachers, my brethren, knowing that as such we will incur a stricter judgment.
NASB 1977Let not many of you become teachers, my brethren, knowing that as such we shall incur a stricter judgment.
Legacy Standard BibleDo not, many of you, become teachers, my brothers, knowing that we will receive a stricter judgment.
Amplified BibleNot many [of you] should become teachers [serving in an official teaching capacity], my brothers and sisters, for you know that we [who are teachers] will be judged by a higher standard [because we have assumed greater accountability and more condemnation if we teach incorrectly].
Christian Standard BibleNot many should become teachers, my brothers, because you know that we will receive a stricter judgment.
Holman Christian Standard BibleNot many should become teachers, my brothers, knowing that we will receive a stricter judgment,
American Standard VersionBe not many of you teachers, my brethren, knowing that we shall receive heavier judgment.
Contemporary English VersionMy friends, we should not all try to become teachers. In fact, teachers will be judged more strictly than others.
English Revised VersionBe not many teachers, my brethren, knowing that we shall receive heavier judgment.
GOD'S WORD® TranslationBrothers and sisters, not many of you should become teachers. You know that we who teach will be judged more severely.
Good News TranslationMy friends, not many of you should become teachers. As you know, we teachers will be judged with greater strictness than others.
International Standard VersionNot many of you should become teachers, my brothers, because you know that we who teach will be judged more severely than others.
NET BibleNot many of you should become teachers, my brothers and sisters, because you know that we will be judged more strictly.
New Heart English BibleLet not many of you be teachers, my brothers, knowing that we will receive heavier judgment.
Webster's Bible TranslationMy brethren, be not many teachers, knowing that we shall receive the greater condemnation.
Weymouth New TestamentDo not be eager, my brethren, for many among you to become teachers; for you know that we teachers shall undergo severer judgement. Majority Text Translations Majority Standard BibleNot many of you should become teachers, my brothers, because you know that we who teach will be judged more strictly.
World English BibleLet not many of you be teachers, my brothers, knowing that we will receive heavier judgment. Literal Translations Literal Standard VersionDo not let many be teachers, my brothers, having known that we will receive greater judgment,
Berean Literal BibleNot many of you should be teachers my brothers, knowing that we will receive greater judgment.
Young's Literal Translation Many teachers become not, my brethren, having known that greater judgment we shall receive,
Smith's Literal TranslationBe ye not many teachers, my brethren, knowing that we shall receive the greater judgment. Catholic Translations Douay-Rheims BibleBe ye not many masters, my brethren, knowing that you receive the greater judgment.
Catholic Public Domain VersionMy brothers, not many of you should choose to become teachers, knowing that you shall receive a stricter judgment.
New American BibleNot many of you should become teachers, my brothers, for you realize that we will be judged more strictly,
New Revised Standard VersionNot many of you should become teachers, my brothers and sisters, for you know that we who teach will be judged with greater strictness. Translations from Aramaic Lamsa BibleMY brethren, do not allow doubtful teachers among you; but know, that we are under a great judgment.
Aramaic Bible in Plain EnglishThere should not be many teachers among you, my brethren, but you should know that we will incur greater judgment, NT Translations Anderson New TestamentMy brethren, be not many teachers, knowing that we shall receive the greater condemnation.
Godbey New TestamentBe ye not many teachers, my brethren, knowing that we shall receive the greater judgment.
Haweis New TestamentMY brethren, be not many teachers, knowing that we shall receive a severer judgment.
Mace New TestamentMy brethren, don't affect many of you to be doctors, considering, that those of us who are such, shall be tried with the greater severity.
Weymouth New TestamentDo not be eager, my brethren, for many among you to become teachers; for you know that we teachers shall undergo severer judgement.
Worrell New TestamentMy brethren, become not many of you teachers, knowing that we shall receive the greater judgment.
Worsley New TestamentMy brethren, be not many teachers, knowing that we who are such shall pass a stricter trial than others: for in many things we all offend;
Additional Translations ... Audio Bible
Context Taming the Tongue1Notmany of youshould becometeachers,mybrothers,because you knowthatwe who teach will bejudgedmore strictly.2We 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.…
Cross References Matthew 12:36-37But 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.”
1 Timothy 1:7They want to be teachers of the law, but they do not understand what they are saying or that which they so confidently assert.
Romans 2:21you, then, who teach others, do you not teach yourself? You who preach against stealing, do you steal?
1 Corinthians 12:28-29And in the church God has appointed first of all apostles, second prophets, third teachers, then workers of miracles, and those with gifts of healing, helping, administration, and various tongues. / Are all apostles? Are all prophets? Are all teachers? Do all work miracles?
Hebrews 13:17Obey your leaders and submit to them, for they watch over your souls as those who must give an account. To this end, allow them to lead with joy and not with grief, for that would be of no advantage to you.
1 Peter 5:2-3Be shepherds of God’s flock that is among you, watching over them not out of compulsion, but willingly, as God would have you; not out of greed, but out of eagerness; / not lording it over those entrusted to you, but being examples to the flock.
Luke 12:48But the one who unknowingly does things worthy of punishment will be beaten with few blows. From everyone who has been given much, much will be required; and from him who has been entrusted with much, even more will be demanded.
1 Corinthians 3:10-15By the grace God has given me, I laid a foundation as an expert builder, and someone else is building on it. But each one must be careful how he builds. / For no one can lay a foundation other than the one already laid, which is Jesus Christ. / If anyone builds on this foundation using gold, silver, precious stones, wood, hay, or straw, ...
2 Timothy 2:15Make every effort to present yourself approved to God, an unashamed workman who accurately handles the word of truth.
Matthew 23:8-10But you are not to be called ‘Rabbi,’ for you have one Teacher, and you are all brothers. / And do not call anyone on earth your father, for you have one Father, who is in heaven. / Nor are you to be called instructors, for you have one Instructor, the Christ.
1 Corinthians 4:1-2So then, men ought to regard us as servants of Christ and stewards of the mysteries of God. / Now it is required of stewards that they be found faithful.
Ezekiel 3:17-18“Son of man, I have made you a watchman for the house of Israel. Whenever you hear a word from My mouth, give them a warning from Me. / If I say to the wicked man, ‘You will surely die,’ but you do not warn him or speak out to warn him from his wicked way to save his life, that wicked man will die in his iniquity, and I will hold you responsible for his blood.
Jeremiah 23:1-2“Woe to the shepherds who destroy and scatter the sheep of My pasture!” declares the LORD. / Therefore this is what the LORD, the God of Israel, says about the shepherds who tend My people: “You have scattered My flock and driven them away, and have not attended to them. Behold, I will attend to you for the evil of your deeds, declares the LORD.
Malachi 2:7-8For the lips of a priest should preserve knowledge, and people should seek instruction from his mouth, because he is the messenger of the LORD of Hosts. / But you have departed from the way, and your instruction has caused many to stumble. You have violated the covenant of Levi,” says the LORD of Hosts.
Proverbs 10:19When words are many, sin is unavoidable, but he who restrains his lips is wise.
Treasury of Scripture My brothers, be not many masters, knowing that we shall receive the greater condemnation. be. Malachi 2:12 The LORD will cut off the man that doeth this, the master and the scholar, out of the tabernacles of Jacob, and him that offereth an offering unto the LORD of hosts. Matthew 9:11 And when the Pharisees sawit, they said unto his disciples, Why eateth your Master with publicans and sinners? Matthew 10:24 The disciple is not abovehis master, nor the servant above his lord. knowing. Leviticus 10:3 Then Moses said unto Aaron, Thisis it that the LORD spake, saying, I will be sanctified in them that come nigh me, and before all the people I will be glorified. And Aaron held his peace. Ezekiel 3:17,18 Son of man, I have made thee a watchman unto the house of Israel: therefore hear the word at my mouth, and give them warning from me… Ezekiel 33:7-9 So thou, O son of man, I have set thee a watchman unto the house of Israel; therefore thou shalt hear the word at my mouth, and warn them from me… condemnation. Matthew 7:1,2 Judge not, that ye be not judged… Matthew 23:14 Woe unto you, scribes and Pharisees, hypocrites! for ye devour widows' houses, and for a pretence make long prayer: therefore ye shall receive the greater damnation. 1 Corinthians 11:29-32 For he that eateth and drinketh unworthily, eateth and drinketh damnation to himself, not discerning the Lord's body… Jump to Previous CondemnationEagerGreaterHardlyHeavierIncurJudgedJudgementJudgmentMastersOthersReceiveSevererTeachTeachersUndergoJump to Next CondemnationEagerGreaterHardlyHeavierIncurJudgedJudgementJudgmentMastersOthersReceiveSevererTeachTeachersUndergoJames 3 1.We are not rashly or arrogantly to reprove others;5.but rather to bridle the tongue, a little member,9.but a powerful instrument of much good, and great harm.13.The truly wise are mild and peaceable, without envy and strife.Not many of you should become teachersThis phrase serves as a cautionary note, emphasizing the responsibility and accountability that comes with teaching. In the early Christian church, teachers held a significant role in guiding the spiritual and doctrinal direction of the community. The warning here reflects the high standards expected of those who instruct others in the faith. The role of a teacher is not merely to impart knowledge but to model a Christ-like life, as seen in passages like 1 Timothy 4:12-16, where Paul advises Timothy on the conduct expected of a leader. The caution against many becoming teachers also suggests the potential for false teachings, a concern addressed in other parts of the New Testament, such as 2 Peter 2:1. my brothers
The use of "my brothers" indicates a familial relationship among believers, emphasizing unity and equality within the body of Christ. This term is inclusive, addressing both men and women in the faith community, as seen in the broader context of the epistle. The familial language underscores the shared responsibility and mutual accountability among believers, as highlighted in passages likeGalatians 6:1-2, where believers are encouraged to bear one another's burdens. because you know that we who teach
The phrase "because you know" suggests that the audience is already aware of the serious nature of teaching within the church. The inclusion of "we who teach" indicates that the author, James, includes himself in this group, acknowledging the shared responsibility and potential for judgment. This reflects the communal aspect of teaching and leadership in the early church, where leaders were expected to be examples to the flock, as seen in1 Peter 5:1-3. will be judged more strictly
This phrase highlights the heightened accountability for teachers, who are responsible for guiding others in truth. The concept of stricter judgment is consistent with the biblical principle that greater knowledge and responsibility come with greater accountability, as seen inLuke 12:48, where Jesus teaches that to whom much is given, much will be required. The warning serves as a reminder of the eternal implications of teaching and the need for integrity and faithfulness in handling God's Word. Persons / Places / Events 1. JamesThe author of the epistle, traditionally understood to be James, the brother of Jesus and a leader in the early Jerusalem church. He writes with authority and pastoral concern for the believers. 2. TeachersIndividuals in the early Christian community who were responsible for instructing others in the faith. They held a position of influence and were expected to live exemplary lives. 3. Early Christian CommunityThe audience of the letter, consisting of Jewish Christians scattered among the nations, facing various trials and needing guidance on living out their faith. Teaching Points The Weight of ResponsibilityTeaching God's Word is a significant responsibility that should not be taken lightly. Those who teach are accountable not only to their listeners but also to God. The Call for HumilityAspiring teachers should approach their role with humility, recognizing their need for God's wisdom and guidance. The Importance of IntegrityTeachers must live lives that reflect the truths they teach, serving as examples to others in both word and deed. The Need for DiscernmentNot everyone is called to be a teacher. Discernment is necessary to understand one's calling and to ensure that teaching is done with the right motives and understanding. The Role of CommunityThe community of believers plays a role in recognizing and affirming those who are called to teach, providing support and accountability. Bible Study Questions and Answers 1.What is the meaning of James 3:1?
2.How does James 3:1 caution us about the responsibility of teaching others?
3.Why does James warn that teachers "will be judged more strictly"?
4.How can we ensure our teaching aligns with biblical truth and integrity?
5.What qualities should a teacher possess according to biblical standards and James 3:1?
6.How can James 3:1 guide us in choosing spiritual leaders and teachers?
7.Why does James 3:1 warn against many becoming teachers?
8.How does James 3:1 reflect on the responsibility of teaching?
9.What historical context influenced James 3:1's message?
10.What are the top 10 Lessons from James 3?
11.How does the Bible address clergy abuse and forgiveness?
12.What are Warren Wiersbe's biography and book titles?
13.In James 3:1, why single out teachers for stricter judgment, seemingly contradicting passages like Romans 2:11 that imply all are judged equally?
14.Why should few aspire to be teachers?What Does James 3:1 Mean Not many of you should become teachersJames opens with a loving but sobering caution: “Not many of you should become teachers”. • Teaching God’s word is never a casual hobby; it carries weight and consequence. Jesus warned against seeking the spotlight of religious titles when the heart is unprepared (Matthew 23:8–12). • Some in Ephesus “wanted to be teachers of the Law, although they did not understand what they were saying” (1 Timothy 1:7), illustrating the danger James addresses. • Paul reminded Timothy that leaders must “accurately handle the word of truth” (2 Timothy 2:15). Those who rush in without calling or preparation risk misleading others—and themselves.
my brothersBy adding “my brothers,” James speaks as family, not as a detached critic. • The phrase grounds the warning in love, echoingGalatians 6:1, “Brothers, if someone is caught in a trespass, you who are spiritual should restore him with a spirit of gentleness.” • It also shows that the body of Christ is accountable to one another (Romans 12:4-5). The calling to teach emerges from within the fellowship, not above it.
because you knowJames assumes his readers already grasp the principle he is about to restate. • Scripture consistently ties greater privilege to greater responsibility: “From everyone who has been given much, much will be required” (Luke 12:48). • Believers are expected to act on what they know (John 13:17). Knowledge is never meant to be stagnant information but obedient action.
that we who teachNotice the inclusive “we.” James counts himself among teachers. • Leaders are never exempt from the standards they present to others (1 Corinthians 9:26-27). • Paul urged, “This is how one should regard us: as servants of Christ and stewards of the mysteries of God” (1 Corinthians 4:1). A steward manages what belongs to another and answers for the trust.
will be judged more strictlyHere is the heart of the warning: a stricter judgment awaits teachers. • Spiritual leaders “watch over your souls as those who must give an account” (Hebrews 13:17). •Ezekiel 34:2-10 pronounces woe on shepherds who neglect the flock; God Himself promises to hold them responsible. • Even faithful servants anticipate God’s evaluation: “It is the Lord who judges me” (1 Corinthians 4:4). • This heightened scrutiny is both corrective and protective—designed to keep doctrine pure (Titus 2:1) and to safeguard the church from error (Acts 20:28-30).
summaryJames 3:1 delivers a loving yet firm reminder: teaching God’s word is a sacred trust, not a casual pursuit. Because teachers shape minds, hearts, and destinies, the Lord will evaluate them with particular care. Every believer should honor the calling, weigh it soberly, and, if led to teach, do so with humility, diligence, and reverent fear—confident that the God who calls also equips, and mindful that the God who equips will also judge. (1) Be not many masters.--Better, teachers,which meaning was conveyed by "masters" when the English Bible was first published. The condemnation is of those who appoint themselves, and are as "blind leaders of the blind" ( Matthew 15:14). No man had a right to exercise the sacred functions of the appointed masters in Israel (see Note on John 3:10), and none might take the honour of the priesthood unto himself, "but he that was called of God, as was Aaron" ( Hebrews 5:4). Whereas we know from our Lord's own words that the Scribes and Pharisees loved respectful "greetings in the markets, and to be called of men 'Rabbi, Rabbi'" ( Matthew 23:1-12). Nevertheless His disciples were not to be acknowledged thus: for "one is your Master, even Christ; and all ye are brethren." The neglect of this wholesome caution perplexed the early Church, as much as the later branches thereof. (Comp. Acts 15:24; 1Corinthians 1:12; 1Corinthians 14:26; Galatians 2:12.) . . . Verses 1-12. - WARNING AGAINST OVER-READINESS TO TEACH, LEADING TO A DISCOURSE ON THE IMPORTANCE OF GOVERNMENT OF THE TONGUE. Verse 1. - (1)Warning.Be not many teachers. The warning is parallel to that of our Lord inMatthew 23:8,seq., "Be not ye called Rabbi; for one is your Teacher [διδάσκαλος, and not, as Textus Receptus,καθηγητής], and all ye are brethren." Comp. also 'Pirqe Aboth,' 1:11, "Shemaiah said, Love work and hate lordship (הרבנות)." The readiness of the Jews to take upon them the office of teachers and to set up as "guides of the blind, teachers of babes," etc., is alluded to by St. Paul inRomans 2:17,seq., and such a passage as1 Corinthians 14:26,seq., denotes not merely the presence of a similar tendency among Christians, but also the opportunity given for its exercise in the Church. (2)Reason for the warning.Knowing that we shall receive heavier judgment (ληψόμεθα). By the use of the first person, St. James includes himself, thus giving a remarkable proof of humility. (The Vulgate, missing this, has wronglysumitis.) Comp. vers. 2, 9, where also he uses the first person, with great delicacy of feeling not separating himself from those whose conduct he denounces.Μεῖζον κρίμα. The form of expression recalls our Lord's saying of the Pharisees, "These shall receive greater condemnation (περισσότερον κρίμα) " (Mark 12:40;Luke 20:47).
Parallel Commentaries ...
Greek NotΜὴ(Mē)Adverb
Strong's 3361:Not, lest. A primary particle of qualified negation; not, lest; also (whereas ou expects an affirmative one) whether.many [of you]πολλοὶ(polloi)Adjective - Nominative Masculine Plural
Strong's 4183:Much, many; often.should becomeγίνεσθε(ginesthe)Verb - Present Imperative Middle or Passive - 2nd Person Plural
Strong's 1096:A prolongation and middle voice form of a primary verb; to cause to be, i.e. to become, used with great latitude.teachers,διδάσκαλοι(didaskaloi)Noun - Nominative Masculine Plural
Strong's 1320:A teacher, master. From didasko; an instructor.myμου(mou)Personal / Possessive Pronoun - Genitive 1st Person Singular
Strong's 1473:I, the first-person pronoun. A primary pronoun of the first person I.brothers,ἀδελφοί(adelphoi)Noun - Vocative Masculine Plural
Strong's 80:A brother, member of the same religious community, especially a fellow-Christian. A brother near or remote.[because] you knowεἰδότες(eidotes)Verb - Perfect Participle Active - Nominative Masculine Plural
Strong's 1492:To know, remember, appreciate.thatὅτι(hoti)Conjunction
Strong's 3754:Neuter of hostis as conjunction; demonstrative, that; causative, because.we [ who teach ] will beλημψόμεθα(lēmpsometha)Verb - Future Indicative Middle - 1st Person Plural
Strong's 2983:(a) I receive, get, (b) I take, lay hold of.judgedκρίμα(krima)Noun - Accusative Neuter Singular
Strong's 2917:From krino; a decision ('crime').more strictly.μεῖζον(meizon)Adjective - Accusative Neuter Singular - Comparative
Strong's 3173:Large, great, in the widest sense.
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NT Letters: James 3:1 Let not many of you be teachers (Ja Jas. Jam) |
