Pathway to Victory offers a practical application of God’s Word to everyday life through the clear, biblical teaching of Pastor Jeffress.
      
      
      Closed captions
Show Timecode
          Dr. Robert Jeffress | Robert Jeffress - Fireproofing Your Speech | September 20, 2025
            - ♪ music ♪
 - 00:00:00.156 --> 00:00:05.061
 - From the pulpit of the first baptist church
 - 00:00:05.962 --> 00:00:08.364
 - Of dallas, texas,
 - 00:00:08.364 --> 00:00:09.866
 - This is "pathway to victory" with dr. robert jeffress.
 - 00:00:09.866 --> 00:00:13.770
 - Hi, i am robert jeffress
 - 00:00:14.270 --> 00:00:15.572
 - And welcome again to "pathway to victory."
 - 00:00:15.572 --> 00:00:18.241
 - We've all been there before.
 - 00:00:18.241 --> 00:00:19.742
 - We've said something we immediately regretted,
 - 00:00:19.742 --> 00:00:22.879
 - Something that slipped out before we could catch it.
 - 00:00:22.879 --> 00:00:26.049
 - Once those words left our mouths,
 - 00:00:26.049 --> 00:00:28.017
 - We wished we could take them back,
 - 00:00:28.017 --> 00:00:29.919
 - But it was too late.
 - 00:00:29.919 --> 00:00:31.754
 - The damage was already done.
 - 00:00:31.754 --> 00:00:33.957
 - Well, the bible has a lot to say
 - 00:00:33.957 --> 00:00:36.159
 - About the importance of controlling our speech.
 - 00:00:36.159 --> 00:00:39.129
 - Today i'm going to share with you
 - 00:00:39.129 --> 00:00:40.697
 - Some practical principles for keeping destructive words
 - 00:00:40.697 --> 00:00:44.200
 - From destroying your relationships.
 - 00:00:44.200 --> 00:00:47.237
 - My message is titled fireproofing your speech
 - 00:00:47.237 --> 00:00:51.074
 - On today's edition of "pathway to victory."
 - 00:00:51.074 --> 00:00:54.811
 - ♪ music ♪
 - 00:00:54.811 --> 00:01:08.591
 - ♪ i've been changed ♪
 - 00:01:09.125 --> 00:01:13.963
 - ♪ healed ♪
 - 00:01:13.963 --> 00:01:17.600
 - ♪ freed ♪
 - 00:01:17.600 --> 00:01:21.137
 - ♪ delivered ♪
 - 00:01:21.137 --> 00:01:24.040
 - ♪ i've been changed ♪
 - 00:01:24.040 --> 00:01:28.845
 - ♪ healed ♪
 - 00:01:26.442 --> 00:01:32.649
 - ♪ freed ♪
 - 00:01:30.680 --> 00:01:34.284
 - ♪ i'm freed ♪
 - 00:01:34.284 --> 00:01:36.152
 - ♪ delivered ♪
 - 00:01:36.152 --> 00:01:39.589
 - ♪ i've found joy ♪
 - 00:01:37.754 --> 00:01:43.893
 - ♪ peace ♪
 - 00:01:41.090 --> 00:01:47.497
 - ♪ grace ♪
 - 00:01:45.595 --> 00:01:51.234
 - ♪ and favor ♪
 - 00:01:49.332 --> 00:01:54.170
 - ♪ and right now ♪
 - 00:01:52.635 --> 00:01:56.339
 - ♪ right now is the moment ♪
 - 00:01:56.339 --> 00:01:59.642
 - ♪ today is the day ♪
 - 00:01:59.642 --> 00:02:02.946
 - ♪ i've been changed ♪
 - 00:02:02.946 --> 00:02:10.420
 - ♪ i have waited for this moment to come ♪
 - 00:02:06.683 --> 00:02:15.725
 - ♪ and i won't let it pass me by ♪
 - 00:02:16.459 --> 00:02:22.665
 - ♪ so we say ♪
 - 00:02:23.066 --> 00:02:25.001
 - ♪ i won't go back ♪
 - 00:02:25.001 --> 00:02:27.604
 - ♪ i can't go back ♪
 - 00:02:27.604 --> 00:02:29.439
 - ♪ to the way it used to be ♪
 - 00:02:29.439 --> 00:02:33.076
 - ♪ before your presence came and changed me ♪
 - 00:02:33.076 --> 00:02:37.413
 - ♪ thank you, lord ♪
 - 00:02:37.413 --> 00:02:39.215
 - ♪ i won't go back ♪
 - 00:02:39.215 --> 00:02:41.284
 - ♪ i can't go back ♪
 - 00:02:41.284 --> 00:02:43.920
 - ♪ to the way it used to be ♪
 - 00:02:43.920 --> 00:02:48.024
 - ♪ before your presence came and changed me ♪
 - 00:02:48.024 --> 00:02:52.495
 - ♪ changed me ♪
 - 00:02:52.495 --> 00:02:54.664
 - ♪ oh, thank you, lord ♪
 - 00:02:54.664 --> 00:02:56.299
 - ♪ i won't go back ♪
 - 00:02:56.299 --> 00:02:58.101
 - ♪ i can't go back ♪
 - 00:02:58.101 --> 00:02:59.535
 - ♪ to the way it used to be ♪
 - 00:02:59.535 --> 00:03:03.039
 - ♪ before your presence came and changed me ♪
 - 00:03:03.039 --> 00:03:08.311
 - ♪ thank you, lord ♪
 - 00:03:08.811 --> 00:03:10.146
 - ♪ changed me ♪
 - 00:03:10.146 --> 00:03:15.418
 - ♪ you changed me ♪
 - 00:03:15.885 --> 00:03:22.558
 - (congregation applauding)
 - 00:03:23.126 --> 00:03:26.329
 - Where there's genuine faith,
 - 00:03:26.329 --> 00:03:28.097
 - There will always be visible fruit.
 - 00:03:28.097 --> 00:03:30.633
 - In his brand new book,
 - 00:03:30.633 --> 00:03:31.868
 - "how to know if you're really saved,"
 - 00:03:31.868 --> 00:03:33.936
 - Dr. robert jeffress helps you take stock
 - 00:03:33.936 --> 00:03:35.872
 - Of the evidence of your faith,
 - 00:03:35.872 --> 00:03:38.107
 - The spiritual fruit in your daily life.
 - 00:03:38.107 --> 00:03:40.910
 - This outstanding verse-by-verse walk
 - 00:03:40.910 --> 00:03:43.246
 - Through the book of james
 - 00:03:43.246 --> 00:03:44.614
 - Will help you cultivate the spiritual fruit
 - 00:03:44.614 --> 00:03:46.983
 - That reflects genuine faith.
 - 00:03:46.983 --> 00:03:49.285
 - Request "how to know if you're really saved"
 - 00:03:49.285 --> 00:03:51.587
 - When you give a generous gift
 - 00:03:51.587 --> 00:03:53.222
 - To support the ministry of "pathway to victory."
 - 00:03:53.222 --> 00:03:56.993
 - ♪ music ♪
 - 00:03:57.327 --> 00:04:02.465
 - ♪ music ♪
 - 00:04:02.799 --> 00:04:03.499
 - Speech therapists have a way
 - 00:04:03.499 --> 00:04:05.101
 - Of helping people who have lisps
 - 00:04:05.101 --> 00:04:08.771
 - And they have them engage in an exercise very simple.
 - 00:04:08.771 --> 00:04:13.142
 - They tell them to take their tongues
 - 00:04:13.142 --> 00:04:14.744
 - And see how long they can keep their tongues
 - 00:04:14.744 --> 00:04:16.979
 - From touching the roof of their mouths or their teeth.
 - 00:04:16.979 --> 00:04:21.050
 - Now you may think that's simple.
 - 00:04:21.050 --> 00:04:23.619
 - Try doing it.
 - 00:04:23.619 --> 00:04:25.121
 - Try swallowing without touching the roof
 - 00:04:25.121 --> 00:04:27.523
 - Of your mouth or your teeth.
 - 00:04:27.523 --> 00:04:30.059
 - It's not an easy exercise.
 - 00:04:30.059 --> 00:04:32.862
 - But the truth is,
 - 00:04:32.862 --> 00:04:34.330
 - The difficulty in controlling our tongue's movement
 - 00:04:34.330 --> 00:04:36.833
 - Goes far beyond a mere speech exercise
 - 00:04:36.833 --> 00:04:41.304
 - And extends to every word we speak.
 - 00:04:41.304 --> 00:04:45.541
 - It was the greek sage publilius who said,
 - 00:04:45.541 --> 00:04:48.978
 - "i've often regretted my speech,
 - 00:04:48.978 --> 00:04:52.181
 - But never my silence."
 - 00:04:52.181 --> 00:04:54.884
 - I am right now reading a brand new book out.
 - 00:04:54.884 --> 00:04:58.454
 - It's a biography of the late talk show host johnny carson.
 - 00:04:58.454 --> 00:05:03.726
 - Now for those of you under 60,
 - 00:05:04.360 --> 00:05:05.728
 - You may have no idea who johnny carson is,
 - 00:05:05.728 --> 00:05:09.065
 - But just trust me.
 - 00:05:09.065 --> 00:05:10.566
 - Before jimmy fallon,
 - 00:05:10.566 --> 00:05:12.101
 - Before jay leno or david letterman,
 - 00:05:12.101 --> 00:05:14.771
 - The king of late night talk was johnny carson.
 - 00:05:14.771 --> 00:05:18.908
 - He was one time asked
 - 00:05:18.908 --> 00:05:20.209
 - If he had any regrets in his life at all.
 - 00:05:20.209 --> 00:05:23.146
 - This is what he said after thinking for a few moments.
 - 00:05:23.146 --> 00:05:26.015
 - He said, "i suppose one regret i have
 - 00:05:26.015 --> 00:05:28.618
 - Is some of the things i said on the air.
 - 00:05:28.618 --> 00:05:31.988
 - I hadn't planned to say them.
 - 00:05:31.988 --> 00:05:34.257
 - They just slipped out.
 - 00:05:34.257 --> 00:05:36.125
 - I would give anything
 - 00:05:36.125 --> 00:05:37.427
 - If i could retrieve some of those words."
 - 00:05:37.427 --> 00:05:40.329
 - Sounds like james, the half brother of jesus,
 - 00:05:40.329 --> 00:05:43.699
 - Who wrote something similar.
 - 00:05:43.699 --> 00:05:45.368
 - He said in james 3, "no one can tame the tongue
 - 00:05:45.368 --> 00:05:49.238
 - For it is full of deadly poison."
 - 00:05:49.238 --> 00:05:52.575
 - And yet in this very same letter of james,
 - 00:05:52.575 --> 00:05:55.278
 - James tells us we have a responsibility
 - 00:05:55.278 --> 00:05:58.080
 - To control our speech.
 - 00:05:58.080 --> 00:05:59.682
 - In fact, in chapter 1 verse 26, he says,
 - 00:05:59.682 --> 00:06:02.151
 - "if anyone thinks himself to be religious
 - 00:06:02.151 --> 00:06:06.088
 - And yet does not bridle his tongue,
 - 00:06:06.088 --> 00:06:08.925
 - He deceives his own heart;
 - 00:06:08.925 --> 00:06:11.093
 - This man's religion is worthless."
 - 00:06:11.093 --> 00:06:14.931
 - Controlling our speech is not optional, it's essential,
 - 00:06:14.931 --> 00:06:19.235
 - It is a proof of whether we're really saved or not.
 - 00:06:19.235 --> 00:06:24.540
 - And that's the thing with the book of james,
 - 00:06:25.441 --> 00:06:26.609
 - How to know if you're really saved?
 - 00:06:26.609 --> 00:06:28.177
 - If you have genuine faith,
 - 00:06:28.177 --> 00:06:29.779
 - There's going to be genuine fruit in your life
 - 00:06:29.779 --> 00:06:33.349
 - And part of that fruit is the ability to control our speech.
 - 00:06:33.349 --> 00:06:37.487
 - If you have your bibles,
 - 00:06:37.487 --> 00:06:39.155
 - Turn to james chapter 3
 - 00:06:39.155 --> 00:06:41.457
 - As we look at some helpful tips
 - 00:06:41.457 --> 00:06:42.925
 - For fireproofing our speech.
 - 00:06:42.925 --> 00:06:46.562
 - As you're turning to james 3, i might mention
 - 00:06:46.562 --> 00:06:48.931
 - This is the longest section anywhere in the bible
 - 00:06:48.931 --> 00:06:52.502
 - On the topic of controlling our speech.
 - 00:06:52.502 --> 00:06:55.438
 - And james begins the discussion in chapter 3 verse 1
 - 00:06:55.438 --> 00:06:59.809
 - By a seemingly totally unrelated topic.
 - 00:06:59.809 --> 00:07:04.514
 - Now, sometimes i'll chase a rabbit trail.
 - 00:07:04.514 --> 00:07:06.749
 - It sounds like james is doing this here,
 - 00:07:06.749 --> 00:07:09.185
 - But he's not as you'll see in a moment.
 - 00:07:09.185 --> 00:07:12.021
 - Look at the warning he gives in verse 1.
 - 00:07:12.021 --> 00:07:14.690
 - "let not many of you become teachers, my brethren,
 - 00:07:14.690 --> 00:07:18.728
 - Knowing that as such we shall incur a stricter judgment."
 - 00:07:18.728 --> 00:07:24.000
 - The moffatt translation says,
 - 00:07:24.634 --> 00:07:25.835
 - "do not swell the ranks of teacher."
 - 00:07:25.835 --> 00:07:29.438
 - Another translation says,
 - 00:07:29.438 --> 00:07:31.140
 - "stop clamoring for the office of teacher."
 - 00:07:31.140 --> 00:07:35.044
 - Jesus warned matthew 12:37,
 - 00:07:35.044 --> 00:07:37.647
 - "be careful about being anxious to speak
 - 00:07:37.647 --> 00:07:41.250
 - Because for your words, you will be justified,
 - 00:07:41.250 --> 00:07:44.487
 - And by your words you will be condemned."
 - 00:07:44.487 --> 00:07:48.124
 - Why are teachers subject to a stricter judgment?
 - 00:07:48.124 --> 00:07:51.994
 - I've given you three reasons on your outlines.
 - 00:07:51.994 --> 00:07:53.963
 - First of all, teachers are responsible
 - 00:07:53.963 --> 00:07:57.199
 - For speaking the truth.
 - 00:07:57.199 --> 00:07:59.702
 - When somebody stands in the pulpit
 - 00:07:59.702 --> 00:08:01.537
 - Or stands up before a group at a bible study,
 - 00:08:01.537 --> 00:08:05.041
 - Their job is not to share their opinions
 - 00:08:05.041 --> 00:08:08.177
 - Or the opinions of others.
 - 00:08:08.177 --> 00:08:10.212
 - Their job is to say, "thus sayeth the lord."
 - 00:08:10.212 --> 00:08:14.150
 - We are to make sure we're speaking accurately
 - 00:08:14.150 --> 00:08:16.819
 - The word of god from the bible.
 - 00:08:16.819 --> 00:08:19.956
 - And if we don't, we shall incur judgment.
 - 00:08:19.956 --> 00:08:22.925
 - Secondly, teachers are responsible for the lives of others.
 - 00:08:22.925 --> 00:08:27.830
 - Now, i can't make you apply god's word.
 - 00:08:27.830 --> 00:08:31.934
 - God's not going to hold me accountable
 - 00:08:31.934 --> 00:08:34.103
 - For whether you apply the word or not.
 - 00:08:34.103 --> 00:08:36.872
 - But i am responsible to make sure my interpretation
 - 00:08:36.872 --> 00:08:40.676
 - Is correct of the scripture,
 - 00:08:40.676 --> 00:08:42.545
 - So not to lead you astray.
 - 00:08:42.545 --> 00:08:44.947
 - And then thirdly, teachers are responsible
 - 00:08:44.947 --> 00:08:47.116
 - For living the truth.
 - 00:08:47.116 --> 00:08:50.052
 - We are going to be judged by what we say,
 - 00:08:50.052 --> 00:08:53.389
 - What we're telling other people to do are we doing.
 - 00:08:53.389 --> 00:08:56.225
 - When there's any daylight
 - 00:08:56.225 --> 00:08:58.160
 - Between what a teacher of god's word says
 - 00:08:58.160 --> 00:09:01.497
 - And how he lives, it's called hypocrisy,
 - 00:09:01.497 --> 00:09:05.968
 - And people are quick to smell
 - 00:09:05.968 --> 00:09:09.171
 - And ferret out hypocrisy.
 - 00:09:09.171 --> 00:09:12.108
 - In romans 2, paul said, beginning with verse 1,
 - 00:09:12.108 --> 00:09:15.277
 - "therefore, you have no excuse,
 - 00:09:15.277 --> 00:09:17.780
 - Every one of you who passes judgment,
 - 00:09:17.780 --> 00:09:20.916
 - For in that which you judge another,
 - 00:09:20.916 --> 00:09:23.419
 - You condemn yourself;
 - 00:09:23.419 --> 00:09:25.221
 - For you who judge, practice the same things.
 - 00:09:25.221 --> 00:09:28.591
 - And we know that the judgment of god
 - 00:09:28.591 --> 00:09:30.826
 - Rightly falls upon those who practice such things."
 - 00:09:30.826 --> 00:09:34.964
 - Remember jesus' words about judging?
 - 00:09:34.964 --> 00:09:37.400
 - He said, "be careful how you judge other people
 - 00:09:37.400 --> 00:09:40.503
 - Because by the same standard you judge others,
 - 00:09:40.503 --> 00:09:44.707
 - You will be judged."
 - 00:09:44.707 --> 00:09:46.442
 - You have to be mature to be able
 - 00:09:46.442 --> 00:09:48.778
 - To keep from stumbling in your speech.
 - 00:09:48.778 --> 00:09:51.247
 - We're all going to do it,
 - 00:09:51.247 --> 00:09:53.049
 - But that's not an excuse.
 - 00:09:53.049 --> 00:09:55.084
 - We are responsible for controlling our tongue.
 - 00:09:55.084 --> 00:09:59.088
 - Now, james begins in verse 3
 - 00:09:59.088 --> 00:10:01.490
 - By talking about the difficulty of controlling our tongue,
 - 00:10:01.490 --> 00:10:04.894
 - The power of the tongue.
 - 00:10:04.894 --> 00:10:07.096
 - And notice james says,
 - 00:10:07.096 --> 00:10:08.464
 - The tongue's power can be seen in two ways.
 - 00:10:08.464 --> 00:10:12.068
 - First of all, in relationship to its size,
 - 00:10:12.068 --> 00:10:15.371
 - And he gives two illustrations.
 - 00:10:15.371 --> 00:10:16.772
 - Look at verse 3.
 - 00:10:16.772 --> 00:10:18.040
 - "now, if we put the bits into the horse's mouths
 - 00:10:18.040 --> 00:10:21.377
 - So that they will only obey us,
 - 00:10:21.377 --> 00:10:23.713
 - We direct the entire body as well."
 - 00:10:23.713 --> 00:10:27.283
 - The tongue is powerful, especially in relationship
 - 00:10:27.283 --> 00:10:30.386
 - To its size, but secondly in relationship to its effects.
 - 00:10:30.386 --> 00:10:35.291
 - Look at verse 5.
 - 00:10:35.291 --> 00:10:36.625
 - "so also the tongue is a small part of the body
 - 00:10:36.625 --> 00:10:40.896
 - And yet it boast of great things.
 - 00:10:40.896 --> 00:10:43.099
 - See how great a forest is set aflame
 - 00:10:43.099 --> 00:10:46.001
 - By such a small fire."
 - 00:10:46.001 --> 00:10:50.372
 - Our words have eternal consequences.
 - 00:10:50.372 --> 00:10:53.976
 - In matthew 12 verses 36 to 37, listen to this:
 - 00:10:53.976 --> 00:10:57.980
 - Jesus said, "i tell you
 - 00:10:57.980 --> 00:11:00.182
 - That every careless word that people speak,
 - 00:11:00.182 --> 00:11:03.786
 - They shall give an accounting for in the day of judgment.
 - 00:11:03.786 --> 00:11:08.390
 - For by your words, you shall be justified,
 - 00:11:08.390 --> 00:11:11.594
 - And by your words you will be condemned."
 - 00:11:11.594 --> 00:11:16.098
 - Isn't that an amazing comment by jesus?
 - 00:11:16.098 --> 00:11:18.801
 - We are going to be judged one day by every word we speak.
 - 00:11:18.801 --> 00:11:23.339
 - How is such a thing even possible?
 - 00:11:23.339 --> 00:11:26.475
 - The tongue reveals what is really in our heart
 - 00:11:26.475 --> 00:11:29.879
 - And that's the point of verses 8 through 11,
 - 00:11:29.879 --> 00:11:32.982
 - But nobody contained the tongue.
 - 00:11:32.982 --> 00:11:34.884
 - It's a restless evil and full of deadly poison.
 - 00:11:34.884 --> 00:11:38.087
 - With it, we bless our lord and father;
 - 00:11:38.087 --> 00:11:40.422
 - And with it we curse men who have been made
 - 00:11:40.422 --> 00:11:42.925
 - In the likeness of god from the same mouth
 - 00:11:42.925 --> 00:11:45.995
 - Come blessing and cursing.
 - 00:11:45.995 --> 00:11:48.264
 - "my brethren, these things ought not to be this way.
 - 00:11:48.264 --> 00:11:53.235
 - Does a fountain send out from the same opening
 - 00:11:53.235 --> 00:11:56.872
 - Both fresh and bitter water?"
 - 00:11:56.872 --> 00:12:00.075
 - You will never change a person's speech.
 - 00:12:00.943 --> 00:12:04.380
 - We can never change our speech until we change our heart.
 - 00:12:04.380 --> 00:12:08.484
 - Our tongue reveals what is really in our heart.
 - 00:12:08.484 --> 00:12:12.221
 - You know, this is a message that cries for application.
 - 00:12:12.221 --> 00:12:16.859
 - How do we go about fireproofing our speech?
 - 00:12:16.859 --> 00:12:20.095
 - How do we make sure our speech
 - 00:12:20.095 --> 00:12:22.164
 - Doesn't cause a destructive fire
 - 00:12:22.164 --> 00:12:24.934
 - That destroys everyone and everything around it?
 - 00:12:24.934 --> 00:12:28.437
 - Let me suggest four principles
 - 00:12:28.437 --> 00:12:31.373
 - For fireproofing your speech,
 - 00:12:31.373 --> 00:12:33.709
 - Four commitments you and i need to make.
 - 00:12:33.709 --> 00:12:36.111
 - First of all, to realize i am responsible
 - 00:12:36.111 --> 00:12:40.049
 - For the words that i speak, i'm responsible.
 - 00:12:40.049 --> 00:12:43.485
 - Yes, it's difficult to control our speech,
 - 00:12:43.485 --> 00:12:46.989
 - But we are nevertheless responsible.
 - 00:12:46.989 --> 00:12:49.058
 - Remember, matthew 12:36 to 37,
 - 00:12:49.058 --> 00:12:52.962
 - "i tell you every careless word that people speak,
 - 00:12:52.962 --> 00:12:56.866
 - They shall give an accounting for in the day of judgment;
 - 00:12:56.866 --> 00:13:00.202
 - For by your words you will be justified
 - 00:13:00.202 --> 00:13:02.271
 - And by your words you will be condemned."
 - 00:13:02.271 --> 00:13:06.842
 - Second principle: my speech is a daily reminder
 - 00:13:06.842 --> 00:13:11.113
 - Of the need to purify my heart.
 - 00:13:11.113 --> 00:13:13.782
 - Our tongue, our speech, our stumbles in our speech
 - 00:13:14.783 --> 00:13:18.687
 - Should be a reminder that we need
 - 00:13:18.687 --> 00:13:21.290
 - To daily meditate on god's word.
 - 00:13:21.924 --> 00:13:23.893
 - And james 4:8, we'll look at next time,
 - 00:13:23.893 --> 00:13:26.462
 - James says, "draw near to god and he will draw near to you.
 - 00:13:26.462 --> 00:13:30.966
 - Cleanse your hands, you sinners,
 - 00:13:30.966 --> 00:13:33.736
 - And purify your hearts, you double-minded."
 - 00:13:33.736 --> 00:13:38.140
 - If the problems of our speech come from our heart,
 - 00:13:39.141 --> 00:13:42.945
 - Then it only stands to reason
 - 00:13:42.945 --> 00:13:44.580
 - The solution to our speech lies in the heart as well.
 - 00:13:44.580 --> 00:13:49.285
 - We need a daily cleansing of our heart
 - 00:13:49.285 --> 00:13:51.620
 - That comes from god's word.
 - 00:13:51.620 --> 00:13:54.456
 - Number three: i will refuse to criticize another person
 - 00:13:54.456 --> 00:13:58.727
 - Until i've confronted him privately.
 - 00:13:58.727 --> 00:14:01.263
 - That's a way to fireproof your speech.
 - 00:14:01.263 --> 00:14:03.699
 - I am not going to criticize anyone
 - 00:14:03.699 --> 00:14:06.168
 - That i've not confronted privately.
 - 00:14:06.168 --> 00:14:09.638
 - And james 4:11 to 12.
 - 00:14:09.638 --> 00:14:11.507
 - "do not speak against one another, brethren,
 - 00:14:11.507 --> 00:14:14.343
 - For he who speaks against a brother
 - 00:14:14.343 --> 00:14:16.345
 - Or judges his brother,
 - 00:14:16.345 --> 00:14:17.913
 - Speaks against the law and judges the law.
 - 00:14:17.913 --> 00:14:21.183
 - But if you judge the law,
 - 00:14:21.183 --> 00:14:22.551
 - You are a doer of the law, but a judge of it.
 - 00:14:22.551 --> 00:14:26.689
 - There is only one law giver and judge,
 - 00:14:26.689 --> 00:14:28.590
 - The one who is able to save and to destroy.
 - 00:14:28.590 --> 00:14:31.827
 - But who are you to judge your neighbor?"
 - 00:14:31.827 --> 00:14:34.863
 - But pastor, you don't understand.
 - 00:14:34.863 --> 00:14:36.498
 - I'm not judging, i'm trying to help that other person
 - 00:14:36.498 --> 00:14:40.903
 - By publicly denouncing them.
 - 00:14:41.503 --> 00:14:44.039
 - James said, "oh, you're trying to help somebody?
 - 00:14:44.974 --> 00:14:47.710
 - You're trying to help them around
 - 00:14:47.710 --> 00:14:49.678
 - And get on the right path? congratulations."
 - 00:14:49.678 --> 00:14:53.115
 - In james 5 verses 19 to 20,
 - 00:14:53.115 --> 00:14:55.351
 - James says, "my brethren, if any among you,
 - 00:14:55.351 --> 00:14:58.153
 - Strays from the truth and one turns him back,
 - 00:14:58.153 --> 00:15:01.390
 - Let him know that he who turns a sinner
 - 00:15:01.390 --> 00:15:04.593
 - From the error of his way will save his soul from death
 - 00:15:04.593 --> 00:15:08.697
 - And will cover a multitude of sins."
 - 00:15:08.697 --> 00:15:11.000
 - It's a wonderful thing to try to turn somebody around
 - 00:15:11.000 --> 00:15:14.970
 - Who's on the path of sin.
 - 00:15:14.970 --> 00:15:17.373
 - But if that's your real motivation,
 - 00:15:17.373 --> 00:15:19.808
 - Then you'll deal with that person as privately as possible,
 - 00:15:19.808 --> 00:15:24.279
 - Not as publicly as possible.
 - 00:15:24.279 --> 00:15:26.815
 - In fact, in matthew 18,
 - 00:15:26.815 --> 00:15:28.917
 - Jesus gives us the directions for how to do that.
 - 00:15:28.917 --> 00:15:32.554
 - In verse 15, "if your brother sins,
 - 00:15:32.554 --> 00:15:34.990
 - Go and show him his fault in private.
 - 00:15:34.990 --> 00:15:39.161
 - If he doesn't respond,
 - 00:15:39.661 --> 00:15:41.030
 - Take two or three with you," jesus says.
 - 00:15:41.030 --> 00:15:43.332
 - "if they don't respond still,
 - 00:15:43.332 --> 00:15:45.367
 - Go and take the leaders of the church with you."
 - 00:15:45.367 --> 00:15:48.203
 - But the idea is keep the circle of knowledge about his sin
 - 00:15:48.203 --> 00:15:52.541
 - As small as possible.
 - 00:15:52.541 --> 00:15:55.144
 - Now there's one exception to that.
 - 00:15:55.878 --> 00:15:58.480
 - There may be more,
 - 00:15:58.480 --> 00:15:59.648
 - But there's one exception, very clear,
 - 00:15:59.648 --> 00:16:02.117
 - And that is when a crime is taking place,
 - 00:16:02.117 --> 00:16:05.487
 - When there's the sexual abuse of a child.
 - 00:16:05.487 --> 00:16:08.891
 - Here in our church, we don't keep that private.
 - 00:16:08.891 --> 00:16:11.827
 - Our staff knows that if there's suspected abuse going on,
 - 00:16:11.827 --> 00:16:15.798
 - They are immediately to contact law enforcement
 - 00:16:15.798 --> 00:16:19.635
 - And to report that.
 - 00:16:19.635 --> 00:16:21.336
 - There's zero tolerance here at our church
 - 00:16:21.336 --> 00:16:24.039
 - For the abuse in any way of children.
 - 00:16:24.039 --> 00:16:26.975
 - But having said that,
 - 00:16:26.975 --> 00:16:28.610
 - Other sins that a person is involved in,
 - 00:16:28.610 --> 00:16:31.547
 - If you're really trying to restore them,
 - 00:16:31.547 --> 00:16:33.615
 - You deal with it privately.
 - 00:16:33.615 --> 00:16:35.751
 - Proverbs 6:19 says, "of the seven things god hates most,
 - 00:16:35.751 --> 00:16:39.955
 - One of those seven is those who spread strife
 - 00:16:39.955 --> 00:16:43.892
 - Among the brethren."
 - 00:16:43.892 --> 00:16:45.694
 - And that strife is often kindled
 - 00:16:45.694 --> 00:16:47.863
 - And ignited by criticism.
 - 00:16:47.863 --> 00:16:51.567
 - Number four, how do you fireproof your speech?
 - 00:16:51.567 --> 00:16:55.337
 - Make this commitment.
 - 00:16:55.337 --> 00:16:56.472
 - I will ask forgiveness
 - 00:16:56.472 --> 00:16:58.507
 - From those i've offended with my speech.
 - 00:16:58.507 --> 00:17:01.310
 - Some of the hardest things i've ever had to do
 - 00:17:01.310 --> 00:17:03.979
 - Is go and apologize to somebody
 - 00:17:03.979 --> 00:17:07.249
 - For something i said about them.
 - 00:17:07.249 --> 00:17:10.219
 - Every time, it was so painful to do that.
 - 00:17:10.219 --> 00:17:12.754
 - I swore i would never make that mistake again.
 - 00:17:12.754 --> 00:17:16.525
 - But that commitment's important
 - 00:17:16.525 --> 00:17:18.393
 - If we're going to keep the unity of spirit
 - 00:17:18.393 --> 00:17:20.796
 - And the bond of peace.
 - 00:17:20.796 --> 00:17:22.097
 - In matthew 5, verses 23 to 24, jesus said,
 - 00:17:22.097 --> 00:17:25.901
 - "if you are presenting your offering at the altar
 - 00:17:25.901 --> 00:17:29.171
 - And you remember that your brother
 - 00:17:29.171 --> 00:17:30.873
 - Has something against you,
 - 00:17:30.873 --> 00:17:32.941
 - Leave your offering there before the altar and go,
 - 00:17:32.941 --> 00:17:36.812
 - And first be reconciled to your brother,
 - 00:17:36.812 --> 00:17:39.381
 - And then come and present your offering."
 - 00:17:39.381 --> 00:17:41.783
 - You know what that verse is saying?
 - 00:17:41.783 --> 00:17:43.852
 - God is more interested in the unity of his body
 - 00:17:43.852 --> 00:17:46.588
 - Than he is in sacrifices.
 - 00:17:46.588 --> 00:17:49.725
 - Sacrifices are great,
 - 00:17:49.725 --> 00:17:51.727
 - But if you realize you have disunity with another believer
 - 00:17:51.727 --> 00:17:54.630
 - Because of something you've done,
 - 00:17:54.630 --> 00:17:56.899
 - You're to go and make things right,
 - 00:17:56.899 --> 00:17:58.800
 - And that includes offending somebody by your speech.
 - 00:17:58.800 --> 00:18:03.272
 - I found it's a lot easier to fireproof something
 - 00:18:03.272 --> 00:18:06.008
 - Before the fire begins than wait
 - 00:18:06.008 --> 00:18:08.277
 - Until you're in the middle of a damaging all out blaze.
 - 00:18:08.277 --> 00:18:13.615
 - And that's true about our speech as well.
 - 00:18:14.516 --> 00:18:16.785
 - You know, i will never forget
 - 00:18:17.419 --> 00:18:21.390
 - The night of july 19, 2024.
 - 00:18:21.390 --> 00:18:26.428
 - A few of us were standing on patterson street
 - 00:18:27.396 --> 00:18:30.699
 - While millions of people were tuned in
 - 00:18:30.699 --> 00:18:32.568
 - On television or the internet
 - 00:18:32.568 --> 00:18:34.670
 - Watching that massive fire
 - 00:18:34.670 --> 00:18:36.505
 - That destroyed our historic sanctuary.
 - 00:18:36.505 --> 00:18:39.775
 - It was an unbelievable scene.
 - 00:18:39.775 --> 00:18:41.777
 - Four alarm fire, 130 firefighters trying to put it out.
 - 00:18:41.777 --> 00:18:47.049
 - They did a great job,
 - 00:18:47.549 --> 00:18:48.817
 - But they weren't able to save the old sanctuary.
 - 00:18:48.817 --> 00:18:51.086
 - It destroyed everything.
 - 00:18:51.086 --> 00:18:52.688
 - Did well over 100 million dollars worth of damage.
 - 00:18:52.688 --> 00:18:57.092
 - People ask me everywhere i go,
 - 00:18:57.092 --> 00:18:59.194
 - Did they ever determine what caused the fire?
 - 00:18:59.194 --> 00:19:02.397
 - And the official report is it's undetermined.
 - 00:19:02.397 --> 00:19:05.400
 - They don't know what caused it.
 - 00:19:05.400 --> 00:19:07.102
 - But here's what we know for sure.
 - 00:19:07.102 --> 00:19:09.705
 - Somewhere that night,
 - 00:19:10.205 --> 00:19:12.174
 - There was a single spark that ignited a flame
 - 00:19:13.075 --> 00:19:17.412
 - That produced a devastating fire and destroyed everything.
 - 00:19:17.412 --> 00:19:22.618
 - Now the good news is we're recovering from that.
 - 00:19:23.619 --> 00:19:26.321
 - We are going to recover from that.
 - 00:19:26.321 --> 00:19:27.856
 - We're going to rebuild that historic sanctuary.
 - 00:19:27.856 --> 00:19:31.126
 - That's going to happen.
 - 00:19:31.126 --> 00:19:33.061
 - But there's another kind of fire
 - 00:19:33.061 --> 00:19:35.831
 - That can happen in a church
 - 00:19:35.831 --> 00:19:38.700
 - That the church will never recover from.
 - 00:19:38.700 --> 00:19:41.803
 - And we can all point to churches like it around the country,
 - 00:19:41.803 --> 00:19:45.641
 - A church that is destroyed of one spark,
 - 00:19:46.475 --> 00:19:50.212
 - One act of immorality on the part of a leader,
 - 00:19:50.212 --> 00:19:53.949
 - One spark, one act of financial dishonesty,
 - 00:19:53.949 --> 00:19:58.120
 - Or one spark of gossip or slander
 - 00:19:58.120 --> 00:20:02.858
 - That becomes a raging fire and destroys the witness,
 - 00:20:02.858 --> 00:20:06.762
 - The unity of the church.
 - 00:20:06.762 --> 00:20:09.531
 - Church never recovers from that.
 - 00:20:09.531 --> 00:20:12.234
 - So realizing that possibility
 - 00:20:12.234 --> 00:20:15.637
 - And loving this church just like you love this church,
 - 00:20:15.637 --> 00:20:20.309
 - I'm going to do something to close the service today.
 - 00:20:20.309 --> 00:20:23.979
 - I'm going to deputize each one of you
 - 00:20:23.979 --> 00:20:27.249
 - To be assistant firefighters in the church.
 - 00:20:27.249 --> 00:20:31.219
 - You're willing to take on the responsibility?
 - 00:20:32.154 --> 00:20:34.790
 - It's real simple.
 - 00:20:34.790 --> 00:20:36.358
 - All you need to do is as you move in and out of the church
 - 00:20:36.358 --> 00:20:39.328
 - And around different groups and individuals in the church.
 - 00:20:39.328 --> 00:20:43.265
 - Be on guard for any spark of slander, gossip, criticism.
 - 00:20:43.265 --> 00:20:49.805
 - Quench it, put it out as soon as you can.
 - 00:20:50.706 --> 00:20:53.909
 - How do you do that?
 - 00:20:53.909 --> 00:20:55.410
 - How do you quench slander and gossip and criticism?
 - 00:20:55.410 --> 00:21:00.048
 - Here's some questions.
 - 00:21:00.549 --> 00:21:01.650
 - These are real quenchers, if you will.
 - 00:21:01.650 --> 00:21:04.920
 - Number one, ask the person or say,
 - 00:21:04.920 --> 00:21:07.622
 - "you know, i have a hard time believing that's true.
 - 00:21:07.622 --> 00:21:12.427
 - Are you sure?
 - 00:21:12.794 --> 00:21:14.296
 - Do you have facts, evidence about what you're saying?"
 - 00:21:14.296 --> 00:21:17.733
 - Or ask the question,
 - 00:21:18.200 --> 00:21:19.568
 - "have you gone to that individual yourself
 - 00:21:19.568 --> 00:21:22.738
 - And talked with them privately about your concern?"
 - 00:21:22.738 --> 00:21:26.341
 - Or the real good one, number three,
 - 00:21:27.075 --> 00:21:29.544
 - -"may i quote you on that?" -(congregation laughing)
 - 00:21:29.544 --> 00:21:35.117
 - If we refuse to listen to the gossip of others,
 - 00:21:36.051 --> 00:21:39.054
 - They would die for lack of an audience.
 - 00:21:39.054 --> 00:21:42.924
 - We have a responsibility
 - 00:21:42.924 --> 00:21:45.293
 - To make sure we're not causing the sparks,
 - 00:21:45.293 --> 00:21:48.130
 - But to extinguish those sparks wherever we see them.
 - 00:21:48.130 --> 00:21:51.233
 - You know, i can't believe i've almost been here 18 years.
 - 00:21:51.233 --> 00:21:55.704
 - And in those 18 years,
 - 00:21:55.704 --> 00:21:57.005
 - I've never been more excited
 - 00:21:57.005 --> 00:21:58.707
 - About the future of our church than i am right now.
 - 00:21:58.707 --> 00:22:01.877
 - But as your pastor, your friend, i need to warn you
 - 00:22:02.878 --> 00:22:06.882
 - About what could devastate our congregation.
 - 00:22:06.882 --> 00:22:09.951
 - And at the top of the list is unguarded speech.
 - 00:22:09.951 --> 00:22:14.189
 - Let's be diligent to preserve the unity of spirit
 - 00:22:14.189 --> 00:22:17.626
 - And the bond of peace by fireproofing our speech.
 - 00:22:17.626 --> 00:22:22.597
 - ♪ music ♪
 - 00:22:22.597 --> 00:22:26.735
 - Our words have the power to build up or tear down,
 - 00:22:27.769 --> 00:22:31.606
 - To heal or to hurt.
 - 00:22:31.606 --> 00:22:33.642
 - And i hope today's message has equipped you
 - 00:22:33.642 --> 00:22:35.811
 - With the tools you need to fireproof your speech
 - 00:22:35.811 --> 00:22:38.880
 - Before destructive words cause irreparable damage.
 - 00:22:38.880 --> 00:22:43.452
 - Well, at "pathway to victory," we're committed
 - 00:22:43.452 --> 00:22:45.587
 - To bringing you practical, biblical teaching
 - 00:22:45.587 --> 00:22:48.490
 - That makes a real difference in your everyday life.
 - 00:22:48.490 --> 00:22:51.493
 - And because of friends like you
 - 00:22:51.493 --> 00:22:53.028
 - Who share our passion for god's truth,
 - 00:22:53.028 --> 00:22:55.764
 - We're able to reach millions of people every week
 - 00:22:55.764 --> 00:22:58.333
 - With the hope and healing found in the bible.
 - 00:22:58.333 --> 00:23:01.403
 - Your partnership allows us to broadcast
 - 00:23:01.403 --> 00:23:04.306
 - On television, radio, and digital platforms
 - 00:23:05.240 --> 00:23:07.476
 - All across america and around the world.
 - 00:23:07.476 --> 00:23:10.479
 - And i'm continually amazed by the impact we're seeing
 - 00:23:10.479 --> 00:23:14.382
 - As men and women discover the life-changing power
 - 00:23:14.382 --> 00:23:17.686
 - Of the word of god.
 - 00:23:17.686 --> 00:23:19.087
 - So thank you to our pathway partners
 - 00:23:19.087 --> 00:23:21.389
 - And everyone who gives faithfully
 - 00:23:21.389 --> 00:23:23.692
 - To support this bible-teaching ministry.
 - 00:23:23.692 --> 00:23:26.628
 - Together we are piercing the darkness
 - 00:23:26.628 --> 00:23:29.431
 - With the light of god's word.
 - 00:23:29.431 --> 00:23:30.966
 - And please stay right there.
 - 00:23:30.966 --> 00:23:32.601
 - I'll be back with more in just a moment.
 - 00:23:32.601 --> 00:23:36.705
 - Every believer wants to see clear evidence
 - 00:23:37.606 --> 00:23:40.075
 - Of their spiritual growth
 - 00:23:40.075 --> 00:23:41.610
 - And discover the fruit that god is producing in their lives.
 - 00:23:41.610 --> 00:23:45.380
 - Dr. robert jeffress shows you exactly how to recognize
 - 00:23:45.380 --> 00:23:48.416
 - That fruit in his brand new book,
 - 00:23:48.416 --> 00:23:50.619
 - "how to know if you're really saved."
 - 00:23:50.619 --> 00:23:53.088
 - The book of james teaches us that the christian life
 - 00:23:53.088 --> 00:23:56.024
 - Is about more than just knowing god's word.
 - 00:23:56.024 --> 00:23:59.127
 - It's about living it out.
 - 00:23:59.127 --> 00:24:00.795
 - In my new book, "how to know if you're really saved,"
 - 00:24:00.795 --> 00:24:03.498
 - I'll walk you through what it truly means
 - 00:24:03.498 --> 00:24:05.467
 - To be a doer of the word,
 - 00:24:05.467 --> 00:24:07.602
 - Showing you how to respond to trials,
 - 00:24:07.602 --> 00:24:10.071
 - Control your speech, endure hardships, resist temptation,
 - 00:24:10.071 --> 00:24:14.009
 - And so much more.
 - 00:24:14.009 --> 00:24:15.877
 - This outstanding 232-page book will help you
 - 00:24:16.811 --> 00:24:19.481
 - Examine the evidence of your faith
 - 00:24:19.481 --> 00:24:21.650
 - And see the spiritual fruit
 - 00:24:21.650 --> 00:24:23.251
 - That should be growing in your daily life.
 - 00:24:23.251 --> 00:24:25.887
 - Request your copy of "how to know if you're really saved"
 - 00:24:25.887 --> 00:24:29.057
 - When you give a generous gift
 - 00:24:29.057 --> 00:24:30.525
 - To support the ministry of "pathway to victory."
 - 00:24:30.525 --> 00:24:33.261
 - With your ministry gift of $75 or more,
 - 00:24:33.261 --> 00:24:36.331
 - We'll send you not just the book,
 - 00:24:36.331 --> 00:24:38.133
 - But also the personal and group study guide
 - 00:24:38.133 --> 00:24:40.669
 - And the complete message series on dvd video
 - 00:24:40.669 --> 00:24:43.505
 - And mp3 format audio disc set.
 - 00:24:43.505 --> 00:24:46.274
 - If you are truly saved,
 - 00:24:46.274 --> 00:24:48.810
 - There's going to be evidence of it.
 - 00:24:48.810 --> 00:24:50.545
 - There's some tests that you need to apply to your life.
 - 00:24:50.545 --> 00:24:54.583
 - Thank you for your generous support
 - 00:24:54.583 --> 00:24:56.351
 - Of "pathway to victory."
 - 00:24:56.351 --> 00:24:57.819
 - Your partnership helps us
 - 00:24:57.819 --> 00:24:59.421
 - Bring bold, biblical, and practical teaching
 - 00:24:59.421 --> 00:25:01.890
 - Into homes across the nation and around the world.
 - 00:25:01.890 --> 00:25:06.494
 - What we say matters more than we realize.
 - 00:25:07.395 --> 00:25:10.899
 - And the key to controlling our speech
 - 00:25:10.899 --> 00:25:13.034
 - Isn't found in external techniques,
 - 00:25:13.034 --> 00:25:15.070
 - But in the condition of our heart.
 - 00:25:15.070 --> 00:25:18.573
 - When we purify our hearts through god's word,
 - 00:25:18.573 --> 00:25:21.443
 - Our speech naturally follows.
 - 00:25:21.443 --> 00:25:24.746
 - Well, controlling our tongue is just one aspect
 - 00:25:24.746 --> 00:25:27.782
 - Of living a godly life.
 - 00:25:27.782 --> 00:25:29.651
 - So what does it really mean to be godly?
 - 00:25:29.651 --> 00:25:32.520
 - And how can we tell if we're growing in godliness?
 - 00:25:32.520 --> 00:25:36.358
 - Next time, i'm going to share a simple checklist
 - 00:25:36.358 --> 00:25:39.060
 - That will help you evaluate your spiritual growth.
 - 00:25:39.060 --> 00:25:42.931
 - Stay tuned for a preview
 - 00:25:42.931 --> 00:25:44.199
 - Of what's coming up next in our series,
 - 00:25:44.199 --> 00:25:46.501
 - "how to know if you're really saved."
 - 00:25:46.501 --> 00:25:49.537
 - So james kind of baits them a little bit,
 - 00:25:50.405 --> 00:25:52.474
 - "do you want to be a person
 - 00:25:52.474 --> 00:25:54.776
 - Of great wisdom and understanding?"
 - 00:25:54.776 --> 00:25:57.379
 - And once he gets them hooked, he says,
 - 00:25:57.379 --> 00:25:59.714
 - "then here's how to do it.
 - 00:25:59.714 --> 00:26:01.549
 - Let him show by his good behavior, his deeds,
 - 00:26:01.549 --> 00:26:06.788
 - And the gentleness of wisdom.
 - 00:26:07.422 --> 00:26:09.124
 - If you're really wise,
 - 00:26:09.124 --> 00:26:10.725
 - It will show itself in your behavior."
 - 00:26:10.725 --> 00:26:13.395
 - Set your dvr and join us next time
 - 00:26:13.395 --> 00:26:15.563
 - For the message checklist for godliness
 - 00:26:15.563 --> 00:26:18.266
 - Here on pathway to victory.
 - 00:26:18.266 --> 00:26:20.568
 - ♪ music ♪
 - 00:26:20.568 --> 00:26:22.904
 - Experience the beauty of alaska
 - 00:26:22.904 --> 00:26:25.340
 - With the "pathway to victory" family.
 - 00:26:25.340 --> 00:26:27.308
 - June 13 through 20, 2026.
 - 00:26:27.308 --> 00:26:30.378
 - Sail through the calm waters of the legendary inside passage
 - 00:26:30.378 --> 00:26:33.782
 - With dr. robert jeffers
 - 00:26:33.782 --> 00:26:35.183
 - Aboard holland america's magnificent koningsdam.
 - 00:26:35.183 --> 00:26:38.520
 - Be inspired by award-winning musician
 - 00:26:38.520 --> 00:26:40.588
 - Michael o'brien's powerful worship.
 - 00:26:40.588 --> 00:26:42.791
 - Share laughter with dennis swanberg,
 - 00:26:42.791 --> 00:26:44.793
 - America's minister of encouragement,
 - 00:26:44.793 --> 00:26:47.095
 - All while exploring frontier towns
 - 00:26:47.095 --> 00:26:49.364
 - Like juno, skagway, and ketchikan.
 - 00:26:49.364 --> 00:26:52.033
 - There's something powerful
 - 00:26:52.033 --> 00:26:53.501
 - About connecting with god and fellow believers
 - 00:26:53.501 --> 00:26:56.337
 - In the majesty of his untamed wilderness.
 - 00:26:56.337 --> 00:26:59.407
 - From the majestic glaciers to soaring eagles,
 - 00:26:59.407 --> 00:27:01.976
 - These moments in god's creation will deepen your faith
 - 00:27:01.976 --> 00:27:05.914
 - In powerful ways.
 - 00:27:05.914 --> 00:27:07.048
 - Join us for a spiritual journey
 - 00:27:07.048 --> 00:27:09.184
 - Through some of creation's most spectacular displays.
 - 00:27:09.184 --> 00:27:12.253
 - Don't wait. our best cabins are going fast.
 - 00:27:12.253 --> 00:27:15.156
 - Secure your alaska adventure now.
 - 00:27:15.156 --> 00:27:17.358
 - Call 888-280-6747 or visit ptv.org.
 - 00:27:17.358 --> 00:27:17.358