Taming the Tongue: How the Gospel Transforms Our Talk

by Jeff Robinson Sr., Paul David Tripp (Foreword)

It’s been estimated that the average human being utters between 10,000 and 20,000 words per day. Consider that fact in light of Solomon’s words in Proverbs 10:19: “When words are many, transgression is not lacking, but whoever restrains his lips is prudent,” and you have 10,000 to 20,000 opportunities to sin. We are fallen people, and we utter fallen words. But we serve a communicating God. In Taming the How the Gospel Transforms Our Talk, Jeff Robinson reminds us how in the gospel the Lord gives us a remedy for our troubled talk.

Genres: Christian, Christian Living, Christian Non Fiction, Christianity, Faith, Theology, Nonfiction

174 pages, Kindle Edition

Published April 19, 2021

Reviews

[Audrey · Rating 3 out of 5]

3.5 stars. The author states his 3 goals up front: "First, I want to convince readers that words are one of the most important aspects of a life lived before God, one of the best indicators as to our maturation and growth in Christ-likeness." Check.
"Second, I want to show how the fall has turned words into potential nuclear warheads, so we must handle them as such." Check.
"Third, I want to show how the gospel beats those swords into plowshares and transforms them into conduits of God's grace." This section did not fully check the box for me. I was distracted by the author's personal examples which I had trouble identifying with. There were timeless true principles from the Bible, but I was left wanting a deeper dive.
That said, I did come to see that I'm not as good a listener as I think and I applied (continue to apply) some of the points the author spelled out in that section of the book. And after finishing this book I continue to be challenged to take seriously the submission of my words to the only One who can set me free to use my words for encouragement, healing and comfort, not criticism, self promotion and thoughtless harm.

[Mandy Keel · Rating 5 out of 5]

It's been awhile since I was so convicted by a book. This one hurt, but in a good way.

[Ashley Bacon · Rating 3 out of 5]

Five stars on the topic, but 3.5 stars on the execution. The writing was good but a few things kept me from loving this book.

1. The author kept poking at himself which I did not enjoy. 2. The touch-and-go of so many tongue related sins was too touch-and-go for me to ponder on. 3. I read this book with a group and did not find the questions at the end worth using.

Our discussion was great, because the topic is relevant but we focused on a few aspects of the book and I think that helped. For this short of a book it covered too much too briefly.

[Maddie Carter · Rating 5 out of 5]

Ok this book HURT. So convicting. Main takeaways:

-Out of the overflow of the heart, the mouth speaks (Luke 6:45).
-We speak an average of 10,000-20,000 words a day, which means a lot of opportunities to sin. Be watchful and mindful.
-Listen more and talk less. We grow and learn by listening, not talking (two ears, one mouth)!
-We will give account for every word we speak (Matthew 12:36:37).
-Sometimes what we don’t say (or how we say what we say) matters just as much as what we do say.

[Joel Rasmussen · Rating 5 out of 5]

Humbling

[Bekah Behnke · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book was so convicting. While it was simple and didn’t say what we didn’t already know, it was filled with scripture and was written in a way that leads to change in how we speak. We often hear what the Bible has to say about our tongue but we rarely have this kind of direct instruction and encouragement about our speech

[Tuyi Yohana · Rating 5 out of 5]

Good audiobook on the tongue. Obviously the fall infected our speech, but the gospel gives us hope. The gospel doesn’t just have the power to save us, but it’s also what transforms us. That includes our talk. Great memory verses derived from this book that I’ll keep in mind and meditate on!

[Lindsey Schubert · Rating 4 out of 5]

I’m glad this was my first book of the new year. I know I need this pointed reminder on the power of my words (and my ears to listen well). I think this would be a great read for any Christian.

[Nick · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book was extremely convicting. It’s as though Robertson has sat in on my conversations, listened to my inflammatory remarks, and carefully observed my ill listening skills. Fortunately, the antidote is presented: the gospel. Jesus will change my heart and the way I use words. He will help me to speak gracious words that build other people up.

[Henry · Rating 3 out of 5]

It gets more practical towards the last few chapters but somehow this little book felt more repetitive than necessary. Good, thoughtful advice backed by scripture but not necessary in book form. Could have been a blog post on TGC (I suspect it is).

I do love his comment on the importance of editors. I really think most of our problems with communicating in the age of social media is due to lack of editors on most content. Including my Goodreads reviews.

[Madeline Weiss · Rating 4 out of 5]

“If anyone thinks he is religious and does not bridle his tongue but deceived his heart, this person’s religion is worthless” James 1:26. What a sobering, convicting yet comforting book on the power of our tongues. I really admire this author’s vulnerability and willingness to share where he has fallen short in his speech and in listening, which makes it more applicable. This book does a phenomenal job of waking you up to the corruption of our tongues, our hypocrisy, and our need to fight for godliness in this area! Certainly helped me see more of my sin and encouraged me to pray more for help in this. I gave it 4 stars (4.5 is more accurate) because I wish the sections about our hope in Christ in bridling our tongue were more fleshed out.

[LeAna Randolph · Rating 5 out of 5]

Such an excellent book that was birthed out of a need for an elder to tame his tongue. He turned his loving rebuke from another elder, and his conviction, into a book with a lot of practical application on how we can do the same. This book opened my eyes to ways we can sin with our tongue even without realizing it. The author says, “If we speak between 15,000-20,000 words a day, that’s 15,000-20,000 chances to sin.” A true reality we need to grasp when speaking. An easy and quick read but powerful and convicting.

[Belle · Rating 3 out of 5]

I read this book with my dear friend as I entered the final semester of my first year as a fulltime teacher. It was timely and encouraging in many ways but I doubt I would have read it or enjoyed it half as much if I didn’t have my friend reading along with me, and discussing it with her.

As an over talker, I needed to read this book and I’m glad I did. 3/5 stars because at some times it’s a little too pacifying or soft for my liking but still a good and sharpening use of my time as I read.

[Lydia DePatis · Rating 3 out of 5]

This was a well structured book that offered a lot of practical insight into the way we speak. I honestly liked that it wasn’t 300 pages and overly repetitive. It was concise and to the point. It offered plenty of discussion questions as well. I do think it would be best read as a group: bible study, college class, married couples, etc.

[Katelyn Harden · Rating 4 out of 5]

A good book about the words we speak. We’d be wise to say less and listen more. Speak with intention. Check our own hearts first as such is where words flow from.

Matthew 12:36-37: “I tell you, on the day of judgement people will give account for every careless word they speak, for by your words you will be justified, and by your words you will be condemned.”

[Anlee Fekkes · Rating 5 out of 5]

One of the best books written on how the gospel transforms our speech and if given life, transforms our thumbs, as well. Really helpful, timely and appreciated the questionnaire at end. The memory verses were so helpful. Probably a book I’ll read once a year and recommend to others with frequency. I also really appreciate the heart and writing style of the author. I pray he writes more for the glory of God and his people.

[Trevor Wheeker · Rating 5 out of 5]

I’m guilty of saying too much. Saying the wrong things. Regretting what I say. This book was so timely and grace filled. Scripture has a lot to say about what we say and this book was a wonderful primer into that topic. Highly recommend.

[Rachel · Rating 4 out of 5]

Excellent and needed truth (mostly for myself! And I’m sure for others, too). It was very practical, with some repetition. Not ideal as an audiobook, but it helped me get to listen/read more often. I would recommend it!

[Rachel {bibliopals} · Rating 4 out of 5]

3.5

[Katelyn Starrett · Rating 4 out of 5]

Overall, this was a really convicting book (especially for me 🥲). It did get repetitive at times even though it’s a short book. The author is also pretty critical of himself throughout, and while I appreciated his humility, it also felt odd at times. But still totally worth a read!

[John · Rating 4 out of 5]

One need look no further than social media to confirm the truth of James's ancient warning that the tongue is a powerful instrument, "a restless evil, full of deadly poison." In Taming the Tongue, Jeff Robinson Sr. warns us of the danger of the tongue and offers instruction on how to control our speech.

Robinson reminds us that words receive their power from God. Jesus is the Word and it is with words that God creates all there is. As we are told in Proverbs, "A word fitly spoken is like apples of gold in settings of silver" (25:11).

Robinson tells us that our tongues "serve as an X-ray organ that reveals what's going on in our hearts." Robinson examines how our hearts can be used for destructive purposes. Slander flows from envy. Criticism is driven by jealousy. Sarcasm can come from pride as can boasting and flattery. Lies arise out of a deceitful heart. Anger often flows from selfishness. Grumbling is the result of discontentment. Judgmentalism and cursing God likewise result from pride. Careless words are a result of foolishness. Robinson quotes John Piper who says, "When our mouths are empty of praise for others, it is probably because our hearts are full of love for self."

Robinson points us to words that reflect God's character. He says that "Words of life reflect the gospel by selflessly building up and centering on others." Robinson encourages us to thoughtfully consider where truth and love meet and how to reflect the gospel in our tone and even in our body posture. We need this wisdom even more in an age where so much of our communication is done via social media without the benefit of the natural tone and body language that accompanies our speech.

Robinson ends with a chapter on how to grow as a listener. His advice is simple, yet helpful. I appreciate these pieces of advice: "Don't go numb and bug out," "Don't let sinful talk repel you," "Agree with them as much as possible," "Listen to hear them, not to correct, judge, or coach them."

Robinson’s Taming the Tongue is wise, sound, and God-glorifying. And who among us doesn’t need to have our tongue better reflect the character of God? The only slight critique I have is that I wish the illustrations had a broader appeal. Because many of the illustrations are fairly dated, it probably wouldn’t be the first book I would hand to a young person. But no matter who picks up Robinson’s book, they will be sharpened, exhorted, and given practical tools.


For more reviews see www.thebeehive.live.

[Grace Boone · Rating 4 out of 5]

This was quite good, although I wouldn't say it was the most thought provoking or convicting spiritual book I've ever read - not that that is the bar for a good book. I guess I just felt that certain parts were rudimentary, maybe a bit more basic that what I was hoping for? Alas, a big critique doesn't fit this either because there really are a lot of good nuggets here. My copy is now thoroughly marked up since I know I will be using it as a very reliable reference!

I definitely recommend it as a whole. Everything here is extremely Biblical. You won't have to constantly wonder if what you're reading is solid or true. I was just looking for a liiiitle bit more at parts, like something to really challenge me into action. Four stars feels perfect for this - 100% worth your time even if it felt a bit surface level at some points.

[Kelly Rooney · Rating 5 out of 5]

Taming the Tongueby Jeff Robinson Sr. is a must-read for anyone serious about aligning their speech with the gospel. The book masterfully explores how our words are a reflection of our hearts, emphasizing the power and responsibility that come with our speech. The book ties practical wisdom to biblical principles, offering concrete steps to not only tame our tongues but also to use our words to build others up.

One of the highlights for me was how he discusses the daily impact of our words within our homes. As a wife and mother, this really resonated. The book stresses that transforming how we speak can lead to healthier, more Christ-centered relationships, and I found his focus on repentance and reliance on God's grace, which is truly encouraging. If you're looking to grow in your walk with God and bring peace into your household, this book offers practical guidance to help you get there.

[Shofam · Rating 4 out of 5]

A short but helpful look at the power of the tongue to communicate life or death to those around us. In our sinful flesh, our words can be weapons of war and bringers of pain. Thanks be to God that in our redeemed selves, we are capable of words that comfort and heal, through prayer and the power of the Holy Spirit in us. Includes some thoughts on word use in social media and a chapter on listening well. Draws heavily on outside sources but a good round-up of lots of helpful information on communication and relationships in general.

[Natalie Linot · Rating 5 out of 5]

Wow — finished this book and am already looking forward to the next time I read it. This book is laced with scripture references and wisdom that have permeated my thoughts in a way that few other books have. Each chapter is acutely convicting and humbling yet each still embodies a voice of gentleness and love. There was some redundancy, but reading it over time made it feel less so (I also think reiteration of certain points is warranted with a topic this major). Truly believe everyone should read this book.

[Kati Higginbotham · Rating 4 out of 5]

It’s clear that Robinson has a heart for the people of God and he has really good examples too. A few problems. 1. The editing in a few places is a bit sloppy. They have his name as “Jim” (which is funny, because the part is about someone getting his name wrong) and 2. I wish his negative speech section was longer and more nuanced. It reads a little bit like a sermon. Not that sermons are bad, but I wanted a little more, especially in this part.

[Heather · Rating 3 out of 5]

The overall message of the book is a very good one. In the first chapter though, the author describes how the church elder came to him and said he talked too much. Well, he does. The book could have easily been half the length. Lots of repetition. I personally like the discussion/reflection questions at the end of each chapter the most.

[Lori · Rating 5 out of 5]

Excellent book that was convicting, practical, and helpful. To see all the Scriptures which address the trouble as well as the blessing our words can be to others was very good. Practical helps to identify when I am quarrelsome w others and helps to practice better listening. This is a book that I need to read annually!

[Aaron Fossum · Rating 5 out of 5]

Thoughtfully written and full of practical wisdom. Each chapter concludes with memory verses and questions for small group study. Robinson covers a broad range of topics and is not limited to a simple list of “don’ts”. Robinson highlights how one ought to speak, as well a how important listening is to wise and gentle speech.

[Gail · Rating 4 out of 5]

Good job pulling together the Bible’s teaching on the tongue ( mostly from Proverbs, James, the Gospels, and Epistles). Also, the author did well to frame control of the tongue based upon the condition of the heart. Also, some practical tips on healthy communication.