James 3:9

Therewith. Literally, “in connection with it.”

Bless. Gr. eulogeo. “to speak well of,” “to praise,” “to bless.”

God. Textual evidence favors (cf. p. 10) the reading “Lord.” Compare James 1:1.

Curse. Evidence that we are genuine Christians is seen when we bless our enemies (see on Matt. 5:44, 45), Christ Himself did not bring against Satan “a railing accusation” (see Jude 9). Cursing springs from hate and exhibits the spirit of Satan, “the accuser of our brethren” (see Rev. 12:10). James here shows that a man may be “double-tongued,” as well as “double minded” (see on James 1:8).

Similitude. Gr. homoiosis, “likeness.” This verse refers primarily to the “likeness” of God in which man was created (see on Gen. 1:26) and which he still retains to some degree (see 1 Cor. 11:7). Even though that image has been well-nigh obliterated by sin, God has made provision whereby it may be restored.