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Episode Summary
In this New Year’s episode of Tearing Down High Places, Average Joe and Pastor Tim reflect on the dramatic events of 2025 (including the deaths of prominent Christian leaders John MacArthur, Voddie Baucham, and the assassination of Charlie Kirk) and commit to better speech in 2026. Drawing heavily from James, Proverbs, and Ephesians, they discuss the power of the tongue, the dangers of gossip, slander, anger, and infighting among Christians. Using public figures like Candace Owens and President Trump as examples, they urge believers to be quick to listen, slow to speak, practice self-control, meekness, and to speak only words that build up others.
Show Notes – Digestible Sections
Episode Highlights
- Reflecting on 2025: A pivotal year with major shifts in politics and Christianity, marked by the loss of influential voices like John MacArthur, Voddie Baucham, and Charlie Kirk (assassinated).
- Charlie Kirk’s legacy: Praised for respectful debate, powerful yet careful speech, and his role in electing President Trump.
- Main Theme for 2026: Taming the tongue – speaking wisely, avoiding gossip, slander, and unnecessary anger.
Key Scripture Discussed
- James 1:19 – Be quick to hear, slow to speak, slow to anger.
- James 3 – The tongue is small but powerful; it can bless or curse.
- Proverbs 10:19, 11:13, 17:9, 18:8 – Warnings against many words, slander, and whisperers.
- Ephesians 4:29-31 – No corrupting talk; only speak to build up; put away bitterness, wrath, clamor, slander, and malice.
- Galatians 5:22-23 – Fruit of the Spirit (including self-control and gentleness/meekness).
Practical Takeaways
- Gossip vs. Correction: If you’re not willing to go directly to the person to help them, it’s likely gossip.
- Follow Matthew 18: Go privately first when addressing sin in a brother/sister.
- Meekness is restrained strength, not weakness – essential for receiving God’s Word and responding to others.
- Love enemies differently, but always justly and with compassion.
- Soft answers turn away wrath; self-control pleases God.
- New believers: You don’t need perfect knowledge – humbly ask questions or point to Scripture.
Public Figure Examples
- Candace Owens: Criticized for ongoing gossip and slander about Charlie Kirk’s death and his widow.
- President Trump: Loved for policies, but urged to show more restraint in speech (e.g., comments after Rob Reiner’s death).
Closing Challenge
Speak only words that build up and give grace. In 2026, let go of bitterness, control anger, and choose who you associate with wisely. If you see a brother sinning – lift him up. If you see a high place – tear it down.