James 3:2

2. For In explanation of the greater condemnation.

We offend Literally, we stumble. The Greek word is cognate with the Greek word to fall, and they are finely distinguished by St. Paul, Romans 11:11, where he says that Israel has not stumbled that they should fall. (A Greek proverb, “not to stumble twice at the same stone.”)

All The mere English reader is very apt to understand our translation to mean, we offend every body; making all the object. The true meaning is, that in many things we all stumble; that is, make intellectual and moral mistakes and blunders; which is true enough of the wisest and holiest of us. And, therefore, our apostle cautions us to avoid setting up for too much.

Offend not Stumble not.

In word In performance of his assumption to be a teacher in the synagogue.

Perfect man He has become in mind and spirit what he doubtless has in body a completely grown, filled out, and proportioned man.

Able also For, so far as he is able to speak perfectly right, it is probable that he can do perfectly right. The wisdom and moral power with which he can govern his tongue is very likely to govern his whole body. The body, as the whole organ of the soul, with its susceptibilities to temptation, and its limbs as the instruments of right or wrong, as the I, the will, directs.