Charles Ellicott Commentary James 3:1

"Be not many [of you] teachers, my brethren, knowing that we shall receive heavier judgment." — James 3:1 (ASV)

Be not many masters.—Better, teachers, which meaning was conveyed by “masters” when the English Bible was first published. The condemnation is of those who appoint themselves and are as blind leaders of the blind (Matthew 15:14). No one had a right to exercise the sacred functions of the appointed masters in Israel (see Note on John 3:10), and no one could take the honor of the priesthood to himself, but he that was called of God, as was Aaron (Hebrews 5:4).

Indeed, we know from our Lord’s own words that the Scribes and Pharisees loved respectful greetings in the markets, and to be called of men ‘Rabbi, Rabbi’ (Matthew 23:1–12). Nevertheless, His disciples were not to be acknowledged in this way, for one is your Master, even Christ; and all ye are brethren. The neglect of this wholesome caution perplexed the early Church as much as its later branches (1 Corinthians 1:12; 1 Corinthians 14:26; Galatians 2:12).

The greater condemnation.—Rather, the greater judgment—more strictly searching and severe. None of us liveth to himself, and no man dieth to himself (Romans 14:7), and, if this is true of common Christian life, how deep is the responsibility incurred in the attempt to teach others! Indeed—who is sufficient for these things? (2 Corinthians 2:6).

The test of all ministry must ultimately come in the day of trial and fiery inquisition of God; this, and not the world’s opinion, will be the real approval (1 Corinthians 3:11–15). If the work of any teacher abides, his reward will be exceedingly great; if it be burned, woe to him! He himself shall be saved, yet so as by fire, scathed by what will consume the rubbish he has raked together. The faith that prompted such a man will save him, but no reward can follow useless teaching, nor can there be escape for his own soul, unless he worked honestly.