"The criminal we are now dealing with," states Henry, "is pronounced by an inspired writer, 'an unruly evil, full of deadly poison' (James 3:8)."

This book deals with the reformation of the tongue, in an intensely practical way. The appendix includes Baxter's "Special Directions Against Idle Talk, and Babbling." Comports with strong warning of Scripture, when it classes sins of the tongue among other soul-destroying maladies.

"But fornication, and all uncleanness, or covetousness, let it not be once named among you, as becometh saints; Neither filthiness, nor foolish talking, nor jesting, which are not convenient: but rather giving of thanks.

For this ye know, that no whoremonger, nor unclean person, nor covetous man, who is an idolater, hath any inheritance in the kingdom of Christ and of God. Let no man deceive you with vain words: for because of these things cometh the wrath of God upon the children of disobedience. Be not ye therefore partakers with them" (Eph. 5:3-7, emphasis added).