{In word, neither with the tongue} (log(9369) m(8864)e t(8869)
gl(9373)s(8869)). Either instrumental or locative makes sense. What John
means is "not merely by word or by the tongue." He does not
condemn kind words which are comforting and cheering, but warm
words should be accompanied by warm deeds to make real "in deed
and in truth" (en erg(9369) kai al(8874)hei(8369)). Here is a case where
actions do speak louder than mere words.