How can we "slander no one" in our daily conversations and interactions? Setting the Verse in Context Titus 3:2: “to malign no one, and to be peaceable and gentle, showing full consideration to everyone.” Paul writes these words to believers already reminded that they were once lost but have now been saved by grace (vv. 3-7). Because Christ has transformed us, our speech must reflect His character. Understanding Slander • Slander is speech that damages another person’s reputation through falsehood, half-truth, or malicious intent. • It can be open (public accusation) or subtle (sarcastic comments, innuendo). • Scripture repeatedly condemns it: ‑ Proverbs 10:18 “He who conceals hatred has lying lips, and he who spreads slander is a fool.” ‑ 1 Peter 2:1 “Rid yourselves, therefore, of all malice, deceit, hypocrisy, envy, and slander.” Guarding the Heart First Jesus teaches that “out of the abundance of the heart the mouth speaks” (Matthew 12:34). Therefore: • Cultivate gratitude; a thankful heart resists critical speech. • Confront hidden envy or bitterness through confession (1 John 1:9). • Remember every person bears God’s image (Genesis 1:27); slandering them insults their Maker (James 3:9-10). Practical Steps to Slander No One 1. Pause before speaking. Ask silently, “Is it true? Is it necessary? Is it gracious?” (Ephesians 4:29). 2. Verify facts privately rather than sharing rumors (Proverbs 18:13). 3. Choose direct, loving confrontation when correction is needed (Matthew 18:15). 4. Redirect conversations that drift into character attacks. • “Let’s not talk about them without them here.” • Offer to pray or help instead of gossiping. 5. Fill your mind with Scripture daily; godly words crowd out harmful ones (Colossians 3:16). 6. Surround yourself with friends who value edifying speech (Proverbs 13:20). Words That Build Up • Encourage: “Therefore encourage one another and build each other up” (1 Thessalonians 5:11). • Bless: “Let your speech always be gracious, seasoned with salt” (Colossians 4:6). • Speak truth in love: “We are to grow up in every way into Him… speaking the truth in love” (Ephesians 4:15). When the goal is another’s good, slander has no room to survive. Restoring When We Fail • Confess immediately to God and, where possible, to the person maligned (James 5:16). • Replace the damaging words with public affirmation if the slander was public. • Trust the Spirit to keep refining your tongue; He is faithful to complete His work (Philippians 1:6). |
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