How does Psalm 50:20 warn against speaking deceitfully about others? Setting the Scene • Psalm 50 records God summoning His covenant people, weighing both their worship and their conduct. • Verse 20 exposes a hidden sin: persistent, malicious talk against family—“You sit, maligning your brother and slandering your own mother’s son”. • The language is literal and direct: God watches a seated, settled pattern of speech that tears down others. The Heart of the Warning • “You sit” shows premeditation; the slanderer is comfortable and unhurried in sin. • “Maligning” (distorting facts, smearing motives) and “slandering” (circulating false or damaging stories) violate the ninth commandment (Exodus 20:16). • The targets are “brother” and “mother’s son,” highlighting betrayal of nearest relationships and breaking the unity God ordains. Why Slander Is So Serious • It opposes God’s character of truth (Numbers 23:19; John 14:6). • It wounds those made in God’s image (James 3:9-10). • It stirs division that God hates—“one who spreads strife among brothers” (Proverbs 6:19). • It invites judgment; Psalm 50 continues: “I will rebuke you and accuse you to your face” (v. 21). Covenant Accountability • God’s people are not judged merely by outward rituals but by words spoken in daily life (Matthew 12:36-37). • The same mouth offered sacrifices in the temple yet poisoned family reputations at home; hypocrisy provokes divine rebuke. Everyday Expressions of Deceitful Speech • Whispered rumors presented as “concern.” • Exaggerated stories that magnify another’s fault. • Social-media posts that shred character without verification. • Sarcasm masking bitterness, eroding respect. Replacing Slander with Truth and Love 1. Treasure truth in the heart—“Put off falsehood and speak truthfully” (Ephesians 4:25). 2. Guard the tongue—“He who guards his mouth protects his life” (Proverbs 13:3). 3. Choose edifying words—“Let no unwholesome talk come out of your mouths, but only what is helpful for building up” (Ephesians 4:29). 4. Confront issues privately and lovingly, following Matthew 18:15. 5. Remember accountability—“If anyone does not bridle his tongue… his religion is worthless” (James 1:26). Additional Scriptures to Reinforce the Warning • Proverbs 10:18 – “Whoever spreads slander is a fool.” • Psalm 101:5 – “Whoever slanders his neighbor in secret, him I will destroy.” • 1 Peter 3:10 – “Whoever would love life… must keep his tongue from evil and his lips from deceitful speech.” Takeaway Psalm 50:20 calls God’s people to reject every form of deceitful speech. The Lord, who hears each word, demands truth and love toward even the closest family members. Our tongues must align with His righteous, truthful character, reflecting genuine covenant faithfulness. |
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