What other scriptures emphasize respecting authority and avoiding slander? Key Verse: 2 Peter 2:11 “Yet even angels, although they are stronger and more powerful, do not bring slanderous accusations against such beings before the Lord.” Respecting God-Ordained Authority • Romans 13:1-2 — “Everyone must submit himself to the governing authorities, for there is no authority except that which is from God. The authorities that exist have been appointed by God. Consequently, the one who resists authority is opposing what God has set in place, and those who do so will bring judgment on themselves.” • 1 Peter 2:13-17 — “Submit yourselves for the Lord’s sake to every human authority… Honor all people, love the brotherhood, fear God, honor the king.” • Exodus 22:28 — “You must not blaspheme God or curse the ruler of your people.” • Ecclesiastes 10:20 — “Do not curse the king even in your thoughts… for a bird of the air may carry your words, and a creature on wings may report your speech.” • 1 Timothy 2:1-2 — “First of all, then, I urge that petitions, prayers, intercessions, and thanksgiving be offered for everyone— for kings and all those in authority— so that we may lead tranquil and quiet lives in all godliness and dignity.” • Jude 1:8-9 — “Yet in the same way these dreamers defile their bodies, reject authority, and slander glorious beings. But even the archangel Michael… did not presume to bring a slanderous charge… but said, ‘The Lord rebuke you!’” • 1 Samuel 24:10-12 (summary) — David spares Saul’s life and refuses to harm “the Lord’s anointed,” illustrating respectful restraint toward flawed leadership. Guarding Our Tongues Against Slander • Titus 3:1-2 — “Remind the believers to be subject to rulers and authorities… to malign no one, and to be peaceable and gentle, showing full consideration to everyone.” • James 4:11-12 — “Brothers, do not slander one another… There is only one Lawgiver and Judge.” • Ephesians 4:31 — “Get rid of all bitterness, rage and anger, outcry and slander, along with every form of malice.” • Proverbs 10:18 — “Whoever spreads slander is a fool.” • Proverbs 16:28 — “A perverse man spreads dissension, and a gossip separates close friends.” • Colossians 3:8 — “But now you must put aside all such things as these: anger, rage, malice, slander, and filthy language from your mouth.” • Matthew 12:36 — “I tell you that men will give an account on the day of judgment for every careless word they have spoken.” Living the Lesson Today • Submit willingly to civil, church, workplace, and family authorities, recognizing God’s overarching sovereignty. • Speak of leaders—whether political, spiritual, or familial—with measured, respectful words, even when addressing their faults. • Replace critical talk with intercessory prayer (1 Timothy 2:1-2). • When correction is necessary, follow biblical channels (Matthew 18:15-17) and maintain a gentle spirit (Galatians 6:1). • Make it a daily habit to “set a guard over my mouth” (Psalm 141:3) so that both respect for authority and freedom from slander mark your walk with Christ. |
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