How can we identify and resist "slander" from those opposing our faith? The Lord’s Awareness of Slander “ ‘I know your affliction and your poverty—though you are rich! And I am aware of the slander of those who falsely claim to be Jews, but are a synagogue of Satan.’ ” (Revelation 2:9) • Jesus calls hostile speech against believers “slander.” • He locates its true source in Satan, not merely in human tongues (cf. John 8:44). • He assures His people that He “knows” every word spoken against them. Recognizing Slander Today • Words that falsely accuse or misrepresent our faith, motives, or character (Psalm 31:13). • Speech that seeks to isolate or shame believers for loyalty to Christ (Luke 6:22). • Claims that twist Scripture or label orthodox belief as hate (Acts 24:5,14). • Coordinated misinformation that undermines the gospel’s credibility (1 Peter 2:12). Why Slander Hurts—and Why It Matters • It aims to intimidate and silence witness (Acts 4:17–18). • It tempts us to retaliate in the flesh (Romans 12:17). • It can dishearten younger or weaker believers (2 Timothy 2:17–18). • Yet God uses unjust words to refine faith and display His glory (1 Peter 1:6–7). Resisting Slander with Scripture-Grounded Responses 1. Stand on identity in Christ – “You are all sons of God through faith in Christ Jesus” (Galatians 3:26). – Refuse labels the world tries to pin on you. 2. Maintain a clear conscience – “Keep your conduct honorable… so that when they slander you… they may see your good deeds” (1 Peter 2:12). – Integrity defangs lies. 3. Speak blessing, not retaliation – “When we are slandered, we answer graciously” (1 Corinthians 4:13). – Counter-culture courtesy exposes the enemy’s spirit. 4. Appeal to rightful authorities when needed – Paul used Roman law to counter false charges (Acts 22:25–29). – Legal avenues can protect the gospel’s advance without compromising meekness. 5. Entrust final vindication to God – “Commit your way to the LORD; trust in Him… He will bring forth your righteousness like the dawn” (Psalm 37:5–6). – Rest in the Judge who sees all. Promises for the Faithful Under Slander • Present companionship: “I am with you always” (Matthew 28:20). • Future reward: “Blessed are you when people… falsely say all kinds of evil against you… Rejoice… your reward is great in heaven” (Matthew 5:11–12). • Eternal honor: “The one who overcomes will not be harmed by the second death” (Revelation 2:11). Practical Daily Guardrails • Begin each day in the Word to filter incoming voices (Psalm 119:11). • Pray for opponents by name, asking God to open their eyes (Luke 23:34; Acts 7:60). • Cultivate fellowship that reinforces truth and offers mutual defense (Hebrews 10:24–25). • Regularly examine your own speech—never return slander for slander (James 4:11; Titus 3:2). • Memorize key verses (e.g., 1 Peter 3:15–16) to answer calmly and biblically. Encouragement from Saints Who Endured • Joseph: maligned by Potiphar’s wife, later exalted (Genesis 50:20). • David: hounded by Saul’s falsehoods, yet wrote songs of trust (Psalm 54). • Jesus: bore ultimate slander yet “entrusted Himself to Him who judges justly” (1 Peter 2:23). Slander is real, but the Savior who “knows” is nearer still. Hold fast; overcome in His strength. |
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