Topical Encyclopedia Definition and Usage:The term "evil-spoken" refers to speech that is malicious, slanderous, or harmful in nature. It encompasses words that are intended to damage reputations, spread falsehoods, or incite discord among individuals or communities. In the biblical context, evil-speaking is often associated with sin and is condemned as contrary to the character and teachings of God. Biblical References: 1. Proverbs 6:16-19 · This passage lists things that the Lord hates, including "a false witness who pours out lies and a person who stirs up conflict in the community." Evil-speaking is akin to bearing false witness and sowing discord, both of which are abominations to God. 2. Ephesians 4:29 · The Apostle Paul instructs believers, "Let no unwholesome talk come out of your mouths, but only what is helpful for building up the one in need and bringing grace to those who listen." Here, evil-speaking is contrasted with speech that edifies and imparts grace. 3. James 4:11 · James warns, "Brothers, do not slander one another. Anyone who speaks against his brother or judges him speaks against the law and judges it." Evil-speaking is equated with slander and is seen as a violation of the law of love. 4. 1 Peter 2:1 · Peter exhorts believers to "rid yourselves of all malice, deceit, hypocrisy, envy, and slander of every kind." Evil-speaking is grouped with other sins that believers are to cast off as they grow in holiness. Theological Implications: Evil-speaking is a reflection of the heart's condition. Jesus taught that "out of the abundance of the heart the mouth speaks" (Matthew 12:34). Therefore, evil-speaking reveals a heart that is not aligned with God's righteousness. It is a manifestation of the sinful nature that believers are called to put to death through the power of the Holy Spirit. Moral and Ethical Considerations: From a moral standpoint, evil-speaking is destructive to both the speaker and the one spoken against. It undermines trust, damages relationships, and can lead to broader social discord. Ethically, Christians are called to speak truth in love (Ephesians 4:15) and to use their words to build up rather than tear down. Practical Application: Believers are encouraged to be mindful of their speech, ensuring that it reflects the love and truth of Christ. This involves actively resisting the temptation to engage in gossip, slander, or any form of harmful speech. Instead, Christians are to cultivate a habit of speaking words that are truthful, kind, and edifying, thereby glorifying God and promoting peace within the community. Conclusion: While the Bible does not use the specific term "evil-spoken," the concept is clearly addressed through various teachings on the use of the tongue and the importance of righteous speech. By adhering to biblical principles, believers can avoid the pitfalls of evil-speaking and instead use their words to honor God and bless others. Library December 24 Evening Three Good Reasons for Abstaining from Certain Kinds of Food. Self-Inspection. Hebrews i. 1, 2 Ezekiel xiii. 22 Rom. xiv. 14 Of Holy Patience 1 Cor. x. 25 These Things Being Said by God, While the Trumpets Uttered their ... Persecution Every Christian's Lot Thesaurus Evil-spoken (1 Occurrence)Evil-spoken. Evil-speakings, Evil-spoken. Evil-surmisings . Multi-Version Concordance Evil-spoken (1 Occurrence). 1 ... /e/evil-spoken.htm - 6k Lascivious (2 Occurrences) Thankfully (2 Occurrences) Reckon (34 Occurrences) Reproached (27 Occurrences) Resteth (18 Occurrences) Evil-speakings (3 Occurrences) Evil-surmisings (1 Occurrence) Doings (111 Occurrences) Diligent (33 Occurrences) Resources What is the biblical solution to the problem of evil? | GotQuestions.orgIs it true that life and death are in the power of the tongue? | GotQuestions.org Who was King Amon in the Bible? | GotQuestions.org Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus Concordance Evil-spoken (1 Occurrence)1 Peter 4:14 Subtopics Related Terms |
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