Topical Encyclopedia Slander, defined as the act of making false and damaging statements about someone, is a sin that is frequently addressed in the Bible. It is often linked to idleness, as a lack of productive activity can lead individuals to engage in gossip and malicious talk. The Scriptures provide numerous warnings against slander and highlight the dangers of idleness as a contributing factor.Biblical Warnings Against Slander The Bible explicitly condemns slander as a destructive force that can harm both the speaker and the subject. In Proverbs 10:18, it is written, "He who conceals hatred has lying lips, and whoever spreads slander is a fool." This verse underscores the foolishness of engaging in slanderous behavior, equating it with deceit and hatred. The New Testament also addresses the issue of slander. In Ephesians 4:31, the Apostle Paul instructs believers, "Get rid of all bitterness, rage and anger, outcry and slander, along with every form of malice." Here, slander is listed among other sinful behaviors that Christians are urged to abandon, emphasizing its incompatibility with a life led by the Spirit. Idleness as a Precursor to Slander Idleness, or the lack of purposeful activity, is often seen as a breeding ground for sinful behavior, including slander. The Bible warns against idleness and its potential to lead individuals astray. In 1 Timothy 5:13, Paul addresses the issue of idleness among young widows, stating, "At the same time, they also learn to be idle, going from house to house. And not only do they become idlers, but also gossips and busybodies, saying what they should not." This passage highlights the connection between idleness and the temptation to engage in gossip and slander. Without meaningful work or responsibilities, individuals may become preoccupied with the affairs of others, leading to harmful speech and behavior. The Role of Work and Purpose The Bible advocates for a life of diligence and purposeful work as a means to avoid the pitfalls of idleness and slander. In 2 Thessalonians 3:11-12, Paul admonishes those who are idle, writing, "We hear that some among you are idle. They are not busy; they are busybodies. We command and urge such people by our Lord Jesus Christ to begin working quietly to earn their own living." This exhortation emphasizes the importance of productive work in maintaining a disciplined and godly life. By engaging in meaningful activities, believers can avoid the temptations that arise from idleness, including the urge to slander others. The Call to Righteous Speech Believers are called to use their words to build up rather than tear down. In Colossians 4:6, Paul advises, "Let your speech always be gracious, seasoned with salt, so that you may know how to answer everyone." This call to gracious speech serves as a reminder of the power of words and the responsibility to use them wisely. By focusing on productive work and cultivating a heart of gratitude and grace, Christians can resist the temptation to engage in slander and instead use their words to glorify God and edify others. Nave's Topical Index 1 Timothy 5:13And with they learn to be idle, wandering about from house to house; and not only idle, but tattlers also and busybodies, speaking things which they ought not. Nave's Topical Index Library That Solitary or Hermit's Life Passes Common and Mixed Life. And ... On the Symbols of Pythagoras. The Home-Parlor. A Compendious view of the Christian Life. Christ's Resurrection and Our Newness of Life Christ is Glorious --Let us Make Him Known Abraham, his Trial in Egypt; his Humility The First Apology of Justin, the Martyr Memoir of John Bunyan Seasonable Counsel: Or, Advice to Sufferers. Resources What does the Bible say about backbiting? | GotQuestions.orgWhat does the Bible say about bitterness? | GotQuestions.org How should a Christian view sportsmanship? | GotQuestions.org Slander: Dictionary and Thesaurus | Clyx.com Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus Subtopics Slander of David, by his Enemies Slander of Jeremiah, by the Jews Slander of Jesus, by the Jews Falsely Charging That he Was a Winebibber (Wino) Slander of Mephiboseth, by Ziba Slander: A Characteristic of the Devil Slander: An Abomination to God Slander: Characterized As Avoiding Slander: Christ Was Exposed To Slander: Comes from the Evil Heart Slander: Effects of Deadly Wounds Slander: Effects of Discord Among Brethren Slander: Effects of Separating Friends Slander: End of, is Mischievous Madness Slander: Evil People Addicted To Slander: Hypocrites Addicted To Slander: Hypocrites Habitually Slander: Includes: Bearing False Witness Slander: Includes: Evil Speaking Slander: Includes: Evil Surmising Slander: Includes: Judging Charitably Slander: Includes: Raising False Reports Slander: Includes: Repeating Matters Slander: Includes: Tale-Bearing Slander: Joseph by Potiphar's Wife Slander: Men Shall Give Account For Slander: Minister's Wives should Avoid Slander: Often Arises from Hatred Slander: People Shall Give Account For Slander: Saints should Keep Their Tongues From Slander: Saints should Lay Aside Slander: Saints: Blessed in Enduring Slander: Saints: Characterised As Avoiding Slander: Saints: should be Warned Against Slander: Saints: should Give No Occasion For Slander: Saints: should Keep Their Tongue From Slander: Saints: should Lay Aside Slander: Saints: should Return Good For Slander: Servants of God Exposed To Slander: should be Discountenanced With Anger Slander: should be Warned Against Slander: should Give No Occasion For Slander: should not be Listened To Slander: should Return Good For Slander: That he Was Seditious Slander: The Land of Canaan Misrepresented by the Spies Slander: The Nearest Relations Exposed To Slander: The Tongue of, is a Scourge Slander: The Wicked Addicted To Slander: They Who Indulge In, are Fools Slander: They Who Indulge In, not to be Trusted Slander: Those Who Indulge In, are Fools Slander: Unclassified Scriptures Relating To Slander: Witnesses Against Christ Slander: Wives of God's Servants should Avoid Related Terms |
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