Topical Encyclopedia Slander, defined as the act of making false and damaging statements about someone, is a sin that is condemned throughout the Bible. It is a destructive force that can ruin reputations, sow discord, and create division within communities. The Bible provides clear guidance on how believers should respond to slander, emphasizing that it should not be listened to or entertained.Biblical Condemnation of Slander The Bible explicitly condemns slander as a sinful behavior. In the book of Proverbs, slander is associated with foolishness and wickedness: "A fool’s mouth is his ruin, and his lips are a snare to his soul. The words of a gossip are like choice morsels; they go down into the inmost being" (Proverbs 18:7-8). This passage highlights the destructive nature of slanderous words, which can deeply affect both the speaker and the listener. Avoiding the Influence of Slander Scripture advises believers to avoid listening to slander and to guard their hearts against its influence. In Psalm 15, the psalmist describes the character of a righteous person, stating, "He who walks with integrity and practices righteousness, who speaks the truth from his heart, who has no slander on his tongue, who does no harm to his neighbor, nor casts scorn on his friend" (Psalm 15:2-3). This passage underscores the importance of maintaining integrity and truthfulness, avoiding participation in slanderous conversations. The Role of Wisdom in Rejecting Slander Wisdom literature in the Bible, particularly the book of Proverbs, offers practical advice on dealing with slander. Proverbs 26:20 states, "Without wood a fire goes out; without gossip a conflict ceases" . This metaphor illustrates the idea that refusing to listen to or spread slander can prevent conflicts and maintain peace. By choosing not to engage with slander, believers can extinguish potential disputes and promote harmony. New Testament Teachings on Slander The New Testament continues to address the issue of slander, urging believers to live in a manner that reflects their faith. In Ephesians 4:31, Paul instructs the church, "Get rid of all bitterness, rage and anger, outcry and slander, along with every form of malice" . This directive is part of a broader call to live a life worthy of the calling received, characterized by kindness, compassion, and forgiveness. The Example of Christ Jesus Christ serves as the ultimate example of how to respond to slander. Despite being falsely accused and slandered throughout His ministry, Jesus remained silent and did not retaliate. In 1 Peter 2:23, it is written, "When they heaped abuse on Him, He did not retaliate; when He suffered, He made no threats, but entrusted Himself to Him who judges justly" . Christ's response to slander demonstrates the importance of trusting in God's justice rather than seeking personal vindication. Conclusion The Bible's teachings on slander are clear: it is a sin that should not be entertained or listened to. By adhering to biblical principles, believers can protect themselves from the harmful effects of slander and contribute to a community characterized by truth, integrity, and peace. Nave's Topical Index 1 Samuel 24:9And David said to Saul, Why hear you men's words, saying, Behold, David seeks your hurt? Nave's Topical Index Library The Testament of Joseph Concerning Sobriety. Dawn in the Hills Christ Manifesting Himself to his People The Old, Old Story Preparation for Revival Preparing to Depart The Great Change Meanwhile Florian Varillo had not Gone to Naples. ... The Glorious Habitation Righteous Hatred Resources What does the Bible say about slander? | GotQuestions.orgWhat does the Bible say about libel? | GotQuestions.org What does the Bible say about backstabbing? | 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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