Topical Encyclopedia A talebearer, often synonymous with a gossip or slanderer, is a person who spreads rumors or secrets, often causing discord and strife within a community. The Bible addresses the issue of talebearing extensively, warning against its destructive nature and urging believers to pursue truth and peace.Proverbs 11:13 : "A gossip reveals a secret, but a trustworthy person keeps a confidence." This verse highlights the contrast between a talebearer and a person of integrity. The talebearer is depicted as someone who cannot be trusted with confidential information, while the righteous individual respects privacy and maintains trust. Proverbs 16:28 : "A perverse man spreads dissension, and a gossip separates close friends." Here, the talebearer is associated with causing division and strife. The act of spreading rumors is seen as perverse, leading to broken relationships and discord among friends. Proverbs 18:8 : "The words of a gossip are like choice morsels; they go down into the inmost being." This verse illustrates the enticing nature of gossip. The words of a talebearer may seem appealing and intriguing, yet they penetrate deeply, affecting the hearts and minds of those who listen. Proverbs 20:19 : "He who reveals secrets is a constant gossip; avoid the one who babbles with his lips." The scripture advises believers to distance themselves from those who cannot keep secrets. The talebearer is portrayed as someone who incessantly talks, often to the detriment of others. Leviticus 19:16 : "You must not go about spreading slander among your people. You must not endanger the life of your neighbor. I am the LORD." In this commandment, God explicitly instructs His people to refrain from slander and talebearing. The act is not only socially harmful but also spiritually significant, as it is a direct violation of God's law. Psalm 15:1-3 : "O LORD, who may abide in Your tent? Who may dwell on Your holy hill? 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 a scorn on his friend." This passage describes the character of those who are worthy to dwell in the presence of God. A key attribute is the absence of slander, emphasizing the importance of pure and truthful speech. James 4:11 : "Brothers, do not slander one another. Anyone who speaks against his brother or judges him speaks against the law and judges it." The New Testament reiterates the Old Testament's teachings, urging believers to refrain from speaking ill of one another. Slander is equated with judging the law, highlighting its seriousness. Ephesians 4:29 : "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." This exhortation encourages believers to use their words constructively. Instead of engaging in talebearing, Christians are called to speak words that edify and impart grace. The scriptures consistently portray talebearing as a harmful and sinful practice, urging believers to pursue truth, integrity, and peace in their speech and relationships. Nave's Topical Index Leviticus 19:16You shall not go up and down as a talebearer among your people: neither shall you stand against the blood of your neighbor; I am the LORD. Nave's Topical Index Psalm 15:1-3 Proverbs 11:13 Proverbs 16:28 Proverbs 17:9 Proverbs 18:8 Proverbs 20:19 Proverbs 26:20-22 1 Timothy 5:11,13 Resources What does the Bible say about gossip? | GotQuestions.orgWhat does it mean to love your neighbor as you love yourself? | GotQuestions.org Talebearer: Dictionary and Thesaurus | Clyx.com Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus |
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