Topical Encyclopedia Slander, defined as the act of making false and damaging statements about someone, is a grievous sin in the eyes of God. The Bible consistently condemns slander as a destructive force that undermines relationships, communities, and the moral fabric of society. It is considered an abomination because it directly contradicts the nature of God, who is truth and love.Biblical Condemnation of Slander The Scriptures are replete with warnings against slander. In the Old Testament, the book of Proverbs frequently addresses the issue. Proverbs 10:18 states, "He who conceals hatred has lying lips, and whoever spreads slander is a fool." This verse highlights the foolishness and malice inherent in slanderous behavior. Proverbs 16:28 further warns, "A perverse man spreads dissension, and a gossip separates close friends," illustrating the divisive nature of slander. The Psalms also speak against slander, emphasizing its destructive power. Psalm 101:5 declares, "Whoever slanders his neighbor in secret, him I will put to silence; the one with haughty eyes and a proud heart, him I will not endure." Here, God expresses His intolerance for those who engage in slander, equating it with pride and arrogance. Slander in the New Testament The New Testament continues this theme, with the apostles urging believers to avoid slanderous speech. In Ephesians 4:31, Paul instructs, "Get rid of all bitterness, rage and anger, outcry and slander, along with every form of malice." This exhortation is part of a broader call to live a life worthy of the calling received in Christ, characterized by love, humility, and unity. James, the brother of Jesus, also addresses the issue in his epistle. James 4:11 warns, "Brothers, do not slander one another. Anyone who speaks against his brother or judges him speaks against the law and judges it." This passage underscores the seriousness of slander, equating it with judging the law itself, which is contrary to the humility and grace expected of believers. The Spiritual Consequences of Slander Slander is not merely a social or ethical issue; it has profound spiritual implications. It is a manifestation of the sinful nature that believers are called to put to death. In Colossians 3:8, Paul writes, "But now you must put aside all such things as these: anger, rage, malice, slander, and filthy language from your mouth." Slander is listed among other sins that are incompatible with the new life in Christ. Furthermore, slander is a tool of the devil, who is described as "the accuser of our brothers" in Revelation 12:10. By engaging in slander, individuals align themselves with the adversary, rather than with God, who is the ultimate source of truth and righteousness. The Call to Righteous Speech Believers are called to a higher standard of communication, one that reflects the character of God. In Matthew 12:36-37, Jesus warns, "But I tell you that men will give an account on the day of judgment for every careless word they have spoken. For by your words you will be acquitted, and by your words you will be condemned." This sobering reminder emphasizes the importance of speaking truthfully and lovingly. The apostle Peter encourages believers to "rid yourselves of all malice and all deceit, hypocrisy, envy, and slander of every kind" (1 Peter 2:1). This call to purity in speech is part of the broader Christian ethic of love and holiness, reflecting the transformative power of the Gospel in the life of the believer. In summary, slander is a serious sin that God abhors. It is contrary to His nature and destructive to human relationships. The Bible calls believers to reject slander and embrace truth, love, and righteousness in their speech, reflecting the character of Christ in all they say and do. Torrey's Topical Textbook Proverbs 6:16,19These six things does the LORD hate: yes, seven are an abomination to him: Torrey's Topical Textbook Library Article I: of God. The Ninth Commandment The Excuses of Sinners Condemn God "All Our Righteousnesses are as Filthy Rags, and we all do Fade as ... An Israelite Indeed On Trusting in the Mercy of God. Ninth Commandment Joseph Book ii. Exposition of the Moral Law. 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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