Topical Encyclopedia Slander, as understood within the biblical context, is a grievous sin that originates from the depths of an evil heart. It involves making false and damaging statements about others, often with the intent to harm their reputation or standing. The Bible consistently warns against this destructive behavior, highlighting its roots in the sinful nature of humanity.Biblical References and Teachings The Bible addresses slander in various passages, emphasizing its sinful nature and the heart from which it arises. In the Gospel of Matthew, Jesus teaches about the defilement that comes from within a person, stating, "But the things that come out of the mouth come from the heart, and these things defile a man. For out of the heart come evil thoughts, murder, adultery, sexual immorality, theft, false testimony, slander" (Matthew 15:18-19). Here, slander is listed among other serious sins, underscoring its origin in the evil heart. The Apostle Paul also addresses the issue of slander in his epistles. In his letter to the Ephesians, he exhorts believers to put away all forms of malice, including slander: "Get rid of all bitterness, rage and anger, outcry and slander, along with every form of malice" (Ephesians 4:31). This instruction highlights the need for Christians to actively reject slanderous behavior as part of their sanctification process. In the book of Proverbs, the destructive power of slander is further illustrated. Proverbs 10:18 states, "He who conceals hatred has lying lips, and whoever spreads slander is a fool" . This proverb links slander to foolishness and deceit, indicating that it is not only harmful to others but also reflects poorly on the character of the one who engages in it. The Heart as the Source of Slander The biblical perspective on slander is clear: it is a manifestation of the evil that resides in the human heart. Jesus' teachings in the Gospels consistently point to the heart as the source of sinful actions, including slander. In Mark 7:21-23, He elaborates, "For from within the hearts of men come evil thoughts, sexual immorality, theft, murder, adultery, greed, wickedness, deceit, debauchery, envy, slander, arrogance, and foolishness. All these evils come from within, and these are what defile a man" . This understanding aligns with the broader biblical narrative that emphasizes the fallen nature of humanity and the need for a transformed heart. The prophet Jeremiah famously declares, "The heart is deceitful above all things and beyond cure. Who can understand it?" (Jeremiah 17:9). This verse underscores the inherent sinfulness of the human heart, which can only be remedied through divine intervention and the transformative power of the Holy Spirit. Practical Implications for Believers For believers, the call to avoid slander is not merely a moral obligation but a reflection of their new identity in Christ. As followers of Jesus, Christians are called to emulate His character, which includes speaking truthfully and lovingly about others. The Apostle Peter encourages believers to "rid yourselves of all malice, deceit, hypocrisy, envy, and slander of every kind" (1 Peter 2:1), urging them to grow in spiritual maturity and holiness. Furthermore, the New Testament emphasizes the importance of building up the body of Christ through edifying speech. In Ephesians 4:29, Paul instructs, "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 directive serves as a reminder that the words of believers should reflect the love and grace of God, rather than the malice and deceit of an evil heart. Conclusion The biblical teaching on slander is clear: it is a sin that stems from the evil heart and is contrary to the character of God. Believers are called to reject slander and embrace speech that edifies and reflects their new identity in Christ. Through the power of the Holy Spirit, Christians can overcome the sinful inclinations of the heart and live in a manner that honors God and uplifts others. Torrey's Topical Textbook Matthew 15:19For out of the heart proceed evil thoughts, murders, adulteries, fornications, thefts, false witness, blasphemies: Torrey's Topical Textbook Luke 6:45 Library The Folly of Slander. Part 2. Knowledge. Worship. Gratitude. Consolation Proportionate to Spiritual Sufferings Dilemma and Deliverance The Sculptor's Work Of Evil-Speaking in General. The Snare of the Fowler Jesus Tells what it Means to be Clean Self-Destruction Fences and Serpents 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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