Topical Encyclopedia Slander, defined as the act of making false and damaging statements about someone, is a sin condemned throughout Scripture. The Apostle Paul, a pivotal figure in the early Christian church, frequently encountered slander from various adversaries. These enemies sought to undermine his ministry and discredit his apostolic authority.Biblical Context Paul's ministry was marked by significant opposition, both from Jewish leaders and Gentile communities. His transformation from Saul, a persecutor of Christians, to Paul, a devoted apostle, was met with skepticism and hostility. This opposition often manifested in slanderous accusations aimed at discrediting his message and character. Jewish Opposition Paul's primary adversaries were often Jewish leaders who viewed his teachings as a threat to traditional Jewish beliefs. In Acts 13:45 , we read, "But when the Jews saw the crowds, they were filled with jealousy and began to contradict what Paul was saying and heaped abuse on him." This abuse included slanderous claims intended to undermine his credibility and authority. In Acts 21:28 , Paul is accused by Jews from Asia of defiling the temple, a serious charge that could incite violence: "Crying out, 'Men of Israel, help! This is the man who teaches all men everywhere against our people and our law and this place. And besides, he has brought Greeks into the temple and defiled this holy place.'" Such accusations were not only false but also strategically aimed at inciting public outrage against Paul. Gentile Opposition Paul also faced slander from Gentile communities, particularly when his teachings threatened their economic interests or cultural practices. In Acts 19:23-27 , the silversmith Demetrius incites a riot in Ephesus by claiming that Paul's message endangered their trade and the worship of the goddess Artemis. Demetrius's accusations were designed to portray Paul as a societal threat, thus rallying opposition against him. Internal Church Conflicts Even within the early Christian communities, Paul faced slander from false apostles and divisive individuals. In 2 Corinthians 10:10 , Paul addresses criticisms of his speaking ability and physical presence: "For some say, 'His letters are weighty and forceful, but his physical presence is unimpressive, and his speaking is of no account.'" These slanderous remarks aimed to diminish his influence and sow discord within the church. Paul's Response to Slander Paul's response to slander was rooted in his unwavering commitment to the truth of the Gospel and his reliance on God's vindication. In 1 Corinthians 4:12-13 , he writes, "When we are slandered, we answer kindly. Up to this moment we have become the scum of the earth, the refuse of the world." Paul exemplified humility and perseverance, choosing to respond with grace rather than retaliation. In 2 Corinthians 6:8 , Paul acknowledges the duality of his reputation: "through glory and dishonor, slander and praise; viewed as impostors, yet genuine." Despite the slander he faced, Paul remained steadfast in his mission, trusting that God would ultimately reveal the truth. Conclusion The slander faced by Paul serves as a testament to the challenges inherent in proclaiming the Gospel. His experiences highlight the spiritual warfare that accompanies the spread of Christianity and the resilience required to overcome false accusations. Through his example, believers are encouraged to remain faithful and respond to slander with integrity and grace. Torrey's Topical Textbook Acts 17:7Whom Jason has received: and these all do contrary to the decrees of Caesar, saying that there is another king, one Jesus. Torrey's Topical Textbook Library Aaron, his Office no Palliation of his Sin, 61. Introductory Note to the Epistle of Barnabas The Folly of Slander. Part 2. The Armour of God Endurance of the World's Censure. The Folly of Slander. Part 1. The Gentile Christian Theology. Paul and the Gospel of Faith. The Letter of Saint Polycarp, Letters to Olympias. Against those who Object Because the Devil Has not Been Put Out of ... 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 |