Topical Bible: Slander: Includes: Evil Surmising

◄ Slander: Includes: Evil Surmising ►

Topical Encyclopedia

Definition and Nature:
Slander is the act of making false and damaging statements about someone. It is a form of defamation that is spoken rather than written. In the biblical context, slander is considered a serious sin, as it not only harms the reputation of the individual being spoken about but also reflects a corrupt heart in the speaker. Slander is often associated with malice, deceit, and a lack of love for one's neighbor.

Biblical References:
The Bible frequently addresses the issue of slander, warning against it and highlighting its destructive nature. In the Old Testament, the book of Leviticus commands, "You must not go about spreading slander among your people. You must not endanger the life of your neighbor. I am the LORD" (Leviticus 19:16). This command underscores the seriousness with which God views slander, equating it with endangering another's life.

In the New Testament, the apostle Paul lists slander among the sins that characterize those who live according to the flesh: "They have become filled with every kind of wickedness, evil, greed, and depravity. They are full of envy, murder, strife, deceit, and malice. They are gossips, slanderers, God-haters, insolent, arrogant, and boastful" (Romans 1:29-30). Here, slander is grouped with other grave sins, indicating its severity in the eyes of God.

Evil Surmising:
Evil surmising refers to the act of assuming the worst about others without evidence, often leading to slanderous speech. It involves forming negative judgments or suspicions about someone’s motives or actions, which can result in spreading falsehoods. The apostle Paul warns against such behavior in his letters, emphasizing the importance of love and truth in Christian conduct.

In 1 Timothy 6:4, Paul describes those who engage in evil surmising as "conceited and understanding nothing, but having a sick craving for controversy and for disputes about words, out of which come envy, strife, abusive talk, evil suspicions" . This passage highlights the destructive outcomes of evil surmising, including strife and abusive talk, which are contrary to the unity and peace that should characterize the body of Christ.

Moral and Spiritual Implications:
Slander and evil surmising are not merely social offenses but are deeply spiritual issues. They reveal a heart that is not aligned with the love and truth of God. Jesus taught that "out of the overflow of the heart, the mouth speaks" (Matthew 12:34), indicating that slanderous words stem from a heart that needs transformation.

The Bible calls believers to a higher standard of speech, one that builds up rather than tears down. Ephesians 4:29 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 encourages Christians to speak words that edify and reflect the character of Christ.

Practical Considerations:
To avoid slander and evil surmising, believers are encouraged to cultivate a heart of love, humility, and truth. James 1:19 advises, "Everyone should be quick to listen, slow to speak, and slow to anger" , promoting a thoughtful and measured approach to communication. Additionally, seeking reconciliation and understanding rather than assuming the worst can prevent the spread of falsehoods and foster a spirit of unity within the community of faith.

Torrey's Topical Textbook

1 Timothy 6:4
He is proud, knowing nothing, but doting about questions and strifes of words, whereof comes envy, strife, railings, evil surmisings,
Torrey's Topical Textbook