Topical Encyclopedia Definition and Nature:Gossip, in the biblical context, refers to the act of spreading rumors or engaging in idle talk about others, often with the intent to harm reputations or sow discord. It is characterized by the sharing of information that is not one's own to share, often without regard for truth or the impact on those involved. Biblical References: The Bible addresses the issue of gossip in several passages, highlighting its destructive nature and the moral responsibility of believers to avoid it. In Proverbs 16:28, it is written, "A perverse man spreads dissension, and a gossip separates close friends." This verse underscores the divisive power of gossip, illustrating how it can fracture relationships and communities. In the New Testament, the Apostle Paul warns against gossip in his letters. In 2 Corinthians 12:20, he expresses concern about finding "quarreling, jealousy, rage, rivalries, slander, gossip, arrogance, and disorder" among the believers. Here, gossip is listed alongside other sins that disrupt the unity and peace of the church. Moral and Spiritual Implications: Gossip is considered a sin because it violates the principles of love, truth, and respect for others. It often involves deceit and can lead to false witness, which is condemned in the Ten Commandments (Exodus 20:16). The act of gossiping reflects a lack of self-control and a failure to love one's neighbor as oneself, as commanded in Matthew 22:39. The Book of James provides a broader context for understanding the power of the tongue. James 3:5-6 states, "So also the tongue is a small part of the body, but it boasts of great things. Consider how small a spark sets a great forest ablaze. The tongue also is a fire, a world of wickedness among the parts of the body." This passage emphasizes the potential for words to cause significant harm, likening the tongue to a fire that can destroy. Practical Guidance: Believers are encouraged to exercise wisdom and restraint in their speech. Proverbs 21:23 advises, "He who guards his mouth and tongue keeps his soul from distress." This suggests that self-control in speech is a protective measure for one's spiritual well-being. The New Testament further instructs Christians to speak in ways that build up rather than tear down. Ephesians 4:29 exhorts, "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 calls for speech that edifies and encourages, contrasting sharply with the destructive nature of gossip. Community and Church Context: In the context of the church, gossip can be particularly damaging, undermining trust and unity among believers. Leaders are called to set an example in speech and conduct, as seen in 1 Timothy 3:11, where deacons' wives are instructed to be "dignified, not slanderers, but temperate and faithful in all things." The early church faced challenges with gossip, as noted in 1 Timothy 5:13, where young widows are cautioned against becoming "idle, going from house to house, and not only idle but also gossips and busybodies, saying what they should not." This highlights the need for purposeful engagement in the community to prevent the spread of harmful talk. Conclusion: While the Bible does not provide an exhaustive list of every form of gossip, it clearly condemns the practice and calls believers to a higher standard of communication. By adhering to biblical principles, Christians are encouraged to foster environments of trust, love, and mutual respect, reflecting the character of Christ in their interactions. Greek 5588. psithuristes -- a whisperer ... corner." See 5587 (). Word Origin from the same as psithurismos Definition a whisperer NASB Word Usage gossips (1). whisperer. From the ... //strongsnumbers.com/greek2/5588.htm - 6k 5397. phluaros -- babbling 1228. diabolos -- slanderous, accusing falsely Library Society Soon Learned the News of the Countess Hermenstein's ... A Plea Regarding Christians by Athenagoras, the Athenian The Bible the Great Civilizer A Gentle Heroine, a Gentile Convert Memoir of John Bunyan The Same Night which Saw the Red Glare of the Burning Monastery ... part ii No one ever Afterwards Quite Knew How the Crowd in the Church ... Epiphanius Intervenes Love's Labours Thesaurus Gossips (5 Occurrences)... Multi-Version Concordance Gossips (5 Occurrences). ... Not only idle, but also gossips and busybodies, saying things which they ought not. (WEB WEY NAS RSV NIV). ... /g/gossips.htm - 7k Gadding (1 Occurrence) Gossiping (2 Occurrences) Mention (41 Occurrences) Busybodies (2 Occurrences) Merely (30 Occurrences) Idle (33 Occurrences) Habit (9 Occurrences) Besides (178 Occurrences) Learn (76 Occurrences) Resources What does the Bible say about gossip? | GotQuestions.orgWhat does it mean to have a double tongue? | GotQuestions.org Is “idle hands are the devil's workshop” a biblical statement? | GotQuestions.org Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus Concordance Gossips (5 Occurrences)Romans 1:29 1 Timothy 3:11 1 Timothy 5:13 2 Timothy 3:3 Titus 2:3 Subtopics Related Terms War-carriages (76 Occurrences) Good-for-nothing (22 Occurrences) |
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