Topical Bible: Busybody: General Scriptures Concerning

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A "busybody" is a term used in the Bible to describe someone who meddles in the affairs of others, often causing unnecessary trouble or discord. This behavior is generally discouraged in Scripture, as it can lead to division and strife within the community of believers. The Bible provides several passages that address the issue of being a busybody, offering guidance on how Christians should conduct themselves in relation to others.

1. 1 Thessalonians 4:11-12 :
"Make it your ambition to lead a quiet life, to mind your own business, and to work with your own hands, just as we instructed you, so that you will behave properly toward outsiders and not be dependent on anyone."

In this passage, the Apostle Paul encourages believers to focus on their own responsibilities and to live quietly, avoiding unnecessary interference in the lives of others. This instruction is given to promote a good testimony among non-believers and to ensure that Christians are self-sufficient and not burdensome to others.

2. 2 Thessalonians 3:11-12 :
"We hear that some among you are idle. They are not busy; they are busybodies. We command and urge such people by our Lord Jesus Christ to begin working quietly to earn their own living."

Here, Paul addresses the issue of idleness leading to meddling. He admonishes those who are not productively engaged in work to cease being busybodies and to focus on earning their own living. This directive underscores the importance of personal responsibility and diligence in one's own affairs.

3. 1 Timothy 5:13 :
"At the same time, they also learn to be idle, going from house to house. And not only do they become idlers, but also busybodies who talk nonsense, saying things they should not."

In this context, Paul warns against the dangers of idleness, particularly among younger widows, who may become busybodies by engaging in gossip and spreading rumors. The passage highlights the potential for harm when individuals neglect their own duties and instead focus on the affairs of others.

4. 1 Peter 4:15 :
"But if you suffer, it should not be as a murderer or thief or any other kind of criminal, or even as a meddler."

Peter includes being a meddler, or busybody, alongside more serious offenses such as murder and theft. This comparison emphasizes the seriousness with which the early church viewed the act of meddling in others' affairs. It serves as a warning to believers to avoid such behavior, which is contrary to the Christian call to love and peace.

5. Proverbs 26:17 :
"Like one who grabs a dog by the ears is a passerby who meddles in a quarrel not his own."

This proverb uses vivid imagery to illustrate the foolishness and potential danger of involving oneself in disputes that do not concern them. It serves as a caution against the impulsive and reckless behavior of a busybody, which can lead to unnecessary conflict and harm.

These scriptures collectively provide a clear biblical perspective on the issue of being a busybody. They encourage believers to focus on their own responsibilities, to work diligently, and to avoid unnecessary interference in the lives of others, promoting peace and harmony within the community of faith.

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Leviticus 19:16
You shall not go up and down as a talebearer among your people: neither shall you stand against the blood of your neighbor; I am the LORD.
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Proverbs 20:3
It is an honor for a man to cease from strife: but every fool will be meddling.
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2 Thessalonians 3:11,12
For we hear that there are some which walk among you disorderly, working not at all, but are busybodies.
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1 Timothy 5:13
And with they learn to be idle, wandering about from house to house; and not only idle, but tattlers also and busybodies, speaking things which they ought not.
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1 Peter 4:15
But let none of you suffer as a murderer, or as a thief, or as an evildoer, or as a busybody in other men's matters.
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Seasonable Counsel: Or, Advice to Sufferers.
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