Bible Study Guide

What Does the Bible Say About What does the bible say about gossip?

The Bible addresses what does the bible say about gossip in both the Old and New Testament. Here is what scripture teaches about what does the bible say about gossip and how these 8 passages apply to Christian life today.

Exploring 8 Key Passages

1. Proverbs 16:28

A froward man soweth strife: and a whisperer separateth chief friends.KJV

This verse warns that gossip and whispered words can destroy even the closest friendships. It shows how gossip creates division and conflict between people who were once united.

2. Proverbs 11:13

A talebearer revealeth secrets: but he that is of a faithful spirit concealeth the matter.KJV

This verse contrasts the gossiper who spreads secrets with the faithful person who keeps confidences. It emphasizes the importance of trustworthiness and discretion in relationships.

3. Proverbs 20:19

He that goeth about as a talebearer revealeth secrets: therefore meddle not with him that flattereth with his lips.KJV

This warning advises avoiding people who gossip and reveal secrets. It suggests that those who flatter and gossip are untrustworthy companions who should be avoided.

4. Leviticus 19:16

Thou shalt not go up and down as a talebearer among thy people: neither shalt thou stand against the blood of thy neighbour: I am the Lord.KJV

This is a direct commandment from God forbidding gossip and tale-bearing among His people. It places gossip alongside serious offenses, showing how destructive it can be to community relationships.

5. Proverbs 26:20

Where no wood is, there the fire goeth out: so where there is no talebearer, the strife ceaseth.KJV

This verse compares gossip to fuel for a fire, illustrating how removing gossip extinguishes conflict. It shows that gossip perpetuates and intensifies disputes between people.

6. 1 Timothy 5:13

And withal 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.KJV

Paul warns against becoming gossips and busybodies who spread inappropriate information. This verse connects idleness with gossip and emphasizes the harm of speaking things that shouldn't be shared.

7. Ephesians 4:29

Let no corrupt communication proceed out of your mouth, but that which is good to the use of edifying, that it may minister grace unto the hearers.KJV

This verse instructs believers to avoid corrupt speech, including gossip, and instead speak words that build others up. It emphasizes that our words should bring grace and encouragement to those who hear them.

8. Romans 1:29

Being filled with all unrighteousness, fornication, wickedness, covetousness, maliciousness; full of envy, murder, debate, deceit, malignity; whisperers,KJV

Paul lists whisperers (gossips) among serious sins in his description of human depravity. This placement shows that God views gossip as a significant moral failing alongside other grave offenses.

Summary

Key Takeaways About What does the bible say about gossip

  • This verse warns that gossip and whispered words can destroy even the closest friendships.
  • This verse contrasts the gossiper who spreads secrets with the faithful person who keeps confidences.
  • This warning advises avoiding people who gossip and reveal secrets.
  • This is a direct commandment from God forbidding gossip and tale-bearing among His people.
  • This verse compares gossip to fuel for a fire, illustrating how removing gossip extinguishes conflict.
  • Paul warns against becoming gossips and busybodies who spread inappropriate information.

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Scripture About What does the bible say about gossipRead with explanations and commentaryBible Verses About What does the bible say about gossipQuick-reference verse list by book

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