Title: Slander – Don’t Do It
Introduction – Slander is wrong
In our journey through life, we often find ourselves confronted with situations where words can either build up or tear down. In this article, we will explore the insidious practice of slander, a destructive force that can severely harm an individual’s reputation. Slander is a topic that addressed in many parts of the Bible, and it is essential that we understand and address it in our lives.
What is Slander?
Slander can be succinctly defined as words falsely spoken with the malicious intent to damage the reputation of another. It involves charging someone falsely or launching an abusive attack on their character or good name. Typical slanderous statements often begin with expressions like “I feel,” “it seems to me,” or “some people feel,” followed by justifications such as “it’s just my opinion” or “aren’t I allowed to have an opinion?” These non-factual statements often hide behind a façade of personal preference or freedom of speech.
It is important to recognize that we can sometimes cloak slander by labeling it with unbiblical terms such as “negativity.” When we do this, we fail to confront it as the serious sin it truly is. Being negative about a person, a group, oneself, or even God is a form of slander, as it tarnishes their character or reputation.
Ephesians 4:29 Do not let any unwholesome talk come out of your mouths, but only what is helpful for building others up according to their needs, that it may benefit those who listen.
Ephesians 4:29 serves as a reminder of our responsibility to speak words that uplift and encourage, rather than tearing down with slander.
No One Should Be Slandered
The Bible makes it clear that no one should be subjected to slander, regardless of their status or relationship to us. This includes our friends, leaders, politicians, bosses at work, colleagues, sports stars, fellow believers in Christ, family members, and even our enemies. We must separate the sin from the individual, for failing to do so risks alienating those we wish to lead to Christ.
Titus 3:1-2 Remind the people to be subject to rulers and authorities, to be obedient, to be ready to do whatever is good, to slander no one, to be peaceable and considerate, and to show true humility toward all men.
Jude 1:9 But even the archangel Michael, when he was disputing with the devil about the body of Moses, did not dare to bring a slanderous accusation against him, but said, “The Lord rebuke you! ”
Slander is a Characteristic of Satan
The essence of slander can be likened to the characteristics of Satan. In its rawest form, it is lying – the act of spreading non-truths and making accusations with the intent to harm someone’s character. Slander is, in essence, an accuser, a role that belongs to Satan.
Revelation 12:10 Then I heard a loud voice in heaven say: “Now have come the salvation and the power and the kingdom of our God, and the authority of his Christ. For the accuser of our brothers, who accuses them before our God day and night, has been hurled down.
The Example of Job
To further understand the consequences of slander, we can refer to the story of Job in the book of Job, chapters 1 and 2. In these chapters, we witness the devastation caused by slanderous accusations. Job’s character and faith are tested, and he endures immense suffering due to the slanderous accusations against him.
Slander is a destructive force that goes against the principles of love, respect, and humility that are central to the Christian faith. Let us strive to follow the guidance of the Bible, refraining from engaging in slander and instead choosing words that uplift and encourage. By doing so, we can better reflect the love and grace of our Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ. Join us as we jump right into this in-depth Bible study!
Point 1. What must our attitude be towards slander?
Slander, without a doubt, is a harmful and wrong act that runs contrary to the principles of love, compassion, and truth upheld in Christian teachings. It is essential that we align our attitudes with God’s perspective on slander, recognizing its destructive nature.
God’s Displeasure with Slander
The Bible makes it abundantly clear that slander is a practice deeply displeasing to God. As stated in Leviticus 19:16-18:
Leviticus 19:16-18 Do not go about spreading slander among your people. Do not do anything that endangers your neighbor’s life. I am the Lord. Do not hate your brother in your heart. Rebuke your neighbor frankly so you will not share in his guilt. Do not seek revenge or bear a grudge against one of your people, but love your neighbor as yourself. I am the Lord.
This passage highlights the importance of valuing the well-being of our neighbors and refraining from participating in actions that harm their reputation or character. God’s disdain for slander is a stark reminder of the values we should hold.
Proverbs 6:16-19 There are six things the Lord hates, seven that are detestable to him: haughty eyes, a lying tongue, hands that shed innocent blood, a heart that devises wicked schemes, feet that are quick to rush into evil, a false witness who pours out lies and a man who stirs up dissension among brothers.
Speaking Truth in Love
When confronted with an issue that might lead to slander or false accusations, the Christian response should be to “speak the truth in love.” Ephesians 4:15 encourages us to address problems directly and honestly, nurturing a spirit of reconciliation and understanding:
Ephesians 4:15 Instead, speaking the truth in love, we will grow to become in every respect the mature body of him who is the head, that is, Christ.
This approach, rooted in love and truth, can contribute to resolving conflicts without resorting to slanderous behavior.
Removing Slander from Our Lives
Slander is to be completely eradicated from our actions, but also from every aspect of our inner attitudes and behaviors.
Ephesians 4:31-32 Get rid of all bitterness, rage and anger, brawling and slander, along with every form of malice. Be kind and compassionate to one another, forgiving each other, just as in Christ God forgave you.
Colossians 3:8 But now you must rid yourselves of all such things as these: anger, rage, malice, slander, and filthy language from your lips.
1 Peter 2:1 Therefore, rid yourselves of all malice and all deceit, hypocrisy, envy, and slander of every kind.
Our inner attitudes and behaviors should reflect our commitment to removing slander and any other forms of malice from our lives. This is a call to introspection, asking us to cleanse our hearts and minds of any elements that might give rise to these sins in our lives.
Viewing Slander as a Blessing
On the other hand, one of the most challenging aspects of responding to slanderers is to see it as an opportunity for spiritual growth rather than a reason for retaliation. Matthew 5:11-12 teaches:
Matthew 5:11-12 Blessed are you when people insult you, persecute you and falsely say all kinds of evil against you because of me. Rejoice and be glad, because great is your reward in heaven, for in the same way they persecuted the prophets who were before you.
As followers of Christ, we should find solace in knowing that our Christlikeness may draw criticism. Rather than seeking revenge, we should view such trials as blessings, as they demonstrate our commitment to Christ’s teachings and the promise of a heavenly reward.
In summary, our attitude towards slander should reflect God’s perspective – one of disapproval and a commitment to truth, love, and spiritual growth. Slander can be a test of our faith and Christlikeness, and it is through this lens that we must approach it.
Point 2. What Are the Consequences of Slander in Our Lives?
Slander, a practice that inflicts harm through false accusations and spoken malice, carries profound consequences in the lives of individuals. To fully grasp its impact, we must consider the biblical perspective on its repercussions.
Separation from God
Sin drives a wedge between the slanderer and God. In Psalms 15:1-3, we are reminded of the traits and behaviors that are pleasing to the Lord:
Psalms 15:1-3 Lord, who may dwell in your sanctuary? Who may live on your holy hill? He whose walk is blameless and who does what is righteous, who speaks the truth from his heart and has no slander on his tongue, who does his neighbor no wrong and casts no slur on his fellowman,
This passage emphasizes that those who speak maliciously about others are, in essence, moving away from the attributes and character that are welcomed in the presence of the Lord. Slander, being an act of dishonesty and ill-will, separates individuals from the close, harmonious relationship with God.
Isolation from Other Believers
Slander not only separates us from God but can also lead to isolation from fellow believers. In 1 Corinthians 5:11, we find guidance on disassociating from certain behaviors:
1 Corinthians 5:11 But now I am writing you that you must not associate with anyone who calls himself a brother but is sexually immoral or greedy, an idolater or a slanderer, a drunkard or a swindler. With such a man do not even eat.
This passage underscores the importance of maintaining fellowship with individuals who share the Christian faith and values. Slander disrupts this fellowship, leading to exclusion and isolation within the Christian community. Due to its divisive nature, it can cause rifts and estrangement among believers, undermining the unity that is central to Christian faith. Besides, when you speak ill of other believers, you forget that they are God’s children; how do you think He would feel about your words?
Proverbs 30:10 Do not slander a servant to his master, or he will curse you, and you will pay for it.
Building Harmful Relationships
Slander and the heart behind it, if left unaddressed, can give rise to anger and harmful intentions towards others. Psalms 31:13 illustrates how it can lead to conspiracies and harm:
Psalms 31:13 For I hear the slander of many; there is terror on every side; they conspire against me and plot to take my life.
This passage serves as a stark warning of how slander, or the malicious intent that fuels it, can lead to a spiral of negative emotions, plotting, and harm. When left unchecked, it can pave the way for escalating disputes, animosity, and even physical harm. Such behavior is contrary to the Christian call for peace, love, and reconciliation.
Foolish Behavior
Slander not only harms others but also diminishes the character of the one engaging in it. Proverbs 10:18 highlights the foolishness of spreading slander:
Proverbs 10:18 He who conceals his hatred has lying lips, and whoever spreads slander is a fool.
The word for “fool” in the book of Proverbs denotes moral insufficiency, not only intellectual. Engaging in slander not only damages one’s relationships and reputation but also casts the slanderer in a negative light. Others may perceive the slanderer as a fool, diminishing their credibility and moral standing. It therefore not only hurts others but ultimately hurts the one who perpetrates it.
Grief to the Holy Spirit
Slander grieves the Holy Spirit, causing pain and distress to the divine presence within us. Ephesians 4:29-32 offers a clear admonition:
Ephesians 4:29-32 Do not let any unwholesome talk come out of your mouths, but only what is helpful for building others up according to their needs, that it may benefit those who listen. And do not grieve the Holy Spirit of God, with whom you were sealed for the day of redemption. Get rid of all bitterness, rage and anger, brawling and slander, along with every form of malice. Be kind and compassionate to one another, forgiving each other, just as in Christ God forgave you.
Slandering others contradicts the love for God and His Spirit, leading to sorrow and estrangement. It is essential to recognize that when we engage in slander, we grieve the very presence of God within us. It becomes a source of spiritual distress and distance from the divine.
Bar to Heaven
Perhaps the gravest consequence of slander is its potential to prevent individuals from inheriting the kingdom of God. 1 Corinthians 6:9-10 serves as a stark reminder:
1 Corinthians 6:9-10 Do you not know that the wicked will not inherit the kingdom of God? Do not be deceived: Neither the sexually immoral nor idolaters nor adulterers nor male prostitutes nor homosexual offenders nor thieves nor the greedy nor drunkards nor slanderers nor swindlers will inherit the kingdom of God.
This passage emphasizes that slander is among the behaviors that can bar individuals from entering God’s kingdom. This is a form of deception and falsehood, and jeopardizes one’s eternal destiny. The ramifications extend beyond this life, impacting one’s spiritual future.
Revelation 21:8 But the cowardly, the unbelieving, the vile, the murderers, the sexually immoral, those who practice magic arts, the idolaters and all liars –their place will be in the fiery lake of burning sulfur. This is the second death. ”
In summary, the consequences of slander are far-reaching, impacting one’s relationship with God, fellowship with fellow believers, and even their eternal destiny. Recognizing the gravity of this sin should compel us to embrace a life guided by truth, love, and reconciliation. Slander must be viewed as a grave departure from the Christian path, one that we must avoid to maintain our spiritual well-being and our place in God’s kingdom.
Point 3. Where Does Slander Come From?
Slander is a destructive practice, and understanding its origins is crucial in addressing and preventing it. The Bible provides insight into the sources of slander and the reasons behind it, shedding light on the need for self-examination and transformation.
Originating from the Heart
Slander finds its roots within the human heart, and therefore we must take personal responsibility for it as any other sin. There is never an acceptable justification in God’s eyes. In Luke 6:45, we are reminded that:
Luke 6:45 The good man brings good things out of the good stored up in his heart, and the evil man brings evil things out of the evil stored up in his heart. For out of the overflow of his heart his mouth speaks.
Mark 7:20-23 He went on: “What comes out of a man is what makes him ‘unclean.’ For from within, out of men’s hearts, come evil thoughts, sexual immorality, theft, murder, adultery, greed, malice, deceit, lewdness, envy, slander, arrogance and folly. All these evils come from inside and make a man ‘unclean.’ ”
These verses underscores that slander is not just a random act but reflects the condition of one’s heart. When evil thoughts, malice, and deceit fester within, they can manifest as slanderous speech. It is essential to recognize that this originates from an individual’s inner disposition.
No one forces us to tarnish another person’s reputation. Slander often arises from our own desires, fueled by the desire to elevate ourselves or to cope with difficult situations. Slander may seem like a way to make ourselves feel better, but it ultimately harms others and erodes our own character.
Hurt and Unresolved Pain
Slander can also stem from unresolved hurt. When individuals experience insensitivity, sin, or misfortune, they may harbor unaddressed pain that can manifest as slander. Ezekiel 36:3 alludes to how malicious talk can result from people’s hurtful actions.
Ezekiel 36:3 Therefore prophesy and say, ‘This is what the Sovereign Lord says: Because they ravaged and hounded you from every side so that you became the possession of the rest of the nations and the object of people’s malicious talk and slander,
Moreover, it can arise from righteous challenges that an individual has not appropriately dealt with, leading to negative and hurtful behavior.
When life does not unfold as expected, it can also lead to feelings of hurt and disappointment. These unmet expectations can contribute to the desire to inflict pain on others through slander. Such behavior, driven by resentment, is what we refer to as malicious slander.
Idleness and Excess Time
1 Timothy 5:13-15 Besides, they get into the habit of being idle and going about from house to house. And not only do they become idlers, but also gossips and busybodies, saying things they ought not to. So I counsel younger widows to marry, to have children, to manage their homes and to give the enemy no opportunity for slander. Some have in fact already turned away to follow Satan.
Titus 2:3-4 Likewise, teach the older women to be reverent in the way they live, not to be slanderers or addicted to much wine, but to teach what is good. Then they can train the younger women to love their husbands and children,
Idleness and excessive free time can create opportunities for slander. When people have too much time on their hands, boredom can set in, leading to sinful behaviors such as slander and gossip. Proverbs 10:19 wisely reminds us:
"When words are many, sin is not absent, but he who holds his tongue is wise."
It’s a call to exercise wisdom and restraint when idle time tempts us toward slanderous conversation.
Jealousy and Insecurity
Slander is often rooted in jealousy and insecurity. When individuals are driven by pride and the need to appear superior to others, they may resort to character assassination to tear down their perceived rivals. This behavior is often an expression of insecurity, as it seeks validation from others rather than finding security in the love of God.
Psalms 56:2 My slanderers pursue me all day long; many are attacking me in their pride.
Common among Unspiritual People
Slander can be prevalent in particular circles, including those who are merely religious but lack righteousness and a heart for God. It can also manifest among those who have drifted away from their faith or who lack spiritual discernment. Remember, if they slander others in front of you, they will also slander you in front of others.
2 Timothy 3:1-5 But mark this: There will be terrible times in the last days. People will be lovers of themselves, lovers of money, boastful, proud, abusive, disobedient to their parents, ungrateful, unholy, without love, unforgiving, slanderous, without self- control, brutal, not lovers of the good, treacherous, rash, conceited, lovers of pleasure rather than lovers of God– having a form of godliness but denying its power. Have nothing to do with them.
Paul’s warning in 2 Timothy 3:1-5 reminds us of the characteristics of those who engage in slander, emphasizing the importance of distancing oneself from such behaviors. Romans 3:8 also describes some persecutors and critics of Paul who have resorted to lies in order to justify their own opposition of his preaching.
Romans 3:8 Why not say–as we are being slanderously reported as saying and as some claim that we say–“Let us do evil that good may result”? Their condemnation is deserved.
In conclusion, slander’s roots are complex, originating from the human heart and often driven by desires, unresolved pain, jealousy, insecurity, and idleness. Recognizing these origins is crucial for addressing and preventing slander in our lives and communities.
Point 4. How Should We Respond to Slander When It Happens to Us?
Encountering slander can be a distressing experience, but the Bible offers guidance on how we should respond to it when we become its target.
Expectation of Slander
First and foremost, we should not be surprised when slander occurs in our lives. Attacking others has been a part of the human experience for centuries, even affecting great men and women of faith. In the Psalms, we find accounts of David, a revered figure in biblical history, enduring smearingfrom various sources, including his enemies, his mentor and King, Saul, his first wife, his son Absalom, and even his friends.
Psalms 31:13 For I hear the slander of many; there is terror on every side; they conspire against me and plot to take my life.
Psalms 35:15 But when I stumbled, they gathered in glee; attackers gathered against me when I was unaware. They slandered me without ceasing.
Psalms 38:20 Those who repay my good with evil slander me when I pursue what is good.
Psalms 41:6 Whenever one comes to see me, he speaks falsely, while his heart gathers slander; then he goes out and spreads it abroad.
These verses remind us that slander is not selective; it can happen to anyone, even those who are sinless or blameless in a situation. It happened to the perfect Jesus who never sinned! He was accused of even being a glutton and a drunkard because He had such a good time in life.
Matthew 11:19 The Son of Man came eating and drinking, and they say, ‘Here is a glutton and a drunkard, a friend of tax collectors and sinners.’ But wisdom is proved right by her deeds.”
Responding to Slander
When slander strikes, our response should align with the teachings of Scripture:
- Follow Christ’s Example: Emulate the example set by Jesus in the face of slander. In 1 Peter 2:23, we are reminded that when He faced insults and suffering, He did not retaliate or make threats. Instead, He entrusted Himself to the one who judges justly.
1 Peter 2:23 When they hurled their insults at him, he did not retaliate; when he suffered, he made no threats. Instead, he entrusted himself to him who judges justly.
- Seek God’s Counsel: When slander occurs, take your concerns and feelings to God in prayer. It’s vital to work through your emotions with Him instead of sharing them with others, which may lead to further slander or gossip. Trust that God knows the truth and will bring about justice in His time.
- Replace Untruth with Truth: Use the Bible to replace untruth with truth in your heart and mind. God’s Word is a powerful tool for disciplining your emotions and countering slander, especially when it targets God, yourself, or the church. Seek solace and guidance in the Scriptures.
Psalms 119:23 Though rulers sit together and slander me, your servant will meditate on your decrees.
- Answer Kindly: When responding to false accusations, answer kindly. Do not let personal feelings or hurt lead you to take it personally. Separate the sin from the sinner, maintaining a spirit of compassion and forgiveness. As 1 Corinthians 4:13 advises, answer kindly even when slandered.
1 Corinthians 4:13 when we are slandered, we answer kindly. Up to this moment we have become the scum of the earth, the refuse of the world.
- Promote Blessing: In line with 1 Peter 3:8-12, refrain from repaying evil with evil or insult with insult. Instead, respond with a spirit of blessing. Pursue peace and seek to inherit God’s blessing, knowing that the Lord watches over the righteous and listens to their prayers.
1 Peter 3:8-12 Finally, all of you, live in harmony with one another; be sympathetic, love as brothers, be compassionate and humble. Do not repay evil with evil or insult with insult, but with blessing, because to this you were called so that you may inherit a blessing. For, “Whoever would love life and see good days must keep his tongue from evil and his lips from deceitful speech. He must turn from evil and do good; he must seek peace and pursue it. For the eyes of the Lord are on the righteous and his ears are attentive to their prayer, but the face of the Lord is against those who do evil. ”
Relationship with Slanderers
When dealing with individuals who exhibit a persistent, unrepentant pattern of slander, it’s important to consider your relationship with them:
- Avoid Unrepentant Slanderers: 2 Timothy 3:1-5 warns about terrible times in which people may be slanderous and lovers of themselves. In such cases, it’s wise to have nothing to do with unrepentant individuals who engage in smearing others.
2 Timothy 3:1-5 But mark this: There will be terrible times in the last days. People will be lovers of themselves, lovers of money, boastful, proud, abusive, disobedient to their parents, ungrateful, unholy, without love, unforgiving, slanderous, without self- control, brutal, not lovers of the good, treacherous, rash, conceited, lovers of pleasure rather than lovers of God– having a form of godliness but denying its power. Have nothing to do with them.
- Challenge and Disciple Fellow Believers: If a fellow Christian is caught in the sin of slander, it is your responsibility to challenge and disciple them. Confront the issue with love and guidance, seeking their transformation and restoration. It is an opportunity for spiritual growth and healing within the body of Christ.
Psalms 50:20-21 You speak continually against your brother and slander your own mother’s son. These things you have done and I kept silent; you thought I was altogether like you. But I will rebuke you and accuse you to your face.
- Address the Root Issue: When dealing with slanderers, it is essential to address the root issue. Character assassination is often symptomatic of deeper sin, such as bitterness, anger, sexual immorality, and pride. Don’t shy away from asking difficult questions to uncover underlying issues.
Romans 1:28-32 Furthermore, since they did not think it worthwhile to retain the knowledge of God, he gave them over to a depraved mind, to do what ought not to be done. 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; they invent ways of doing evil; they disobey their parents; they are senseless, faithless, heartless, ruthless. Although they know God’s righteous decree that those who do such things deserve death, they not only continue to do these very things but also approve of those who practice them.
2 Corinthians 12:20 For I am afraid that when I come I may not find you as I want you to be, and you may not find me as you want me to be. I fear that there may be quarreling, jealousy, outbursts of anger, factions, slander, gossip, arrogance and disorder.
- Withdraw Fellowship When Necessary: In cases of unrepentant slanderers, it may become necessary to withdraw fellowship. As 1 Corinthians 5:11 advises, those who persist in attacking others and refuse to repent should not be associated with, even within the community of believers.
1 Corinthians 5:11 But now I am writing you that you must not associate with anyone who calls himself a brother but is sexually immoral or greedy, an idolater or a slanderer, a drunkard or a swindler. With such a man do not even eat.
In responding to slander, it is crucial to maintain a Christ-like disposition, grounded in love, truth, and wisdom. Additionally, exercising discernment and offering guidance to those who engage in slander can be an opportunity for transformation and growth within the body of believers.
Conclusion
Title: Slander – Don’t Do It.
In our exploration of the topic of slander, we’ve delved into four key points that shed light on this destructive behavior:
- Our Attitude Towards Slander: We discussed the importance of recognizing slander as a sin, understanding its origins, and approaching it with a radical Christ-like attitude. As believers, we are called to confront it with love and truth.
- Consequences of Slander in Our Lives: We examined the far-reaching consequences of slander, which can separate us from God, isolate us from fellow believers, and harm our relationships. It can lead to anger, harmful plots, and even spiritual death.
- The Origins of Slander: Slander finds its roots in the human heart, often driven by desires, unresolved pain, jealousy, insecurity, idleness, and more. Recognizing these origins is essential for addressing it effectively.
- Responding to Slander When It Happens to Us: We considered how we should respond when we become the target. Expecting it and responding with Christ-like love, prayer, and wisdom is the biblical approach. We also explored the need to address the root issues in those who engage in slander and, when necessary, withdraw fellowship from unrepentant slanderers.
A Radical Solution: Dealing with Slander at the Heart Level
Slander is a serious matter, and the Bible instructs us to take it seriously. Zechariah 7:10 reminds us not to think evil of one another in our hearts. We are called to deal with sin at its root, which often lies in our thoughts.
Zechariah 7:10 In your hearts do not think evil of each other
The words we speak hold significant weight. Matthew 12:35-36 highlights the accountability we bear for every careless word spoken. As believers, we must be vigilant in our words and thoughts, striving to align them with the values of our faith.
Matthew 12:35-36 The good man brings good things out of the good stored up in him, and the evil man brings evil things out of the evil stored up in him. But I tell you that men will have to give account on the day of judgment for every careless word they have spoken.
The solution lies in a radical approach: replace slanderous thoughts with the memorization of Scripture. Ephesians 4:29 provides a clear directive to guard our speech, ensuring that our words are wholesome, edifying, and beneficial to others.
The Challenge: Taking Action
Ephesians 4:29 Do not let any unwholesome talk come out of your mouths, but only what is helpful for building others up according to their needs, that it may benefit those who listen.
As we conclude, I challenge you to take this verse to heart, write it where you can see it frequently, and diligently obey it. Let us take the call to eliminate unwholesome talk seriously, replacing it with words that build others up according to their needs and benefit those who listen.
In addressing slander at the heart level, we not only honor God but also contribute to a more loving, harmonious, and edifying community. By confronting malice within ourselves and in others, we align with the teachings of Scripture, fostering a culture of love, grace, and truth in our faith journey.
If our Bible study has enriched your understanding of the Word and deepened your faith, we encourage you to take the next step in your spiritual journey. Join our church community to further explore and strengthen your relationship with God. Come, connect with us, and let your faith flourish in the fellowship of like-minded believers. We eagerly await the opportunity to welcome you and share in your faith journey.