Sticks and stones may break bones, but words can inflict deep and lasting wounds. Slander, the act of making false verbal statements that damage another person’s reputation, is a serious offense in the eyes of God. This article delves into the biblical perspective on slander, exploring its consequences and offering guidance on how to cultivate a heart and tongue that reflect Christ’s love.
Understanding Slander in Biblical Context
Slander, distinct from libel (written defamation), is a spoken attack on someone’s character. The Bible explicitly condemns slander, placing it alongside other grave sins. The Ninth Commandment, “You shall not bear false witness against your neighbor” (Exodus 20:16), encompasses slander, highlighting the severity of spreading falsehoods. Essentially, slander is a form of lying (Proverbs 6:16-19; 12:22) intended to tarnish another’s image.
God, as the source of truth (John 14:6; 1 John 5:6), abhors all forms of untruth. Slander, often linked with gossip in Scripture (Leviticus 19:16; Proverbs 16:27; 2 Corinthians 12:20), represents a malicious escalation of gossip. While gossip involves sharing secrets, slander fabricates damaging falsehoods and disseminates them widely.
Slander and the New Creation in Christ
The New Testament identifies slander as a characteristic of our old, sinful nature (2 Corinthians 5:17). As believers, we are called to shed this destructive behavior. Colossians 3:7-8 urges us to rid ourselves of “anger, rage, malice, slander, and filthy language from your lips.” Our words, like our bodies, should be dedicated to glorifying God (Romans 12:1-2; Ephesians 4:29).
James 3:9-10 emphasizes the inconsistency of praising God while simultaneously cursing those made in His image. Slander, therefore, is incompatible with a life devoted to following Jesus (Romans 6:11-14). We must actively “put to death” this practice.
The Heart Behind Slander
Romans 1:28-32 lists slander among the traits of a depraved mind. Engaging in slander signifies a departure from God’s intended path for us. He will not condone our attempts to harm others with our words.
Jesus teaches that “the things that come out of a person’s mouth come from the heart, and these defile them” (Matthew 15:18-19). Slanderous words expose the condition of our hearts. The desire to slander can stem from bitterness (Hebrews 12:15), unresolved hurt (1 Peter 3:14-16), unforgiveness (2 Corinthians 2:10-11; Ephesians 4:32), jealousy (Galatians 5:20; 2 Corinthians 12:20), and other heart sins.
The Antidote to Slander: Love
God’s remedy for slander is love (John 13:34). We do not slander those we genuinely love (1 Corinthians 13:4-7). Love seeks the best for others, including protecting their reputation as we would our own (Matthew 7:12). Romans 13:10 affirms, “Love does no harm to a neighbor. Therefore love is the fulfillment of the law.” When we prioritize loving others as Christ loves us, the temptation to slander diminishes.
Love is patient and kind
Conclusion: Choosing Truth and Love
Slander is a destructive sin with far-reaching consequences. It damages relationships, destroys reputations, and grieves the heart of God. As followers of Christ, we are called to a higher standard. We must choose truth over falsehood, love over malice, and build others up rather than tear them down. By cultivating hearts filled with God’s love and speaking words that reflect His grace, we can overcome the temptation to slander and become agents of healing and reconciliation in a world desperately in need of both.
Further Resources:
- The Quest Study Bible
- Logos Bible Software
Related Topics:
- What does the Bible say about spreading rumors?
- What does the Bible say about libel?
- What does the Bible say about being nosey?
- What does the Bible say about snitching / being a snitch?
- What does the Bible say about being a busybody?
