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What the Bible says
What Does the Bible Say About Gossip?
The Bible takes our words seriously and warns against gossip, calling us instead to speak truth in love and to guard the reputation of others.
Scripture says the tongue holds the power of life and death, and that gossip separates close friends. Words spoken behind someone's back can wound deeply and spread like fire.
God calls us to a different kind of speech, honest, kind, and building others up. When we hear gossip, we can refuse to pass it on, and choose words that heal rather than harm.
Key Bible verses
“A froward man soweth strife: and a whisperer separateth chief friends.”
Proverbs 16:28 · King James Version (public domain)
“A talebearer revealeth secrets: but he that is of a faithful spirit concealeth the matter.”
Proverbs 11:13 · King James Version (public domain)
“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.”
Ephesians 4:29 · King James Version (public domain)
“Even so the tongue is a little member, and boasteth great things. Behold, how great a matter a little fire kindleth!”
James 3:5-6 · King James Version (public domain)
How this points to Jesus
Jesus was slandered and gossiped about, yet He did not return insult for insult; He entrusted Himself to the God who judges justly. He calls us to speak as He did, with grace and truth. His Spirit tames the tongue no human can tame, teaching us to use our words to bless rather than to bite.