Topical Encyclopedia Definition and Nature:Evil-speakers are individuals who engage in harmful, malicious, or slanderous speech against others. This behavior is characterized by the intent to damage reputations, spread falsehoods, or sow discord among people. The Bible frequently addresses the issue of evil-speaking, emphasizing the destructive power of the tongue and the moral responsibility of believers to use their words wisely. Biblical References: 1. Proverbs 6:16-19 · This passage lists seven things that the Lord detests, including "a false witness who pours out lies and a person who stirs up conflict in the community." Evil-speaking is closely associated with bearing false witness and causing division, both of which are condemned by God. 2. James 3:5-6 · James provides a vivid description of the tongue's potential for evil: "So also the tongue is a small part of the body, but it boasts of great things. Consider how small a spark sets a great forest ablaze. The tongue also is a fire, a world of wickedness among the parts of the body. It pollutes the whole person, sets the course of his life on fire, and is itself set on fire by hell." This passage underscores the tongue's capacity to cause significant harm, likening it to a destructive fire. 3. Ephesians 4:29 · The Apostle Paul instructs believers: "Let no unwholesome talk come out of your mouths, but only what is helpful for building up the one in need and bringing grace to those who listen." This verse highlights the importance of using speech constructively rather than destructively. 4. Psalm 34:13 · The psalmist advises, "Keep your tongue from evil and your lips from deceitful speech." This exhortation reflects the broader biblical theme of guarding one's speech to align with righteousness and truth. 5. 1 Peter 3:10 · Peter echoes the psalmist's sentiment: "For, 'Whoever would love life and see good days must keep his tongue from evil and his lips from deceitful speech.'" This verse connects the quality of one's life with the discipline of controlling one's speech. Moral and Spiritual Implications: Evil-speaking is not merely a social faux pas but a serious moral failing with spiritual consequences. The Bible teaches that words have the power to bless or curse, to heal or wound. As such, believers are called to exercise self-control and to speak in ways that reflect the character of Christ. The destructive nature of evil-speaking is contrasted with the edifying and grace-filled speech that should characterize the Christian community. Practical Considerations: 1. Self-Examination: Believers are encouraged to examine their hearts and motives, recognizing that evil-speaking often stems from deeper issues such as envy, bitterness, or pride. 2. Repentance and Reconciliation: When guilty of evil-speaking, Christians are called to repent and seek reconciliation with those they have wronged, in accordance with Matthew 5:23-24. 3. Cultivating Positive Speech: The Bible encourages the cultivation of speech that is truthful, loving, and edifying. Colossians 4:6 advises, "Let your speech always be gracious, seasoned with salt, so that you may know how to answer everyone." 4. Community Accountability: The Christian community plays a role in holding one another accountable, promoting an environment where evil-speaking is discouraged and positive, constructive communication is fostered. Conclusion: The biblical perspective on evil-speaking is clear: it is a sin that believers must actively avoid. Through the guidance of Scripture and the empowerment of the Holy Spirit, Christians are called to use their words to build up rather than tear down, reflecting the love and truth of Christ in all their interactions. Library After this Preface as to the Falsification by Heretics of the ... I Might Well Reply as I have done Even if it were a Question of a ... The Cure of Evil-Speaking Self-Inspection. That the Catholic Faith May be Confirmed Even by the Dissensions ... As his Lungs were Affected, He Meditates Withdrawing Himself from ... Ep. Xlviii. To Basil. Against Vain Judgments of Men To Eulogius the Oeconomus. Epistle xv. To Clementina, Patrician . Thesaurus Evil-speakers (2 Occurrences)Evil-speakers. Evil-smelling, Evil-speakers. Evilspeaking . Multi-Version Concordance Evil-speakers (2 Occurrences). ... /e/evil-speakers.htm - 7k Evilspeaking Unkind (7 Occurrences) Ungrateful (2 Occurrences) God-haters (1 Occurrence) Insulting (10 Occurrences) Evil-smelling (2 Occurrences) Disobey (15 Occurrences) Speakers (6 Occurrences) Resources What is the Church of Spiritualism? | GotQuestions.orgWhat are the Testaments of the Twelve Patriarchs? | GotQuestions.org What does it mean that you will know them by their fruit in Matthew 7:16? | GotQuestions.org Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus Concordance Evil-speakers (2 Occurrences)Romans 1:30 2 Timothy 3:2 Subtopics Related Terms |