Topical Bible: Slander: Saints: Characterised As Avoiding

◄ Slander: Saints: Characterised As Avoiding ►

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Slander, defined as the act of making false and damaging statements about someone, is a sin that is consistently condemned throughout the Scriptures. The Bible emphasizes the importance of truthfulness and integrity, and slander is seen as a direct violation of these principles. Saints, or believers in Christ, are called to a higher standard of conduct, one that reflects the character of God and the teachings of Jesus Christ. As such, they are characterized as avoiding slander in their speech and actions.

Biblical Condemnation of Slander

The Bible explicitly condemns slander in numerous passages. In the Old Testament, the book of Leviticus instructs, "You must not go about spreading slander among your people. You must not endanger the life of your neighbor. I am the LORD" (Leviticus 19:16). This command underscores the seriousness with which God views slander, associating it with endangering others.

In the New Testament, the apostle Paul lists slander among the behaviors that are inconsistent with the life of a believer. In his letter to the Ephesians, he writes, "Get rid of all bitterness, rage and anger, outcry and slander, along with every form of malice" (Ephesians 4:31). Paul’s exhortation to the Ephesians highlights the need for believers to rid themselves of slander as part of their transformation in Christ.

Saints Avoiding Slander

Saints are called to live lives that are distinct from the world, marked by love, truth, and purity. The avoidance of slander is a natural outflow of a heart transformed by the Holy Spirit. In the book of James, believers are reminded of the power of the tongue and the need to control it: "Brothers, do not slander one another. Anyone who speaks against his brother or judges him speaks against the law and judges it" (James 4:11). This admonition serves as a reminder that slander is not only harmful to others but also contrary to the law of love that governs the Christian community.

The apostle Peter also addresses the issue of slander, urging believers to maintain good conduct so that even if they are slandered, their behavior will speak for itself: "Keep your conduct among the Gentiles honorable, so that when they slander you as evildoers, they may see your good deeds and glorify God on the day of visitation" (1 Peter 2:12). Here, Peter emphasizes that the response to slander should be one of integrity and righteousness, reflecting the character of Christ.

The Example of Christ

Jesus Christ, the ultimate example for believers, was Himself the target of slander and false accusations. Yet, He responded with grace and truth, never retaliating or speaking ill of others. In 1 Peter 2:23, it is written, "When they heaped abuse on Him, He did not retaliate; when He suffered, He made no threats, but entrusted Himself to Him who judges justly" . Christ’s response to slander serves as a model for all believers, demonstrating the importance of trusting in God’s justice rather than seeking personal vindication.

Practical Application for Believers

For saints today, avoiding slander involves a commitment to truth and love in all interactions. This includes speaking truthfully, refraining from gossip, and seeking to build others up rather than tear them down. The apostle Paul’s instruction to the Colossians serves as a guiding principle: "Let your speech always be gracious, seasoned with salt, so that you may know how to answer everyone" (Colossians 4:6). By adhering to these biblical principles, believers can reflect the character of Christ and maintain the unity and purity of the body of Christ.

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Psalm 15:1,3
Lord, who shall abide in your tabernacle? who shall dwell in your holy hill?
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