Do Christians gossip?

Unfortunately Christians are not perfect people and there are some who do gossip–some worse than others. Christians are forgiven, but are not free of sin. As Christians grow and mature in their faith this type of behavior should dissipate greatly. Every Christian should strive to avoid gossip and be committed to speaking only what is right and true avoiding speaking in a perverse manner.

Listen, for I will speak of excellent things, and from the opening of my lips will come right things; for my mouth will speak truth; wickedness is an abomination to my lips. All the words of my mouth are with righteousness; nothing crooked or perverse is in them"(Proverbs 8:6-8).

Gossip falls into the category of slander. It destroys lives, families, friendships and churches. It is often an overlooked sin that most people think little or nothing of. No Christian should ever pass along unkind or "gossipy" information about someone else of a personal nature. If you have a problem with gossip, study the third chapter of James carefully. You may even consider memorizing the entire chapter.

"By the blessing of the upright the city is exalted, but it is overthrown by the mouth of the wicked. He who is devoid of wisdom despises his neighbor, but a man of understanding holds his peace. A talebearer reveals secrets, but he who is of a faithful spirit conceals a matter" (Proverbs 11:11-13).