Definition and Nature:
Gossiping, in a biblical context, refers to the act of spreading rumors or engaging in idle talk about others, often involving details that are not confirmed as true. It is characterized by the sharing of information that may harm the reputation or relationships of others. Gossip is typically seen as a destructive behavior that can lead to division and strife within communities, including the church.

Biblical References:
The Bible addresses the issue of gossiping in several passages, highlighting its negative impact and urging believers to refrain from such behavior. In Proverbs 16:28, it is written, "A perverse man spreads dissension, and a gossip separates close friends." This verse underscores the divisive nature of gossip, illustrating how it can destroy even the strongest of relationships.

In the New Testament, the Apostle Paul warns against gossip in his letters. In 2 Corinthians 12:20, he expresses concern about finding "quarreling, jealousy, rage, rivalries, slander, gossip, arrogance, and disorder" among the believers. Here, gossip is listed alongside other sinful behaviors that disrupt the unity and peace of the Christian community.

Moral and Ethical Implications:
From a moral and ethical standpoint, gossiping is considered a sin because it violates the principles of love, truth, and respect for others. The Bible calls believers to speak truthfully and to use their words to build up rather than tear down. Ephesians 4:29 advises, "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."

Gossiping is also seen as a failure to love one's neighbor as oneself, a commandment emphasized by Jesus in Matthew 22:39. By engaging in gossip, individuals prioritize their curiosity or desire for entertainment over the well-being and dignity of others.

Consequences of Gossiping:
The consequences of gossiping can be severe, both for the individual who gossips and for those who are the subjects of gossip. Proverbs 18:8 states, "The words of a gossip are like choice morsels; they go down into the inmost being." This suggests that gossip can deeply affect those who hear it, potentially leading to misunderstandings, broken relationships, and a loss of trust.

For the gossiper, engaging in such behavior can lead to a tarnished reputation and a loss of credibility. It can also hinder one's spiritual growth, as it reflects a heart that is not aligned with the teachings of Christ.

Practical Guidance:
The Bible provides practical guidance for avoiding gossip. Believers are encouraged to practice self-control and to be mindful of their words. James 1:26 advises, "If anyone considers himself religious and yet does not bridle his tongue, he deceives his heart and his religion is worthless." This highlights the importance of controlling one's speech as a reflection of genuine faith.

Additionally, believers are called to confront gossip with love and truth. Matthew 18:15-17 outlines a process for addressing offenses within the church, emphasizing direct and private communication rather than spreading rumors.

Role of the Church:
The church plays a crucial role in addressing gossip by fostering an environment of trust, accountability, and open communication. Church leaders are tasked with setting an example of godly speech and encouraging members to uphold biblical standards in their interactions. By promoting a culture of love and respect, the church can help mitigate the harmful effects of gossip and strengthen the bonds of fellowship among believers.(p. pr. & vb. n.) of Gossip.

Death in Life
... Among poor women, as well as among rich ones, as they grow older, how much gossiping,
tale-bearing, slandering, there is, and that too among people who call ...
/.../kingsley/sermons for the times/sermon xvii death in life.htm

Letter ii. Self-Control and Self-Culture.
... man, and able also to bridle [control] the whole body." It is so easy to say cross
or unkind words; so easy to make slighting or gossiping remarks about ...
/.../letter ii self-control and self-culture.htm

The Women of the Apostolic Age
... The Talmud placed in the same category with the pests of the world the gossiping
and inquisitive widow, who passed her life in chattering with her neighbors ...
/.../brittain/women of early christianity/ii the women of the.htm

Prayerfulness.
... If I nourish hatred, or meditate revenge, or plot the downfall of any man, my prayers
are vain; yea, all my hope in Christ is futile! GOSSIPING PREACHERS. ...
/.../christianbookshelf.org/rees/the heart-cry of jesus/chapter ix prayerfulness.htm

Spiritual Diagnosis
... will, and their great disciple, Herbert Spencer, may denounce what he calls the
"great-man-theory of history" as only fit for savages gossiping round their ...
/.../berkhof/new evangelism and other papers/spiritual diagnosis.htm

Diligence.
... Reading amusing stories; telling amusing, worldly incidents, the happenings of bygone
days; fondness for the general news of the day; gossiping; admiration for ...
/.../orr/food for the lambs or helps for young christians/diligence.htm

Egg-Shell Christians
... Sometimes people can bear to hear others ridiculed or talked about in a gossiping
way, or see them slighted, and think nothing of it or even be amused; but ...
//christianbookshelf.org/naylor/heart talks/talk seven egg-shell christians.htm

In the High Priest's Palace
... Its glinting on his face betrayed him to a woman's sharp eye, and her
gossiping tongue could not help blurting out her discovery. ...
/.../maclaren/expositions of holy scripture e/in the high priests palace.htm

Being Attacked by Fever, He is in Great Danger.
... day to pass without oblation at Thy altar, twice a day, at morning and even-tide,
coming to Thy church without intermission"not for vain gossiping, nor old ...
/.../the confessions and letters of st/chapter ix being attacked by fever.htm

The Gods Human at First. Who had the Authority to Make them Divine ...
... with his character, in some such way as is usual when a runaway slave [1025] is
posted up in public, we have been in the habit of gossiping without restraint ...
/...//christianbookshelf.org/tertullian/ad nationes/chapter xiii name gods human.htm

Gossiping (2 Occurrences)
... Noah Webster's Dictionary (p. pr. & vb. n.) of Gossip. Multi-Version
Concordance Gossiping (2 Occurrences). 3 John 1:10 Therefore ...
/g/gossiping.htm - 7k

Gossips (5 Occurrences)

/g/gossips.htm - 7k

Gossipers (1 Occurrence)

/g/gossipers.htm - 6k

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Gossiping: Dictionary and Thesaurus | Clyx.com

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