Introduction

Four clergymen, taking a short break from their busy schedules, were on a park bench, chatting when one of them proposed they should discuss the problems that are disturbing them and all agreed. One of them confessed that he consumes alcohol in secret. The other one said that he gambles and cannot quit. Then the third clergyman said that he is attracted to a married woman in his parish. Finally, the fourth clergyman voiced his problem before walking away while others watched him in horror. “You see, I’m an incurable gossip.”

“The tongue also is a fire, a world of evil among the parts of the body. It corrupts the whole body, sets the whole course of one’s life on fire, and is itself set on fire by hell.” (James 3:6 – NIV)

1. Why Do People Gossip?

A. It’s delicious though it’s evil. We have a fascination with it, (Proverbs 18:8).

B. Idleness. The idle mind is the devil’s workshop, (1 Timothy 5:13)

C. An uncontrollable desire to take revenge, (Ephesians 4:31).

2. Why is Gossip unhealthy?

A. To gossip is to rejoice in evil, (1 Corinthians 13:6)

B. It creates divisions and disturbs the peace, (Proverbs 16:28)

C. It can be a distorted truth. Thus the Devil is its source, (John 8:44).

3. How to deal with Gossip?

A. Confront them lovingly but firmly, (Matthew 18:15-17; Ephesians 4:15).

B. Severe the relationship unless they listen, (Proverbs 20:19)

C. See that nothing evil comes through your own lips, (Ephesians 4:29)

Conclusion

Gossip is ungodly and unhealthy to everyone around you as well as yourself. Avoid it at any cost.

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