2. The Sin of Gossip

3. Definitions Gossip: (1) Rumor or talk of a personal, sensational, or intimate nature. (2) A person who habitually spreads intimate or private rumors or facts – AHD.

4. Definitions (Hebrew) Nirrgan: from an used root meaning to roll to pieces; a slanderer; talebearer, whisperer. (Greek) psithurismos: to whisper into one’s ear, a whispering, i.e. secret slandering.

5. Definitions Proverbs 11:13 – talebearer. 2 Corinthians 12:20 – speak secretively. Psalm 69:12 – negative, destructive. 1 Timothy 3:11 – slanderous talk. Psalm 15:3 – backbite. 1 Timothy 5:13 – say things should not.

6. Cause of Gossip Some simply have an urge to tell all the news they hear

7. Cause of Gossip Sometimes it results from jealousy

8. Cause of Gossip Sometimes it results from a grudge or dislike

9. Cause of Gossip Sometimes it results from a need to build self up

10. Cause of Gossip Sometimes it results from a need to belong Proverbs 18:8

11. Cause of Gossip Many times it results from idleness 1 Timothy 5:13 2 Thessalonians 3:11

12. Results of Gossip Separates one from God Psalm 15:1-4

13. Results of Gossip Renders one worthless to the cause of Christ and makes his or her religion useless James 1:26

14. Results of Gossip Ruins Friendships Proverbs 16:28

15. Results of Gossip Causes anger and Strife Proverbs 25:23, 26:20

16. Results of Gossip Causes harm to the one who is gossiped about Proverbs 25:18

17. Results of Gossip It hurts the church Galatians 5:15

18. Cure for Gossip Practice the golden rule Matthew 7:12

19. Cure for Gossip Realize our own imperfections

20. Cure for Gossip Fear God and keep His commandments Ecclesiastes 12:13 Leviticus 19:16 Matthew 12:36 Luke 12:1-3

21. Cure for Gossip Get busy and fill time with good and productive things 2 Thessalonians 3:11-12

22. Cure for Gossip Determine not to gossip

23. Cure for Gossip Ask these questions to one who wants to gossip: Why are you telling me this? Have you spoken directly to those involved? Have you personally checked out the facts? Can I quote you if I check this out?