Bible Verses About Gossip and Slander: Gossip and slander are destructive forces that can tear apart relationships, damage reputations, and wound hearts deeply. The Bible doesn’t take these verbal sins lightly in fact, Scripture addresses the power of our words extensively.
From the Proverbs of Solomon to the teachings of Jesus and the letters of Paul, God’s Word provides clear guidance on taming the tongue and speaking with integrity.
Words have incredible power. They can build up or tear down, heal or harm, encourage or devastate. When we engage in gossip or slander, we’re not just sharing information we’re potentially causing lasting damage to others and to our own spiritual well-being.
The Bible teaches us that our speech reflects our character and our relationship with God. As followers of Christ, we’re called to use our words in ways that honor Him and show love to others. Let’s explore what Scripture says about gossip, slander, and the godly alternative.
The Destructive Nature of Gossip and Slander
1. Proverbs 16:28
“A perverse person stirs up conflict, and a gossip separates close friends.”
This verse reveals one of gossip’s most damaging effects it drives wedges between people who were once close. Gossip breaks trust and creates suspicion where there was once friendship. When we’re tempted to share a juicy story about someone else, we should remember that our words could cost someone a valued relationship.
2. Proverbs 11:13
“A gossip betrays a confidence, but a trustworthy person keeps a secret.”
Here, the Bible contrasts gossip with trustworthiness. Sharing private information that was entrusted to you is a form of betrayal. Practice being someone others can confide in without fear, knowing their vulnerabilities won’t become tomorrow’s gossip.
3. Proverbs 18:8
“The words of a gossip are like choice morsels; they go down to the inmost parts.”
Gossip can be enticing like tasty food that we eagerly consume. But unlike nourishing food, gossip poisons relationships and character. When you hear gossip, recognize its seductive quality and choose not to “feast” on harmful words about others.
4. Proverbs 26:20
“Without wood a fire goes out; without a gossip a quarrel dies down.”
Gossip fuels conflict just as wood fuels fire. This verse teaches that we can extinguish many disagreements simply by refusing to spread or listen to gossip. Be a peacemaker by declining to pass along information that could inflame tensions between others.
5. Romans 1:29-30
“They have become filled with every kind of wickedness, evil, greed and depravity. They are full of envy, murder, strife, deceit and malice. They are gossips, slanderers, God-haters, insolent, arrogant and boastful; they invent ways of doing evil; they disobey their parents.”
Paul places gossip and slander in the midst of a sobering list of serious sins. This shows how seriously God takes the sin of harmful speech. Though our culture may treat gossip lightly, God views it as contrary to His character and harmful to His people.
6. Psalm 101:5
“Whoever slanders their neighbor in secret, I will put to silence; whoever has haughty eyes and a proud heart, I will not tolerate.”
David expresses God’s attitude toward slander in this psalm. God opposes those who secretly tear down others with their words. Recognize that slanderous speech doesn’t escape God’s notice, even when done privately.
7. Exodus 23:1
“Do not spread false reports. Do not help a guilty person by being a malicious witness.”
God commanded Israel not to participate in false testimony or rumors. This verse reminds us of our ethical responsibility to speak truthfully and refuse to join in spreading unverified information that could harm others.
8. Ephesians 4:29
“Do not let any unwholesome talk come out of your mouths, but only what is helpful for building others up according to their needs, that it may benefit those who listen.”
Paul provides a positive standard for our speech: it should build up and benefit others. Before speaking about someone, ask yourself: “Will these words help and benefit others?” If not, they’re likely unwholesome talk that should remain unsaid.
9. Psalm 34:13
“Keep your tongue from evil and your lips from telling lies.”
This straightforward directive emphasizes personal responsibility for controlling our speech. Make it a daily practice to guard your words carefully, being mindful not to let evil or falsehood escape your lips.
10. Proverbs 20:19
“A gossip betrays a confidence; so avoid anyone who talks too much.”
This proverb offers practical wisdom: be cautious around people who constantly talk about others. Those who readily share others’ secrets with you will likely share your secrets with others. Choose friends who demonstrate discretion.
The Biblical Response to Harmful Speech
11. James 1:26
“Those who consider themselves religious and yet do not keep a tight rein on their tongues deceive themselves, and their religion is worthless.”
James delivers a powerful reality check true faith affects our speech. No matter how religious we appear, if our words tear others down through gossip and slander, our faith isn’t authentic. Examine whether your speech aligns with your profession of faith.
12. Proverbs 21:23
“Those who guard their mouths and their tongues keep themselves from calamity.”
Controlling our speech protects us from many troubles. Gossip often leads to broken relationships, damaged reputations, and personal regrets. Practice thoughtful restraint in your speech to avoid unnecessary problems.
13. Matthew 12:36-37
“But I tell you that everyone will have to give account on the day of judgment for every empty word they have spoken. For by your words you will be acquitted, and by your words you will be condemned.”
Jesus warns that our words have eternal significance we’ll answer for them before God. This sobering reality should prompt us to speak carefully and kindly, remembering that even casual gossip will be reviewed in eternity.
14. Colossians 3:8
“But now you must also rid yourselves of all such things as these: anger, rage, malice, slander, and filthy language from your lips.”
Paul instructs believers to eliminate slander along with other sinful behaviors. As Christians, we’re called to continually grow in Christ-likeness, which includes purifying our speech. Identify patterns of gossip or slander in your life and actively work to eliminate them.
15. Titus 3:2
“To slander no one, to be peaceable and considerate, and always to be gentle toward everyone.”
Paul gives Titus clear instructions for Christian behavior, which includes avoiding slander completely. Notice that the alternative to slander isn’t just silence, but actively being peaceable, considerate, and gentle in our interactions.
16. 1 Peter 2:1
“Therefore, rid yourselves of all malice and all deceit, hypocrisy, envy, and slander of every kind.”
Peter calls believers to purge slander from their lives as part of their spiritual growth. Recognize that slander often stems from negative heart conditions like malice, deceit, and envy. Address these root issues through prayer and spiritual discipline.
17. James 4:11
“Brothers and sisters, do not slander one another. Anyone who speaks against a brother or sister or judges them speaks against the law and judges it. When you judge the law, you are not keeping it, but sitting in judgment on it.”
James directly prohibits slander within the Christian community. When we slander fellow believers, we’re setting ourselves above God’s law of love. Instead, practice speaking well of others, especially those in your church family.
18. Psalm 15:1-3
“Lord, who may dwell in your sacred tent? Who may live on your holy mountain? The one whose walk is blameless, who does what is righteous, who speaks the truth from their heart; whose tongue utters no slander, who does no wrong to a neighbor, who casts no slur on others.”
David describes the character of those who enjoy God’s presence, including those who avoid slander. Make it your aim to speak in ways that reflect integrity and respect for others, knowing this pleases God.
19. Proverbs 10:18
“Whoever conceals hatred with lying lips and spreads slander is a fool.”
This proverb exposes the foolishness of slander and deception. Wise people address conflicts directly rather than spreading negative stories behind others’ backs. Choose the path of wisdom by speaking truthfully and respectfully.
20. 2 Corinthians 12:20
“For I am afraid that when I come I may not find you as I want you to be, and you may not find me as you want me to be. I fear that there may be discord, jealousy, fits of rage, selfish ambition, slander, gossip, arrogance and disorder.”
Paul expresses concern about the presence of gossip and slander in the Corinthian church, listing these sins among serious problems. Work to create a positive atmosphere in your church by refusing to participate in harmful talk about others.
The Heart Behind Gossip and Slander
21. Luke 6:45
“A good man brings good things out of the good stored up in his heart, and an evil man brings evil things out of the evil stored up in his heart. For the mouth speaks what the heart is full of.”
Jesus teaches that our speech reveals our heart condition. Gossip and slander indicate internal issues like bitterness, envy, or pride. Examine your heart when you’re tempted to speak negatively about others, addressing the root issues through prayer and reflection.
22. Matthew 15:18-19
“But the things that come out of a person’s mouth come from the heart, and these defile them. For out of the heart come evil thoughts murder, adultery, sexual immorality, theft, false testimony, slander.”
Jesus lists slander among serious sins that originate in the heart. This reminds us that controlling gossip and slander requires inner transformation, not just behavior modification. Ask God to purify your heart from the desires that lead to harmful speech.
23. Proverbs 4:23-24
“Above all else, guard your heart, for everything you do flows from it. Keep your mouth free of perversity; keep corrupt talk far from your lips.”
Solomon connects guarding our hearts with controlling our speech. By protecting what we allow into our hearts the media we consume, the company we keep we help prevent harmful speech from flowing out. Be intentional about what influences you daily.
24. James 3:9-10
“With the tongue we praise our Lord and Father, and with it we curse human beings, who have been made in God’s likeness. Out of the same mouth come praise and cursing. My brothers and sisters, this should not be.”
James points out the inconsistency of using our tongues for both worship and harmful speech. Remember that the people you might gossip about are made in God’s image and worthy of respect. Let your speech consistently honor both God and others.
25. Proverbs 17:4
“Wrongdoers eagerly listen to gossip; liars pay close attention to slander.”
This verse reveals something about those who enjoy gossip it indicates a character flaw. Cultivate spiritual maturity by taking no pleasure in hearing negative reports about others, even if they’re your opponents.
The Power of Truthful and Kind Speech
26. Proverbs 12:18
“The words of the reckless pierce like swords, but the tongue of the wise brings healing.”
This proverb contrasts harmful speech with healing words. Our tongues can either wound or restore. Choose to use your words to bring encouragement, comfort, and wisdom rather than participating in damaging gossip.
27. Proverbs 15:4
“The soothing tongue is a tree of life, but a perverse tongue crushes the spirit.”
Solomon uses powerful imagery to illustrate how our words affect others they can either give life or crush spirits. Recognize the tremendous impact your speech has and intentionally cultivate words that refresh others.
28. Colossians 4:6
“Let your conversation be always full of grace, seasoned with salt, so that you may know how to answer everyone.”
Paul encourages speech that is both gracious and flavorful (like salt). This is the opposite of gossip and slander. Practice speaking in ways that are kind yet truthful, avoiding the extremes of harsh criticism or empty flattery.
29. Proverbs 31:26
“She speaks with wisdom, and faithful instruction is on her tongue.”
The virtuous woman of Proverbs 31 is known for wise and faithful speech. Aim to be someone whose words consistently reflect wisdom and faithfulness rather than pettiness or malice. This builds a reputation for integrity.
30. Proverbs 25:11
“Like apples of gold in settings of silver is a ruling rightly given.”
Beautiful, appropriate words are as precious as fine art. Develop the skill of speaking the right words at the right time, which leaves no room for gossip or slander. Your well-chosen words can bring clarity and peace to difficult situations.
Handling Conflict and Communication Biblically
31. Matthew 18:15-17
“If your brother or sister sins, go and point out their fault, just between the two of you. If they listen to you, you have won them over. But if they will not listen, take one or two others along, so that ‘every matter may be established by the testimony of two or three witnesses.’ If they still refuse to listen, tell it to the church; and if they refuse to listen even to the church, treat them as you would a pagan or a tax collector.”
Jesus provides a clear process for addressing problems directly rather than gossiping about them. When someone wrongs you, speak to them privately instead of talking about them to others. This honors both truth and relationships.
32. Proverbs 25:9-10
“If you take your neighbor to court, do not betray another’s confidence, or the one who hears it may shame you and the charge against you will stand.”
Even in conflict, we should maintain appropriate confidentiality. Resist the temptation to share private information about others, even when you’re upset with them. This demonstrates integrity even in difficult circumstances.
33. Galatians 6:1
“Brothers and sisters, if someone is caught in a sin, you who live by the Spirit should restore that person gently. But watch yourselves, or you also may be tempted.”
Paul describes the proper way to address sin in others with gentleness and humility, not with gossip or public shame. When you become aware of another’s failings, seek restoration rather than using the information as gossip material.
34. Proverbs 17:9
“Whoever would foster love covers over an offense, but whoever repeats the matter separates close friends.”
Love chooses to cover offenses rather than publicize them. This doesn’t mean ignoring serious issues, but it does mean not advertising others’ faults unnecessarily. Practice discreetly handling others’ mistakes whenever possible.
35. 1 Timothy 5:13
“Besides, they get into the habit of being idle and going about from house to house. And not only do they become idlers, but also busybodies who talk nonsense, saying things they ought not to.”
Paul warns against becoming busybodies who spread inappropriate information. Use your time and words productively rather than involving yourself in matters that don’t concern you. Focus on building up rather than breaking down.
Accountability and Growth in Speech
36. Ecclesiastes 5:2
“Do not be quick with your mouth, do not be hasty in your heart to utter anything before God. God is in heaven and you are on earth, so let your words be few.”
Solomon advises thoughtful, measured speech rather than hasty words. Practice pausing before speaking, especially when tempted to share information about others. Ask whether your words will honor God and help others.
37. James 3:2
“We all stumble in many ways. Anyone who is never at fault in what they say is perfect, able to keep their whole body in check.”
James acknowledges the universal struggle with speech. Controlling our tongues is a lifelong process of growth. Be patient with yourself and others while still striving for improvement in this area.
38. Psalm 141:3
“Set a guard over my mouth, Lord; keep watch over the door of my lips.”
David’s prayer recognizes our need for divine help in controlling our speech. Make this your daily prayer, acknowledging your dependence on God’s help to avoid gossip and slander. Only with His help can we consistently speak with integrity.
39. Proverbs 13:3
“Those who guard their lips preserve their lives, but those who speak rashly will come to ruin.”
This proverb emphasizes the life-preserving value of careful speech. Protecting yourself from the consequences of gossip and slander requires intentional self-control. Practice thinking before speaking, especially when discussing others.
40. 1 Peter 3:10
“For, ‘Whoever would love life and see good days must keep their tongue from evil and their lips from deceitful speech.'”
Peter connects quality of life with speech habits. Want a better life? Start by controlling your tongue. Commit to speaking truthfully and kindly about others, even when they’re not present.
41. Proverbs 10:19
“Sin is not ended by multiplying words, but the prudent hold their tongues.”
Solomon notes that excessive talking often leads to sin. Recognize that you don’t need to comment on everything or share every piece of information you know. Sometimes silence is the wisest choice.
42. 2 Timothy 2:16
“Avoid godless chatter, because those who indulge in it will become more and more ungodly.”
Paul warns that harmful talk leads to spiritual decline. Gossip isn’t just a social problem it’s a spiritual one that affects your relationship with God. Choose conversations that strengthen rather than weaken your faith.
43. Proverbs 6:16-19
“There are six things the Lord hates, seven that are detestable to him: haughty eyes, a lying tongue, hands that shed innocent blood, a heart that devises wicked schemes, feet that are quick to rush into evil, a false witness who pours out lies and a person who stirs up conflict in the community.”
God specifically hates false witness and conflict-stirring, which often involve gossip and slander. Align your speech with what God loves rather than what He hates by speaking truthfully and promoting peace.
44. 1 Thessalonians 4:11-12
“And to make it your ambition to lead a quiet life: You should mind your own business and work with your hands, just as we told you, so that your daily life may win the respect of outsiders and so that you will not be dependent on anybody.”
Paul encourages minding our own business rather than interfering in others’ affairs. Gossip often involves inappropriate interest in matters that don’t concern us. Focus on your own responsibilities instead of others’ private business.
45. Philippians 4:8
“Finally, brothers and sisters, whatever is true, whatever is noble, whatever is right, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is admirable if anything is excellent or praiseworthy think about such things.”
Paul provides a filter for our thoughts, which influence our speech. Fill your mind with positive, uplifting content, and your speech will naturally follow. When tempted to gossip, redirect your thoughts toward what is true, noble, and praiseworthy about others.
Conclusion: Bible Verses About Gossip and Slander
The Bible’s extensive teaching on gossip and slander shows how seriously God takes our words. Far from being harmless entertainment, gossip damages relationships, undermines trust, and grieves the Holy Spirit. Slander goes even further by spreading falsehoods that can permanently damage reputations and lives.
As followers of Christ, we’re called to a higher standard speech that reflects God’s character of truth and love. This doesn’t mean we never address problems or speak difficult truths, but we do so directly, respectfully, and with restoration in mind, not behind people’s backs or with malicious intent.
The good news is that God offers both forgiveness for past failures and power for future growth in this area. Through the Holy Spirit’s work in our lives, we can develop speech habits that build up rather than tear down, that heal rather than wound, and that reflect Christ’s character to a watching world.
Bonus: Practical Ways to Apply These Verses in Daily Life
- Start a “speech journal” where you reflect on your conversations each day, noting times when you were tempted to gossip and how you responded.
- Create accountability with a trusted friend who can help you identify and overcome patterns of harmful speech.
- Practice the “three-filter rule” before speaking about others: Is it true? Is it kind? Is it necessary?
- Post key verses about speech in visible places as reminders, such as your bathroom mirror, car dashboard, or phone lock screen.
- Develop conversation redirects for when others begin to gossip, such as, “I’m not comfortable discussing them when they’re not here. Let’s talk about something else.”
- Pray specifically for people you’re tempted to gossip about, asking God to bless them and help you see them as He does.
- Make amends with those you’ve harmed through gossip or slander by apologizing and, when possible, correcting misinformation with others.
- Establish a personal “gossip fast” where you commit to speaking only positive things about others for a set period, extending it as you grow.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is it still gossip if what I’m saying is true?
Yes, gossip can be factually true but still harmful and inappropriate. Gossip is sharing personal information about others that isn’t your story to tell or doesn’t serve a constructive purpose. Even true statements can damage reputations and relationships when shared inappropriately.
How can I stop gossip when it starts in a group conversation?
You can gently redirect the conversation by saying something like, “I’m not sure they’d want us discussing this,” or by changing the subject. You can also speak positively about the person being discussed or suggest talking to them directly if there’s a genuine concern.
What’s the difference between gossip and legitimate sharing of concerns?
Legitimate sharing of concerns is motivated by care and seeks resolution, while gossip is motivated by entertainment or malice and seeks no constructive outcome. Ask yourself: “Am I talking to the right person who can help solve this problem?” If not, it’s likely gossip.
How do I handle it when I need to discuss someone’s behavior with a leader for legitimate reasons?
Approach the conversation with respect, focusing on specific behaviors rather than character attacks. Speak only to those who have responsibility in the situation, maintain confidentiality, and ensure your motives are for restoration rather than punishment.
Is it wrong to warn others about someone who has hurt people in the past?
This requires wisdom. There’s a difference between malicious gossip and appropriate warnings about genuinely harmful behavior. Focus on verifiable facts, speak only to those who need to know for safety reasons, and examine your motives carefully.
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Piper McMillan is a passionate writer and educator dedicated to sharing the beauty and depth of the Bible. As the author behind the Piper McMillan website, she explores Bible verses, unlocks biblical narratives, and provides insights for living a Christ-centered life. Through warm, approachable, and inspiring articles, Piper guides readers to deepen their understanding of Scripture and apply its timeless wisdom to daily living. Her mission is to uplift, educate, and help others walk faithfully with God, rooted in His word.
