Why Christians Should Not Slander: 6 Tips to Repentance and Life!
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Why Christians should not slander: The Bible shows that our words carry immense power, and how we use them is a reflection of our relationship with God. One of the most damaging ways we misuse our speech is through slander.
Slander is the act of speaking falsehoods or harmful truths about someone intending to damage their reputation or stir discord. In James 4:11-12, we are given a direct command to avoid this destructive behaviour:
“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. There is only one Lawgiver and Judge, the one who can save and destroy. But you—who are you to judge your neighbour?”
(James 4:11-12, NIV).
This passage reveals the gravity of slander and its spiritual implications. It is not just a “bad habit” or “loose talk”—it is a sin that violates God’s law, reveals the condition of our hearts, and, if left unrepented, sets us on a path toward destruction. Let’s explore why Christians must avoid slander and how to replace it with Christlike speech.
1. Christians Should Not Slander – It Violates the Entire Point of God’s Law
James 4:11 states that slanderous speech is a direct attack on God’s law. The law James refers to is likely the royal law in James 2:8: “Love your neighbour as yourself.” This command is central to the Christian life, and slander stands in stark opposition to it.
When we slander someone, we act not out of love but out of malice, pride, or jealousy. Slander contradicts the very essence of God’s command to love others as we love ourselves. Instead of building others up, it tears them down. Instead of fostering unity, it creates division.
Paul echoes this in Galatians 5:14-15: “For the entire law is fulfilled in keeping this one command: ‘Love your neighbour as yourself.’ If you bite and devour each other, watch out, or you will be destroyed by each other.”
Slander is not a small offence—it undermines the foundational principle of God’s law. To persist in it is to oppose God’s will for His people.
2. Christians Should Not Slander – It Reflects the Condition of the Heart
Jesus taught that our words are an overflow of what is in our hearts:
“The mouth speaks what the heart is full of.” (Luke 6:45, NIV).
Slanderous words reveal deeper issues within us, such as bitterness, jealousy, pride, or insecurity. They are not just “slips of the tongue” but evidence of spiritual unrest and sinfulness in our hearts.
When we speak ill of others, it often stems from unresolved emotions or a desire to elevate ourselves at their expense. For example, gossiping about a colleague’s mistake might make us feel more competent in comparison. However, this behaviour reveals a heart focused on self-promotion rather than Christlike humility and love.
As Christians, and leaders we are called to examine our hearts and allow the Holy Spirit to transform us. If slander is present in our lives, it is a sign that we need to bring our hearts before God in repentance and ask Him to root out the sin that lies within.
3. Christians Should Not Slander – Unrepented Slander Leads to Destruction
James 4:11-12 warns that Christians should not slander, because when we slander, we place ourselves as judges over others and God’s law. This is a dangerous position, as it demonstrates a lack of humility and a rejection of God’s authority.
When we refuse to repent of slander, we show that we are not “doers of the law” but judges of it. This mindset leads to spiritual destruction because it distances us from God and blinds us to our need for His grace.
Proverbs 18:21 reminds us: “The tongue has the power of life and death, and those who love it will eat its fruit.” Words have consequences, and persistent slander not only damages relationships but also hardens our hearts. Over time, it can erode our sensitivity to the Holy Spirit and hinder our spiritual growth.
If left unchecked, slander can lead to eternal separation from God. Jesus warned in 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.”
Repentance is not optional—it is essential. A failure to repent of slander reveals a heart not submitted to God’s authority and risks eternal consequences.
4. Practical Tips For Christians To Overcome Slander in Church Circles
Slander often thrives in church communities under the guise of “sharing concerns” or “prayer requests.” To combat this, we must be intentional about guarding our speech and fostering an environment of love and respect. Here are practical steps to stop slandering and gossiping:
a. Examine Your Motives Before Speaking
Before saying anything about someone, ask yourself:
- Is what I’m about to say true?
- Is it necessary?
- Is it loving?
If your words fail any of these tests, choose silence instead. James 1:19 advises us to be “quick to listen, slow to speak, and slow to become angry.” Practising this discipline can prevent harmful words from escaping your lips.
b. Pray for the Person Instead
If you feel tempted to speak negatively about someone, take it to God in prayer. Ask Him to help you see that person through His eyes and to replace any bitterness in your heart with love and compassion.
c. Avoid Gossip-Prone Conversations
Certain environments and conversations are more prone to gossip and slander. Be mindful of the company you keep and the topics of discussion. If a conversation turns toward gossip, gently redirect it or excuse yourself.
d. Focus on Encouraging Words
Ephesians 4:29 says: “Do not let any unwholesome talk come out of your mouths, but only what helps build others up according to their needs, that it may benefit those who listen.” Make it a habit to speak words that uplift and encourage others.
e. Hold Each Other Accountable
As members of the body of Christ, we are called to sharpen one another (Proverbs 27:17). If you hear someone engaging in gossip or slander, lovingly confront them and remind them of God’s standard for speech.
f. Seek Forgiveness and Reconciliation
If you have slandered someone, don’t let pride keep you from making it right. Confess your sin to God and seek forgiveness from the person you wronged. This not only restores relationships but also strengthens your witness as a follower of Christ.
5. Cultivating a Culture of Grace in the Church
To eradicate slander, we must foster a culture of grace within our church communities. This involves:
- Modeling Christlike Speech: Leaders and members alike must set an example of speaking truth in love (Ephesians 4:15).
- Encouraging Transparency: Create an environment where people feel safe to share their struggles without fear of gossip or judgment.
- Teaching on the Power of Words: Regularly remind the congregation of the biblical principles regarding speech and the consequences of slander.
- Prioritizing Unity: Focus on what unites us as believers rather than what divides us. Philippians 2:2 urges us to be “like-minded, having the same love, being one in spirit and of one mind.”
Conclusion: Stop Slandering And Choose Life-Giving Words
Slander is a sin that not only harms others but also endangers our own spiritual well-being. James 4:11-12 reminds us of the seriousness of this sin and calls us to humble ourselves before God, recognizing that He alone is the Judge.
As Christians, our words should reflect the character of Christ—bringing life, healing, and encouragement. By examining our hearts, repenting and committing to speaking truth in love, we can honour God with our speech and build up the body of Christ.
Let us choose to be instruments of grace rather than agents of destruction, remembering the wisdom of Proverbs 15:4: “The soothing tongue is a tree of life, but a perverse tongue crushes the spirit.” May our words always glorify God and point others to His love.
