05/06/2026
The Sin of Gossip
Scripture Text: Proverbs 16:28
“A froward man soweth strife: and a whisperer separateth chief friends.”
Introduction
One of the most dangerous sins in the church is not always drunkenness, stealing, or open rebellion. Sometimes it is a quiet tongue whispering behind someone’s back.
Gossip destroys:
* Friendships
* Families
* Churches
* Testimonies
* Unity among God’s people
A fire can start from one small spark, and great damage can come from one careless conversation.
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I. Gossip Is a Sin of the Tongue
James 3:5-6
“Even so the tongue is a little member, and boasteth great things. Behold, how great a matter a little fire kindleth!”
Words matter to God.
A gossiping tongue:
* Spreads rumors
* Repeats private matters
* Tears down others
* Creates suspicion and division
Many people excuse gossip by saying:
* “I’m just telling the truth.”
* “Did you hear about…?”
* “I just want you to pray about this.”
But if the purpose is to damage someone’s reputation, stir emotion, or spread shame, it becomes sin.
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II. God Hates Division Among Brethren
Proverbs 6:16-19
Among the things God hates is:
“he that soweth discord among brethren.”
Gossip often begins quietly:
* A whisper
* A side conversation
* A private text
* A subtle criticism
But Satan uses gossip to divide people who once loved each other.
Churches have split over gossip.
Homes have been broken by gossip.
Pastors have been wounded by gossip.
The devil is called “the accuser,” and gossip often joins his work instead of God’s.
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III. Gossip Reveals the Condition of the Heart
Matthew 12:34
“Out of the abundance of the heart the mouth speaketh.”
Our words reveal what is inside us.
Sometimes gossip comes from:
* Jealousy
* Bitterness
* Pride
* Anger
* A desire for attention
A heart filled with Christ produces grace, truth, and encouragement instead of poison.
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IV. The Christian Should Guard Their Speech
Ephesians 4:29
“Let no corrupt communication proceed out of your mouth, but that which is good to the use of edifying…”
Before speaking, ask:
* Is it true?
* Is it necessary?
* Is it loving?
* Will it help or hurt?
* Would I say it if that person were standing here?
Not every true thing needs to be repeated.
God calls believers to be builders, not destroyers.
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V. There Is Forgiveness and Victory
Some people carry guilt because they know they have wounded others with words.
The good news is:
Jesus Christ forgives sins of the tongue too.
Repentance means:
* Confessing the sin to God
* Making things right when possible
* Asking God to change the heart
* Learning to speak with grace and wisdom
Psalm 141:3
“Set a watch, O Lord, before my mouth; keep the door of my lips.”
That is a prayer every Christian should pray.
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Conclusion
A gossiping tongue can tear down in minutes what took years to build.
But a godly tongue can:
* Encourage the weak
* Heal the wounded
* Restore unity
* Honor Christ
Let us determine:
* To speak truth
* To refuse gossip
* To protect one another
* To use our words for God’s glory
Invitation
If God has spoken to your heart:
* Ask Him to cleanse your speech
* Ask forgiveness where needed
* Commit your tongue to the Lord
Because the same mouth that praises God on Sunday should not destroy people on Monday.
