1

How are we as Christians to respond when we are gossiped and lied about?



    
    

Clarify Share Report Asked February 22 2017 Mini Barbara Warren Supporter

Community answers are sorted based on votes. The higher the vote, the further up an answer is.

1
Mini Tim Maas Supporter Retired Quality Assurance Specialist with the U.S. Army
I would say that the first and most effective way to deal with this issue is to be careful to live and conduct oneself in such a manner that either gossip will not start, or (if it does start out of pure malice on the part of others) it will not be believed by those who hear it.

Secondly, I would say that a Christian should not "retaliate in kind" against such activity, but, where possible, should speak privately with the person or persons who originated the false reports (Matthew 18:15) and attempt (even if the effort proves unsuccessful) to come to an understanding with them.

If that is not possible, perhaps there is a mutual third party who thinks well of you, and whom the person(s) doing the gossiping would also respect, who can intervene on your behalf in a manner which the gossiper will listen to and heed.

Ultimately, however, beyond the above steps, it does not appear to me that a Christian can control what others say. I would say that the Christian should then take them to God in prayer, and make every effort (with God's help) to remove anxiety or worry about them from the Christian's life, enlisting the help and support of other Christians in that regard, as available and/or necessary.

March 04 2017 0 responses Vote Up Share Report


0
R Ronald Rose Supporter Retired Navy, Retired DOJ FBOP
Living daily in Christ is the appropriate response to mockers.

July 14 2017 0 responses Vote Up Share Report


Add your Answer

All answers are REVIEWED and MODERATED.
Please ensure your answer MEETS all our guidelines.

What makes a good answer? ▼

A good answer provides new insight and perspective. Here are guidelines to help facilitate a meaningful learning experience for everyone.

  1. Adhere to the eBible Statement of Faith.
  2. Your answer should be complete and stand-alone.
  3. Include supporting arguments, and scripture references if possible. Seek to answer the "why".
  4. Adhere to a proper tone and spirit of love and understanding.
  5. For more info see The Complete Guide to eBible
Header
  1. 4000 characters remaining