Proverbs 18:8

Rumors are dainty morsels that sink deep into one’s heart.

Who Does Gossip Hurt?

1. The Person that is Talked about.

Proverbs 16:28

A troublemaker plants seeds of strife; gossip separates the best of friends.

2. The Person who Listens.

Proverbs 17:4

Wrongdoers eagerly listen to gossip; liars pay close attention to slander.

3. The Person who Speaks it.

Proverbs 25:9-10

When arguing with your neighbor, don’t betray another person’s secret.

Others may accuse you of gossip, and you will never regain your good reputation.

How To Control Gossip?

1. Protect Your Ears

Matthew 18:15

“If another believer sins against you, go privately and point out the offense. If the other person listens and confesses it, you have won that person back.

How to stop Gossip with one question:

Why are you telling me this?

Or

Have you spoke with ____________ about this?

Proverbs 20:19

A gossip goes around telling secrets, so don’t hang around with chatterers.

2. Close Your Mouth

Proverbs 21:23

Watch your tongue and keep your mouth shut, and you will stay out of trouble.

Gossip claims “I’m strong because they’re weak”

The Gospel proclaims “I am weak but He is strong.”

Life Group Questions:

Ice Breaker: What do you like to do for fun and relaxation?

1. Why do you think you gossip?

2. What are you looking to get out of gossiping?

3. What are some of the ways gossip harms relationships?

4. We learned that, “Gossip claims, ‘I am strong because they’re weak.’ The Gospel admits ‘I am weak but He is strong.’” What step do you need to take to fight gossip with the Gospel?

5. When someone comes up to you and starts to gossip what is your game plan?