John 21
23 So the rumor spread among the community of believers that this disciple wouldn’t die. But that isn’t what Jesus said at all. He only said, “If I want him to remain alive until I return, what is that to you?”
How do rumors get started? What is behind the rumor? Jealousy, distain, malicious intent, misunderstanding, feelings of inadequacy or superiority? I'm sure there are a lot more reasons for rumors or gossip. Here the rumor is John won't die before Jesus returns. Not a hurtful rumor but incorrect none the less.
God doesn't like gossip. He states it many times in the Bible. In Exodus 23:1 God told Moses to write about gossip as one of the 10 Commandments; “You must not pass along false rumors". Again in Leviticus 19:16 God gave it to the Israelites as part of the law; "Do not spread slanderous gossip among your people." Gossip is spoken against in Proverbs as betraying confidences (11:13), separating friends (16:18), prolonging tension (26:20) and hardening a heart (26:22). Romans 1:29 tells us Gossips are wicked and 1Timothy 5:13 says gossip has no place with Christians.
We all do it, we all are guilty. When we catch ourselves involved in gossip we need to stop right then and there and put an end to it. We need to ask God for forgiveness and pray for all involved. Gossip in any form is not beneficial for the hearer, the speaker of the subject.
Ephesians 4:29 "Let everything you say be good and helpful, so that your words will be an encouragement to those who hear them."
Blessings, Cecilia
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