“They also learn to waste their time in going around from house to house; but even worse, they learn to be gossips and busybodies, talking of things they should not” (1 Timothy 5:13 GNB).
The verse quoted above mentions two different types of people: “gossips” and “busybodies.” While these references are closely related, there are some subtle differences between them. For instance, a “busybody” is a talkative, meddlesome person who pries into the affairs of others. One such reference to this type of behavior is found in 2 Thessalonians 3:11. On the other hand, a “‘gossip” is a person who spreads rumors or idle, fruitless tales. (1)
One of the best ways to handle gossip is to refuse to participate in spreading it. If we are faced with a situation that could eventually lead to rumor-mongering or promote idle, fruitless speculation, the proper response is to first engage in a private, direct conversation with the person (or persons) involved.
Consider Jesus’ guidance on this subject from the Gospel of Matthew….
“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” (Matthew 18:15 NLT).
Jesus also offered another good incentive to refuse to take part in gossip…
“I promise you that on the day of judgment, everyone will have to account for every careless word they have spoken” (Matthew 12:36 CEV).
The word translated “careless” in that passage conveys the idea of laziness or something worthless. In the verse that follows the passage quoted above, Jesus also went on to say this: “Your words now reflect your fate then: either you will be justified by them or you will be condemned” (Matthew 12:37 TLB). This reminds us that Christ will call us to account for every idle, careless word we’ve ever spoken. That future reality should prompt us to refrain from participating in gossip or meddling in the affairs of others today.
Finally, the Old Testament book of Proverbs offers several practical insights that we would do well to remember and apply in this area…
“Don’t tell your secrets to a gossip unless you want them broadcast to the world” (Proverbs 20:19: TLB)
“He who goes about as a talebearer reveals secrets, but he who is trustworthy and faithful in spirit keeps the matter hidden” (Proverbs 11:13 AMPC).
“Gossip is spread by wicked people; they stir up trouble and break up friendships” (Proverbs 16:28 GNT).
“Where there is no wood, a fire goes out, and where there is no gossip, contention ceases” (Proverbs 26:20 NET).
(1) See Nelson’s Illustrated Bible Dictionary, “busybody” [pg. 207] and “gossip” [pg. 407]