Gossip may seem harmless at first—just a few words shared here or there—but the Bible makes it clear that it has real power to hurt, divide, and destroy. Whether it’s whispering about someone behind their back or spreading private information, gossip can erode trust and relationships faster than we realize.
The topic of gossip in the Bible is addressed throughout Scripture because our words matter. God cares not just about what we say, but why and how we say it. These Bible verses challenge us to guard our speech and pursue lives that reflect truth, love, and respect for others.
Here are 15 important Bible verses about gossip, each with a short explanation to help you apply the message to your daily life.
1. Proverbs 16:28
A froward man soweth strife: and a whisperer separateth chief friends.
Explanation:
Gossip damages even the closest relationships. This verse shows that a whisperer—someone who spreads secrets—can destroy deep friendships and create unnecessary conflict.
2. Proverbs 11:13
A talebearer revealeth secrets: but he that is of a faithful spirit concealeth the matter.
Explanation:
Trustworthy people know how to keep things private. Gossipers, on the other hand, are quick to share information that should be kept confidential.
3. Ephesians 4:29
Let no corrupt communication proceed out of your mouth, but that which is good to the use of edifying, that it may minister grace unto the hearers.
Explanation:
This verse urges us to use our words to build others up, not tear them down. Gossip does the opposite of edifying—it harms and divides.
4. James 1:26
If any man among you seem to be religious, and bridleth not his tongue, but deceiveth his own heart, this man’s religion is vain.
Explanation:
Our words reveal the state of our hearts. If we claim to follow God but don’t control our speech, especially gossip, our faith lacks true substance.
5. Leviticus 19:16
Thou shalt not go up and down as a talebearer among thy people: neither shalt thou stand against the blood of thy neighbour: I am the Lord.
Explanation:
God commands His people not to act as gossipers. This Old Testament law highlights how seriously He takes slander and how it endangers community.
6. Proverbs 20:19
He that goeth about as a talebearer revealeth secrets: therefore meddle not with him that flattereth with his lips.
Explanation:
This verse advises caution around people who can’t keep things to themselves. If someone flatters but also gossips, they can’t be trusted.
7. 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!
And the tongue is a fire, a world of iniquity: so is the tongue among our members, that it defileth the whole body…
Explanation:
James compares the tongue to fire—small but powerful. Gossip may seem minor, but it can quickly spread and cause widespread damage.
8. Titus 3:2
To speak evil of no man, to be no brawlers, but gentle, shewing all meekness unto all men.
Explanation:
This verse encourages us to avoid speaking negatively about others. Gossip is the opposite of gentleness and humility.
9. Psalm 34:13
Keep thy tongue from evil, and thy lips from speaking guile.
Explanation:
David’s prayer reminds us to guard our words. Staying away from gossip is part of living a righteous life.
10. Matthew 12:36
But I say unto you, That every idle word that men shall speak, they shall give account thereof in the day of judgment.
Explanation:
Jesus warns that we will answer for our words. Gossip, even if careless or idle, has consequences both now and in eternity.
11. Romans 1:29-30
Being filled with all unrighteousness, fornication, wickedness… whisperers,
Backbiters, haters of God, despiteful, proud…
Explanation:
Paul includes gossipers in a long list of serious sins. Whispering and backbiting are signs of a heart not aligned with God’s will.
12. 1 Timothy 5:13
And withal they learn to be idle, wandering about from house to house; and not only idle, but tattlers also and busybodies, speaking things which they ought not.
Explanation:
This verse warns against having too much time on our hands without purpose. Gossip often flows from idleness and misplaced focus.
13. Proverbs 26:20
Where no wood is, there the fire goeth out: so where there is no talebearer, the strife ceaseth.
Explanation:
Gossip keeps conflict alive. If gossip stops, peace can return. Removing gossip is like removing fuel from a fire—it stops burning.
14. 2 Corinthians 12:20
For I fear, lest, when I come… there be debates, envyings, wraths, strifes, backbitings, whisperings…
Explanation:
Paul feared finding the church full of division and gossip. These behaviors damage unity and disrupt spiritual growth.
15. Colossians 3:8
But now ye also put off all these; anger, wrath, malice, blasphemy, filthy communication out of your mouth.
Explanation:
Believers are called to put away harmful speech, including gossip. God wants our words to reflect love, not malice or negativity.
Choosing Words That Heal, Not Hurt
Gossip may be common, but that doesn’t mean it’s harmless. These verses about gossip in the Bible show that our speech has power—for good or for harm. God calls us to use our words with care, building each other up, not tearing each other down.
Let’s aim to speak truth with love, keep private things private, and encourage others to do the same. When we follow God’s wisdom, we create spaces of peace, trust, and grace.
Now it’s your turn!
Have you ever struggled with gossip or been hurt by it? Is there a verse here that speaks directly to you? Share your thoughts, favorite Bible verses about gossip in the Bible, or personal experiences in the comments—we’d love to hear from you.