Deep Dive into Lectures to My Students by Charles Spurgeon - The Blind Eye and the Deaf Ear

Ministers should primarily handle slander and false reports by using the "deaf ear" and intentionally ignoring them. The wisest course in most cases is to let lies and falsehoods "die a natural death". Trying to answer every lie often gives it life and helps it spread. Falsehoods may carry their own refutation and sting themselves to death if left alone. Being unduly disturbed fulfills the slanderer's goal; silent endurance disappoints malice.Your blameless life and conduct are considered the best defense against gossip and slander. Those who know you will be less likely to believe the accusations. Ministers are generally advised to abstain from fighting their own battles or prosecuting slanderers, as this often causes more harm than the original slander by drawing attention to it. It is best to leave your reputation with God.However, there is a crucial exception: when distinct, definite, public charges are made, the minister is bound to answer them. This response must be clear and open. Refusing to address serious public accusations is practically pleading guilty in the eyes of the public. Serious charges require honest statements of fact.For trivial village gossip or "tittle-tattle," the best approach is to simply ignore it, perhaps praying over it privately rather than giving it notice or trying to trace it out, which can be very damaging. The talk of the village is often not worthy of notice.In every instance of dealing with slanderous tongues, counsel should be sought from the Lord. Ultimately, the sources trust that innocence will be vindicated and falsehood exposed.Reformed Theologian GPT: https://chat.openai.com/g/g-XXwzX1gnv-reformed-theologianPatreon: patreon.com/edi_reformed