The Gossip We Give and the Grace We Need

Our words have the power to do far more than hurt feelings—they can take something from another person that is more valuable than money: their good name. Exodus 20:16 calls us not to bear false witness, and Scripture shows us that this command reaches into one of our most common sins: gossip. We may tell things that are technically true and still use our words to damage someone's reputation, stir up division, and rob them of the opportunity to tell their side of the story. But the gospel gives us something far better than simply learning to keep our mouths shut. Jesus, the Word made flesh, came not to expose and condemn his people but to reconcile us to God, cover our sin, intercede for us, and give us a secure identity that no one can steal. Come hear how the ninth commandment exposes our hearts—and how the words of Jesus can transform the way we speak about one another.