Scandal: Disgrace and Damaging Gossip

A warning against conduct and speech that bring shame to the name of Christ. We should also avoid situations that could appear compromising, even when no wrong is intended, so that our conduct is above reproach and honours Christ.

The Nature of Scandal

Scandal is the discredit and shame brought about by unseemly conduct, often of a morally wrong or illegal nature. When such failure occurs inside a Christian setting, it brings the cause of Christ into disrepute and, with wide exposure, can result in public outrage (1 Tim 6:1; Tit 2:5; 1 Pet 3:16). Believers are therefore called to live in a way that honours the gospel, avoiding actions that would cause others to stumble or mock the faith.

Scandal and the Vulnerability of Leaders

Satan targets leaders because if he can cause them to fall, he is able to decimate a greater number of believers. Yet regardless of position, every Christian should live with integrity and above reproach, “giving the enemy no opportunity for slander”.

Jesus warned His followers that they would be insulted and falsely accused because of Him (Mt 5:11). Peter therefore urges believers to live such upright lives that even those who speak against them will see their good deeds and glorify God (1 Pet 2:12). Though we cannot stop every false report, we can live in a manner befitting a follower of Christ, who Himself did no wrong.

We maintain a close relationship with the Lord by being sensitive to the Holy Spirit and our conscience, guarding our reputation through Christ’s teaching and refusing to give the devil a foothold (Prov 4:23; Eph 4:22,27; Col 3:5-10). Humble, open accountability with godly believers who proactively address concerns about one’s conduct or lifestyle is also essential (Eph 5:3; 1 Tim 3:2,7, 5:14; Tit 2:5).

Guarding Speech and Restoring the Fallen

We should challenge those who spread rumours and scandal with questions such as – are these facts or hearsay? Have you prayed for the person involved? Would you like others to talk about you like this? If sin has occurred, the issue must be addressed while restoring the person back to fellowship with God, their family and with fellow believers. Reinstatement to a previous position should not be done lightly or quickly.

Don't let any harmful talk come from your mouth – Ephesians 4:29

Reflection and Application:

Is my conduct helping or harming the reputation of Christ?
Am I accountable to trustworthy believers who can speak into my life?
Before repeating a story, do I ask whether it is true, kind and necessary?
When someone falls, is my response aimed at restoration or gossip?