Gossip spreads strife

“A dishonest man spreads strife, and a whisperer separates close friends.” (Prov. 16:28 ESV)

Gossip: to reveal personal or sensational tales or secrets about others; blab, dish, talk, tattle, backchat, cackle, chitchat, confabulation, gab, jangle, jaw, to schmooze.

A gossiper slanders and reveals secrets

“Whoever goes about slandering reveals secrets, but he who is trustworthy in spirit keeps a thing covered.” (Prov. 11:13 ESV)

Commands and warnings about slandering others

“You shall not go around as a slanderer among your people, and you shall not stand up against the life of your neighbor: I am the Lord.” (Lav. 9:16 ESV)

“You shall not spread a false report. You shall not join hands with a wicked man to be a malicious witness.” (Exo. 23:1 ESV)

“Whoever slanders his neighbor secretly I will destroy. Whoever has a haughty look and an arrogant heart I will not endure.” (Psalm 101:5 ESV)

Use only talk that builds others up with grace

“Let no corrupting talk come out of your mouths, but only such as is good for building up, as fits the occasion, that it may give grace to those who hear.” (Eph. 4:29 ESV)

“To speak evil of no one, to avoid quarreling, to be gentle, and to show perfect courtesy toward all people.” (Titus 3:2 ESV)