Taking pleasure in the sins of others is an utterly distasteful habit. Why do we find gossip so enticing? Why do we delight in hearing about the shortcomings of others?
We know that spreading gossip about others is a sin. It demeans people. It also reflects a wicked heart that delights in hearing about the victories of sin in peoples’ lives. Too often Christians have disguised their gossip under the guise of feigned concern or sanctimonious “prayer requests.” Few things can be as active as a church “grapevine!” Why do so many Christians know that gossip is wrong, and yet do it anyway?
Further, why do we listen? Why do we not stop talebearers in their tracks and let them know we will not tolerate such evil talk? More than that, should it not grieve us every time sin gains another victory in someone’s life? Rather than hurriedly spreading the news of peoples’ shortcomings, ought we not to immediately retreat to our prayer closet and intercede for them? Rather than delighting in hearing the details of someone’s fall, should it not break our hearts that the Kingdom of God has suffered another casualty and Christ’s name has been dishonored once again?
Every time we hear of the downfall of one of our Christian brothers or sisters we have an invitation: the invitation is not to criticize or to spread the news, but to intercede.