Surviving School – The Deadly Weapon “Gossip”
1 Thessalonians 2:1-12
Welcome back to another week at Thessalonica High. Now that you have realized that you are not alone, now I want to equip you to defend yourself against a deadly weapon. 1 Thessalonians 2 – This deadly weapon is the tongue “Gossip”. Often times at Thessalonica High the people there are so quick to spread rumors, and gossip about one another in a battle to climb the popularity ladder. They could care less for anyone else, as long as they are perceived as better than others. And if anyone even remotely got in their way they would be quick to make up some scheme or lie to demean that person’s character. It doesn’t end there. They also flatter others with their deceitful empty words. Greed consumes their thoughts and controls their tongue.
- Does that ever sound like your school?
- Have you ever been subject to Gossiping?
- Have you ever been the one who was Gossiping?
- What did that feel like?
- Ever wonder what that person might have felt like?
I have one key word I want you to remember. AVOID! Avoid people like this, and avoid getting caught up in yielding this deadly weapon in the wrong way. Proverbs 12:18 “Reckless words pierce like a sword” Not only does it cut through the hearts of others, but it also self inflicts. This weapon has the ability to destroy, but it also can restore if it is used in the right manner. It is important that if you ever want to survive Thessalonica High you must learn the Do’s and Don’ts of the tongue.
DON’TS:
Don’t speak:
- Vanity – vs.1
- Deceitfully w/ error or uncleanness – vs.3
- Flattery – pleasing other – vs. 4&5
- Greedily – vs.5
- Self Glory – vs.6
DO’s:
Do speak:
- Gently – vs.7
- Affectionately / loving – vs.8
- Boldly proclaiming the Gospel – vs.9
- Blamelessly, devoutly, and justly – vs.10
- Tenderly exhort, comfort, and challenge one another – vs. 11
Don’t just talk the talk, walk the walk:
Walk worthy of God – vs. 12
