One of the most contentious topics of our day is the rise of the “cancel culture” phenomenon. The idea behind cancel culture is that individuals deemed to have acted in an “unacceptable manner” are publicly denounced (“cancelled”), particularly in social media. Those targeted are boycotted, shunned or otherwise ostracized, causing significant damage to their reputation and results in possible job loss or even physical violence.
The presumed positive aspect of the movement is that “marginalized” people have a way to publicize injustices committed by socially powerful people that have allegedly escaped traditional forms of accountability. The negative, however, is the absence of objectivity when the verdict of “unacceptable behavior” is handed down. At its worst, a person can suffer indignities and financial loss at the hands of unidentifiable groups who, themselves, are not held accountable for their bullying behavior.
While “cancel culture” is a modern phrase, the concept was brought to life in 1850 by Nathaniel Hawthorne in his book The Scarlett Letter. The main character, Hester Prynne, had a child out of wedlock and was subsequently forced to wear a red “A” on her clothing to publicly alert everyone to her sin.
Can you imagine being subjected to that kind of treatment? How must it feel to be unable to defend yourself against an indefinable mob of accusers on a public platform or to address the stream of disapproving glances of each person that walks by. It may never have occurred to you, but when you gossip about others you are promoting something similar.
Sadly, gossip is one of those sins that often gets a pass, or worse, receives approval when it’s couched in religious language. What starts as a factual update about another person quickly deteriorates to biting comments about the choices that led to the difficult (perhaps even sinful) situation. It gets sugarcoated by labeling it “staying current,” but the Bible warns against these habits. “Besides that, they learn to be idlers, going about from house to house, and not only idlers, but also gossips and busybodies, saying what they should not” (1 Tim. 5:13).
Speaking ill of others when they cannot address the topic or defend themselves is an indicator of spiritual immaturity. “If anyone thinks he is religious and does not bridle his tongue but deceives his heart, this person’s religion is worthless” (Jas. 1:26). And just like cancel culture, gossip is highly divisive. “A dishonest man spreads strife, and a whisperer separates close friends” (Prov. 16:28).
Proverbs 18:8 acknowledges the temptation to consume gossip where it says, “The words of a whisperer are like delicious morsels.” Don’t take the bait! Decline to participate and be prepared to walk away. The battle to control the tongue against gossip is constant, but it is a battle worth fighting. Instead of focusing (and reporting) on the faults of others, view them with the worth that God gives them. Regarding His relationship with His people, God says, “You are precious in My eyes, and honored, and I love you” (Is. 43:4). Doubtless, He is a God that judges, but that kind of judgment is not for you to dispense. Spend your thoughts and your words on things that glorify God.
Finally, brothers, whatever is true, whatever is honorable, whatever is just, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is commendable, if there is any excellence, if there is anything worthy of praise, think about these things. (Phil. 4:8)
Does this describe your speech? Could your conversations be characterized as honorable, pure and lovely? Are your words a model for others? If not, then ask God’s forgiveness and, where appropriate, the forgiveness of others. If you are tempted to initiate or invite gossip, pray before you meet (or message) with friends. Ask God to help you to strictly use speech that is God-honoring and gracious. Instead endorsing a kind of personalized cancel culture, use the gift of words to point others to Christ.
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)