The first few words that come to mind as I am writing this book review are - "Get ready to be convicted." This little book of 190 pages tuned out to be a BIG book after all! Big, in the sense that I was convicted of sin in my life after only a few pages into reading it. And here I thought that I had gossip under control in my life. Turns out that Mitchell had a few lessons to teach me straight from the Word of God.

I loved it! Did I mention I LOVED this book? Mitchell has a way with bringing the Scriptures alive. While gently giving us the desire to seek more of where he's coming from: the Gospel. Thus, creating in us a desire of purity in wanting to eliminate gossip in all its different forms.

What was astonishing to me and made me appreciate this author even more, is the fact that I never felt that he was placing a burden on me, moralizing me or judging me in any way. Many times he uses himself as an example. All the while leaving it up to the Spirit to do its work in our lives, while being the messenger of truth in delivering us such a needed well thought out biblical book.

This is an easy reader, friendly book, which is wonderful. Yet, it is also a book that won't leave you without some conviction on the part of the Holy Spirit if you're really listening... impossible. As much as I tried, I can't find anything Mitchell didn't think to cover in his book! Not that I am looking for faults, but I'm thinking he must of forgotten something. Yet he seems to have covered all significant grounds. And there are quite a few!

Despite the fact that this book has only 190 pages, I found it to be incredible all he had covered on gossip. If you're wondering why I was convicted of gossip. That's an excellent question. All I can say is that, when Mitchell starts explaining what gossip really is biblically, lived out in all different forms... I had an "a ha" moment! He not only explains in details what gossip is and isn't, he also gives us wonderful truths on how to stop gossiping. Tools taken straight from the Bible!

Like him, I also believe that most Christians are not being taught enough on the sin of gossip in our churches. Unfortunately, I think many of us believe we know what the sin of gossip is. But as I found out rapidly by reading his book, I had much to learn. I am so thankful for Mitchell's book on "Resisting Gossip". Honestly, I now comprehend deeper all that lingers beneath and around the issues of gossiping. Which enables me to say NO to gossip!

Here are some major topics that he covers in his book just to name a few:

Recognizing Gossip

What, Exactly is Gossip?

Resisting Gossip

Regretting Gossip

This book brings up a subject that we greatly need to be taught on, and unfortunately we just ignore the problem most of the time. Well, here is a wonderful tool to help us deal with this sin that is based on the Word of God. We are also given practical was as to how to overcome this battle in our lives.

I leave you with this quote that sums up just how great a writer Matthew Mitchell is and so you can get a feeling of just how good his book is.

"If a desire for power is your temptation, then what you really want is Jesus. The power of gossip enslaves, but the power of Christ emancipates." 1

1 Mitchell, C. Matthew, Resisting Gossip, Fort Washington, CLC Publications, 2013, p. 49

Ann L Beaulieu

This book is a must read for all believers. It is very convicting and thought provoking. Matt not only addresses the problem of gossip and what it is, but he gives scriptural insight on how to repent of the sin of gossip as well.

Gossip is present everywhere. Even in the church. Unless we get a hold of our tongues, search our hearts, and confess before God, we will fall prey to it. All of us. Matt does a great job describing gossip, sharing Scriptures that speak about gossip, and what to do when you are tempted to gossip, listen to gossip or when you are gossiped about. He humbly approaches gossip as a fellow sufferer and sinner as one who is tempted, and how we all must cling to Him who is able to help us in our times of need. This book is great for small groups, church leadership, and for those who struggle with gossip and who have been gossiped about. Thumbs up, Matt!

I am more than half way through and I think it is a great find. I wish all of my friends would read this book! It answers some tough questions and simplifies them.

I've never of Matthew Mitchell but when I learned he received an endorsement from CCEF, I knew I had to read.

I was not only spurred on in a challenging sort of way, but was left encouraged by the Matthew's wonderful pastoral tone and straight forward biblical approach. He didn't waiver in helping us understand what the Bible has to say about gossip and led us to the grand solution found in the gospel, and offered us daily tangible advice to apply the truth of the gospel as it relates to fighting against gossip (in ourselves) or handling it (when it happens against us).

I cannot recommend this book enough. Thank you, Pastor Matthew for putting this together. Will be telling all my friends and recommending to all my client.

Edward Ruiz, LPC

CCFS