Download Selected Proverbs

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PROVERBS (3)
Miami International Seminary
Rev. Donald F. Ritsman, Th.M.
AQUAINTING THE STUDENTS WITH THE COURSE AND
WHAT WILL BE EXPECTED OF THEM
A. SYLLABUS
COURSE DESCRIPTION
This course is designed as a topical study of the Proverbs, with cross-references to other portions of Scripture. The
purpose is to assist the student in gaining a greater comprehension of the biblical teaching contained in the Proverbs
with an emphasis on practical application. The course is composed of eight lessons.
A Note on Hebrew and Greek Fonts:
At certain points in the lessons Hebrew or Greek words are incorporated into the text. In order to
retrieve these words it is necessary to download Teknia Hebrew and Teknia Greek. The student may
contact MINTS for free downloads of these fonts by clicking Biblical Language Fonts.
GOALS AND OBJECTIVES
Goals
1. The student will gain a greater comprehension of the biblical teaching containe d in the Book of Proverbs.
2. The student will come to greater appreciation for the message that God communicates to us in the Book of
Proverbs.
3. The student will apply the teaching gained from the Book of Proverbs to his own life for spiritual
development.
Objectives
1. By means of the questions following the lessons, the student will identify the key teachings found in the
Book of Proverbs.
2. By means of the reading assignments, the student will gain a greater appreciation for the teaching of the
Book of Proverbs.
3. By means of the written essay, the student will express how the teaching of Proverbs has a practical impact
on his life and the life of the church.
CREDIT
This course may be taken for credit towards either a Bachelor or Masters degree . The assignments will vary
according to each program as explained below.
DESCRIPTION OF ASSIGNMENTS
For credit toward a Bachelors Degree
1. Studying the Scripture text and the accompanying commentary:
The student will study the key proverbs pertaining to a particular topic, guided by an expositional
commentary on the text. The student will then be required to answer questions based on his study of the
expository notes.
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2. Extra reading:
The student will read an additional 300 pages, which he can choose from the list of suggested resources
found below in the section entitled, "B. Reading Resources." He will write a report on each book or
article, using the form, Guidelines for Writing a Book Report, provided by the facilitator.
3. Essay*:
The student will write an 8-10 page essay in which he discusses Proverbs’ teaching on the subject of wealth,
critiquing the Health and Wealth “Gospel” in light of that teaching, and contrasts Proverbs’ teaching with the
various views about wealth held by the world.
*See “Guidelines for Writing an Essay," to be distributed by the facilitator.
For credit toward a Masters Degree
1. Studying the Scripture text and the accompanying commentary:
The student will study the key proverbs pertaining to a particular topic, guided by an expositional
commentary on the text. The student will then be required to answer questions based on his study of the
expository notes.
2. Extra reading:
The student will read an additional 600 pages, which he can choose from the list of sugg ested resources
found below in the section entitled, "B. Reading Resources." He will write a report on each book or
article, using the form, Guidelines for Writing a Book Report, provided by the facilitator.
3.Essay*:
The student will write a 15-20 page essay in which he discusses Proverbs’ teaching about the role of women,
compares and contrasts that teaching with the view held by the modern feminist movement, and finally, in light
of Proverbs’ teaching, critiques some of the less-than-biblical views that at times have been propounded by the
church.
*See “Guidelines for Writing an Essay," to be distributed by the facilitator.
WITHOUT CREDIT
The student will study the key proverbs pertaining to a particular topic, guided by an expositional commentary
on the text. The student may answer the questions that follow each lesson and take the final exam (to be
administered by the facilitator) based on his study of the expository notes.
FINAL GRADE
For Bachelors or Masters credit:
If the student is taking the course for credit, we recommend the following percentages for the final grade.
However, the MINTS center or institution that is giving credit for this course may modify these requirements.
60% Quizzes ("Evaluating Your Comprehension") and Final Exam
10% Report on additional reading
30% Essay
100% Total
Without credit:
The final grade for taking this course without credit will be calculated in the following manner:
80% Quizzes ("Evaluating Your Comprehension")
20% Final exam
100% Total
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B. READING RESOURCES
INTERNET RESOURCES
Book of Proverbs; Wikipedia
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Book_of_Proverbs
Practical Wisdom in the Book of Proverbs; Paul G. Apple
www.tldm.org/bible/old%20testament/proverbs.htm
The Book of Proverbs, Sermon Outlines; Mark A. Copeland
http://www.google.com/search?client=firefox-a&rls=org.mozilla%3AenUS%3Aofficial&channel=s&hl=en&source=hp&q=the+book+of+Proverbs&btnG=Google+Search
Book of Proverbs; Got Questions.org
http://www.gotquestions.org/book-of-proverbs.html
Proverbs by Topics; BibleStudy.org
http://www.biblestudy.org/bible-study-by-topic/proverbs/introduction.html
The Book of Proverbs; BibleExplore.com
http://www.godrules.net/library/delitzsch/26delitzsch_f0.htm
The Book of Proverbs and Ancient Wisdom Literature; Bruce K. Waltke
http://www.google.com/search?q=the+book+of+Proverbs&hl=en&client=firefox-a&rls=org.mozilla:enUS:official&channel=s&prmd=b&start=20&sa=N
Book of Proverbs and Biblical Theology; Roland E. Murphy
http://findarticles.com/p/articles/mi_m0LAL/is_1_31/ai_94331627/?tag=content;col1
The Book of Proverbs and Old Testament Theology; Bruce K. Waltke
http://www.google.com/search?q=the+book+of+Proverbs&hl=en&client=firefox-a&rls=org.mozilla:enUS:official&channel=s&prmd=b&start=30&sa=N
Introduction to the Book of Proverbs; author not specified
http://www.google.com/search?q=the+book+of+Proverbs&hl=en&client=firefox-a&rls=org.mozilla:enUS:official&channel=s&prmd=b&start=50&sa=N
Wisdom Literature of the Bible, The Book of Proverbs; F.F. Bruce
http://www.google.com/search?q=the+book+of+Proverbs&hl=en&client=firefox-a&rls=org.mozilla:enUS:official&channel=s&prmd=b&start=50&sa=N
Interpreting the Book of Proverbs; Bob McCabe
http://www.oldtestamentstudies.org/interpreting-the-book-of-proverbs-part-11/
BOOKS
Archer, Gleason l. Jr.; A Survey of Old Testament Introduction; Moody Press, Chicago, 1964 (Sixth Printing, 1970.)
Bridges, Charles; “Proverbs;” Crossway Classic Commentaries; Crossway Publishers; original publishing date 1846.
Bullock, C. Hassell; An Introduction to the Old Testament Poetic Books; Moody Press, Chicago, 1988.
Delitzsch, Franz; “Biblical Commentary on the Proverbs of Solomon,” Vol. 1, Biblical Commentary on the Old
Testament; Wm. B. Eerdmans Publishing Co., Grand Rapids MI, Reprinted, May 1970.
Dillard, Raymond B. and Longman, Tremper III; An Introduction to the Old Testament; Zondervan Publishing House,
Grand Rapids MI, 1994.
Harrison, R.K.; “Proverbs,” Evangelical Commentary on the Bible, Edited by Walter A. Elwell; Baker Book House, Grand
Rapids MI, 1989.
Harrison, R.K.; Introduction to the Old Testament; Wm. B. Erdmans Publishing Co., Grand Rapids MI, 1969 (Fifth
Printing, November 1975.)
Hubbard, David Allan; “Proverbs;” The Preacher’s Commentary; Thomas Nelson; 2002.
Jones, W.A. Rees and Walls, Andrew F.; ‘The Proverbs,” The New Bible Commentary, Edited by Prof. F. Davidson; The
Inter-Varsity Fellowship, London, Reprinted October 1967.
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Kidner, Derek; “Proverbs;” Tyndale Old Testament Commentary; Inter-Varsity Press; 1981.
Koptak, Paul; “Proverbs;” NIV Application Commentary; Zondervan Publishing House; 2003.
Longman, Tremper III; “Proverbs;” Baker Commentary on the Old Testament; Baker, 2006.
Waltke, Bruce K.; “The Book of Proverbs 2 Vol.;” The New International Commentary on the Old Testament;
Eerdmans, 2004.
Young, Edward J.; An Introduction to the Old Testament; Wm. B. Eerdmans Publishing Co., Grand Rapids MI, Revised
Edition, Fourth Printing, June 1969.
NOTE: THE STUDENT MAY ALSO CONSULT THE LIGONIER MINISTRY WEBSITE (HTTP://WWW.BESTCOMMENTARIES.COM/REVIEWER/LIGONIERMINISTRIES-KEITH-MATHISON/) FOR A LISTING OF USEFUL COMMENTARIES ON THE BOOK OF PROVERBS.
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WELCOME TO THE COURSE ON
THE BOOK OF PROVERBS (3)
LESSON ONE : TOPICAL STUDIES OF THE PROVERBS
The student should prepare for his study by asking the Holy Spirit to enlighten his mind and open his heart to
receive not only the teaching of Scripture but Christ Himself as He is presented in the Scriptures.
Assignments:
1. Bible Study: By a consideration of the proverbs pertinent to them, the student will explore the following topics:
Neighbors and Peace. The student will be guided by an expositional commentary on the text. The student will
then answer the questions found at the end of the expository notes.
2. Extra Reading: For Bachelor's credit, the student should do at least 100 pages of additional reading (see " B.
Reading Resources" listed in the Syllabus for suggested reading material.) For Master's credit, the student
should do at least 200 pages of additional reading. (In preparing his Book Report, the student should follow the
instructions given in Guidelines for Writing a Book Report, provided by the facilitator.)
Note: All Scripture texts will appear in Comic Sans MS font; all extended quotations from other authors will
appear in Courier font.
BE A GOOD NEIGHBOR
SELECTED PROVERBS
THEME: We must remember that our Lord Jesus Christ summarized the second great commandment in these words,
You shall love your neighbor as yourself. (Matthew 22:39)
PURPOSE: To instruct the hearers as to how Proverbs defines a good neighbor so that, by the grace of God our Savior,
we may live accordingly and so strive to fulfill the second great commandment.
OUTLINE:
I. Be a Good Neighbor,
…by Setting a Godly Example (Proverbs 12:26)
II. Be a Good Neighbor,
…by Being Compassionate (Proverbs 14:21)
III. Be a Good Neighbor,
…by Being Considerate (Proverbs 25:17; Proverbs 27:14; Proverbs 26:18-19)
IV. Be a Good Neighbor,
…by Practicing Integrity (Proverbs 25:18)
Introduction
1.
There is a well-known insurance company that advertises itself as being “a good neighbor.”
2.
But what does it mean to be “a good neighbor?”
3.
According to the slogan of that particular insurance company, to be a good neighbor means to “be there”—to be
there to lend assistance in time of need.
4.
In a famous poem, Robert Frost lays two thoughts side by side: as two New England neighbors repair the stonewall
that separates their adjacent properties…
5.

the one declares, “Good fences make good neighbors” (i.e., a respect for privacy and boundaries is a
characteristic of a good neighbor).

the other friend muses, “Something there is that doesn’t love a wall.” (i.e., here is the desire to tear down
and do away with unnecessary boundaries and barriers in an effort to build bonds of friendship and
interaction).
What does the Word of God, especially as revealed in the book of Proverbs, tell us about being a good neighbor?
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I. Be a Good Neighbor,
…by Setting a Godly Example (Proverbs 12:26)
The righteous is a guide to his neighbor, but the way of the wicked causes them to go astray. (Proverbs
12:26)
1.
As a Christian, by your conduct and your counsel, you should be setting a godly example for your neighbors.
a.
Are you living a life that reflects the righteousness of God by keeping His commandments (as they are
summarized in the Ten Commandmenst)?
And God spoke all these words: 2I am Jehovah your God, who brought you out of the land of Egypt,
out of the house of bondage.
3
You shall have no other gods besides me.
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You shall not make for yourself a carved image, or any replica of anything that is in heaven above or
that is on the earth beneath or that is in the water below the earth. 5You shall not bow down to them
or serve them…
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You shall not misuse the name of Jehovah your God, for Jehovah will not regard anyone who misuses
his name as being guiltless.
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Remember the Sabbath day, remember to keep it holy. 9Six days you shall labor and do all your work;
but the seventh day is a Sabbath dedicated to Jehovah your God. …
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12
Honor your father and your mother…
13
You shall not murder.
14
You shall not commit adultery.
15
You shall not steal.
16
You shall not give false testimony against your neighbor.
17
You shall not covet your neighbor’s house. You shall not covet your neighbor’s wife, or his male
servant or his female servant, or his ox or his donkey, or anything that belongs to your neighbor.
(Exodus 20:1-17)
b.
Are you living a life that recognizes the lordship of Jesus Christ by accepting what He brings into your life
and thereby presenting to your neighbor a true example of godly living?
Do all things without grumbling and arguing, 15so that you may become blameless and pure, children of
God without blemish, in the midst of a perverse and depraved generation, among whom you shine like
stars in the universe, 16firmly holding the word of life (Philippians 2:14-16a)
“How can you praise God after He gave you a baby with all these problems?” I
asked by neighbor Dionila….
“God will work all these problems for good because I love and trust Him.” was
Dionila’s reply….
Seeing her eyes glisten with love and praise for God in the midst of her
terrible ordeal, I marveled. I went home that day and did something I hadn’t
done for a long time. I prayed. …
Dionila’s faith was affecting me! …
Both Oscar, my husband, and I began attending church. We asked for God’s
forgiveness for wanting to run our lives our own way. When things had been
going well for us, we’d accepted God’s blessings without thanking Him. But when
our problems started, we were quick to blame Him.
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By her example, Dionila taught me that God wants us to rely on His power and
strength, not on our own. She accepted her trials and thanked God, knowing He
could turn her baby’s problems into blessing….
2.
I thank God for Dionila’s amazing faith, which encouraged me to place my trust
in the Lord at a time when things looked hopeless. (POWER, 5/16/93, pp.2-ff.)
The righteous is a guide to his neighbor, but conversely, the way of the wicked causes them to go astray—
i.e.; to depart from the Lord God and His way
You who preach against stealing, do you steal? 22You who say that people should not commit adultery, do
you commit adultery? You who abhor idols, do you rob temples? 23You who boast about having the law, do
you dishonor God by breaking the law? 24As it is written: God’s name is blasphemed among the Gentiles
because of you. (Romans 2:21b-24)
II. Be a Good Neighbor,
…by Being Compassionate (Proverbs 14:21)
He who despises his neighbor sins; but he who has pity on the afflicted, blessed is he. (Proverbs 14:21)
1.
The situation envisioned here is one in which a neighbor is in need: he is afflicted (hn2e2) with some type of
trial that is weighing down upon him and threatening to crush him
2.
As opposed to despising him, (which is sin), we are to have compassion on him
a.
to despise him, or treat him with contempt, is here used in the sense of avoiding contact with him and
his burdens

there is within us a desire to steer clear of those situations and those people who may require the
giving of our time, our energy, our resources, ourselves

there is the natural tendency, with few exceptions, to avoid costly relationships, note 2 Timothy
1:8,15-16;
…do not be ashamed to testify about our Lord, or ashamed of me his prisoner. But join with me
in suffering for the gospel, by the power of God, …15You know that everyone in the province of
Asia has deserted me…16May the Lord show mercy to the household of Onesiphorus, because he
often refreshed me and was not ashamed of my chains. (2 Timothy 1:8, 15-16)
b.
it is the Christ-like attribute of compassion that moves us to perform deeds of mercy

what set the good Samaritan apart from the others and moved him to perform his deeds of kindness
was his compassion:
A priest happened to be going down the same road, and when he saw the man (who had been
beaten by robbers), he passed by on the other side. 32So too, a Levite, when he came to the place
and saw him, passed by on the other side. 33But a certain Samaritan, as he traveled, came to
the place where the man was; and when he saw him, he was moved with compassion. 34He
went to him and bandaged his wounds, pouring oil and wine on them. Then he put the man on his
own donkey, took him to an inn and took care of him. (Luke 10:31-34)
Therefore, as God’s chosen people, holy and dearly loved, clothe yourselves with compassion,
kindness, humility, gentleness and patience. (Colossians 3:12)
3.
There is the promise that the man who shows compassion towards the afflicted shall be blessed
With the merciful you will show yourself merciful (2 Samuel 22:26a)
Blessed are the merciful, for they shall obtain mercy. (Matthew 5:7)

when the saving grace of God is operating in a life the character of Christ is being reproduced in that
life and the blessing of God is bestowed upon that life
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III. Be a Good Neighbor,
…by Being Considerate (Proverbs 25:17; Proverbs 27:14; Proverbs 26:18-19)
Seldom set foot in your neighbor’s house, or he will become tired of you and hate you. (Proverbs 25:17)
1.
We are not to make a nuisance of ourselves, we are not to impose upon our neighbor’s hospitality or
monopolize his time


2.
3.
example: people who stop by and talk for hours, or people who don’t know when the party is over and
when it’s time to go home
such behavior is extremely self-centered and inconsiderate, it is an expression of self-absorbed
insensitivity
In Robert Frost’s poem, referred to in the introduction, the line, “Good fences make good neighbors” is
expressing the importance of respect for our neighbor’s privacy and personal rights
a.
the poem asks, “Why do they (fences) make good neighbors? Isn’t it where there are
cows?” (cows, like some self-absorbed people, do not have the sense to respect privacy and unspoken
boundaries, hence the need for fences; …we should be careful not to act like cows)
b.
we should be sensitive not to impose ourselves on our neighbors, …we should be sensitive to respect
their time and their privacy, …we should be sensitive to view their hospitality as a privilege to be
cherished, not abused
The previous proverb (25:16) cautions against overindulging in a good thing
Have you found honey? Eat just enough to satisfy yourself, if you overindulge, you will vomit it up.
(Proverbs 25:16)

coupling the two proverbs together, the lesson is this: just as you become sick if you eat too much
honey; so, too, your neighbor will become sick of you if he has too much of you in his “diet”
He who loudly blesses his neighbor early in the morning, his neighbor will consider it to be a curse.
(Proverbs 27:14)
1.
Even when your intentions are noble and you seek to bring blessing, you need to exercise consideration and
sensitivity

2.
example: an immigrant related how his neighbor humiliated him with his unintentional but insensitive
attitude: with his immigrant neighbor at his side, this insensitive man strutted into a public office with
the intention of assisting his neighbor with some necessary legal paperwork, but by his demeanor he
conveyed the sense that he was condescending to help this poor, ignorant immigrant—his efforts, even
though well-intended, were resented by his neighbor
Even when our intentions are good, they need to be governed by wisdom and forethought

consider the testimony of a well-intentioned, but impulsive and thoughtless pastor: I see a problem,
I’m quick to address it. But I can’t figure out why I don’t see better results.

in order to be truly effective, the compassion of our heart needs to be channeled into constructive
action that is governed by a knowledge of the Word of God and a sensitivity to the situation and the
person to whom we desire to bring blessing
Like a madman shooting firebrands or deadly arrows,
“I was only joking!” (Proverbs 26:18-19)
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so is the man who tricks his neighbor and says,
1.
This proverb is describing a practical joker: he has played a trick on his neighbor that has caused his
neighbor harm or inconvenience, and now he declares, “It was all in fun, I was only joking!”
2.
Note: the practical joker is described as a madman who recklessly hurls around flaming firebrands or who
randomly shoots off arrows

i.e., he is not aware of the danger and potential destruction he is causing to his neighbor’s well-being
and to his good relationship with his neighbor
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
3.
example: a college student, as a practical joke, hid his friend’s chemistry notes, unaware that his
friend had an exam the next day—such “humor” proved to be a source of grief to his friend
What biblical principle should guide our conduct towards our neighbor?
So in everything, do to others what you would have them do to you, for this sums up the Law and the
Prophets. (Matthew 7:12)
Let us therefore make every effort to do what leads to peace and to mutual edification. (Romans 14:19)
IV. Be a Good Neighbor,
…by Practicing Integrity (Proverbs 25:18)
A man who bears false testimony against his neighbor is a club and a sword and a sharp arrow.
(Proverbs 25:18)
1.
Bearing false testimony against one’s neighbor (in the form of outright lies, or unsubstantiated accusations,
or slander, or gossip) is viewed as the equivalent of making war against him: wielding a club or a sword,
shooting a sharp arrow

2.
to bear false testimony against your neighbor is viewed as assaulting him: it is an assault on his name,
his reputation
To bear false testimony against your neighbor is to become a source of destruction, violating the very
commandment designed to protect life, honor truth, and promote peace.
Do not go about spreading slander among your people. Do not do anything that endangers your neighbor’s
life. I am Jehovah. (Leviticus 19:16)
Conclusion
1.
Our Lord Jesus tells us that part of our Christian duty is to love our neighbor.
2.
Proverbs provides us with some practical ways in which we are to fulfill our Lord’s commandment:

we are to set a godly example

we are to be compassionate

we are to be considerate

we are to practice integrity
Questions on the topic of Neighbors
1. How does Proverbs 12:26 (printed below) describe the role of the righteous man with regard to his neighbor? How
does the righteous man fulfill this role?
The righteous is a guide to his neighbor, but the way of the wicked causes them to go astray. (Proverbs 12:26)
2. Consider Proverbs 14:21 (printed below.) What do you think it means for a man to "despise his neighbor?" Hint: Note
how the opposite attitude is described in the latter half of this proverb.
He who despises his neighbor sins; but he who has pity on the afflicted, blessed is he. (Proverbs 14:21)
3. What counsel does Proverbs 25:17 (printed below) give us as to how we are to treat our neighbor?
Seldom set foot in your neighbor's house, or he will become tired of you and hate you. (Proverbs 25:17)
4. What does Proverbs 26:18-19 (printed below) tell us about the adverse effects of playing practical jokes on our
unsuspecting neighbor?
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Like a madman shooting firebrands or deadly arrows, (19) so is the man who tricks his neighbor and says, "I was
only joking!" (Proverbs 26:18-19)
5. How does Proverbs 25:18 (printed below) describe the man who bears false testimony against his neighbor?
A man who bears false testimony against his neighbor is a club and a sword and a sharp arrow. (Proverbs 25:18)
6. Proverbs 12:26 tells us, The righteous is a guide to his neighbor.” In what ways is the righteous man a guide to his
neighbor?
a.
b.
c.
By keeping God’s commandments and thereby living a life that reflects God’s divine righteousness.
By always pointing out his neighbor’s shortcomings to him with the hope of producing in him the
conviction of sin.
By always being ready to explain to his neighbor the reason for his Christian hope.
7. Proverbs 14:21 informs us, He who despises his neighbor sins.” What does it mean to “despise” one’s neighbor?
a.
b.
c.
It means to avoid contact with him when he is in need.
It means being jealous of him because of what he possesses.
It means looking down upon him because of his lower social status or smaller income.
8. Match the proverbs listed below with the counsel they give as to how we are to treat our neighbor.
a.
b.
c.
Seldom set foot in your neighbor’s house, or he will become tired of you and hate you. (Proverbs 25:17)
___
He who loudly blesses his neighbor early in the morning, his neighbor will consider it to be a curse.
(Proverbs 27:14) ___
Like a madman shooting firebrands or deadly arrows, 19so is the man who tricks his neighbor and says, “I
was only joking!” (Proverbs 26:18-19) ___
1. Do not be a nuisance.
2. Do not be a practical joker.
3. Do not be inconsiderate.
9. Who is described as wielding a club, a sword, and a sharp arrow against his neighbor?
a.
b.
c.
The man who plays practical jokes on his unsuspecting neighbor.
The man who bears false testimony against his neighbor.
The man who ignores his neighbor in his time of need.
10. Match the proverbs listed below with the statements that summarize their teaching with regard to being a good
neighbor.
a.
b.
c.
d.
The righteous is a guide to his neighbor, but the way of the wicked causes them to go astray. (Proverbs
12:26) ___
He who despises his neighbor sins; but he who has pity on the afflicted, blessed is he. (Proverbs 14:21)
___
Seldom set foot in your neighbor’s house, or he will become tired of you and hate you. (Proverbs 25:17)
___
A man who bears false testimony against his neighbor is a club and a sword and a sharp arrow.
(Proverbs 25:18) ___
1.
2.
3.
4.
Be Compassionate
Be Considerate
Set A Godly Example
Practice Integrity
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HOW TO PROMOTE PEACE
SELECTED PROVERBS
THEME: As Christians, we have been called to seek peace and pursue it (1 Peter 3:11b).
PURPOSE: To instruct the hearers as to how we may promote peace, because God desires for us, as far as possible, to
live at peace with all men (Romans 12:18).
If it is possible, as far as it depends on you, live at peace with everyone. (Romans 12:18)
OUTLINE:
I. Promote Peace,
…by Recognizing the Awful Consequences of Strife (Proverbs 17:19; Proverbs18:19)
II. Promote Peace,
…by Controlling Your Temper (Proverbs 29:22)
III. Promote Peace,
…by Avoiding a Greedy Spirit (Proverbs 28:25)
IV. Promote Peace,
…by Avoiding Gossip (Proverbs 26:20)
V. Promote Peace,
…by Minding Your Own Business (Proverbs 26:17)
VI. Promote Peace,
…by Seeking and Accepting the Will of God (Proverbs 18:18)
Introduction
1.
Do you want to know how to start a civil war?
2.
A classic example would be the tactics of the National Liberation Front, a terrorist group that operated in Frenchoccupied Algeria in the early 1950’s.
3.
On November 1, 1954, the leader of the FLN, Ahmed Ben Bella, launched the campaign of ridding Algeria of
French control.
4.
The National Liberation Front knew that they could not defeat the French army, so how would they go about
achieving their goal?
5.
The strategy to which they resorted was devilish: by means of terror and murder, they would eliminate the
moderates on both sides (the pro-Arab French leaders and the pro-French Arab leaders who really wanted to work
together for the good of all); …they would force the population to take sides: either with the FLN against the
occupying French government, or with the French (and thereby be marked as an enemy of the FLN).
6.
The newly-appointed French Governor-General, Jacques Soustelle, thought he could defeat these FLN terrorists by
giving the Arab people genuine democracy and social justice.
7.
But the FLN systematically murdered the local leaders who sought to carry out Soustelle’s liberal policy, both
French and Arab.
8.
They strove hardest of all to kill those French administrators who loved the Arabs: it was at the funeral of one
such victim that Governor-General Soustelle first used the word “revenge.” (Modern Times, pp.496-499)
9.
In contrast to the diabolical pursuit and promotion of strife, such as that of the FLN, the Word of God declares,
How good and pleasant it is when brothers live together in unity! (Psalm 133:1).
10. With this in mind, let us now give our attention to the next study from the book of Proverbs on the subject, How
to Promote Peace.
I. Promote Peace,
…by Recognizing the Awful Consequences of Strife (Proverbs 17:19; Proverbs 18:19)
He who loves strife loves transgression; he who builds a high gate invites destruction. (Proverbs 17:19)
12
1.
2.
Strife and contention go hand in hand with transgression: contention is a form of transgression and it
inevitably leads to more and greater transgression (the pattern is that of offense, followed by retaliation,
followed by an escalation of the conflict)
We may also take note of Proverbs 17:14;
Starting a quarrel is like breaching a dam; therefore, stop arguing before a dispute erupts. (Proverbs
17:14)
a.
Just as a small hole in the dam will allow the water to seep through, first slowly, then as a trickle, and
finally as a gushing torrent, so, too, contention can grow to increasing degrees until it is out of control
and lets loose a torrent of sinful conduct
b.
The counsel of Scripture is to stop arguing (to cease from it and let the matter rest), before a dispute
erupts
c.
Consider the good example of brother Andrew and brother Thomas:
The story is told about two monks, Andrew and Thomas, who lived in a cave.
They got along so well that not even a cross word passed between them. In fact,
life was so harmonious that it seemed monotonous at times.
One day Andrew came up with an idea to break the boredom. “Let’s have a good
quarrel,” he suggested, “like people in the outside world!” Thomas responded,
“But we don’t have anything to argue about.” Andrew thought for a moment, and
then suggested, “Let’s find a rock and place it on the ground between us. I’ll
say, ‘This rock is mine!’ And you’ll say, ‘No, it isn’t, this rock is mine!’
Maybe that will get a good argument started.”
So, finding a rock, and placing it on the ground between them, Andrew
exclaimed, “This rock is mine!” Thomas, pausing for a moment, responded meekly,
“I think, brother, that the rock is mine.” “Oh, very well, then,” Andrew said
agreeably, “if the rock is yours—take it.”
All too often Christians quarrel with one another over insignificant things. In
many cases, their disputes could quickly vanish if one side unselfishly yielded
to the desires of the other.
A sure cure for quarreling is to give honor and preference to one another. Two
cannot quarrel when one will not. (Our Daily Bread, 7/13/90)
3.
What causes contention?

4.
stubbornness, misunderstanding (due to a lack of listening or a failure to give clear explanation of one’s
actions, motives or desires), demanding our rights, pride—wanting to win the argument and have the last
word, or refusing to admit when we are wrong
Consider Proverbs 17:19b; he who builds a high gate invites destruction

the building a high gate may be a reference to the outward display of pride that refuses to dismiss an
offense and “erects a barrier” that severs fellowship rather than seeking reconciliation and pursuing the
way of peace; it is vanity, arrogance, and pride that is a chief cause of contention (note Galatians 5:2526)
If we live by the Spirit, let us also walk in line with the Spirit.
provoking each other, envying each other. (Galatians 5:25-26)
26
Let us not become conceited—
An offended brother is harder to be won over than a fortified city; such disputes are like the barred
gates of a castle. (Proverbs 18:19)
1.
This proverb is graphically portraying the difficulty of reconciling an offended brother and the strong
separation and barrier that contention produces, especially between close friends.

because of the deep bonds, a conflict is felt more acutely and therefore it is more difficult to reconcile:
a trust has been broken, there is a sense of betrayal (cp. Romans 14:19)
13
Let us therefore make every effort to do what leads to peace and to mutual edification. (Romans
14:19)
2.
What are some of things that promote peace and edification?
a. cultivate a brotherly attitude
Since you have, by obedience to the truth, purified your souls for a sincere love of your brothers,
earnestly love one another from the heart (1 Peter 1:22), one of the great purposes of salvation is to
live in a state of brotherly love (verse 22a), the command then follows to carry out this purpose in our
lives (verse 22b)
So then, I, the prisoner for the Lord, exhort you to walk in a way that is worthy of the calling for
which you were called: 2walk with all humility and meekness, and with patience, bearing with each
other in love, 3making every effort to maintain the unity of the Spirit by the bond of peace.
(Ephesians 4:1-3)
b.
cultivate a servant’s attitude
Do nothing out of selfish ambition or vain conceit, but with a humble mind let each one consider
others as occupying a higher position than himself. 4Let each one be concerned not only about his own
interests, but also about the interests of others. 5Have this mind in you which was also in Christ Jesus
(Philippians 2:3-5); i.e., view yourself in the role of the servant and your brother in the position of the
one to be served (such is the meaning of consider others as occupying a higher position than himself)
c.
cultivate a forbearing and forgiving spirit
Therefore, as God’s chosen people, holy and dearly loved, clothe yourselves with compassion, kindness,
humility, gentleness and patience. 13Bear with each other and forgive whatever grievances you may
have against one another. Forgive as the Lord forgave you. (Colossians 3:12-13)
II. Promote Peace,
…by Controlling Your Temper (Proverbs 29:22)
An angry man stirs up strife, and a wrathful man commits an abundance of transgressions. (Proverbs
29:22)
1.
An angry man stirs up strife…

when you approach an already volatile situation in an angry spirit you are sure to make matters worse:
it is like pouring gasoline on smoldering charcoal
A wrathful man stirs up strife, but he who is slow to anger pacifies contention. (Proverbs 15:18)
2.
…and a wrathful man commits an abundance of transgressions.
A quick-tempered man will do foolish things, and a crafty man is hated. (Proverbs 14:17)
3.
a.
when you lose your temper you also lose your reason and your long-range perspective
b.
later, when the flames of your anger have burned themselves out, when you calm down and return to
your senses, you may regretfully survey the damage:

hateful words that leave deep wounds

broken relationships cut off by deep and wide chasms

stupid decisions or wicked actions that can never be undone
When you surrender to your temper, remember what else you are surrendering: your reason and your longrange perspective; …and remember what you may well get in exchange: the painful consequences of foolish
and sinful behavior that may last for a lifetime.
14
III. Promote Peace,
…by Avoiding a Greedy Spirit (Proverbs 28:25)
He who has a greedy spirit stirs up strife, but he who puts his trust in Jehovah shall be made fat.
(Proverbs 28:25)
1.
If you possess and are possessed by a greedy spirit, you can expect to be a source of strife, or at least
contribute to strife and contention.

a greedy spirit will cause you to act selfishly, will motivate you to take advantage of other people, will
make your life become self-centered and will cause you to sacrifice your relationship with others to
reach your goals and satisfy your greed
He who is greedy for wealth brings trouble upon his own household, but he who hates bribes shall
live. (Proverbs 15:27)
2.
Consider the striking contrast between a greedy spirit (that stirs up strife) and the spirit exhibited by Isaac:
Isaac reopened the wells that had been dug in the days of Abraham his father, because the Philistines
had plugged them up after the death of Abraham. He gave them the same names his father had given
them. 19When Isaac’s servants were digging in the valley they discovered there a source of spring water.
20
But the herdsmen of Gerar quarreled with Isaac’s herdsmen, saying, The water belongs to us. So Isaac
named the well, Esek (Contention), because they contended with him. 21Then they dug another well, and
they quarreled over that one also. So he named it Sitnah (Enmity). 22He moved on from there and dug yet
another well. And they did not contend for it. So he named it Rehoboth (Room for us), declaring, Now
Jehovah has made room for us and we shall be fruitful in the land. (Genesis 26:18-22)
How could Isaac be so forbearing?
a.
consider the example of his father, Abraham
Then Abram said to Lot, I beg you, let there be no conflict between me and you, nor between my
herdsmen and your herdsmen, for we are brothers. 9Is not the whole land before you? I ask you,
please separate yourself from me. If you will go to the left, then I will go to the right. Or if you
will go to the right, I will go to the left. (Genesis 13:8-9)
b.
consider the experience of his own life:

Isaac willingly allowed himself to be made an offering unto the Lord:
Then they came to the place of which God had told him. There Abraham built the altar, and
arranged the wood upon it. Then he bound Isaac his son and laid him on the altar on top of the
wood. 10Then Abraham reached out his hand and took the knife to slay his son. (Genesis 22:910)

Isaac received his life back again from God:
But the angel of Jehovah called to him out of heaven and said, Abraham, Abraham. And
Abraham said, Here I am. 12Then he said, Do not lay your hand upon the boy, neither do any
harm to him (Genesis 22:11-12a)

once you have given up your life to Christ, it becomes so much easier to give up anything else;
…once you have died to the world, you tend to look at the things of the world in a new light;
…once you have experienced God’s faithfulness, you tend to have a greater confidence in His
promises (Genesis 13:14-15)
After Lot had separated himself from him, Jehovah said to Abram, Now lift up your eyes from
the place where you are and look northward and southward and eastward and westward;
15
because I will give to you and to your descendants forever all the land that you see. (Genesis
13:14-15); the promise the Lord made to Abram after Abram had graciously offered Lot first
choice of location in the Promised Land of Canaan
15
IV. Promote Peace,
…by Avoiding Gossip (Proverbs 26:20)
For lack of wood a fire goes out; and where there is no gossiper, quarreling stops. (Proverbs 26:20)
1. Illustration: Conrad Dobler, a former professional football player with a reputation for stirring up trouble,
was featured in a T. V. commercial in which he would incite people to contention by playing the role of a
whisperer: He would antagonize one man by telling him that his neighbor held an opposing view, he then
would tell the neighbor that the first man was opposed to him, then the two neighbors would confront one
another and an angry strife would ensue while Conrad Dobler quietly slipped away
2.
3.
Have you ever witnessed this type of behavior? Have you ever been the victim of it? Have you ever incited
it yourself?

Judy, don’t you like Sally’s old hairstyle much better than her new one? Oh, yes, says Judy.

Sally, Judy doesn’t like your new hairstyle at all! Doesn’t that make you mad? Oh, yes, says Sally.
Consider such passages as these:
A perverse man scatters strife all around, and a whisperer separates intimate friends. (Proverbs 16:28)
…keep your tongue from evil and your lips from speaking lies. 14Turn away from evil and do good; seek
peace and pursue it.(Psalm 34:13-14)
V. Promote Peace,
…by Minding Your Own Business (Proverbs 26:17)
A passer-by who troubles himself with a quarrel that is not of his concern is like someone who takes a
dog by the ears. (Proverbs 26:17)
1.
You are out for a walk and you happen to see the neighbor’s dog sleeping in the sun: you sneak up on him
and give his ears a good tug. What do you think is going to happen?
2.
Once again you are out for an afternoon walk, this time you see your two neighbors arguing back and forth
over their fence: uninvited, you feel the impulse to become involved. But before you do, remember the
previous episode with the dog.
3.
The lesson of this proverb: it is not wise to thrust yourself into quarrels and conflicts, especially when your
aid or opinion has not been solicited
May none of you suffer as a murderer or a thief or an evildoer, nor as a troublemaker. (1 Peter 4:15)
It is an honor for a man to keep aloof from strife, but every fool will be quarreling. (Proverbs 20:3)
VI. Promote Peace,
…by Seeking and Accepting the Will of God (Proverbs 18:18)
Casting lots settles disputes and keeps strong opponents apart. (Proverbs 18:18)
1.
Illustration: Every spring the National Basketball Association holds a lottery in which the eleven weakest
teams draw lots to determine who will receive the first pick of the best of the graduating college players: it
is the only way to conduct the business of the league in a fair and equitable way.
2.
In Old Testament Israel the drawing of lots was employed as a means of settling controversies and
determining the will of God (cp. Numbers 33:54); it was also employed when the apostles sought to
determine who would take the place of Judas (Acts 1:23-26):
Distribute the land by lot, according to your clans…Whatever falls to them by lot will be theirs…
(Numbers 33:54)
…they proposed two men: Joseph called Barsabbas…and Matthias. 24Then they prayed, “Lord, you know
everyone’s heart. Show us which of these two you have chosen 25to take over the apostolic ministry,
which Judas left …” 26Then they drew lots, and the lot fell to Matthias; so he was added to the eleven
apostles. (Acts 1:23-26)
16
3.
In employing the lot, the people of God were aware of the fact that the Lord sovereignly controlled the lot
(Proverbs 16:33); consequently, it was a means of submitting a matter (which men by themselves could not
resolve with fairness and equity) to the Lord for His direction and decision.
The lot is cast into the lap, but its every decision is from Jehovah. (Proverbs 16:33)
4.
Although we may not necessarily employ the lot as did Old Testament Israel, the principle is important to
employ in our lives: submit a matter to God, seek His will, and accept His will (often determined by the
outcome of the matter); as opposed to striving for your own will to prevail
What causes fights and quarrels among you? Do they not come from your desires that battle within you?
2
You want something but do not get it. You kill and covet, but you cannot have what you want. You quarrel
and fight. …. 7Submit yourselves, then, to God. Resist the devil, and he will flee from you…. 10Humble
yourselves before the Lord, and he will lift you up. (James 4:1-2,7,10)
Conclusion
1.
Let us realize that the life of godly peace is itself one of the fruits of the Holy Spirit (Galatians 5:22-23); …it is
another aspect of Christ’s divine character that He is reproducing in us as His people.
…the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, integrity,
(Galatians 5:22-23)
2.
23
meekness, self-control.
Bearing this in mind, let us give heed to the teaching of Scripture (Psalm 133:1; Hebrews 12:14) and, in reliance
upon the Holy Spirit, let us seek to promote peace in our lives and in the church of the Lord Jesus Christ.
How good and pleasant it is when brothers live together in unity! (Psalm 133:1)
Make every effort to live in peace with all men and to be holy; without holiness no one will see the Lord.
(Hebrews 12:14)
Questions on the topic of Peace
1. What does Proverbs 18:19 (printed below) warn us as to the consequence of offending a brother?
An offended brother is harder to be won over than a fortified city; such disputes are like the barred gates of a
castle. (Proverbs 18:19)
2. What does Proverbs 29:22 (printed below) warn us about the consequence of uncontrolled anger?
An angry man stirs up strife, and a wrathful man commits an abundance of transgressions. (Proverbs 29:22)
3. What does Proverbs 28:25 (printed below) tell us is one cause of strife?
He who has a greedy spirit stirs up strife, but he who puts his trust in Jehovah shall be made fat. (Proverbs 28:25)
4. How does Proverbs 26:17 (printed below) describe a man who takes the initiative to interject himself into other
peoples' quarrels? What lesson should we learn from this proverb?
A passer-by who troubles himself with a quarrel that is not of his concern is like someone who takes a dog by the
ears. (Proverbs 26:17)
5. According to Proverbs 18:18 (printed below,) what is one way in which disputes may be settled?
Casting lots settles disputes and keeps strong opponents apart. (Proverbs 18:18)
6. Proverbs 18:19 declares, “An offended brother is harder to be won over than a fortified city.” Match the passages
listed below with the counsel they give for promoting peace among Christian brothers. (Answers listed on next page)
17
a.
b.
c.
Since you have, by obedience to the truth, purified your souls for a sincere love of your brothers,
earnestly love one another from the heart (1 Peter 1:22) ___
Do nothing out of selfish ambition or vain conceit, but with a humble mind let each one consider others
as occupying a higher position than himself. (Philippians 2:3) ___
Bear with each other and forgive whatever grievances you may have against one another. Forgive as the
Lord forgave you. (Colossians 3:13) ___
1. Exhibit a forbearing and forgiving spirit
2. Assume the position of a servant
3. Exhibit a brotherly attitude
7. According to the proverbs studied in this lesson on promoting peace, what kind of spirit stirs up strife?
a.
b.
c.
d.
A Greedy Spirit
An Honest Spirit
An Angry Spirit
A Contrite Spirit
8. In Proverbs 26:17, (“A passerby who troubles himself with a quarrel that is not of his concern”) is compared to
whom?
a. Someone who pours water on burning coals.
b. Someone who bridges the gap between adversaries
c. Someone who takes a dog by the ears.
9. Although we may not necessarily employ the lot as did Old Testament Israel, the principle is important to employ in
our lives: submit a matter to God, seek His will, and accept His will (often determined by the outcome of the matter);
as opposed to striving for your own will to prevail. True or False
10. Match the proverbs listed below with the lessons they teach with regard to promoting peace.
a.
b.
c.
d.
e.
An offended brother is harder to be won over than a fortified city; such disputes are like the barred
gates of a castle. (Proverbs 18:19) ___
An angry man stirs up strife, and a wrathful man commits an abundance of transgressions. (Proverbs
29:22) Control your temper
He who has a greedy spirit stirs up strife, but he who puts his trust in Jehovah shall be made fat.
(Proverbs 28:25) ___
For lack of wood a fire goes out; and where there is no gossiper, quarreling stops. (Proverbs 26:20) ___
A passer-by who troubles himself with a quarrel that is not of his concern is like someone who takes a
dog by the ears. (Proverbs 26:17) ___
1.
2.
3.
4.
5.
Mind your own business
Avoid entertaining a greedy spirit
Recognize the awful consequences of strife
Abstain from gossiping
Control your temper
18
LESSON TWO : TOPICAL S TUDIES OF THE PROVERBS
The student should prepare for his study by asking the Holy Spirit to enlighten his mind and open his heart to
receive not only the teaching of Scripture but Christ Himself as He is presented in the Scriptures.
Assignments:
1. Bible Study: By a consideration of the proverbs pertinent to them, the student will explore the following topics:
Pride and Prudence. The student will be guided by an expositional commentary on the text. The student will
then answer the questions found at the end of the expository notes .
2. Extra Reading: For Bachelor's credit, the student should do at least 100 pages of additional reading (see " B.
Reading Resources" listed in the Syllabus for suggested reading material.) For Master's credit, the student
should do at least 200 pages of additional reading. (In preparing his Book Report, the student should follow the
instructions given in Guidelines for Writing a Book Report, provided by the facilitator.)
Note: All Scripture texts will appear in Comic Sans MS font; all extended quotations from other authors will
appear in Courier font.
PRIDE: AN ATTITUDE TO AVOID
SELECTED PROVERBS
THEME: We must take seriously the biblical admonition that God resists the proud, but gives grace to the humble
(James 4:6b).
PURPOSE: To urge the students to make every effort to avoid entertaining the attitude of sinful pride in our lives, by
heeding the counsel offered in the book of Proverbs.
OUTLINE:
I. Avoid the Attitude of Pride,
…Because of Its Consequences
(Proverbs 13:10; Proverbs 11:2; Proverbs 15:25; Proverbs 16:5)
II. Avoid the Attitude of Pride,
…By Practicing Its Alternative
(Proverbs 16:19; Proverbs 25:6-7; Proverbs 26:12; Proverbs 27:1; Proverbs 18:12)
Introduction
1.
A man tells of the last visit he had with his father, and the valuable lesson he learned:
2.
He visited his father at a home for the aged. As he was leaving, his father escorted him through a narrow hallway
that was crossed overhead by a large low beam.
3.
As he and his father walked along, engaged in conversation, he did not notice the beam they were approaching.
4.
Suddenly his father issued the command, “Stoop! Stoop!”
5.
The son did not understand what his father was talking about and consequently banged his head against the beam.
6.
His father said, “Son, as you go through life, stoop low as you go, and you will miss many hard bumps.”
7.
The father’s message corresponds to that of Scripture: Pride is an attitude to avoid.
8.
Let us now consider the subject of pride as we come to our next topical study in the book of Proverbs.
I. Avoid an Attitude of Pride,
…Because of Its Consequences
(Proverbs 13:10; Proverbs 11:2; Proverbs 15:25; Proverbs 16:5)
19
Pride only breeds contention, but wisdom is found with those who accept advice. (Proverbs 13:10)
1.
One common by-product or result of pride is contention: wherever the attitude of pride is displayed,
contention will appear.
2.
Consider Galatians 5:26; Let us not become conceited—provoking each other, envying each other.
a.
an attitude of pride or conceit can be conveyed by the way we address others:

b.
an attitude of pride or conceit may also be conveyed by the way we treat others:

c.
Do we address them with courtesy and politeness, or do we bark orders and issue commands?
Do we treat them with respect and dignity, or do we treat them as though their sole function was to
do our bidding and fulfill our desires?
What results from exhibiting a spirit of pride and conceit in our dealings with others?

we make it very difficult for them to remember that they are our servants—just as we are their
servants within the church of Christ
You were called for freedom, brothers, only do not use this freedom as an opportunity for the
sinful nature to express itself; rather, serve one another with love (Galatians 5:13)

we make it extremely tempting for them to point out our faults:
whenever we ascend a pedestal, we invite everyone to direct their attention towards us, and what
they usually observe is our faults
illustration: a paint company painted a balloon with their competitor’s brand of paint, then they
blew up the balloon to show how their competitor’s brand cracked and peeled; when it was blown
up, all of its faults were revealed: the same is true when someone is inflated with pride

an attitude of pride or conceit displayed by ourselves often tends to produce the same attitude in
others around us
d.
all of these reactions to and interactions with a spirit of pride tend to produce contention
e.
by the grace of Christ our Savior, let us be diligent to observe the counsel of Scripture:
God has called us to live in peace (1 Corinthians 7:15b)
Do nothing out of selfish ambition or vain conceit, but with a humble mind let each one consider
others as occupying a higher position than himself. 4Let each one be concerned not only about his own
interests, but also about the interests of others. (Philippians 2:3-4); each of us should view himself in
the position of the servant of others; and we should not be self-absorbed with our own interests, we
should be sensitive to consider and meet the needs of our brethren
When pride comes, then comes shame; but wisdom is found with the humble. (Proverbs 11:2)
1.
There are occasions when you may be especially tempted to entertain a spirit of pride:

after a prosperous year of business:
By your great skill in trading you have increased your wealth, and because of your wealth your heart
has grown proud. (Ezekiel 28:5)

after a promotion to a high and honorable position:
The king said, Is not this great Babylon that I have built as the royal residence, by my mighty power
and for the glory of my majesty? (Daniel 4:30); these are the words of king Nebuchadnezzar after God
had exalted him to the position of sovereign king over the empire of Babylon

after a special honor has been conferred upon you:
20
In those days Hezekiah became ill and was at the point of death. He prayed to Jehovah, who
answered him and gave him a miraculous sign. 25But Hezekiah’s heart was proud and he did not respond
to the kindness shown him (2 Chronicles 32:24-25a); Hezekiah exhibited a spirit of pride after the Lord
answered his prayer and miraculously healed him

when you have been blessed with exceptional beauty and are admired for it:
Your heart became proud on account of your beauty (Ezekiel 28:17a)
2.
But when you entertain a spirit of pride, you are liable to part company with wisdom:

3.
Proverbs 11:2 indicates that wisdom is a close friend of humility, a friend for whom pride has little time
and no use
When you make pride your companion, pride will eventually introduce you to folly, and the two of them will
lead you down a road that leads to shame

i.e., pride will convince you that you can do something stupid or foolish and get away with it (because
you are so very wise or strong or clever or special); …but the final outcome will not be success; on the
contrary, it will prove to be shame
Jehovah will uproot the house of the proud, but he will establish the widow’s boundary lines.
15:25)
1.
The picture is that of the proud man being in a condition of apparent security: he is dwelling in a house (as
opposed to a tent) with a strong foundation

2.
(Proverbs
this sense of invincible security, perhaps self-constructed security, contributes to his sense of pride and
arrogance
But despite the apparent security of the proud man, the Lord uproots his house

i.e., the Lord not only opposes the proud, He totally eradicates him: demolishing his “invincible”
security and removing every remnant of his presence
The pride of your heart has deceived you, you who live in the clefts of the rocks and make your home
on the heights, you who say to yourself, Who can bring me down to the ground? 4Though you soar like
the eagle and make your nest among the stars, from there I will bring you down, declares Jehovah.
(Obadiah 3-4)
Everyone who has a proud heart is detestable to Jehovah. Be sure of this: they will not go unpunished.
(Proverbs 16:5)
1.
Why does God detest the sinful attitude of pride (and all of its manifestations: arrogance, conceit, contempt)?
Because…
a.
pride is man’s desire to attribute to himself what he has received from God…
b.
…and to usurp for himself the place and the honor that rightfully belong to God
c.
compare the words of Nebuchadnezzar (Daniel 4:30) with the apostle Paul’s testimony of praise for the
Lord God (Romans 11:36):
The king said, Is not this great Babylon that I have built as the royal residence, by my mighty power
and for the glory of my majesty? (Daniel 4:30)
…from him and through him and for him are all things, to him be the glory forever! Amen. (Romans
11:36)

note that Nebuchadnezzar views his kingdom as having originated from him, as being sustained by
him and as existing for himself—his pride causes him to assign to himself the attributes and
prerogatives of God
21

2.
3.
example: a young man exalted in the fact that he was able to make his wife pregnant and thus
produce a child, as though it were all his doing and not a gracious gift of God; in contrast to that
attitude, note Genesis 30:1-2
When Rachel saw that she was not bearing Jacob any children, she became jealous of her sister.
So she said to Jacob, Give me children, or I will die! 2Jacob became angry with her and said, Am
I in the place of God, who has kept you from having children? (Genesis 30:1-2)
The latter part of Proverbs 16:5 is actually a solemn oath (literally reading hand to hand; as men would shake
hands in pledge) that God will by no means allow the sinful attitude of pride to go unpunished.
Avoid an attitude of pride, …because of its consequences:



it produces contention
it leads to shame
it results in divine judgment
II. Avoid an Attitude of Pride,
…By Practicing Its Alternative
(Proverbs 16:19; Proverbs 25:6-7; Proverbs 26:12; Proverbs 27:1; Proverbs 18:12)
It is better to have a humble spirit and dwell with the poor, than to divide the plunder with the proud.
(Proverbs 16:19)
1.
It is better to have a humble spirit and keep company with the poor (those who have nothing, and are even
considered as being outcasts), than to enjoy great abundance if it means being in the company of the proud.
2.
The point of the proverb is this:
a.
a humble spirit is to be cherished as being of far greater value than the wealth of the world
b.
furthermore, do not associate with proud men, avoid them at all costs, so that you do not become like
them
Do not promote yourself in the presence of kings, and do not claim a place among great men; 7for it is
better if it is said to you, “Come up here,” than for you to be assigned a lower position before the
prince your eyes have seen. (Proverbs 25:6-7)
1.
Our Lord was alluding to this proverb when He spoke His parable to the Jews who were eager to seek for
themselves the place of honor:
When he noticed how the guests picked the places of honor at the table, he told them this parable:
8
When someone invites you to a wedding feast, do not take the place of honor, for a person more
distinguished than you may have been invited. 9If so, the host who invited both of you will come and say
to you, Give this man your seat. Then, humiliated, you will have to take the least important place. 10But
when you are invited, take the lowest place, so that when your host comes, he will say to you, Friend, move
up to a better place. Then you will be honored in the presence of all your fellow guests. 11Everyone who
exalts himself will be humbled, and he who humbles himself will be exalted. (Luke 14:7-11)
2.
The point of the proverb is this: do not seek to honor yourself, let someone else confer honor upon you
Let another man praise you, and not your own mouth; let a stranger praise you, and not your own lips.
(Proverbs 27:2)

3.
an old German proverb states:
Eigenlob stinkt (Self-praise stinks),
Freundes lob hinkt (A friend’s praise is lame),
Fremdes lob klingt (A stranger’s praise rings).
(Keil and Delitzsch, Proverbs Vol. I, p.199)
Note: on those occasions when honor is conferred upon you, receive it with gratitude and do not lose sight of
the biblical perspective:
22
What makes you superior? And what do you have that you did not receive? But if you received it, why do
you boast as if it had not been given to you? (1 Corinthians 4:7); Paul is reminding the Corinthians of the
fact that all spiritual gifts and talents come from the Lord and He is to be acknowledged as the Giver
Do you see a man who is wise in his own eyes? There is more hope for a fool than for him.
26:12)
(Proverbs
1.
A man who is wise in his own eyes, or in his own estimation, is a man who, animated by a spirit of pride,
views himself as being wise and knowledgeable; he is not open to receiving instruction so that he may
become truly wise; indeed, he may even treat with contempt and ridicule any attempt to instruct him
2.
There is more hope for a fool than for such a man

3.
i.e., there is more hope that a fool will listen and learn, …and Proverbs has very little hope for a fool!
The point of the proverb: do not think that you know all there is to be known, that you are an expert without
need of any further instruction, especially in spiritual matters; on the contrary, cultivate a humble and
teachable spirit
If anyone thinks that he knows anything exhaustively, he does not yet know as he ought to know. (1
Corinthians 8:2), the apostle Paul here uses the perfect tense of the verb, ginwvskw, indicating a perfect or
exhaustive knowledge of a subject, in this case specifically a spiritual subject
the Lord declares, I will instruct you and teach you in the way you should go; I will counsel you and watch
over you. 9Do not be like the horse or the mule, which have no understanding (Psalm 32:8-9a)
Do not boast about tomorrow, for you do not know what a day will bring. (Proverbs 27:1)
1.
This is the proverb to which James is alluding when he gives the instruction contained in James 4:13-16;
Now listen, you who say, Today or tomorrow we will go to this or that city, spend a year there, carry on
business and make money. 14Why, you do not even know what will happen tomorrow. What is your life? You
are a mist that appears for a little while and then vanishes. 15Instead, you ought to say, If it is the Lord’s
will, we will live and do this or that. 16As it is, you boast and brag. All such boasting is evil.

2.
a Hollywood producer once commented that film is a lie, because it is all humanly pre-planned to
perfection, while life is not under such human control
The point of the proverb is this: do not assume that you are in control of your life; recognize that your life is
under the Lord’s control.

as James reminds us, we ought to say, If it is the Lord’s will, we will live and do this or that.
Before his downfall a man’s heart is haughty; likewise, humility comes before honor. (Proverbs 18:12)
1.
Consider the life of Joseph as an illustration especially of the latter part of this proverb, as the Psalmist
provides a divinely-inspired commentary on his life:
…Jehovah sent a man before them—Joseph, sold as a slave. 18They bruised his feet with shackles, his
neck was put in irons, 19until what he foretold came to pass, until the word of Jehovah had tested him.
20
The king sent and released him, the ruler of the peoples set him free. 21He made him master of his
household, ruler over all he possessed. (Psalm 105:17-21)
a.
the Lord was testing Joseph to see if he was worthy of the promised honor—the honor made known to
him early in his life (note Genesis 37:5-8)
Now Joseph had a dream, and he told it to his brothers. … 6He said to them, I beg you, listen to this
dream that I dreamed: 7we were binding sheaves of grain out in the field, and my sheaf rose up and
stood upright. Your sheaves came and bowed down to my sheaf. 8His brothers said to him, Shall you,
indeed, reign over us? Or shall you, indeed, have dominion over us? … (Genesis 37:5-8a)
b.
by means of the trials he suffered, the Lord was preparing Joseph to occupy the position of honor and
responsibility to which He had previously called him
23
2.
The point of this proverb is this: recognize and accept the Lord’s way to true honor:
…humble yourselves under the mighty hand of God, so that he may exalt you at the appointed time (1
Peter 5:6)
Conclusion
1.
Proverbs instructs us that pride is an attitude to avoid, …because it produces contention, it leads to shame, and it
results in divine judgment.
2.
The best way to avoid the sinful and destructive attitude of pride is to cultivate and practice the alternative:

do not associate with proud men, avoid them at all costs, so as not to assimilate their spirit

do not honor yourself, let someone else confer honor upon you, and when they do, receive it with a gratitude
that recognizes God as the Source of every good gift

do not think that you know it all; have a teachable spirit that looks to the Word of God for instruction

do not assume that you are in control of your life, recognize that your life is in God’s hands

do recognize and accept the Lord’s way to true honor
Questions on the topic of Pride
1. According to Proverbs 13:10 (printed below,) what is one consequence of pride?
Pride only breeds contention, but wisdom is found with those who accept advice. (Proverbs 13:10)
2. What is another consequence of pride? See Proverbs 11:2 (printed below)
When pride comes, then comes shame; but wisdom is found with the humble. (Proverbs 11:2)
3. How does Proverbs 16:5 (printed below) describe Jehovah's attitude towards pride?
Everyone who has a proud heart is detestable to Jehovah. Be sure of this: they will not go unpunished. (Proverbs
16:5)
4. Consider Proverbs 16:19 (printed below). Which alternative mentioned in this proverb is recommended? Why do you
think this is so?
It is better to have a humble spirit and dwell with the poor, than to divide the plunder with the proud. (Proverbs
16:19)
5. Consider Proverbs 26:12 (printed below). How would you explain the meaning of the phrase, "a man who is wise in
his own eyes?" What does this proverb tell us about such a man?
Do you see a man who is wise in his own eyes? There is more hope for a fool than for him. (Proverbs 26:12)
6. Complete the proverbs listed below that reveal the consequences of pride.
a.
b.
c.
Pride only breeds ___. (Proverbs 13:10a)
When pride comes; then comes ___. (Proverbs 11:2a)
Before ___ a man’s heart is haughty. (Proverbs 18:12a)
1. shame
2. contention
3. his downfall
24
7. Why does God detest the sinful attitude of pride?
a.
b.
c.
Because pride is man’s desire to attribute to himself what he has received from God.
Because pride is man’s desire to usurp for himself the place and honor that rightfully belong to God.
Both of the above
8. Match the passages listed below with the occasions when we are especially susceptible to cultivating an attitude of
pride.
a.
By your great skill in trading you have increased your wealth, and because of your wealth your heart has
grown proud. (Ezekiel 28:5) ___
The king said, Is not this great Babylon that I have built as the royal residence, by my mighty power and
for the glory of my majesty? (Daniel 4:30) ___
In those days Hezekiah became ill and was at the point of death. He prayed to Jehovah, who answered
him and gave him a miraculous sign. 25But Hezekiah’s heart was proud and he did not respond to the
kindness shown him. (2 Chronicles 32:24-25a) ___
Your heart became proud on account of your beauty (Ezekiel 28:17a) ___
b.
c.
d.
1.
2.
3.
4.
If you have been blessed with extraordinary attractiveness
Following a promotion to a high position
After special honor has been bestowed upon us
After a prosperous year of business
9. Proverbs 18:12 declares, “Before his downfall a man’s heart is haughty.” In the life of which biblical character is the
truth of this proverb illustrated?
a.
b.
c.
Joseph
Ezekiel
Daniel
10. Match the proverbs listed below with the lessons they teach with regard to pride.
Do not promote yourself in the presence of kings, and do not claim a place among great men; 7for it is
better if it is said to you, “Come up here,” than for you to be assigned a lower position before the
prince your eyes have seen. (Proverbs 25:6-7) ___
Do you see a man who is wise in his own eyes? There is more hope for a fool than for him. (Proverbs
26:12) ___
Do not boast about tomorrow, for you do not know what a day will bring. (Proverbs 27:1) ___
a.
b.
c.
1. Do not assume you are in control of your life.
2. Do not seek to honor yourself.
3. Do not think you know it all.
PRUDENCE: A VALUABLE ATTRIBUTE
SELECTED PROVERBS
THEME: As Christians, we are not to imitate those people who live their lives with reckless abandon, caring nothing at
all for the well-being of their soul; on the contrary, we are to exercise prudence.
PURPOSE: To exhort the students to appreciate and practice the valuable attribute of prudence, because our spiritual
life is very precious and must be cared for properly.
OUTLINE:
I. Prudence: What Are Its Characteristics?
(Proverbs 14:8; Proverbs 13:16; Proverbs 14:15; Proverbs 12:23; Proverbs 22:3)
II. Prudence: How Is It Acquired?
(Proverbs 15:5; Proverbs 19:25)
Introduction
1.
One summer a couple was vacationing in Door County, Wisconsin.
2.
As a final activity before driving home, they decided to photograph the red lighthouse at the end of the
breakwater in Algoma.
25
3.
Although the day was chilly and foggy, they decided to do it anyway.
4.
As they walked along the breakwater, returning to their car, a young boy suddenly came out of the fog, riding
towards them on his bicycle.
5.
On this damp and chilly day he was only dressed in a shirt and jeans—no jacket, and his right arm was in a cast.
6.
As he rushed past on his bike, the wife thought to herself,
That crazy kid! It’s so cold and windy, he’s going to catch his death of cold. I hope he has enough sense to stop
when he gets to the end of the breakwater.
7.
Not long after, the boy came riding back past the couple. But instead of pedaling down the center of breakwater,
he rode along the edge, above the deep mist-shrouded water.
8.
As the couple walked along, the wife glanced up just in time to see the boy fall: as if in slow motion, the boy and
his bicycle toppled into the cold waters of Lake Michigan.
9.
Her husband and several nearby fishermen managed to reach the boy and drag him back onto the breakwater,
where he stood, soaked and shivering.
10. The couple offered to drive him home, but he pulled away from them. Running down the breakwater towards the
shore, he was soon once more lost in the fog. (POWER, 8/5/90)
11. That boy and his conduct serve as a good illustration of the way many people live: running in a fog, casting
caution to the wind when it comes to the care of their eternal soul, barely surviving one disaster and racing on to
the next, and maybe the final, spiritual disaster.
12. Our next topical study from the Book of Proverbs recommends to us an alternative to that lifestyle: we come now
to consider the valuable attribute of prudence.
I. Prudence: What are Its Characteristics?
(Proverbs 14:8; Proverbs 13:16; Proverbs 14:15; Proverbs 12:23; Proverbs 22:3)
A PRUDENT MAN POSSESSES SPIRITUAL AWARENESS.
The wisdom of the prudent is to thoughtfully consider his way, but the folly of fools is deceiving.
(Proverbs 14:8)
1.
2.
What makes the prudent man wise is the fact that he thoughtfully considers his way

i.e., he seeks to understand who he is, where he is going, what he is doing

the prudent man has a moral standard and compass; he has moral and spiritual direction and
discernment, and he stays on course

note Psalm 119:105; Your word is a lamp to my feet and a light for my path. (the testimony of the
Psalmist is the testimony of the prudent man)
All this is in contrast to the fool:

the fool practices folly (impiety), without comprehending how destructive it is; he is self-deceived (note
Proverbs 1:32b)
… the “security” of fools will destroy them. (Proverbs 1:32b)
note: the Hebrew word (tw1l5v1) has both the meaning of “quietness” and “carelessness,” or
“negligence;” thus, what is being referring to is that false confidence that the fool entertains—namely,
that all will be well with his soul, even though he ignores and rejects the commandments of God and
refuses to surrender his life to Christ the Savior

3.
note that Proverbs 14:8 contrasts spiritual comprehension and awareness (a characteristic of the prudent)
with self-deception (a characteristic of the fool)
This is also in contrast to the naïve, or, the simple (cp. Proverbs 14:15)
26
The naïve believes every word, but a prudent man carefully considers his steps. (Proverbs 14:15)

the naïve lack discernment and sound judgment, because they lack a moral standard and authority

like the young boy from Algoma mentioned in the introduction, the naïve run around in the fog without
direction or purpose, susceptible to the lure of any voice or suggestion

the Beetles’ song, Nowhere Man, is an apt description of the naïve:
He does not have a point of view,
he knows not where he’s going to… .
A PRUDENT MAN VALUES KNOWLEDGE.
Every prudent man works with knowledge, but a fool flaunts folly. (Proverbs 13:16)
1.
A prudent man works with knowledge, as opposed to working against knowledge or without knowledge:

the prudent man ascertains the facts, he accumulates the necessary data, then he proceeds, and as he
proceeds he is always ready and alert to absorb more knowledge and a greater depth of knowledge

note the apostle Paul’s prayer for the church:
I pray that your love (i.e., your love for Christ) may abound more and more in knowledge and all insight,
10
so that you may discern the things that are worthy, in order that you may be pure and blameless for
the day of Christ—11being filled with the fruit of righteousness which is through Jesus Christ to the
glory and praise of God. (Philippians 1:9-11)
2.
This is all in contrast to a fool who flaunts his folly
a.
a fool unwittingly puts his foolishness on public display by the way he acts: he operates without
knowledge or in defiance of the truth, and the ridiculous or tragic consequences identify him as a fool
(note Luke 14:28-30)
Suppose one of you wants to build a tower. Will he not first sit down and estimate the cost to see if
he has enough money to complete it? 29If he lays the foundation but is not able to finish it, everyone
who sees it will ridicule him, 30saying, This man began to build, but was not able to finish. (Luke 14:2830)
b.
Why does the fool operate without knowledge or in defiance of truth?
You who are naïve, how long will you love your simple ways? How long will scoffers delight in scoffing
and how long will fools hate knowledge? (Proverbs 1:22)
c.
as an example of these things note the interaction between the Lord Jesus and the Jews as described in
John 10:31-33,36-38
Again the Jews picked up stones, intending to stone him. 32Jesus asked them, I have shown you many
good works from the Father; for which of those works are you seeking to stone me? 33The Jews
answered him, We are not seeking to stone you for a good work, but for blasphemy; because you,
being a man, claim to be God. …. 36Jesus asked, How can you say to the one whom the Father sanctified
and sent into the world, You are blaspheming; because I said, I am the Son of God? 37If I do not do
the works of my Father, do not believe me. 38But if I am doing those works, even though you do not
believe me, believe the works; so that you may know and understand that the Father is in me and I am
in the Father (John 10:31-33,36-38)
d.

Jesus’ argument is “Actions speak louder than words:” if you do not believe Me for what I say, then
believe Me for what I do, My miraculous and godly works verify what I say to be true

the Jews’ response: We cannot deny your actions, but we still will not accept what you have to say
about yourself—such is the reasoning of the fool who hates knowledge and refuses to accept it
the philosopher Soren Kierkegaard once observed, There are two ways to be fooled: one is
to believe what isn’t so; the other is to refuse to believe what is so.
27
3.
Remember that a prudent man works with knowledge.
Every day we make many decisions with no more effort than it takes to breathe. But
those big ones, where a lot is at stake, often give us trouble. Here are a few
guidelines…
1.
2.
Pray to the heavenly Father about the issue.
Write out the pros and cons of each option.
3.
Ask





questions based on biblical principles:
What does God’s Word say about it?
What will it cost?
How will it affect you and others?
Will it hinder your obedience to God?
What do spiritually mature people say?
If you are pressed for a decision but are unsure, ask God to block any action you
might take that would be a mistake. Then make your choice and be confident that God
is working out His will in your life. (Our Daily Bread, 3/19/93)
The naïve believes every word, but a prudent man carefully considers his steps. (Proverbs 14:15)
1.
The prudent man has an examining, evaluating, discriminating mind; note 1 John 4:1
Beloved ones, do not believe every spirit, but test the spirits to see whether they are from God, because
many false prophets have gone out into the world. (1 John 4:1)
2.
The Word of God is to be our standard of judgment and our moral authority

in praying to His heavenly Father, the Lord Jesus declared, your word is truth. (John 17:17)

the apostle Paul explains that the Jews know God’s will…because you are instructed by the Law (a
reference to the Old Testament law of God) (Romans 2:18)

we should imitate the example of the Beroeans,
Now the Bereans were of more noble character than the Thessalonians, for they received the
message with great eagerness and examined the Scriptures every day to see if what Paul said was
true. (Acts 17:11)
A prudent man conceals knowledge, but the heart of fools proclaims foolishness. (Proverbs 12:23)
1.
A prudent man sees more than he says—a prudent man is quick to take in knowledge, but he is not so quick to
proclaim all that he knows.
2.
This is not a matter of deceit, but a matter of discretion:
there is a time to keep silence, and a time to speak (Ecclesiastes 3:7)
In the multitude of words there is no lack of transgression, but he who refrains from speaking acts wisely.
(Proverbs 10:19)
There is one who speaks rashly, like the piercing of a sword; but the tongue of the wise brings healing.
(Proverbs 12:18)
My dear brothers, take note of this: Everyone should be quick to listen, slow to speak and slow to become
angry… (James 1:19)
3.
One characteristic of prudence is discretion and the ability to practice self-control, especially over one’s
speech.
A PRUDENT MAN EXERCISES SELF-CONTROL.
28
A prudent man sees the evil and hides himself; but the naïve keep right on going and suffer for it.
(Proverbs 22:3)
1.
A prudent man, because of his respect for godly knowledge and his receptivity to such knowledge, is able to
see the evil

2.
i.e., he has foresight: based upon the commandments of God and a knowledge of his own heart, he can
recognize a dangerous situation of temptation at a distance before he runs headlong into it
…and upon seeing the evil, the prudent man hides himself

3.
i.e., he acts upon his knowledge by avoiding the danger zone and taking a detour around it—not to do so
would make him a fool: recognizing danger to his soul and heedlessly walking right into it.
In contrast to the prudent man, the naïve keep right on going and suffer for it

the naïve, being oblivious to any danger signs, walk right into an evil situation and suffer for it—literally,
they are mulched

note: there is a holy boldness that trusts God and obeys Him whatever the situation; and there is an
unholy boldness that tests God and disobeys, such a one may think in terms like the following:
“I’ll flirt with evil, trusting God to deliver me.”
“I’ll be reckless with my spiritual life, trusting God to preserve me.”
our victory over temptation must begin with complete reliance upon the Holy Spirit, and upon that
foundation we must, by His grace, build the acts of faithful obedience: Trust in Jehovah and do good
(Psalm 37:3)

II. Prudence: How Is It Acquired? (Proverbs 15:5; Proverbs 19:25)
PRUDENCE IS ACQUIRED BY BEING RECEPTIVE AND RESPONSIVE TO DISCIPLINE AND INSTRUCTION.
A fool despises his father’s discipline, but whoever heeds rebuke shows prudence. (Proverbs 15:5)
1.
Discipline involves every part of the training of one’s life; including correction, chastening, and instruction
2.
A fool despises all such discipline: refusing to accept it, rebelling against it, walking away from it
3.
But the man who heeds rebuke (i.e., pays attention to it, appreciating the father’s motivation of love and
concern and his intention of directing his son in the way of life) shows prudence (the Hebrew word, .r1e2, has
the meaning, "to show," or, "to act")

the man who regards rebuke is demonstrating prudence and is further developing the valuable attrubute
of prudence (note Hebrews 12:11)
No discipline seems pleasant at the time, but painful. Later on, however, it produces a harvest of
righteousness and peace for those who have been trained by it. (Hebrews 12:11), the acceptance of
discipline, however difficult it may be, eventually yields the fruit of righteousness
A wise son accepts his father’s instruction; but a scoffer does not pay attention to a rebuke.
(Proverbs 13:1)
Stop listening to instruction, my son, but then you will stray from the words of knowledge. (Proverbs
19:27); the father facetiously instructs his son to stop listening to instruction (stop paying attention
and submitting to parental authority and counsel)—the father is saying to his son, “I know what your
heart is inclined to do, what you by nature desire to do; namely, to stop submitting to the burden of
parental authority.” But the father informs his son that should he, indeed, give in to that impulse of his
heart and actually carry out that desire to stop submitting to the authority and counsel of his parents,
he will stray from the words of knowledge
PRUDENCE IS ACQUIRED BY ASKING FOR A RECEPTIVE HEART.
29
Flog a scoffer, and the naïve will learn prudence; rebuke a man who has discernment, and he will gain
knowledge. (Proverbs 19:25)
1.
When a scoffer (a man who openly defies the authority and commandments of God) is publicly disciplined, a
naïve man (a man who is impulsive and aimless and careless about his spiritual life) learns prudence—i.e.; he
learns to be cautious and careful about his conduct

note: not even a flogging has any corrective affect on the scoffer
2.
When a discerning (or, prudent) man is rebuked—a mere word of instruction/correction/warning is addressed
to him, in contrast to the physical flogging administered to the scoffer—he will grow in knowledge (i.e., he
will take the rebuke to heart and learn from it)
3.
The point of the proverb: the state of the heart determines the ability of a man to receive instruction and
profit from it
A rebuke goes deeper into someone who has understanding than a hundred lashes administered to a fool.
(Proverbs 17:10)
4.
May we prayerfully consider such passages as these:

the prayer of Solomon:
Give your servant a discerning heart … so that I may distinguish between good and evil…
3:9)

(1 Kings
the prayer of David:
Create in me a pure heart, O God, and renew a steadfast spirit within me. (Psalm 51:10)

the prayer of the apostle Paul for the church:
For this reason, since the day we heard about you, we have not stopped praying for you and asking
God to fill you with the knowledge of his will through all spiritual wisdom and understanding. 10And we
pray this in order that you may live a life worthy of the Lord and may please him in every way:
bearing fruit in every good work, growing in the knowledge of God…(Colossians 1:9-10)
Conclusion
1.
That young boy from Algoma and his conduct on the breakwater serves as a good illustration of the way many
people live:



running around in a spiritual fog
casting caution to the wind
barely surviving one disaster only to race off to the next (and maybe final) disaster to their soul
2. Our topical study from the book of Proverbs recommends to us an alternative to that kind of lifestyle: the valuable
attribute of prudence.
Questions on the topic of Prudence
1. What does Proverbs 14:8 (printed below) tell us about the prudent man in contrast to the fool?
The wisdom of the prudent is to thoughtfully consider his way, but the folly of fools is deceiving. (Proverbs 14:8)
2. What characteristic of the prudent man is being described in Proverbs 13:16 (printed below?)
Every prudent man works with knowledge, but a fool flaunts folly. (Proverbs 13:16)
3. What does Proverbs 12:23 (printed below) tell us about the prudent man? How would you explain this attribute?
30
A prudent man conceals knowledge, but the heart of fools proclaims foolishness. (Proverbs 12:23)
4. What else do we learn about a prudent man from Proverbs 22:3 (printed below?)
A prudent man sees the evil and hides himself; but the naïve keep right on going and suffer for it. (Proverbs 22:3)
5. How does Proverbs 15:5 (printed below) describe a prudent man in contrast to a fool?
A fool despises his father's discipline, but whoever heeds rebuke shows prudence. (Proverbs 15:5)
6. Match the statements listed below with the persons whom they describe.
a.
b.
c.
He believes every word. ___
He despises his father’s discipline. ___
He carefully considers his steps. ___
1. The Prudent Man
2. The Naïve
3. The Fool
7. Which of the following statements are true of the prudent man?
a.
b.
c.
Every prudent man works with knowledge.
A prudent man conceals knowledge.
Both of the above
8. When a scoffer (a man who openly defies the authority and the commandments of God) is publicly disciplined, a
naïve man (a man who is impulsive and aimless and careless about his moral and spiritual life) learns prudence—he
learns to be cautious and careful about his conduct. True or False
9. Match the proverbs listed below with what they teach about a prudent man.
a.
b.
c.
The wisdom of the prudent is to thoughtfully consider his way, but the folly of fools is deceiving.
(Proverbs 14:8) ___
Every prudent man works with knowledge, but a fool flaunts folly. (Proverbs 13:16) ___
A prudent man sees the evil and hides himself; but the naïve keep right on going and suffer for it.
(Proverbs 22:3) ___
1. A prudent man exercises self-control.
2. A prudent man values knowledge.
3. A prudent man possesses spiritual awareness.
10. There is a holy boldness that trusts God and obeys Him whatever the situation; and there is an unholy boldness that
tests God and disregards His commandments—the latter is a characteristic of a prudent man. True or False
31
LESSON THREE : TOPICAL S TUDIES ON PROVERBS
The student should prepare for his study by asking the Holy Spirit to enlighten his mind and open his heart to
receive not only the teaching of Scripture but Christ Himself as He is presented in the Scriptures.
Assignments:
1. Bible Study: By a consideration of the proverbs pertinent to them, the student will explore the following topics:
Practice Righteous and Receive the Blessing, and Practice Righteousness and Be a Blessing. The student will be
guided by an expositional commentary on the text. The student will then answer the questions found at the end
of the expository notes.
2. Extra Reading: For Bachelor's credit, the student should do at least 100 pages of additional reading (see " B.
Reading Resources" listed in the Syllabus for suggested reading material.) For Master's credit, the student
should do at least 200 pages of additional reading. (In preparing his Book Report, the student should follow the
instructions given in Guidelines for Writing a Book Report, provided by the facilitator.)
Note: All Scripture texts will appear in Comic Sans MS font; all extended quotations from other authors will
appear in Courier font.
LEAD A RIGHTEOUS LIFE, AND RECEIVE THE BLESSING
SELECTED PROVERBS
THEME: We need to be encouraged by the promise of Scripture that there is a reward for the righteous.
PURPOSE: To encourage the students to lead a righteous life, by the grace of God, so that we may receive the
blessing.
OUTLINE:
I. Lead a Righteous Life,
…and Receive the Blessing of Joyful Freedom
(Proverbs 29:6)
II. Lead a Righteous Life,
…and Receive the Blessing of God’s Favor
(Proverbs 14:9; Proverbs 15:29; Proverbs 15:8)
III. Lead a Righteous Life,
…and Receive the Blessing of God’s Protective Care
(Proverbs 12:21; Proverbs 10:3)
IV. Lead a Righteous Life,
…and Receive the Blessing of Final Triumph
(Proverbs 24:15-16; Proverbs 29:16)
V. Lead a Righteous Life,
…and Receive the Blessing of Honor
(Proverbs 10:7; Proverbs 14:19)
VI. Lead a Righteous Life,
…and Receive the Blessing of a Comfortable Death
(Proverbs 14:32; Proverbs 10:24)
32
Introduction
1.
From Ephesians 2:10 we learn that, as Christians, we are God’s handiwork, created in Christ Jesus for good
works that God prepared in advance in order for us to walk in them.
2.
Titus 2:14 informs us that Christ gave himself for us, so that he might redeem us from all iniquity and purify for
himself a people for his own possession, a people zealous for good works
3.
In 1 Peter 1:15-16 we are instructed as follows,
…just as he who called you is holy, you also be holy in all your conduct, 16because it is written, “Be holy, because
I am holy.”
4.
It is the consistent teaching of Scripture that the Christian has been saved for righteousness, we have been saved
so that the righteous requirements of the law might be fulfilled in us (Romans 8:4)
5.
By the prophet Isaiah, the Lord promises that there shall surely be a reward for the righteous:
Tell the righteous that it will be well for them, they shall enjoy the fruit of their deeds. (Isaiah 3:10)
6.
Our next topical study from the book of Proverbs focuses our attention upon the subject of righteousness. Let us
begin by considering the theme: Lead a Righteous Life and Receive the Blessing.
I. Lead a Righteous Life,
…and Receive the Blessing of Joyful Freedom (Proverbs 29:6)
An evil man is snared by his own transgression; but a righteous man can sing and rejoice. (Proverbs 29:6)
1.
The man who chooses to commit a sin is portrayed as an animal that goes for the bait, only to be snared by
the trap

illustration: like an insect flying into the spider’s web

the point is that you cannot control sin; on the contrary, it controls you:
Jesus answered them, I tell you the truth, Everyone who commits sin is the slave of sin. (John 8:34)
…each one is tempted when, by his own evil desire, he is dragged away and enticed. 15Then, after the
desire has conceived, it gives birth to sin; and sin, when it is full-grown, gives birth to death. 16Do not
be deceived, my dear brothers. (James 1:14-16)
2.
The righteous man, on the other hand, is pictured as being as free as a songbird. He is free from guilt and free
from condemnation
…the kingdom of God consists…of righteousness and peace and joy by the Holy Spirit. (Romans 14:17)
II. Lead a Righteous Life,
…and Receive the Blessing of God’s Favor (Proverbs 14:9; Proverbs 15:29; Proverbs 15:8)
Fools make a mockery of a trespass offering; but for the upright there is favor with God. (Proverbs
14:9)
1.
2.
Fools think that the presentation of a sacrifice to God will not only atone for sin but will allow them to
continue their practice of sin.
a.
the fool’s reasoning is as follows: I can continue to live in my sins because Jesus died for my sins.
b.
the fool views Christ’s sacrifice as a shield that protects him from punishment and as a license that
allows him to practice sin in safety
As this proverb indicates, Fools make a mockery of a trespass offering…
33
3.
a.
when the fool approaches God with this state of heart and mind, he is making a mockery of Christ’s
sacred sacrifice,…
b.
…and he in turn shall find himself being mocked and scorned by God: the fool’s trespass offering will be
rejected, the fool’s perverse view of Christ’s atoning sacrifice will be despised by God and resound to
the fool’s own condemnation
…but for the upright there is favor with God.

listen to God’s commendation of the one truly righteous man, His own Son, our Lord Jesus Christ:
This is my beloved Son, with whom I am well pleased. (Matthew 3:17)
You have loved righteousness and hated wickedness; therefore God, your God, has set you above your
companions by anointing you with the oil of joy. (Hebrews 1:9); the writer of Hebrews is here speaking
with reference to Christ

as we walk with Christ in His righteousness, and as our lives are transformed into the likeness of Christ
our Savior, we experience the favor and acceptance of God:
Jesus responded to him by saying, If a man loves me, he will obey my teaching; and my Father will
love him, and we will come to him and live with him. (John 14:23)
Jehovah is far from the wicked, but he is attentive to the prayer of the righteous. (Proverbs 15:29)
1.
Because a wicked man has removed himself from God, he will find the Lord to be far from him:
The Spirit of God came upon Azariah son of Oded. 2He went out to meet Asa and said to him, “Listen to
me, Asa and all Judah and Benjamin. Jehovah is with you as long as you are with him. If you seek him, he
will be found by you, but if you forsake him, he will forsake you.” (2 Chronicles 15:1-2)
If I cherish iniquity in my heart, Jehovah will not listen to me (Psalm 66:18)
2.
But if we walk with the Lord our God He will be near to us and will stand ready to hear our prayer
We know that God does not listen to sinners; but if anyone worships God and does his will, God listens to
him (John 9:31)
The sacrifice offered by the wicked is detestable to Jehovah; but the prayer of the upright is his
delight. (Proverbs 15:8)
1.
The Lord not only listens to the prayers of His people as they endeavor to live lives that are pleasing to Him,
He delights in their prayers: those prayers are precious to Him

2.
in the Old Testament tabernacle the altar of incense (representing the prayers of God’s people) was the
article of furniture nearest to the immediate presence of God, it was placed squarely before the ark of
the covenant, with only the curtain separating the two, thereby showing that the prayers of His people
are exceedingly precious to the Lord
We tend to view prayer as a duty to be performed; but may the Lord help us to also view prayer as a time of
communion with the Lord, a time that is desirable and precious to the Him.
III. Lead a Righteous Life,
…and Receive the Blessing of God’s Protective Care (Proverbs 12:21; Proverbs10:3)
No harm shall befall the righteous, but the wicked will be filled with calamity. (Proverbs 12:21)
1.
The Scriptures make clear that the way of righteousness will not be left unopposed by the forces of evil
present in this world (note 2 Timothy 3:12)
…everyone who would live a godly life in Christ Jesus will suffer persecution. (2 Timothy 3:12)
34
a.
consider Proverbs 29:27; An unjust man is detestable to the righteous, and he who is upright in the
way is detestable to the wicked.

because he has come to share in the divine nature (2 Peter 1:4), the righteous man finds
unrighteousness to be reprehensible
Depart from me, you evildoers, so that I may keep the commandments of my God! (Psalm
119:115)

Do not I hate those who hate you, O Jehovah, and abhor those who rise up against you?
hate them with perfect hatred; I count them my enemies. (Psalm 139:21-22)
because the unconverted sinner is at enmity against God (Romans 8:7) and is convicted by the
presence of God’s righteousness (John 3:20), he finds righteousness to be reprehensible
22
I
…the sinful mind is hostile to God. It does not submit to God’s law, nor can it do so. (Romans
8:7)
Everyone who does evil hates the light and does not come to the light, so that his works will
not be exposed. (John 3:20)
b.
consider Proverbs 29:10; The bloodthirsty hate him who is blameless—and as for the upright, they
seek his life.

2.
there is the desire on the part of the unconverted sinner, sometimes even expressed in action, to
eliminate the righteous
Yet Proverbs 12:21assures us that no harm shall befall the righteous
a.
this does not mean that the righteous man will be free from the attacks of the devil and evil men;
Psalm 34:19a informs us that the afflictions of the righteous are many
b.
rather, what it means is that no wicked attack shall prevail against the righteous so as to destroy him
…a righteous man falls seven times, but rises again (Proverbs 24:16a)

for the righteous man (the man who is in Christ and is being transformed into the likeness of
Christ), there is no such thing as a tragedy (an event that has a final and irreversibly disastrous
conclusion)

note the apostle Paul’s testimony concerning the trials he encountered at the hands of evil men:
I know that, through your prayers and the help provided by the Spirit of Jesus Christ, the
result of all this will be my deliverance. 20This is in keeping with my heart-felt expectation and
hope that in no circumstance will I be put to shame; on the contrary, I have all confidence that
as always, so now also, Christ will be exalted in my body, whether by life or by death
(Philippians 1:19-20)
3.
The righteous, even though exposed to the attacks of evil, are preserved by the Lord and finally delivered
by Him
The afflictions of the righteous are many, but Jehovah delivers him out of them all. (Psalm 34:19)
The Lord will deliver me out of every evil work and will save me for his heavenly kingdom. To him be the
glory forever and ever. Amen. (2 Timothy 4:18)
Jehovah will not allow the righteous to be famished, but he thwarts the craving of the wicked.
(Proverbs 10:3)
1.
When you make the Lord your portion, He will see to it that there is a portion for you

consider Elijah: during the famine he was first fed by the ravens and then by a Gentile widow as she
was miraculously provided for by God
35
Then the word of Jehovah came to Elijah: 3Leave here, turn eastward and hide in the ravine of
Kerith, east of the Jordan River. 4You will drink from the brook, and I have ordered the ravens to
feed you there. …8Then the word of Jehovah came to him: 9Go at once to Zarephath of Sidon and
stay there. I have commanded a widow in that place to supply you with food. (1 Kings 17:2-4,8-9)
…the Lord himself has said, I will by no means fail you, neither will I in any way forsake you.
(Hebrews 13:5)
2.
The same Lord who faithfully provides for the righteous, violently thrusts away the desire of the wicked:
namely, their desire for self-gratification and self-glorification in independence of God our Creator

the Lord foils their efforts and desires many times in this present life, and He shall surely do so in
eternity
God will give to each person according to what he has done. 7To those who by persistence in doing
good seek glory, honor and immortality, he will give eternal life. 8But for those who are self-seeking
and who reject the truth and follow evil, there will be wrath and anger. 9There will be trouble and
distress for every man who does evil: first for the Jew, then for the Gentile; 10but glory, honor and
peace for everyone who does good: first for the Jew, then for the Gentile. (Romans 2:6-10)
IV. Lead a Righteous Life,
…and Receive the Blessing of Final Triumph (Proverbs 24:15-16; Proverbs 29:16)
O wicked man, do not lie in wait against the house of the righteous, and do not destroy his resting
place, 16for a righteous man may fall seven times, but rises again; but the wicked are overthrown by
calamity. (Proverbs 24:15-16)
1.
The picture is that of the wicked, like a ravenous wolf, seeking to devour the righteous man who is viewed
as a sheep

2.
the righteous appears to be defenseless, weak, naïve; though he is a torment to the wicked man’s
conscience, he appears to be an easy prey
But the proverb counsels the wicked: do not waste your time or your effort; those wicked efforts are
ultimately futile, because the righteous are indestructible:

even if the righteous falls seven times (the number for completeness and totality, i.e., even if the
righteous succumbs to death), he shall rise again
God is just; He will pay back affliction to those who afflict you 7and give relief to you who are
afflicted, and to us as well. This will happen when the Lord Jesus is revealed from heaven in blazing
fire with his powerful angels. (2 Thessalonians 1:6-7)
As it is written: For your sake we face death all day long; we are considered as sheep to be
slaughtered. 37… in all these things we are more than conquerors through him who loved us. (Romans
8:36-37)
When the wicked increase in number transgression increases, but the righteous shall see their downfall.
(Proverbs 29:16)
1.
When wicked men increase in number and influence and power, there is an increase in transgression: they
promote evil and suppress righteousness
2.
But the Lord has appointed a day in which He will overthrow the wicked, and the righteous shall have the
satisfaction of seeing that day and sharing in that triumph
Wait for Jehovah and keep his way. He will exalt you to possess the land; when the wicked are cut off,
you will see it. (Psalm 37:34)
V. Lead a Righteous Life,
…and Receive the Blessing of Honor (Proverbs 10:7; Proverbs 14:19)
36
The memory of the righteous is blessed, but the name of the wicked shall rot. (Proverbs 10:7)
1.
Whereas the name of the wicked shall rot…

either his name shall be forgotten: just as his corpse decomposes in the grave, so, too, does his name
“decompose” into oblivion
or, his name is remembered only with the utmost disgust: the mention of his name elicits the same
response as if one were to come across a decomposing corpse

2.
…the memory of the righteous is blessed.

3.
whenever men remember the life of a righteous man they bless him, they bless God for him, and they
count themselves blessed to have known him
Not only is a righteous man the recipient of blessing during his lifetime (note Proverbs 10:6a; Blessings are
bestowed upon the head of the righteous), but he continues to be the object of blessing even after his
death
The evil will bow down in the presence of the good; and the wicked will bow down at the gates of the
righteous. (Proverbs 14:19)
1.
This proverb is speaking of an honor that sometimes comes in this life, but shall surely be bestowed in
eternity.
2.
The picture is the conquest of the wicked by the Lord and their subjection before the righteous
To him who overcomes and does my will to the end, I will give authority over the nations. 27He shall rule
them with an iron scepter; he shall smash them to pieces like pottery—just as I have received authority
from my Father. 28I will also give him the morning star. (Revelation 2:26-28)

note the Lord’s promise to His people through the prophet Isaiah,
The sons of your oppressors will come bowing before you; all those who despised you will bow down at
the soles of your feet. They will call you, The City of Jehovah, Zion of the Holy One of Israel. (Isaiah
60:14)
VI. Lead a Righteous Life,
…and Receive the Blessing of a Comfortable Death (Proverbs 14:32; Proverbs 10:24)
The wicked man is thrown down by his calamity, but the righteous man has a refuge in his death.
(Proverbs 14:32)
1.
There is a refuge for the righteous in the hour of his death:

death may be portrayed here as a rising flood water: as the wicked struggle to survive its onslaught
they are thrust under its current and swallowed up; but for the righteous a refuge is provided to
convey him safely through those deep flood waters. That Refuge is the Lord Jesus Christ, the Savior in
whom the righteous trust
When you pass through the waters, I will be with you; and when you pass through the rivers, they
will not sweep over you. When you walk through the fire, you will not be burned; the flames will not
set you ablaze—3because I am Jehovah your God, the Holy One of Israel, your Savior (Isaiah 43:23a)
Even though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death, I will fear no evil, for you are with
me; your rod and your staff, they comfort me. (Psalm 23:4)
While I draw this fleeting breath,
When my eyelids close in death;
When I soar to worlds unknown,
See Thee on Thy judgment throne,
Rock of Ages, cleft for me,
let me hide myself in Thee.
37
(Augustus M. Toplady)
2.
Death itself is a type of refuge for the righteous because it removes him from the presence of evil and
ushers him into the immediate presence of Christ
The righteous man perishes, but no one takes it to heart; devout men are removed, but no one
understands that the righteous are removed in order that they may be spared from the coming calamity.
2
The righteous enters into peace; they rest in their death beds, each one who walked in the way of
righteousness (Isaiah 57:1-2)
We are confident, I say, and would prefer to be away from the body and at home with the Lord. (2
Corinthians 5:8)
What the wicked fears shall come upon him; and the desire of the righteous shall be granted. (Proverbs
10:24)
1.
What is the thing that the wicked most dreads?

a face to face encounter with the living God (note Revelation 6:16)
They say to the mountains and to the rocks, “Fall on us, and hide us from the face of him who sits
on the throne, and from the wrath of the Lamb…” (Revelation 6:16)
2.
What is the greatest desire of the righteous?

to meet the Lord his God face to face (note Psalm 42:2)
My soul thirsts for God, for the living God. When shall I come and appear before God? (Psalm 42:2)
3.
The greatest fear of the wicked shall come to pass, and the greatest desire of the righteous shall be granted
Father, I desire that those whom you have given me may also be with me where I am, so that they may
see my glory—the glory that you have given me because you loved me before the creation of the world.
(John 17:24)
Conclusion
1.
This is a profound truth of Scripture: God did not save us in order to make us happy, He saved us in order to make
us holy; …and it is in that condition that we experience true happiness:
…the kingdom of God consists…of righteousness, peace and joy by the Holy Spirit (Romans 14:17)
2.
In reliance upon Christ our Savior and His Holy Spirit (John 15:4,10-11), let us lead a righteous life, and thereby
receive the blessings God reserves for such a life.
Remain in me, and I will remain in you. The branch cannot bear fruit by itself, it must remain in the vine; so
neither can you bear fruit, unless you remain in me. … 10If you keep my commandments, you will remain in my
love; just as I have kept my Father’s commandments and remain in his love. 11I have told you these things so
that my joy may be in you and your joy may be complete. (John 15:4,10-11)
Questions on the topic, Practice Righteousness and Receive the Blessing
1. How is the righteous man described in comparison to the evil man? See Proverbs 29:6 (printed below)
An evil man is snared by his own transgression; but a righteous man can sing and rejoice. (Proverbs 29:6)
2. What does Proverbs 15:8 (printed below) tell us about the prayer of the upright?
The sacrifice offered by the wicked is detestable to Jehovah; but the prayer of the upright is his delight.
(Proverbs 15:8)
38
3. Consider Proverbs 12:21 (printed below.) In what sense is this true? Does this mean the righteous will live lives that
are free from all adversity?
No harm shall befall the righteous, but the wicked will be filled with calamity. (Proverbs 12:21)
4. What promise is given to the righteous in Proverbs 29:16 (printed below?)
When the wicked increase in number transgression increases, but the righteous shall see their downfall. (Proverbs
29:16)
5. What assurance is provided for the righteous in Proverbs 14:32 (printed below?)
The wicked man is thrown down by his calamity, but the righteous man has a refuge in his death. (Proverbs 14:32)
6. Complete the proverbs listed below that compare and contrast the righteous and the wicked. (Answers liste on next
page)
a.
b.
c.
No harm shall befall the righteous, but the wicked will ___. (Proverbs 12:21)
Jehovah will not allow the righteous to ___, but he thwarts the craving of the wicked. (Proverbs 10:3)
The memory of the righteous is blessed, but the name of the wicked shall ___. (Proverbs 10:7)
1. be filled with calamity
2. be famished
3. rot
7. Proverbs 12:21 assures us that no harm shall befall the righteous. What does this mean?
a.
b.
c.
It means that the righteous man will be free from the attacks of the devil and evil men.
It means that no wicked attack shall prevail against the righteous so as to destroy him.
Both of the above
8. What does Proverbs teach us about the prayers of the righteous?
a.
b.
c.
d.
Jehovah
Jehovah
Jehovah
Jehovah
is attentive to the prayers of the righteous.
ignores the prayers of the righteous.
takes delight in the prayers of the righteous.
always answers the prayers of the righteous immediately.
9. Match the proverbs listed below with their teaching about the blessings bestowed upon the righteous.
a.
b.
c.
No harm shall befall the righteous, but the wicked will be filled with calamity. (Proverbs 12:21) ___
A righteous man may fall seven times, but rises again; but the wicked are overthrown by calamity.
(Proverbs 24:16) ___
The memory of the righteous is blessed, but the name of the wicked shall rot. (Proverbs 10:7) ___
1. The Blessing of Honor
2. The Blessing of God’s Protective Care
3. The Blessing of Final Triumph
10. This is a profound truth of Scripture: God did not save us in order to make us happy, He saved us in order to make
us holy; and it is in that condition that we experience true happiness. True or False
LEAD A RIGHTEOUS LIFE, AND BE A BLESSING
SELECTED PROVERBS
THEME: We need to appreciate the blessed truth that the practice of righteousness produces blessing for others.
PURPOSE: To encourage the students, by the grace of God, to lead a righteous life, in order that we may bring blessing
to others.
39
OUTLINE:
I. Lead a Righteous Life,
…and Be a Blessing to Your Children (Proverbs 20:7)
II. Lead a Righteous Life,
…and Be a Blessing to Your Parents (Proverbs 23:24)
III. Lead a Righteous Life,
…and Be a Blessing to Your Neighbor (Proverbs 12:26)
IV. Lead a Righteous Life,
…and Be a Blessing to Your Community (Proverbs 11:11)
V. Lead a Righteous Life,
…and Be a Blessing to Your God (Proverbs 15:9; Proverbs 11:20)
Introduction
1.
In the book of Acts (20:35) there is recorded this familiar teaching of our Lord Jesus Christ: It is more blessed to
give than to receive.
2.
In our next topical study from the book of Proverbs we will consider how this teaching applies to the subject of
righteousness.
3.
Lead a righteous life, …and be a blessing.
I. Lead a Righteous Life,
…and Be a Blessing to Your Children (Proverbs 20:7)
A righteous man walks in his integrity—blessed are his children who follow him. (Proverbs 20:7)
1.
A righteous man who walks in his integrity is one who is committed to the righteousness of God not just in
principle, but also in practice

2.
he walks in his integrity; his commitment to the Lord and His commandments governs his life in all
aspects: his decisions, his lifestyle, his conduct
Proverbs 20:7b declares, blessed are his children who follow him
a.
they are blessed because their father leaves them a legacy of righteousness and godliness

he has not only taught them the way of the Lord, he has personally led them in that way: setting an
example before them (note Proverbs 4:11)
I have instructed you in the way of wisdom, I have led you in the paths of uprightness. (Proverbs
4:11)

b.
such is the blessing he himself has been to his children and that he has left for his children
they are blessed if they appreciate that blessing of a godly father’s godly example and make his lifestyle
their own

in the Hebrew, the latter part of this proverb reads, blessed are his children after him; as the Old
Testament commentators Keil and Delitzsch, point out, this statement means more than merely “his
children who descend from him,” it also means “his children who follow in his footsteps”
(Commentary on Proverbs, Vol.2, pp.43-44)
40

it is the responsibility of the father to set a godly example, and it is the responsibility of the
children to follow that example (note Proverbs 4:10-11)
Listen, my son, and accept what I say, then the years of your life will be many. 11I have instructed
you in the way of wisdom, I have led you in the paths of uprightness. (Proverbs 4:10-11)

when the father is diligently setting an example of godliness, there can be confidence that the
son/daughter will follow (note Proverbs 4:11-12 and the confidence the godly father expresses in
verse 12a)
I have instructed you in the way of wisdom, I have led you in the paths of uprightness. 12When
you walk in these paths your steps will not be impeded; and if you run, you will not stumble.
(Proverbs 4:11-12)
II. Lead a Righteous Life,
…and Be a Blessing to Your Parents (Proverbs 23:24)
The father of the righteous will greatly rejoice, and he who has a wise son will take delight in him.
(Proverbs 23:24)
1.
There is nothing more joyful and satisfying to a Christian father or mother than to see their sons and daughters
walking with Christ in the way of righteousness; nothing can compare with it, no amount of fame, fortune, or
worldly success (note 3 John 4)
I have no greater joy than to hear that my children are walking in the truth. (3 John 4)
2.
This chapter of Proverbs spells out in specific terms how a son can be a blessing to his father:
Do not let your heart envy sinners, but live in the fear of Jehovah all day long;
future for you and your hope will not be cut off. (Proverbs 23:17-18)
18
for surely there is a

do not let your heart envy sinners

do not make the pursuit of wealth your first priority at any cost (note 1 Timothy 6:9-10)
People who want to get rich fall into temptation and a trap and into many foolish and harmful desires
that plunge men into ruin and destruction; 10for the love of money is a root of all kinds of evil. Some
people eager for money have wandered from the faith and pierced themselves with many griefs. (1
Timothy 6:9-10)
Listen, my son, and be wise, and keep your heart on the right path. 20Do not associate with those who drink
too much wine or those who gorge themselves with food, 21for the drunkard and the glutton will become
poverty-stricken, and drowsiness will clothe a man in rags. (Proverbs 23:19-21)

do not be a companion of drunkards and gluttons

do not waste your income on partying and do not lose your work ethic
My son, give me your heart, and let your eyes delight in my ways, 27for a prostitute is a deep ditch, and an
adulteress is a narrow well. 28She lies in wait like a bandit, and increases the number of the unfaithful
among men. (Proverbs 23:26-28)

do not live an immoral life; on the contrary, lead a morally pure life and be wise in your selection of a
spouse
Who has woe? Who has sorrow? Who has strife? Who has complaints? Who has needless bruises? Who has
bloodshot eyes? 30Those who linger over wine, those who go to taste mixed wine. 31Do not gaze at the wine
when it is red, when it sparkles in the cup, when it goes down smoothly. 32In the end it bites like a snake,
and stings like a viper. 33Your eyes will see strange sights, and your heart will utter perverse things.
34
Indeed, you will be like him who lies down in the middle of the sea, or like him who stretches out on top
41
of the ship’s rigging. 35“They hit me,” you will say, “but I was not hurt! They beat me, but I did not feel it!
When will I wake up so I can find another drink?” (Proverbs 23:29-35)

do not become a drunkard
…do not become drunk with wine, which leads to debauchery. Instead, be filled with the Holy Spirit
(Ephesians 5:18)
III. Lead a Righteous Life,
…and Be a Blessing to Your Neighbor (Proverbs 12:26)
The righteous man is a guide to his neighbor, but the way of the wicked causes them to go astray.
(Proverbs 12:26)
1.
As a Christian, by your conduct and by your counsel, you should be setting a godly example for your
neighbor
2.
As Christians, are we living lives that reflect the righteousness of the Lord God by keeping His
commandments as recorded in Exodus 20:3-17?
And God spoke all these words: 2I am Jehovah your God, who brought you out of the land of Egypt,
out of the house of bondage.
3
You shall have no other gods besides me.
4
You shall not make for yourself a carved image, or any replica of anything that is in heaven above or
that is on the earth beneath or that is in the water below the earth. 5You shall not bow down to them
or serve them…
7
You shall not misuse the name of Jehovah your God, for Jehovah will not regard anyone who misuses
his name as being guiltless.
8
Remember the Sabbath day, remember to keep it holy. 9Six days you shall labor and do all your work;
but the seventh day is a Sabbath dedicated to Jehovah your God. …
10
12
Honor your father and your mother, so that you may live a long life in the land Jehovah your God has
given you.
13
You shall not murder.
14
You shall not commit adultery.
You shall not steal.
15
16
You shall not give false testimony against your neighbor.
17
You shall not covet your neighbor’s house. You shall not covet your neighbor’s wife, or his male
servant or his female servant, or his ox or his donkey, or anything that belongs to your neighbor.
(Exodus 20:1-17)
3.
Consider the counsel of Philippians 1:27a and 1 Peter 2:11-12
Live your life only in a way that is worthy of the gospel of Christ (Philippians 1:27a)
Beloved, I exhort you as aliens and refugees, to abstain from the fleshly lusts that wage war against the
soul. 12Conduct yourselves in a proper way among the Gentiles; so that, even though they slander you as
evil doers, by observing your good works they must glorify God on the day of his visitation. (1 Peter 2:1112)
4.
The righteous man is a guide to his neighbor
42

i.e., by his life, the righteous man shows his neighbor the lifestyle that is pleasing to God, and points
him to Christ the Savior, the One who is the true Source of that righteous life (note Philippians 2:1416a)
Do all things without grumbling and arguing, 15so that you may become blameless and pure, children
of God without blemish, in the midst of a perverse and depraved generation, among whom you shine
like stars in the universe, 16firmly holding the word of life (Philippians 2:14-16a)
IV. Lead a Righteous Life,
…and Be a Blessing to Your Community (Proverbs 11:11)
By the blessing of the upright the city is exalted, but it is overthrown by the mouth of the wicked.
(Proverbs 11:11)
1.
Whereas the city is overthrown by the mouth of the wicked, …

i.e., by the counsel the wicked give, the course they advocate, and the causes they champion, the
community is overthrown

this is so because what the wicked counsel is a departure from the divine standard of God in favor of a
man-centered, secular standard (compare Isaiah 5:21 and Proverbs 3:7)
Woe to those who are wise in their own eyes, and prudent in their own sight! (Isaiah 5:21)
Do not be wise in your own eyes; fear Jehovah and turn away from evil (Proverbs 3:7)
in light of these passages, to be wise in one’s own eyes means to forsake a life that is governed by
godly fear which respects and honors the commandments of God in favor of pursuing one’s own course
of conduct and setting one’s own standard

the result of the wicked man’s counsel is a travesty of morality: true, fundamental morality is replaced
by perversity (note Isaiah 5:20)
Woe to those who call evil good, and good evil, who substitute darkness for light and light for
darkness, who substitute bitter for sweet and sweet for bitter! (Isaiah 5:20)

this process in turn causes the community to disintegrate and become liable to the righteous judgment
of God (note Isaiah 5:24-25)
Therefore, as tongues of fire lick up straw, and as dry grass sinks down in the flames, so their root
will decay and their blossom will blow away like dust, because they have rejected the law of
Jehovah of hosts and despised the word of the Holy One of Israel. 25Therefore, the anger of
Jehovah burns against his people; his hand is raised against them and he strikes them down. The
mountains shake, and the dead bodies are like filth in the streets. But even after all this, his anger
is not pacified; his hand is still raised against them. (Isaiah 5:24-25)
2.
…by the blessing of the upright the city is exalted.

not only by their counsel (calling upon the community to build itself upon the foundation of the divine
moral standard of God’s commandments), but by their very presence (as God-fearing, law-abiding
citizens), the righteous are a blessing to their community

note Psalm 15:2-5, a description of a citizen of Zion, a truly Christ-like, righteous man:
He whose walk is blameless and who does what is righteous, who speaks truth from his heart 3and
has no slander on his tongue, who does his neighbor no wrong and casts no slur on his fellow man,
4
who despises a vile man but honors those who fear Jehovah, who keeps his oath even when it hurts,
5
who lends his money without usury and does not accept a bribe against the innocent…. (Psalm 15:25)
43
V. Lead a Righteous Life,
…and Be a Blessing to Your God (Proverbs 15:9; Proverbs 11:20)
The way of the wicked is detestable to Jehovah; but he loves those who follow righteousness. (Proverbs
15:9)
1.
How frequently we fail to appreciate the repulsiveness of sin in the sight of God and how morally repugnant
it is to Him (note Habakkuk 1:13a and Jeremiah 9:2-3)
Your eyes are too pure to look on evil; you cannot tolerate wrong... (Habakkuk 1:13a)
Oh, that I had in the wilderness a lodging place for travelers, so that I might leave my people and go away
from them; for they are all adulterers, a crowd of unfaithful people. 3They make ready their tongue like a
bow, to shoot lies; it is not by truth that they triumph in the land. They go from one sin to another; they
do not acknowledge me, declares Jehovah. (Jeremiah 9:2-3), the Lord declares that He is so repelled by the
sins of the people that He wishes He had a country retreat where He could “get away” from them and their
iniquity
2.
Let us consider and take to heart these statements of Scripture:
A dishonest scale is detestable to Jehovah, but a just weight is his delight. (Proverbs 11:1)
Lying lips are detestable to Jehovah, but he delights in those who deal truthfully. (Proverbs 12:22)
Everyone who has a proud heart is detestable to Jehovah. Be sure of this: they will not go unpunished.
(Proverbs 16:5)
He who justifies the wicked and he who condemns the righteous—both of them are detestable to
Jehovah. (Proverbs 17:15)
3.
Proverbs 15:9b goes on to say, Jehovah loves those who follow righteousness

note: the emphasis is on the persistent practice of righteousness; following the course of righteousness
in all of life, at all times and under all circumstances

Consider, also, Proverbs 11:20; They who are perverse in heart are detestable to Jehovah, but those
whose ways are blameless are his delight.
I know, my God, that you test the heart and are pleased with integrity. (1Chronicles 29:17a), such is
David’s testimony
If you keep my commandments, you will remain in my love; just as I have kept my Father’s
commandments and remain in his love. 11I have told you these things so that my joy may be in you
(John 15:10-11a); we, in our obedience to Christ our Savior, become a source of joy to our Savior, we
bring joy to Him, such is the meaning of our Lord’s words, so that my joy may be in you
Conclusion
1.
Bear in mind the words of our Lord Jesus Christ, It is more blessed to give than to receive. (Acts 20:35)
2.
The book of Proverbs teaches us that by leading a righteous life we will not only receive the blessing of God, we
shall also be a blessing. We shall be a blessing to our family, to our community, and even to our God.
Questions on the topic, Practice Righteousness and Be a Blessing
1. What does Proverbs 20:7 (printed below) tell us about a righteous man who walks in his integrity?
44
A righteous man walks in his integrity—blessed are his children who follow him. (Proverbs 20:7)
2. According to Proverbs 23:24 (printed below,) what brings great joy to a father?
The father of the righteous will greatly rejoice, and he who has a wise son will take delight in him. (Proverbs 23:24)
3. What function does a righteous man fulfill with regard to his neighbor? See Proverbs 12:26 (printed below)
The righteous man is a guide to his neighbor, but the way of the wicked causes them to go astray. (Proverbs 12:26)
4. Consider Proverbs 11:11 (printed below.) What effect does the righteous have upon a community in distinction to
the wicked?
By the blessing of the upright the city is exalted, but it is overthrown by the mouth of the wicked. (Proverbs 11:11)
5. How does Jehovah view the way of the wicked and the way of the righteous respectively? See Proverbs 15:9 (printed
below)
The way of the wicked is detestable to Jehovah; but he loves those who follow righteousness. (Proverbs 15:9)
6. Proverbs 20:7 declares, “A righteous man walks in his integrity—blessed are his children who follow him.” What does
this proverb mean?
a.
b.
c.
His children are blessed because they will be accepted by God by virtue of their father’s righteous life.
His children are blessed because they will inherit the prosperity with which their father’s righteous life
was rewarded.
His children are blessed because they appreciate their father’s godly example and adopt his lifestyle as
their own.
7. According to Proverbs 23:24, there is nothing more joyful and satisfying to a Christian father than to see his son
walking with Christ in the way of ________; nothing can compare with it, no amount of fame, fortune or worldly
success. Fill in the blank.
8. Proverbs 12:26 tells us, “The righteous is guide to his neighbor.” In what ways is the righteous man a guide to his
neighbor?
a.
b.
c.
By keeping God’s commandments and thereby living a life that reflects God’s divine righteousness.
By always pointing out his neighbor’s shortcomings with the hope of bringing to his conscience the
conviction of sin.
By always being ready to explain to his neighbor the reason for his Christian hope.
9. Proverbs 11:11 tells us, “The city is overthrown by the mouth of the wicked.” That is to say, by the counsel the
wicked give, the course they advocate, and the causes they champion, the community is destroyed. This is so because
what the wicked advocate is a departure from the divine standard of God in favor of a _______ standard. Fill in the
blank
10. Match the proverbs listed below with the lessons they teach with regard to the blessings that result from the
practice of righteous living.
a.
b.
c.
d.
e.
A righteous man walks in his integrity—blessed are his children who follow him. (Proverbs 20:7) ___
The father of the righteous will greatly rejoice, and he who has a wise son will take delight in him.
(Proverbs 23:24) ___
The righteous man is a guide to his neighbor, but the way of the wicked causes them to go astray.
(Proverbs 12:26) ___
By the blessing of the upright the city is exalted, but it is overthrown by the mouth of the wicked.
(Proverbs 11:11) ___
They who are perverse in heart are detestable to Jehovah, but those whose ways are blameless are his
delight. (Proverbs 11:20) ___
1.
2.
3.
4.
5.
Blessing
Blessing
Blessing
Blessing
Blessing
to
to
to
to
to
God
One’s Parents
One’s Children
One’s Community
One’s Neighbor
45
LESSON FOUR : TOPICAL STUDIES ON PROVERBS
The student should prepare for his study by asking the Holy Spirit to enlighten his mind and open his heart to
receive not only the teaching of Scripture but Christ Himself as He is presented in the Scriptures.
Assignments:
1. Bible Study: By a consideration of the proverbs pertinent to them, the student will explore the following topics:
Practice Righteousness by God’s Standard and Self-Control. The student will be guided by an expositional
commentary on the text. The student will then answer the questions found at the end of the expository notes.
2. Writing Your Essay: The student should begin work on his 8 -10 page essay for Bachelor's credit or 15-20 page
essay for Master's credit. (See under Syllabus, "Description of Assignments," #3. The student is also referred to
the "Guidelines for Writing an Essay," provided by the facilitator.)
Note: All Scripture texts will appear in Comic Sans MS font; all extended quotations from other authors will
appear in Courier font.
LEAD A RIGHTEOUS LIFE, AS DEFINED BY THE WORD OF GOD
SELECTED PROVERBS
THEME: We must remember that the one true standard of righteousness is the law of the Lord our God.
PURPOSE: To exhort the students to live by the standard God presents to us in His Word, so that we may lead a
righteous life that is pleasing to God.
OUTLINE: I. Lead a Righteous Life,
…by Being a Man of Integrity (Proverbs 20:7; 11:3; 29:18; 25:26)
II. Lead a Righteous Life,
…by Being a Man of Honesty (Proverbs 13:5; 12:5; 21:15)
III. Lead a Righteous Life,
…by Being a Man of Compassion (Proverbs 21:21; 12:10; 29:7)
Introduction
1.
If you go to Lexington, Massachusetts, you can stand on the very site where was fired “the shot heard ‘round the
world”—the village square where was fought the initial skirmish that began the American Revolutionary War.
2.
A guide will give you a tour of the site, pointing out where the colonists took up their defensive positions, …the
road from where the British troops entered the town, …the significant houses and landmarks.
3.
Having made your way around the village commons, the tour ends at one corner of the square where there has
been erected a little stone monument: it is a stone replica of a pulpit, marking the site where once stood the
village church.
4.
On the stone pulpit there is carved a replica of the Bible, but rather than lying open, it is positioned as closed and
face down.
46
5.
Whatever the original intent of the sculptor, the message conveyed is that the Bible is no longer consulted as the
divine guidebook for righteous living. It is a book that has been read and now belongs to the past, consigned to a
long ago age of history.
6.
When that happens, the divine definition of righteous living tends to be replaced by human abstractions and
perversions of the divine standard.
7.
If left unchecked and not corrected, that trend can lead to such bizarre and contradictory situations as those
described in Isaiah 65:2,5…
All day long I have held out my hands to a rebellious people, a people who walk in a way that is not good,
following their own thoughts …5They are a people who say, Stay away, do not come near me, for I am holier
than you! These people are like smoke in my nostrils, produced by a fire that burns all day long (Isaiah 65:2,5)
…or like that described in Proverbs 30:12,
There is a generation that is pure in their own eyes, yet they have not been washed from their filthiness.
(Proverbs 30:12)
8.
Two Christian researchers, having concluded a study on the American church, wrote in 1984,
Research has indicated that millions of Christians fail to comprehend the connection
between God’s teaching through the Bible, … and their own daily activities.
…This
ineptness is the result of the biblical illiteracy of Christians and their inability
to apply scriptural principles to their daily lives. Spiritual values are commonly
thought to be operative only on Sundays, leaving the average Christian unarmed in his
daily struggles in the marketplace. (Vital Signs, George Barna and William Paul McKay, Crossway
Books, Westchester IL, 1984, p.24)
9.
If you are truly going to lead a righteous life that is pleasing to God—a life that receives His blessing and is itself a
blessing—it needs to be the kind of life He defines as being righteous in His Word.
I. Lead a Righteous Life,
…by Being a Man of Integrity
(Proverbs 20:7; Proverbs 11:3; Proverbs 29:18; Proverbs 25:26)
A righteous man walks in his integrity—blessed are his children who follow him. (Proverbs 20:7)
1.
A righteous man is described as a man who walks in his integrity

2.
by definition, integrity means the adherence and compliance and commitment to a moral standard; the
only true moral standard is that provided by the Lord our God and as especially revealed in the Scriptures
An outstanding biblical definition of these things is presented to us in Psalm 119:9-16,
How can a young man keep his way pure? By living according to your word. 10I seek you with all my heart; do
not let me stray from your commandments. 11I have hidden your word in my heart so that I might not sin
against you. 12Blessed are you, O Jehovah, teach me your decrees. 13With my lips I recount all the laws that
come from your mouth. 14I rejoice in following your statutes as one rejoices in great riches. 15I meditate on
your precepts and consider your ways. 16I delight in your decrees; I will not neglect your word. (Psalm
119:9-16)
3.
4.
Consider Proverbs 11:3; The integrity of the upright shall guide them, but the perverseness of the
unfaithful will destroy them.

i.e., the commitment of the upright to the commandments of God serves as his moral compass: directing
his behavior, determining his decisions, defining his lifestyle

the upright man asks such questions as, Is this particular action/decision/course that I am contemplating
right, is it in accord with the will of God as revealed in the Scriptures and especially as made known in
His commandments? Or, will this particular action/decision/course that I am contemplating cause me to
transgress against the commandments of God and betray my commitment to Christ?
Faithfulness to our integrity may be tested…
47

by trials permitted and conducted by God as a means of testing our faithfulness
Then Jehovah said to Satan, Have you considered my servant Job? There is no one on earth like him, a
blameless and upright man, one who fears God and turns away from evil. He still maintains his
integrity—even though you moved me to take action against him to ruin him without just cause. (Job
2:3)

by temptations introduced by men designed to draw us away from our integrity
…Job’s wife said to him, Are you still maintaining your integrity? Renounce God and die! (Job 2:9)
5.
Like Job, we must value our integrity as our most treasured possession (Job 27:5b-6), …
…until I die, I will not renounce my integrity. 6I firmly hold on to my righteousness and will not let it go; my
conscience does not reproach me for any of my days (Job 27:5b-6)
6.
…and like the Psalmist, we must look to God, praying that He will uphold us in our integrity (Psalm 41:12)
…as for me, you uphold me in my integrity (Psalm 41:12)
Where there is no vision, the people throw off restraint; but he who keeps the law, blessed is he.
(Proverbs 29:18)
1.
2.
Proverbs 29:18a informs us that it is a moral vision that inspires a people to live within the law and to practice
the sacrifice of self-discipline

illustration: it is his future orientation and focus on the prospect of winning the championship that
inspires the athlete to endure present discipline, sacrifice and training

likewise, it is the moral vision of bequeathing to the next generation a society characterized by true and
godly freedom—a society conducive to the spread of the gospel and the peace of the church—that inspires
a people to self-sacrifice and self-discipline
But when that moral vision is gone, the people throw off restraint: when they lose sight of building for
tomorrow, they start living for today, …living for the present, …living for themselves

self-discipline gives way to lawlessness; self-sacrifice gives way to self-indulgence
3.
Proverbs 29:18b is describing an individual man who continues to maintain his integrity when all those around
him have lost their moral vision: the blessing of God is pronounced upon him
4.
Lead a righteous life by being a man of integrity, even when all those around you have cast off their moral
restraints and have lost their moral vision (note Hebrews 12:1-2)
Therefore, since we are surrounded by such a great cloud of witnesses, let us throw off everything that
hinders and the sin that so easily entangles, and let us run with perseverance the race marked out for us.
2
Let us focus our eyes on Jesus, the Author and Perfecter of our faith, who for the joy set before him
endured the cross, scorning its shame, and sat down at the right hand on the throne of God. (Hebrews 12:12)
Like a muddied spring or a polluted well, so is a righteous man who yields to the wicked. (Proverbs 25:26)
1.
Especially in an arid land, to come across a muddied spring (one that has been trampled by a herd of cattle) or
to discover that a well is polluted, was more than a great disappointment, it could be a tragedy
2.
Such a situation is used to illustrate the affects and consequences of a righteous man yielding his integrity
before the wicked:

being either intimidated by their threats or seduced by their winsomeness and their favors, a good man
sacrifices his integrity and gives in to the demands of the wicked

the consequence is one of great disappointment and maybe even tragedy:
evil is abetted instead of being challenged
a role model is tarnished, maybe even destroyed
48
3.
Consider some of the examples found in Scripture:
a.
as a negative example, consider the community leaders who yielded to the demands of wicked queen
Jezebel (1 Kings 21:8-11)
So she wrote letters in Ahab’s name, placed his seal on them, and sent them to the elders and nobles
who lived in Naboth’s city with him. 9In those letters she wrote: Proclaim a day of fasting and seat
Naboth in a prominent place among the people. 10But seat two scoundrels opposite him and have them
testify that he has cursed both God and the king. Then take him out and stone him to death. 11So the
elders and nobles who lived in Naboth’s city did as Jezebel directed in the letters she had written to
them. (1 Kings 21:8-11)
b.
as a positive example, consider that of Lot withstanding the perverse men of Sodom (Genesis 19:4-7)
But before they lay down to sleep, all the men from every part of the city of Sodom—both young and
old—surrounded the house. 5They called to Lot and said to him, Where are the men who came into
your house tonight? Bring them out to us so that we may have sex with them. 6Lot went outside to
meet with them and shut the door behind him. 7He said to them, I beg you, my brothers, do not do
such a wicked thing. (Genesis 19:4-7)
4.
Lead a righteous life by being a man of integrity even when it is hard: by the grace of God, let us withstand
both the threats and seductions to step aside and allow wrong doing to pass by unchallenged, and so to
become an unwitting accomplice to evil rather than its adversary.
II. Lead a Righteous Life,
…by Being a Man of Honesty
(Proverbs 13:5; Proverbs 12:5; Proverbs 21:15)
A righteous man hates lying; but a wicked man is loathsome and will be put to shame. (Proverbs 13:5)
1.
Note that the righteous man does not only abstain from the practice of deceit, but he also has a moral
revulsion to it: he hates it

he recognizes deceit to be the lifestyle and the practice of the devil (John 8:44b)
The devil was a murderer from the beginning and is not established in the truth, because there is no
truth in him. When he speaks a lie, he is speaking in accordance with his own nature, because he is a
liar and the father of lies. (John 8:44b)
2.
With regard to lying and resorting to deceit, a righteous man holds the same view as does the Lord God
Himself: he hates it, considering it as contemptible and detestable (note Proverbs 12:22a)
Lying lips are detestable to Jehovah (Proverbs 12:22a)
3.
Our Lord Jesus Christ, the perfectly righteous man, indicated by His conduct at the time of His trial that it is
better to die than to lie (note Matthew 26:63-64), …such is His commitment to and respect for the truth and
His revulsion against deceit
The high priest said to him, “I charge you under oath by the living God: Tell us if you are the Christ, the
Son of God.” 64“Yes, it is as you say,” Jesus replied. “But I say to all of you: In the future you shall see the
Son of Man sitting at the right hand of the Mighty One and coming on the clouds of heaven.” (Matthew
26:63-64); the Lord Jesus testified to the truth, even though He knew that by doing so the Jews would accuse
Him of blasphemy, a crime punishable by death (cp. Matthew 26:65-66)
Then the high priest tore his clothes and said, “He has spoken blasphemy! Why do we need any more
witnesses? Look, now you have heard the blasphemy. 66What do you think?” “He is worthy of death,” they
answered. (Matthew 26:65-66)
4.
A righteous man comes to understand that truth is sacred (because it originates from God and is part of His
moral character) and that deceit is either a malicious assault against that which is holy or a self-seeking
sacrifice of what is holy
49
The thoughts of the righteous are just, but the wicked advise deceit. (Proverbs 12:5)
1.
A wicked man will either counsel you to do what is deceitful, or will be deceitful with you when he offers you
counsel

2.
because his heart is not united to the truth of God and his life is not controlled by that divine truth, he
operates in the evil shadows of deceit
But such counsel and such conduct are unthinkable to the righteous man: his thoughts are just

i.e., both the desire of his heart and the direction of his mind, being in communion with God, are for
truth and justice (cp. Zechariah 8:16-17)
These are the things you are to do: Speak the truth to each other, and execute the judgment of
truth and peace in your courts; 17do not plot evil against your neighbor, and do not love to swear
falsely. I hate all this, declares Jehovah. (Zecharaiah 8:16-17)
It is a joy to the righteous to do justice; but justice is destruction for the workers of iniquity. (Proverbs
21:15)
1.
The righteous man does not find justice and righteousness to be a duty that is contrary to his renewed nature;
on the contrary, he finds them to be a delight to his heart and a satisfaction to his soul (cp. Hebrews 1:9;
Psalm 40:8)
You have loved righteousness and hated iniquity (Hebrews 1:9); a testimony referring to the Lord Jesus Christ
I delight to do your will, O my God; indeed, your law is within my heart. (Psalm 40:8); the testimony of the
Lord Jesus Christ prophetically proclaimed through the words of the Psalmist
2.
As a child of God, the righteous man has an affinity and oneness with the truth and righteousness of God and
thus finds it to be a joy to participate in that righteousness and see it prevail and prosper
3.
Note the language of these proverbs: a righteous man hates lying; the thoughts of the righteous are just; it is
a joy to the righteous to do justice

this is not merely a description of conduct, it is a description of character: the character of Christ, the
character that is being reproduced in the Christian’s life (note Colossians 3:9-10)
Do not lie to each other, since you have taken off your old self with its practices 10and have put on the
new self, which is being renewed in knowledge in the image of its Creator (Colossians 3:9-10)

may the Holy Spirit help us to live more in accordance with the new life we have in Christ, indeed, the
sharing in the very life of Christ Himself
III. Lead a Righteous Life,
…by Being a Man of Compassion
(Proverbs 21:21; Proverbs 12:10; Proverbs 29:7)
He who follows after righteousness and kindness will find life, righteousness, and honor.
21:21)
1.
(Proverbs
Note that the Scriptures couple together the attributes of righteousness (including justice, truth, integrity)
and kindness (including compassion, mercy, sympathy)
Do not let kindness and integrity forsake you, tie them around your neck, write them on the tablet of
your heart (Proverbs 3:3)
Woe to you, teachers of the law and Pharisees, you hypocrites! You give a tenth of your spices—mint, dill
and cummin. But you have neglected the more important matters of the law—justice, mercy and
integrity. You should have practiced the latter, without neglecting the former. (Matthew 23:23)
He has shown you, O man, what is good. And what does Jehovah require of you? He requires that you act
justly and love mercy and walk humbly with your God. (Micah 6:8)
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2.
Justice and mercy are the twin attributes that together compose the righteous life: our Lord Jesus Christ
who is the epitome of holiness is at the same time the epitome of compassion
A righteous man has concern for the well-being of his beast; but even the tender mercies of the
wicked are cruel. (Proverbs 12:10)
Proverbs 12:10a literally reads, a righteous man knows (ed1y2) the life (or, the feelings) of his beast
1.

here is a tenderheartedness and compassion that extends even to the life of one’s animals (note
Exodus 20:8-10)
Remember the Sabbath day; remember to keep it holy. 9Six days you shall labor and do all your
work; 10but the seventh day is a Sabbath dedicated to Jehovah your God. On that day you
shall not do any work, neither you, nor your son, nor your daughter, nor your male servant, nor your
female servant, nor your cattle, nor the sojourner who is staying within your gates (Exodus 20:8-10)
In contrast to the compassion shown by the righteous, the tender mercies of the wicked are cruel
2.

i.e., an ungodly man is devoid of any true sense of pity, mercy, compassion; those attributes are
foreign to his heart, contrary to his fundamental nature
The righteous takes into account the cause of the poor; the wicked does not have the understanding to
know it. (Proverbs 29:7)
Literally, a righteous man knows (ed2y2) the cause of the poor (or the weak, the lowly): there is a
compassionate and active involvement in the cause of the poor (note Job 29:12-17)
1.
I rescued the poor who cried for help, and the fatherless who had no one to assist him. 13The man who
was destitute blessed me; I made the widow’s heart sing for joy. 14I put on righteousness as my clothing,
and the justice I practiced was like a robe and a turban. 15I was eyes to the blind and feet to the lame.
16
I was a father to the needy; I investigated the stranger’s case. 17I broke the fangs of the wicked and
snatched the victims from their teeth. (Job 29:12-17), such is Job’s personal testimony
2.
Conversely, the wicked does not possess the understanding to know the cause of the poor

i.e., the wicked man lacks the moral perception and sensitivity to feel such compassion and exhibit
such concern; because of his hard heart, the wicked man cannot sympathize and identify with the
plight of the poor
Conclusion
1.
If we are going to lead a truly righteous life that is pleasing to God—a life that receives His blessing and is itself a
blessing—it needs to be the kind of life He Himself defines and describes in His Word.
2.
The book of Proverbs indicates that such a life involves these three elements:



being a man of integrity
being a man of honesty
being a man of compassion
Questions on the topic, Practice Righteousness by God’s Standard
1. What does Proverbs 25:26 (printed below) say about a righteous man who yields to the wicked? What do you think
this means?
Like a muddied spring or a polluted well, so is a righteous man who yields to the wicked. (Proverbs 25:26)
2. According to Proverbs 13:5 (printed below,) how does a righteous man view deceit?
A righteous man hates lying; but a wicked man is loathsome and will be put to shame. (Proverbs 13:5)
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3. What does Proverbs 21:5 (printed below) tell us about the righteous man's attitude toward justice?
The thoughts of the righteous are just, but the wicked advise deceit. (Proverbs 12:5)
4. What other godly attribute is coupled together with righteousness in Proverbs 21:21 (printed below?) Note, also,
Matthew 23:23 (also printed below)
He who follows after righteousness and kindness will find life, righteousness, and honor. (Proverbs 21:21)
Woe to you, teachers of the law and Pharisees, you hypocrites! You give a tenth of your spices—mint, dill and
cummin. But you have neglected the more important matters of the law—justice, mercy and integrity. You should
have practiced the latter, without neglecting the former. (Matthew 23:23)
5. What does Proverbs 29:7 (printed below) teach us about the righteous man's attitude toward the poor in contrast to
the wicked man's attitude?
The righteous takes into account the cause of the poor; the wicked does not have the understanding to know it.
(Proverbs 29:7)
6. What is the standard that defines righteousness?
a.
b.
c.
d.
The
The
The
The
Laws of the State
Majority Opinion
Word of God
Individual’s Own Code of Conduct
7. Complete the proverbs listed below that describe one of the attributes of a righteous man.
a.
b.
c.
He who follows after ___ will find life, righteousness, and honor. (Proverbs 21:21)
A righteous man has concern for ___ (Proverbs 21:21)
The righteous takes into account ___. (Proverbs 29:7a)
1. righteousness and kindness
2. the cause of the poor
3. the well being of his beast
8. Proverbs teaches that a righteous man hates lying; the thoughts of the righteous are just; and it is a joy to the
righteous to do justice. This is not merely a description of conduct, it is a description of _______. Fill in the blank
9. Proverbs 25:26 declares, “Like a muddied spring or a polluted well, so is a righteous man who yields to the wicked.”
The truth of this proverb is exemplified in the conduct of which of the following biblical characters?
a.
b.
c.
Lot, during the time of his residence in Sodom.
The community leaders in the days of King Ahab.
Mordecai, when he was confronted with the demand of wicked Haman.
10. Match the proverbs listed below with the counsel they give as to what constitutes a righteous life.
a.
b.
c.
A righteous man walks in his integrity—blessed are his children who follow him. (Proverbs 20:7) ___
A righteous man hates lying; but a wicked man is loathsome and will be put to shame. (Proverbs 13:5)
___
The righteous takes into account the cause of the poor; the wicked does not have the understanding to
know it. (Proverbs 29:7) ___
1. Be a Man of Compassion
2. Be a Man of Honesty
3. Be a Man of Integrity
SELF-CONTROL
SELECTED PROVERBS
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THEME: Scripture warns us that without self-control governing our lives, the consequences can be devastating
(Proverbs 25:28).
He whose spirit is without restraint is like a city whose walls are broken down. (Proverbs 25:28).
PURPOSE: To exhort the students, by the grace of Christ our Savior, to exercise self-control in our lives, because it is a
valuable and God-pleasing attribute.
OUTLINE:
I. Exercise Self-Control Over Your Temper
(Proverbs 16:32; Proverbs 29:11; Proverbs 19:11)
II. Exercise Self-Control Over Your Tongue
(Proverbs 17:27; Proverbs 20:25)
III. Exercise Self-Control Over Your Ambitions and Desires
(Proverbs 21:5; Proverbs 28:20)
Introduction
1.
There was once a young man from Brooklyn who showed signs of being a promising baseball pitcher: he could
throw so hard that he made the ball hiss, and his curve ball seemed to drop off a table, so sharp was the break.
2.
The Dodgers baseball club saw promise in this young man and signed him to a contract.
3.
But after two or three years there was a striking disparity between his promised potential and his mediocre
performance: he lost at least as many games as he won.
4.
He had a great fastball, he had a fantastic curve ball, but what he didn’t have was control: for every batter he
struck out he might walk another two or three, then he might throw the ball down the middle of the plate and the
next batter would hit it out of sight.
5.
One day his catcher sat down with him and taught him the secret of control. After that, Sandy Koufax became a
Hall of Fame pitcher, some say the greatest pitcher of all time.
6.
Without control his talent was wasted, his performance was mediocre, and his career was in jeopardy.
7.
Scripture teaches that without self-control over your life the consequences are far worse than those experienced
by Sandy Koufax before he learned control:
He whose spirit is without restraint is like a city whose walls are broken down (Proverbs 25:28)
8.
a.
a city broken down and without walls is defenseless: it is vulnerable to being attacked by wild beasts and
pillaged by enemy armies
b.
likewise, if your spirit (that which governs your words and actions) is not under control, you will be
vulnerable to many sinful and foolish deeds that will cause you a great deal of regret
Let us now give our attention to this next topical study from the book of Proverbs on the subject of self-control.
I. Exercise Self-Control Over Your Temper
(Proverbs 16:32; Proverbs 29:11; Proverbs 19:11)
He who is slow to anger is greater than the mighty, and he who controls his spirit is greater than he who
conquers a city. (Proverbs 16:32)
1.
The mightiest man and the greatest conqueror is the one who can master his own passions, the one who
exercises self-control

illustration: Peter the Great of Russia (1672-1725) was one of the outstanding rulers in Russian history;
by the time of his death, Russia was a great and growing power ready to play a major role in European
affairs. But Peter could not conquer and control his own passions: he was subject to fits of rage during
which he lost all self-control, usually becoming brutally violent; at such times the lives of those around
53
him were not safe. It was necessary to post a guard at his door to prevent anyone from approaching him.
Peter himself remarked, “I can govern my people, but how can I govern myself?” (Europe by Robert
Ergang, Vol.2, p.444 and Proverbs by Charles Bridges, footnote on p.251)
2.
The man who is slow to anger (i.e., the man who controls his anger) is better, or greater, than the mighty: he
displays a God-like character (cp. Psalm 103:8)
Jehovah is merciful and gracious, slow to anger and abounding in lovingkindness. (Psalm 103:8)
A fool expresses all his anger, but a wise man holds it back and calms himself. (Proverbs 29:11)
1.
A fool fails to exercise self-control and self-restraint: if something upsets him (such as an injustice or a
disappointment), he is quick to express his anger: he gives free reins to that anger and allows it to carry him
away with reckless abandon like a team of wild horses pulling a run away chariot to everyone’s peril
A fool immediately makes known what irritates him, but a prudent man overlooks an insult. (Proverbs 12:16)
A stone is heavy and sand has great weight, but a fool’s vexation is heavier than both of them! (Proverbs
27:3); i.e., a fool thinks that the annoyance or injustice that is vexing him is so great and so heavy to bear
that he must express himself and unleash his indignation and anger
2.
A wise man holds back his anger and calms it down

literally, “he stills it in the back;” he senses that his anger or frustration is mounting and he immediately
takes preventive measures to bring it under control before it breaks forth like a geyser and controls him
(the wise man recognizes when the pot is simmering and is approaching the boiling point, and he removes
it from the flame before it boils over)
A man’s discretion makes him slow to anger, and it is his glory to overlook an offense. (Proverbs 19:11)
1.
What makes a man slow to anger, and what helps him to control his anger, is his discretion

2.
discretion, or discernment, is the ability to analyze, anticipate, and then apply biblical counsel to a given
situation
The wise and godly man remembers the biblical word of warning:
Do not be quickly provoked in your spirit, for anger rests in the lap of fools. (Ecclesiastes 7:9)
A quick-tempered man will do foolish things… (Proverbs 14:17a)
By the waters of Meribah they angered him, and trouble came upon Moses because of them; 33for they
rebelled against his Spirit, and rash words came from Moses’ lips. (Psalm 106:32-33); a reference to the
time when Moses lashed out in anger against the people of Israel when they cried out for water in the
wilderness and he suffered the consequence for his rash behavior
3.
The wise and godly man remembers the biblical word of wisdom:
…Everyone should be quick to listen, slow to speak and slow to become angry;
bring about the righteousness of God. (James 1:19-20)
4.
20
for man’s wrath does not
The wise and godly man recognizes that what brings honor and glory and dignity, as opposed to shame and
regret and disgrace, is to overlook an offense

this means either to practice forbearance or to extend forgiveness, in both cases leaving justice and
retribution to God
EXERCISE SELF-CONTROL OVER YOUR TEMPER
1.
Exercise self-control over your temper by maintaining a biblical perspective…
a.
…on justice and injustice

do not be surprised to encounter injustice and to be treated unjustly in this world
54
A poor man’s field may produce abundant food, but injustice sweeps it away. (Proverbs 13:23); the
cultivating of the land can produce an ample amount of food, but it is injustice that deprives the
poor of their necessary food
Our Lord Jesus Christ counsels us, Blessed are you when people insult you, persecute you and
falsely say all kinds of evil things against you because of me. 12Rejoice and be glad, because great
is your reward in heaven, for in the same way they persecuted the prophets who came before
you. (Matthew 5:11-12)

remember that the Lord Himself is the true source of justice and the final Administrator of justice
(Proverbs 29:26)
Many seek an audience with the ruler, but it is from Jehovah that a man receives justice.
(Proverbs 29:26)
b.
…on disappointment and adversity
When Joseph’s brothers saw that their father was dead, they said, It may be that Joseph will
hate us, and will fully repay us for all the evil that we did to him. 16So they sent a message to
Joseph, saying, Before he died, your father gave this command, 17This is what you are to say to
Joseph, I ask you now, please forgive your brothers’ transgression and sin in doing you wrong.
Now, we beg you, forgive the transgression of the servants of the God of your father. Joseph
wept when they spoke to him. 18His brothers also came and fell down before his face; and they
said, Look, we are your servants. 19And Joseph said to them, Fear not; for am I in the place
of God? 20As for you, you meant evil against me; but God meant it for good, to accomplish
what is now being done, namely, the saving of many lives. (Genesis 50:15-20)
…we know that all things work together for good for those who love God, those who have been
called according to his purpose (Romans 8:28)
2.
Exercise self-control over your temper by practicing discernment, asking the question, “What is causing me to
become angry?”
a.
b.
Is it justifiable for me to be angry? If so, you must handle that anger in a biblical manner:
”Be angry, but do not sin.” Do not let the sun set on your anger; 27do not give a place to the devil.
(Ephesians 4:26-27); express your righteous anger, but do not retain it, allowing it to settle into
bitterness, for to do so would be to allow the devil to gain control of your spirit; having expressed your
anger, turn it over to the Holy Spirit
Is it not justifiable for me to be angry in this matter (i.e., Is my anger caused by envy or jealousy or some
other ungodly motive)? If so, you must release both your anger and the unholy motivation for your anger
to the Lord, asking for His forgiveness and redeeming grace
II. Exercise Self-Control Over Your Tongue
(Proverbs 17:27; Proverbs 20:25)
He who spares his words has knowledge, and he who has a cool spirit is a man of understanding.
(Proverbs 17:27)
1.
A wise man controls his tongue
In the multitude of words there is no lack of transgression, but he who refrains from speaking acts
wisely. (Proverbs 10:19)
There is one who speaks rashly, like the piercing of a sword; but the tongue of the wise brings healing.
(Proverbs 12:18); i.e., careless words in their ability to inflict harm are compared to the wounds inflicted by
a sword; but, conversely, the wise man knows how to speak words that bring healing and health to the soul
2.
Proverbs 17:28 further reinforces this truth:
Even a fool, when he holds his peace, is thought to be wise; when he shuts his lips he is considered as
being prudent. (Proverbs 17:28)
55

3.
i.e., even a fool, when he keeps his mouth shut, is considered to be a wise man
Consider Proverbs 21:23, Whoever controls his mouth and his tongue, guards his soul from trouble.
(He) who thinks twice before he speaks once, keeps his soul from a great deal of
guilt and grief and saves himself the trouble of many bitter reflections. Matthew
Henry
4.
5.
Consider these questions we should ask ourselves before we speak:


Is what I am about to say true?
Is what I am about to say necessary?

Is what I am about to say motivated by godly motives or sinful motives?
Let us be careful to consider the word of Scripture as recorded in James 1:26;
If anyone considers himself to be religious and yet does not keep a tight rein on his tongue, he deceives
himself and his religion is worthless. (James 1:26)
It is a snare for a man to rashly say, “I dedicate this to God,” and only later to consider his vows.
(Proverbs 20:25)
1.
The situation described in this proverb is as follows:
A man thoughtlessly, irresponsibly and impulsively dedicates something to God; then he later considers his
action, asking, Was this a wise vow to make? It is a vow that I am able and willing to fulfill?
Note Judges 11:30-31,34-35
And Jephthah made a vow to Jehovah: If you give the Ammonites into my hands, 31whatever comes out of
the door of my house to meet me when I return in triumph from the Ammonites will belong to Jehovah,
and I will sacrifice it as a burnt offering. ….34When Jephthah returned to his home in Mizpah, who should
come out to meet him but his daughter, dancing to the sound of tambourines! She was an only child.
Except for her he had neither son nor daughter. 35When he saw her, he tore his clothes and cried, “Oh!
My daughter! You have made me miserable and wretched, because I have made a vow to Jehovah that I
cannot break.” (Judges 11:30-31, 34-35)
2.
The Word of God urges us to think carefully before we make a vow to God (or a promise), because God holds
us responsible to fulfill our obligations and to keep our word
When a man makes a vow to Jehovah or takes an oath to obligate himself by a pledge, he must not break
his word but must do everything he said. (Numbers 30:2)
EXERCISE SELF-CONTROL OVER YOUR TONGUE
1.
Do so by realizing that careless words can get you into trouble.
2.
Do so by remembering that God holds us accountable for our words

3.
our Lord Jesus Christ warns us, I tell you that men will have to give account on the day of
judgment for every careless word they have spoken; 37for by your words you will be acquitted,
and by your words you will be condemned. (Matthews 12:36-37)
Do so by asking the Lord to guard your tongue

the Psalmist’s prayer should also be our prayer: Set a guard over my mouth, O Jehovah; keep
watch over the doors of my lips. (Psalm 141:3)
III. Exercise Self-Control Over Your Ambitions and Desires
(Proverbs 21:5; Proverbs 28:20)
56
The plans of the diligent tend to lead only to profit, but everyone who is hasty will only come to
poverty. (Proverbs 21:5)
1.
The contrast is between well-thought out plans pursued with diligence, that lead to prosperity, success
and profit, and hastiness (or, impulsiveness), that leads to want, loss, and debt
2.
a.
impulsiveness: you see something and you immediately rush out to acquire it; later you wonder if you
really wanted it or needed it or even like it, or can afford it; but now it is too late, you possess the
item and are responsible to pay for it
b.
impatience: you see something, you know you want it, and you refuse to wait for it, you feel that you
must have it immediately; but in your hastiness you may have incurred a premature debt that is
difficult to pay and you may regret not waiting until you possessed the financial resources to purchase
the desired item without incurring debt
This proverb is describing that lack of self-control which causes us to seek the immediate enjoyment of the
benefits of industriousness, frugality, and hard decision-making without going through the bother of
investing the time, the effort and the planning that bring about such benefits and make them possible
…since World War II we Americans have been living beyond our means. We have over
borrowed and over consumed and overpaid ourselves.
…Americans are putting their homes into deeper debt- second mortgaging to pay for
anything from pleasure boats to vacation trips, in essence financing consumption
out of thin air rather than from work and saving.
…The owner of a Denver collection agency said, “A lot of people we see now are
second- or third-generation bad debtors. People just aren’t used to living on
what they make anymore.” (Readers’ Digest, Nov. ’87, pp.123-126, condensed from the book, Living
Beyond Our Means)
3.
The consequence of such impulsiveness and lack of self-control over one’s ambitions and desires is…

either a burden of debt (with the harsh discipline such debt imposes)

or the default of the incurred debt (which can be viewed under certain circumstances as a form of
stealing: recklessly incurring debt without the means to repay or without the intent to repay is a form of
stealing)
A faithful man will be richly blessed; but a man who is hasty to get rich shall not go unpunished.
(Proverbs 28:20)
1.
A man who is hasty to get rich is one who is in such a hurry to become wealthy that he allows that
overriding ambition to break through the bounds of self-control.
2.
The statement, he shall not go unpunished, indicates:
a.
the man’s runaway ambition will lead him to pursue his goal by means of immoral and unscrupulous
conduct, ...
b.
…and he will not escape the consequences and the accountability for such conduct
People who want to get rich fall into temptation and a trap and into many foolish and harmful
desires that plunge men into ruin and destruction; 10for the love of money is a root of all kinds of
evil. Some people, eager for money, have wandered from the faith and pierced themselves with
many griefs. (1 Timothy 6:9-10)
Conclusion
1.
In Galatians 5:22-23 we are informed that self-control is one of the fruits of the Holy Spirit; it is part of the Christlike character the Holy Spirit is reproducing in the Christian’s life.
…the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, integrity,
(Galatians 5:22-23)
23
meekness, self-control.
57
2.
The book of Proverbs instructs us to see to it that this fruit of self-control is regulating every area of our lives; in
particular, our temper, our tongue, and our ambitions and desires.
Questions on the topic of Self-Control
1. What does Proverbs 16:32 (printed below) tell us about a man who is able to control his spirit?
He who is slow to anger is greater than the mighty, and he who controls his spirit is greater than he who conquers a
city. (Proverbs 16:32)
2. How does Proverbs 29:11 (printed below) contrast a fool and a wise man?
A fool expresses all his anger, but a wise man holds it back and calms himself. (Proverbs 29:11)
3. What is being described in Proverbs 20:25 (printed below) and what are we told about this practice?
It is a snare for a man to rashly say, "I dedicate this to God," and only later to consider his vows. (Proverbs 20:25)
4. Describe the contrast between the diligent and the man who is hasty as it is presented in Proverbs 21:5 (printed
below)
The plans of the diligent tend to lead only to profit, but everyone who is hasty will only come to poverty. (Proverbs
21:5)
5. What does Proverbs 28:20 (printed below) tell us about a man who is hasty to get rich? What does this proverb imply
about such a man?
A faithful man will be richly blessed; but a man who is hasty to get rich shall not go unpunished. (Proverbs 28:20)
6. Complete the following proverbs that deal with the subject of self-control as it relates to our temper.
a.
b.
c.
He who ___ his spirit is greater than he who conquers a city. (Proverbs 16:32b)
A fool ___ all his anger. (Proverbs 29:11a)
A wise man … ___ himself. (Proverbs 29:11b)
1. controls
2. calms
3. expresses
7. Which of the following statements provide good biblical counsel to aid us in exercising self-control over our tongue?
a.
b.
c.
d.
Realize that careless words can get you into trouble.
Resolve to never speak out on any controversial subject.
Remember that God holds us accountable for our words.
Request the Lord to guard our tongue.
8. Proverbs 19:11 declares, “A man’s discretion makes him slow to anger.” Match the characteristics of discretion
listed below with the appropriate passages.
a.
b.
c.
A quick-tempered man will do foolish things… (Proverbs 14:17a) ___
Everyone should be quick to listen, slow to speak and slow to become angry; 20for man’s wrath does not
bring about the righteousness of God. (James 1:19-20) ___
He who covers over an offense promotes love, but whoever repeats the matter separates close friends.
(Proverbs 17:9) ___
1. A wise man remembers the biblical word of wisdom.
2. A wise man remembers the biblical warning.
3. A wise man remembers the biblical way to promote peace.
9. What does Proverbs teach concerning the man who acts hastily in his efforts to gain wealth?
58
a.
b.
c.
Everyone who is hasty will only come to poverty.
A man who is hasty to get rich shall not go unpunished.
The man who acts hastily will secure what others only desire to obtain.
10. Match the proverbs listed below with what they teach with regard to self-control. (Answers listed on next page)
a.
b.
c.
He who is slow to anger is greater than the mighty, and he who controls his spirit is greater than he who
conquers a city. (Proverbs 16:32) ___
He who spares his words has knowledge, and he who has a cool spirit is a man of understanding.
(Proverbs 17:27) ___
The plans of the diligent tend to lead only to profit, but everyone who is hasty will only come to
poverty. (Proverbs 21:5) ___
1. Exercise Self-Control Over Your Ambitions
2. Exercise Self-Control Over Your Temper
3. Exercise Self-Control Over Your Tongue
59
LESSON FIVE : TOPICAL STUDIES OF PROVERBS
The student should prepare for his study by asking the Holy Spirit to enlighten his mind and open his heart to
receive not only the teaching of Scripture but Christ Himself as He is presented in the Scriptures.
Assignments:
1. Bible Study: By a consideration of the proverbs pertinent to them, the student will explore the following topics:
The Christian’s Obligation to Society and Godly Speech. The student will be guided by an expositional
commentary on the text. The student will then answers the questions found at the end of the expository notes.
2. Writing Your Essay: The student should continue work on his 8 -10 page essay for Bachelor's credit or 15-20
page essay for Master's credit. (See under Syllabus, "Description of Assignments," #3. The student is also
referred to the "Guidelines for Writing an Essay," provided by the facilitator.)
Note: All Scripture texts will appear in Comic Sans MS font; all extended quotations from other authors will
appear in Courier font.
FULFILL YOUR CHRISTIAN OBLIGATION TO SOCIETY
SELECTED PROVERBS
THEME: The Lord expects us to live as godly citizens and make a positive contribution to the society in which we find
ourselves (note 1 Peter 2:12-17).
Conduct yourselves in a proper way among the Gentiles; so that, even though they slander you as evildoers, by
observing your good works they must glorify God on the day of his visitation. 13Submit to every human authority for
the Lord’s sake; whether to the king as the supreme human authority, 14or to governors as those appointed by him
to punish evildoers and to commend those who do what is right. 15Submit to all such authority because this is the
will of God. Silence the foolishness of ignorant men by doing what is right. 16Live as free men, but not using this
freedom as a pretext for evil; rather, using it as servants of God. 17Respect all men; love the brotherhood of
believers; fear God, honor the king. (1 Peter 2:12-17)
PURPOSE: To exhort the hearers to fulfill their Christian obligation to society, because such is part of our divine
calling.
OUTLINE:
I. Fulfill Your Christian Obligation to Society,
…by Taking Seriously the Promise and Warning of Scripture
(Proverbs 14:34)
II. Fulfill Your Christian Obligation to Society,
…by Leading a Righteous Life
(Proverbs 28:4; Proverbs 24:21-22)
III. Fulfill Your Christian Obligation to Society,
…by Praying for the “Triumph” of Righteousness
(Proverbs 29:2; Proverbs 11:11)
Introduction
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1.
Would you vote for a mule?
2.
Back in 1938 the people of Wilton, Washington, did.
3.
The name “Boston Curtis” appeared on the ballot for Republican committeeman for the town of Wilton.
4.
The town’s mayor sponsored the candidacy of Boston Curtis and consequently, Boston Curtis won the election.
5.
But to everyone’s surprise and consternation, Boston Curtis turned out to be a mule!
6.
The mayor was behind it all. He conceived the idea of sponsoring a mule to prove his point that most of the
citizens of Wilton paid little regard to the candidates or the issues in the local election.
7.
Consequently, the careless, preoccupied voters of Wilton ended up with a mule as their newly elected
committeeman. (Our Daily Bread, 11/3/92).
8.
Looking on the bright side of things, it could have been worse! A mule may be an improvement over some of the
candidates who run for public office: It’s better to take a mule any day over a fox or a snake!
9.
But the mayor had a point: he proved that many of the local citizens had little concern for their civic
responsibility.
10. Bearing this is mind, let us now turn to our next topical study from the book of Proverbs: Our Christian obligation
to society.
11. Because it is part of our divine calling (note 1 Peter 2:12-17), let us be faithful to fulfill our Christian obligation to
society.
Conduct yourselves in a proper way among the Gentiles; so that, even though they slander you as evildoers, by
observing your good works they must glorify God on the day of his visitation. 13Submit to every human
authority for the Lord’s sake; whether to the king as the supreme human authority, 14or to governors as those
appointed by him to punish evildoers and to commend those who do what is right. 15Submit to all such authority
because this is the will of God. Silence the foolishness of ignorant men by doing what is right. 16Live as free
men, but not using this freedom as a pretext for evil; rather, using it as servants of God. 17Respect all men;
love the brotherhood of believers; fear God, honor the king. (1 Peter 2:12-17)
I. Fulfill Your Christian Obligation to Society,
…by Taking Seriously the Promise and Warning of Scripture (Proverbs 14:34)
Righteousness exalts a nation, but sin is a disgrace to any people. (Proverbs 14:34)
1.
The proverb is true and must be taken seriously because of the character of God:
Jehovah is righteous, he loves justice; upright men will see his face. (Psalm 11:7)
God is a righteous judge, a God who has indignation every day. (Psalm 7:11)
2.
In what ways does righteousness exalt a nation?

righteousness exalts a nation by bringing it honor
See, I have taught you decrees and laws as Jehovah my God commanded me, so that you may follow
them in the land you are entering to take possession of it. 6Observe them carefully, for this will show
your wisdom and understanding to the nations, who will hear about all these decrees and say, “Surely
this great nation is a wise and understanding people.” (Deuteronomy 4:5-6)

righteousness exalts a nation by bringing it blessing
If you follow my decrees and are careful to obey my commandments, 4I will send you rain in its season,
and the ground will yield its crops and the trees of the field their fruit. 5Your threshing will continue
until grape harvest and the grape harvest will continue until planting, and you will eat all the food you
want and live in safety in your land. (Leviticus 26:3-5)
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
righteousness exalts a nation by bringing it peace
If you follow my decrees and are careful to obey my commandments, …6I will grant peace in the land,
and you will lie down and no one will make you afraid. I will remove savage beasts from your land, and
the sword will not pass through your country. (Leviticus 26:3,6)

righteousness exalts a nation by bringing it strength
If you follow my decrees and are careful to obey my commandments, … 7You will pursue your enemies,
and they will fall by the sword before you. 8Five of you will chase a hundred, and a hundred of you will
chase ten thousand, and your enemies will fall by the sword before you. (Leviticus 26:3,7-8)
3.
But Proverbs 14:34b goes on to say, sin is a disgrace to any people

the nation that violates and rejects the Creator’s holy law becomes subject to His holy judgment

consider the example of Sodom:
And Jehovah said, Because the outcry against Sodom and Gomorrah is so great, and because their sin
is very grievous; 21I will now go down and investigate whether they have done all that the protest
which has been brought before me charges; and if not, I will know. (Genesis 18:20-21)
Then Jehovah rained upon Sodom and upon Gomorrah brimstone and fire—from Jehovah out of
heaven. 25So he overthrew those cities—and all the Plain—and all the inhabitants of those cities, and
all the vegetation of the land. (Genesis 19:24-25)

consider the example of Babylon
See, I will stir up the Medes against them; they will not care for silver, nor will they delight in gold.
18
But their bows will mow down the young men; they will not take pity on infants, nor will they look with
compassion upon children. 19Babylon, the jewel of kingdoms, the glory of the Babylonians’ pride, will
become like Sodom and Gomorrah when God overthrew them. (Isaiah 13:17-19)
4.
Where do we find the definition of righteousness and sin? How do men learn the definition of these moral
categories?

the definition of righteousness and sin is to be found in the law of God as it is revealed in the Scriptures
and as it is written upon every human heart (Romans 2:14-15a)
Indeed, when Gentiles, who do not have the (written) Law, do by nature things required by the Law,
they are a law for themselves, even though they do not have the (written) Law, 15since they show that
the requirements of the Law are written on their hearts, their consciences also bearing witness, and
their thoughts now accusing, now even defending them. (Romans 2:14-15a)
5.

Romans 1:32 declares, they know God’s righteous decrees

illustration: In April 1992, Los Angeles exploded in rioting and rampant acts of
violence. One unforgettable scene on TV involved a black storeowner. With the
boldness of a prophet, he shouted at the looters, “What you are doing just
isn’t right! It isn’t right!” His words stirred the consciences of young and
old alike. …We bear God’s image. That’s why we often feel an inner revulsion
when we see or do what isn’t right. God’s nature has been offended. A divine
law has been broken, and a penalty is required. In that man’s shout “It just
isn’t right!” we hear the echo of God’s voice within our own nature. (Our Daily
Bread, 3/27/93)
We begin to fulfill our Christian obligation to society by recognizing and taking seriously the moral
accountability of nations and societies before God.
II. Fulfill Your Christian Obligation to Society,
…by Leading a Righteous Life (Proverbs 28:4; Proverbs 24:21-22)
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Those who forsake the law praise the wicked, but those who keep the law contend against them.
(Proverbs 28:4)
1.
Those who forsake the law praise the wicked…

2.
…but those who keep the law contend against them.

3.
i.e., those who reject the law of God turn their back on the divine and absolute standard of right and
wrong; having done so, they inevitably end up praising the wicked by accepting their immoral and mancentered lifestyle as a viable and legitimate alternative
by honoring the law of God and adhering to it, we are bearing witness to the divine standard and
bearing witness against those who ignore or willfully violate that standard; consider Lot’s conduct and
witness as described in Genesis 19:5-7,9
They called to Lot and said to him, Where are the men who came into your house tonight? Bring them
out to us so that we may have sex with them. 6Lot went outside to meet with them and shut the door
behind him. 7He said to them, I beg you, my brothers, do not do such a wicked thing. …9But they said,
Stand back. Then they said, This fellow came to our city as a sojourner, and he would make himself a
judge. Now we will deal worse with you than with them. They kept bringing pressure against Lot and
moved forward to break down the door. (Genesis 19:5-7,9)
It is urgent that we take to heart the word of Proverbs 28:4 and live accordingly;

consider the words of Charles Colson, writing about Western civilization, and in particular, American
society, at the end of the twentieth century:
We live in a society in which all transcendent values have been removed and
thus there is no moral standard by which anyone can say right is right and
wrong is wrong. What we live in is, in the memorable image of Richard Neuhaus,
a naked public square.
On the surface, a value-free society sounds liberal, progressive, and
enlightened.
…But when the public square is naked, truth and values drift
with the winds of public favor and there is nothing objective to govern how we
are to live together.
Why should we be shocked, then, by the inevitable
consequences; why should we be surprised to discover that society yields what
is planted?
…As C.S. Lewis wrote forty years ago, “We laugh at honor and are shocked to
find traitors in our midst.”
…Without objective values, the community or one’s neighbor has no superior
claim over one’s own desires.
Whether we like to hear it or not, we are reaping the consequences of the
decades since World War II when we have, in Solzhenitsyn’s words, “forgotten
God.” What we have left is the reign of relativism. …humanity cannot survive
without some form of law. “The truly naked public square is at best a
transitional phenomenon,” wrote Richard John Neuhaus. “It is a vacuum begging
to be filled.” Excise belief in God and you are left with only two principals:
the individual and the state. …”The naked public square cannot remain naked,
the direction is toward the state-as-church, toward totalitarianism.”
…this has already occurred in Marxist nations where the death of God has
created a new form of messiah—the all-powerful state whose political ideology
acquires the force of religion. The same is true, though not as extreme, in
the West where traditional religious influences have been excluded from public
debates… As a result, government is free to make its own ultimate judgments.
Hence government ideology acquires the force of religion.
…With no ultimate reference point supporting it—no just cause for obedience—
law can only be enforced by the bayonet. So the state seeks more and more
coercive power.
…In these last twenty years of the twentieth century, we are sailing uncharted
waters. Never before in the history of Western civilization has the public
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square been so devoid of transcendent values. (Kingdoms in Conflict, Charles Colson,
pp.225-227)

consider, also, the findings of two Christian researchers concerning the state of the Christian church in
the closing decades of the twentieth century:
…42 percent of the Christians interviewed said that without the government’s
laws, there would be no real guidelines for people to follow in daily life.
When close to half of the Christian body overlook the Bible as an
authoritative guideline for society, the restricted relevance of faith and
spiritual commitment in people’s lives becomes clear. (Vital Signs, George Barna and
William Paul McKay, p.142)
My son, fear Jehovah and the king, do not associate with those who seek revolution, 22for they—
Jehovah and the king—will send sudden calamity upon them, and who knows what destruction they can
bring? (Proverbs 24:21-22)
1.
These verses remind us that we are to respect the legitimate authority of the civil government because it
possesses a God-given authority (note Romans 13:1-2)
Everyone must submit himself to the governing authorities, for there is no authority except that which
God has established. The authorities that exist have been established by God. 2Consequently, he who
rebels against the authority is rebelling against what God has instituted, and those who do so will bring
judgment on themselves. (Romans 13:1-2)
2.
When is political protest legitimate? When is such protest required?
a.
we must protest when the civil government oversteps its bounds and “deifies” itself—i.e.; declaring that
it is not accountable to God and assuming the position of God as law maker; example: in 1987
Representative Lowell Wiecker of Connecticut, speaking on the floor of the House of Representatives,
declared, “We are the law!”)
Pilate asked him, Do you refuse to speak to me? Do you not realize that I have the authority to
release you, and the authority to crucify you? 11Jesus replied, You would have no authority against
me, unless it had been given to you from above. (John 19:10-11a)
…the ruler is God’s servant to do you good. (Romans 13:4a)
b.
we must protest when the civil government requires us to obey its dictates at the expense of God’s
commandments (note Acts 5:27b-29)
Having brought the apostles, they made them appear before the Sanhedrin to be questioned by the
high priest. 28We gave you strict orders not to teach in this name, he said. Yet you have filled
Jerusalem with your teaching and are determined to make us guilty of this man’s blood. 29Peter and
the other apostles replied, We must obey God rather than men. (Acts 5:27b-29)
c.
we must protest when the civil government violates the moral law of God (note Daniel 4:27 and
Matthew 14:3-4)
O king, be pleased to accept my counsel. Renounce your sins by doing what is right; and your
iniquities, by showing mercy to the poor. By so doing, you may possibly continue in your honorable
state. (Daniel 4:27); such was Daniel’s counsel to king Nebuchadnezzar
Now Herod had arrested John and bound him and put him in prison because of Herodias, his brother
Philip’s wife, 4for John had been saying to him, “It is not lawful for you to have her.” (Matthew 14:34)
3.
What forms does biblical protest take?
a.
calling the civil authorities to accountability by reminding them of their office as servants of God and
confronting them with their offenses—as did Daniel, John the Baptist, and the Lord Jesus in the passages
cited above: Daniel 4:27, Matthew 14:3-4, and John 19:10-11 respectively
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b.
refusing to obey the civil authority when they require us to disobey God—as did the apostles in the
instance cited in Acts 5:27b-29 referred to above
III. Fulfill Your Christian Obligation to Society,
…by Praying for the “Triumph” of Righteousness (Proverbs 29:2; Proverbs 11:11)
When the righteous are in power the people rejoice; but when a wicked man rules, the people sigh.
(Proverbs 29:2)
1.
When the righteous are in the majority and in positions of authority, the people rejoice

a righteous rule based upon the moral law of God and recognizing its accountability to God promotes
peace and stability and respects and safeguards the citizens’ God-given rights (note Isaiah 32:1-2 which
speaks of the righteous reign of godly king Hezekiah)
Look! A king will reign with righteousness, and his officials will rule with justice! 2This man will be
like a shelter from the wind and a refuge from the storm, he will be like streams of water in the
desert, like the shadow of a great rock in a dry land. (Isaiah 32:1-2)
2.
Conversely, when a wicked man rules, the people sigh.

refusing to recognize their position under God as “legislators” of His moral law, wicked rulers become a
law unto themselves, with the following dreadful consequences:
their decisions become final: they recognize no appeal to the higher law of God for justice
their power becomes absolute: they know no bounds, extending their control over every area of the
citizen’s lives
their toleration for any legitimate protest becomes non-existent: they meet protest with severe
measures of repression
By the blessing of the upright the city is exalted, but it is overthrown by the mouth of the wicked.
(Proverbs 11:11)
1.
By the counsel they give, by the course they advocate, by the causes they champion, the wicked bring about
the collapse of the society; such is the meaning of the statement, the city is overthrown by the mouth of
the wicked.
2.
The truth of Proverbs 11:11 is traced out in Isaiah 5:20-25
Woe to those who call evil good, and good evil, who substitute darkness for light and light for darkness,
who substitute bitter for sweet and sweet for bitter! 21Woe to those who are wise in their own eyes, and
prudent in their own sight! 22Woe to those who are heroes at drinking wine, and champions at mixing
strong drinks; 23those who acquit the wicked for a bribe, and deny justice to the innocent! 24Therefore,
as tongues of fire lick up straw, and as dry grass sinks down in the flames, so their root will decay and
their blossom will blow away like dust; because they have rejected the law of Jehovah of hosts and
despised the word of the Holy One of Israel. 25Therefore, the anger of Jehovah burns against his people;
his hand is raised against them and he strikes them down. The mountains shake, and the dead bodies are
like filth in the streets. But even after all this, his anger is not pacified; his hand is still raised against
them. (Isaiah 5:20-25)
a.
the wicked counsel a departure from the divine standard in favor of a man-centered, self-constructed
standard

b.
they are wise in their own eyes, thinking themselves capable of devising their own standard
(vs.21), and they have rejected the law of Jehovah of hosts and despised the word of the Holy
One of Israel (vs.24)
the result is that the fundamentals of morality are replaced by perversity: Woe to those who call evil
good, and good evil, who substitute darkness for light and light for darkness, who substitute bitter
for sweet and sweet for bitter! (vs.20)
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3.
c.
this in turn causes the community to disintegrate: Therefore, as tongues of fire lick up straw, and as
dry grass sinks down in the flames, so their root will decay and their blossom will blow away like dust;
because they have rejected the law of Jehovah of hosts and despised the word of the Holy One of
Israel. (vs.24)
d.
furthermore, it causes the community to become liable to the righteous judgment of the Lord:
Therefore, the anger of Jehovah burns against his people; his hand is raised against them and he
strikes them down. The mountains shake, and the dead bodies are like filth in the streets. But even
after all this, his anger is not pacified; his hand is still raised against them (vs.25)
In 1 Timothy 2:1-2 we are exhorted to pray for the civil government:
I urge, then, first of all, that requests, prayers, intercession and thanksgiving be made for everyone—
2
for kings and all those in authority, that we may live peaceful and quiet lives in all godliness and holiness.
(1 Timothy 2:1-2)
4.
Let us pray that God would grant us the blessing described in Isaiah 32:1-8
Look! A king will reign with righteousness, and his officials will rule with justice! 2This man will be like a
shelter from the wind and a refuge from the storm, he will be like streams of water in the desert, like
the shadow of a great rock in a dry land. 3And the eyes of those who can see will no longer be closed, and
the ears of those who can hear will listen. 4And the mind of the rash will comprehend knowledge, and the
stammering tongue will be able to speak fluently. 5No longer will the fool be called noble, nor will the
scoundrel be respected—6for the fool speaks folly and his heart desires to do what is wicked so as to
practice godlessness and to cause men to stray from Jehovah; as a consequence, he empties the soul of
the hungry and deprives the thirsty of drink. 7The scoundrel’s methods are evil; he devises wicked
schemes intended to destroy the poor by means of lies, even when the plea of the needy is just. 8But the
noble man makes noble plans, and by his noble conduct he shall prevail. (Isaiah 32:1-8)
a.
verse 1 describes a government that returns to its true position of being a legislator of God’s moral law
under His authority
b.
verse 2 indicates that such a state of affairs brings moral and spiritual refreshment to the nation
c.
verses 3-4 indicate that the people themselves become characterized by a renewed sense of spiritual
perception and understanding and responsiveness
d.
verses 5-8 describe the results of this transformation:
e.
5.

there is clear discernment between good and evil: the fool and the scoundrel are recognized for
what they are (verse 5)

there is the acceptance of what is good and true: the noble man is honored and supported (verse 8)
as Isaiah 32:15 indicates, this is all the result of the outpouring of God’s Holy Spirit upon a nation: the
palace will be abandoned, the populous city will be forsaken… 15Such will be the state of the land until
the Spirit is poured out upon us from on high (Isaiah 32:14-15)
May our prayers be encouraged by the events that took place in Eastern Europe and the former Soviet Union
in the closing years of the twentieth century:

a Christian leader ministering in the former Soviet Union presented the following report:
We…had a meeting with the Secretary of the Constitutional Commission, …
They
were to present the final draft of the new Constitution to Parliament the next
day. …At the conclusion of the meeting, he asked if we would be willing to
take a copy of his rough draft and give recommendations on how it could be
restructured around Biblical principles. (ATIA Newsletter, March, 1992)

under the headline, Former Atheist Yeltsin Declares Christian Faith, the Atlanta Journal and
Constitution reported the following story on June 15, 1992
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Baptized as a baby but an avowed atheist for most of his life, Russian
President Boris Yeltsin returned to the Russian Orthodox Church on Sunday,
seeking spiritual renewal for himself and his nation.
Mr. Yeltsin, 61, attended Pentecost services in a move that is not only
personal but symbolized Russia’s return to its strong religious heritage.
Mr. Yeltsin called upon the nation to practice patience and humility and to
strive for spiritual purification after more than seven decades of Communism …
…In a television interview last week on the anniversary of his election as
Russia’s first President a year ago, Mr. Yeltsin acknowledged that after years
of atheism, he is now a believing Christian.
6.
We should pray for the “triumph” of righteousness in our nation knowing that the ultimate triumph of
righteousness shall only occur at the end of the age with the return of our Lord Jesus Christ in power and
great glory, then shall be fulfilled the promise of Revelation 11:15,
The kingdom of the world has become the kingdom of our Lord and of his Christ, and he shall reign
forever and ever. (Revelation 11:15)
Conclusion
1.
Let us recognize our Christian obligation to the society in which we find ourselves.
2.
And in reliance upon the grace of God, may we be found faithful in fulfilling that obligation.
Questions on the topic of The Christian’s Obligation to Society
1. According to Proverbs 14:34 (printed below,) what affects do righteousness and sin have upon a society?
Righteousness exalts a nation, but sin is a disgrace to any people. (Proverbs 14:34)
2. According to Proverbs 28:4 (printed below,) what is one way in which the righteous can combat the wicked?
Those who forsake the law praise the wicked, but those who keep the law contend against them. (Proverbs 28:4)
3. What should be our attitude toward the civil authorities and why should we have such an attitude? See Proverbs
24:21-22 (printed below)
My son, fear Jehovah and the king, do not associate with those who seek revolution, (22) for they—Jehovah and
the king—will send sudden calamity upon them, and who knows what destruction they can bring? (Proverbs 24:21-22)
4. Bearing in mind the warning and counsel of Proverbs 24:21-22 (printed above under question #3), is there ever a
time when political protest is legitimate for the Christian?
5. According to Proverbs 29:2 (printed below,) what is the affect of righteous and wicked rulers upon their subjects?
When the righteous are in power the people rejoice; but when a wicked man rules, the people sigh. (Proverbs 29:2)
6. Proverbs 14:34 declares, “Righteousness exalts a nation.” Match the passages listed below with the ways in which
righteousness exalts a nation.
a.
b.
See, I have taught you decrees and laws as Jehovah my God commanded me, so that you may follow
them in the land you are entering to take possession of it. 6Observe them carefully, for this will show
your wisdom and understanding to the nations, who will hear about all these decrees and say, “Surely
this great nation is a wise and understanding people.” (Deuteronomy 4:5-6) ___
If you follow my decrees and are careful to obey my commandments, 4I will send you rain in its season,
and the ground will yield its crops and the trees of the field their fruit. 5Your threshing will continue
until grape harvest and the grape harvest will continue until planting, and you will eat all the food you
want and live in safety in your land. (Leviticus 26:3-5) ___
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c.
d.
If you follow my decrees and are careful to obey my commandments, … 6I will grant peace in the land,
and you will lie down and no one will make you afraid. I will remove savage beasts from your land, and
the sword will not pass through your country. (Leviticus 26:3,6) ___
If you follow my decrees and are careful to obey my commandments, … 7You will pursue your enemies,
and they will fall by the sword before you. 8Five of you will chase a hundred, and a hundred of you will
chase ten thousand, and your enemies will fall by the sword before you. (Leviticus 26:3,7-8) ___
1.
2.
3.
4.
Righteousness brings honor
Righteousness brings strength
Righteousness brings peace
Righteousness brings blessing
7. Where do we discover the definition of righteousness and sin? How do men learn the definition of these moral
categories?
a.
b.
c.
The definition of righteousness and sin is to be found in the laws of the State as they are constructed by
lawmakers duly elected by the people.
The definition of righteousness and sin is to be found in the law of God as it is revealed in the Ten
Commandments.
The definition of righteousness and sin is to be found in the law of God as it is written upon every
human heart.
8. Proverbs 24:21 warns, “My son, fear Jehovah and the king, do not associate with those who seek revolution.” But
when is political protest legitimate? Match the passages listed below with the occasions when protest is legitimate and
necessary.
a.
b.
c.
Pilate asked him, Do you refuse to speak to me? Do you not realize that I have the authority to release
you, and the authority to crucify you? 11Jesus replied, You would have no authority against me, unless it
had been given to you from above. (John 19:10-11a) ___
Having brought the apostles, they made them appear before the Sanhedrin to be questioned by the high
priest. 28We gave you strict orders not to teach in this name, he said. Yet you have filled Jerusalem with
your teaching and are determined to make us guilty of this man’s blood. 29Peter and the other apostles
replied, We must obey God rather than men. (Acts 5:27b-29) ___
O king, be pleased to accept my counsel. Renounce your sins by doing what is right; and your iniquities,
by showing mercy to the poor. By so doing, you may possibly continue in your honorable state. (Daniel
4:27) ___
1. When rulers forget their accountability to God
2. When rulers violate the moral law of God
3. When rulers require us to disobey God
9. What forms of political protest and opposition to the civil authorities is biblically legitimate?
a.
b.
c.
d.
We may call the civil authorities to accountability by reminding them of their office as servants of God.
We must refuse to obey the civil authorities when they require us to violate the moral law of God in
favor of keeping their man-made statutes.
We may engage in terrorist activities and armed insurrection as a last resort.
All of the above
10. Refusing to recognize their position under God as “legislators” of His moral law, wicked rulers become a law unto
themselves with dreadful consequences. Match the consequences listed below with the appropriate descriptions.
a.
b.
c.
Godless rulers recognize no appeal to the higher law of God for justice. ___
Godless rulers know no bounds; they extend their control over every area of the citizens’ lives. ___
Godless rulers meet protest with severe measures of repression. ___
1. Their power becomes absolute
2. Their decisions become final
3. Their toleration becomes non-existent
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FOUR COMMANDMENTS FOR GODLY SPEECH
SELECTED PROVERBS
THEME: We must remember that the tongue is a little member of our bodies that can do a great deal of damage if it is
not kept in check.
PURPOSE: To exhort the students to be careful to heed the biblical commandments for godly speech, because of the
harmful potential of an uncontrolled tongue.
OUTLINE:
I. Commandment #1: Stop Before You Speak
(Proverbs 18:13; Proverbs 12:18; Proverbs 25:11)
II. Commandment #2: When You Must Speak, Do So Graciously
(Proverbs 25:12; Proverbs 25:9-10; Proverbs 15:1)
III. Commandment #3: When You Do Not Need to Speak, Don’t Speak
(Proverbs 11:13)
IV. Commandment #4: Speak Like Christ
(Proverbs 18:4)
Introduction
1.
Can you supply the answer to this riddle?
With the bridle you can guide
The gallant horse where he will stride.
But if you succeed to halt this “steed,”
You will have done a mighty deed.
2.
The answer is found in James 3:2,
We all stumble in many ways. If anyone is never at fault in what he says, he is a perfect man, able to bridle his
whole body. (James 3:2)
3.
In our next topical study from the book of Proverbs we consider the subject: Four Commandments for Godly
Speech.
I. Commandment #1: Stop Before You Speak
(Proverbs 18:13; Proverbs 12:18; Proverbs 25:11)
He who gives an answer before he has listened—it will be folly and bring shame to him. (Proverbs 18:13)
1.
2.
Illustration: You are playing tennis; you anticipate that your opponent will serve the ball to the far left side of
the court; you rush over there, but he serves it to the right side instead: this kind of anticipation is not only
embarrassing, it doesn’t make for a very interesting game
Proverbs 18:13 is warning us against the folly of rashly uttering speech without knowledge; in particular,
responding to a person before you have fully listened to him
How frustrating to have someone interrupt you, thinking he knows what you’re about
to say and then jumping to a conclusion! We’ve all done that. We’ve jumped to
“illusions” about what the person was actually saying. We’ve heard the words that
were spoken, but we didn’t really listen to what was being said. And what
misunderstanding has resulted!
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Recently I “sat on the sidelines” as a husband and wife argued, firing volley after
volley of accusations at each other, both talking at the same time, constantly
interrupting each other. Each word drove the wedge of misunderstanding deeper and
deeper into their relationship. I could hardly call for a ceasefire above the din
of their verbal warfare.
…James, in his letter to the early church, wrote, “Be swift to hear, slow to speak,
slow to wrath.” (James 1:19). (Our Daily Bread, 11/15/94)
3.
4.
Can you remember an occasion when you “jumped to an illusion?” What motivated you to speak before
hearing out the other person?
a.
Was it pride? The desire to show how clever or intuitive you are?
b.
Was it inattentiveness? Are you really too pre-occupied with yourself and the “more important things” to
hear the full account of what the speaker has to say?
c.
Was it lack of courtesy and consideration? Do you not have enough respect for the other person to hear
him out, or do you just not care what he has to say?
d.
Was it impatience? You just don’t have the time to listen to the “feature length version;” if he can’t give
you the condensed version you are unwilling to listen any further
Is it not a part of true Christ-like love and humility to hear someone out, to let him give you the full account
of what he has to say before you respond to him with an answer? Wouldn’t you want to be treated in that
way?
There is one who speaks rashly, like the piercing of a sword; but the tongue of the wise brings healing.
(Proverbs 12:18)
1.
Illustration: your friend invites you to go to the local swimming pool with him; in the locker room you quietly
mention to him that you are going to stay in the shallow end of the pool because you don’t know how to swim;
as soon as you get out to the pool, your friend announces to everyone in a loud voice that you can’t swim; you
turn red with embarrassment; later, when you mention this to your friend, he remarks, “What’s the matter,
it’s the truth, isn’t it?”

2.
if your friend had been thinking, he would not have uttered such a rash word to your embarrassment,
even though it was the truth; the loving thing would have been to quietly inform the lifeguard of your
inability to swim, for your own safety, but not to have announced it to everyone present at the pool
The point of this proverb: you may be speaking the truth in what you say, but if you do so in a thoughtless or
malicious manner, you are not speaking the truth in love
Let us therefore make every effort to do what leads to peace and to mutual edification. (Romans 14:19)
A word aptly spoken is like apples of gold in settings of silver. (Proverbs 25:11)
1.
The point of this proverb is that a word aptly spoken (i.e., a word spoken at the proper time and in the proper
way) is exceedingly precious, it is beautiful and valuable, it is a thing to be cherished
2.
Consider Proverbs 16:23;
The heart of the wise instructs his mouth, and adds learning to his speech. (Proverbs 16:23)
3.

a wise man is not hasty or impulsive in his speech; his heart carefully meditates on a subject because he
wants to know and say what is right and beneficial…

…consequently, he has something valuable to say, something that will be profitable and add to our
understanding and contribute to our growth in grace
Consider Proverbs 29:20;
Do you see a man who is hasty with his words? There is more hope for a fool than for him. (Proverbs 29:20)

the man who is hasty and impulsive in his speech is put into a category that is lower and more despised
than that of a fool
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4.
Isaiah 50:4 should be our prayer:
The Lord Jehovah has given me the speech of one who has been taught, so that I may know how to sustain
the weary one with a word. He wakens me every morning; he wakens my ear to listen like a disciple. (Isaiah
50:4)
II. Commandment #2: When You Must Speak, Do So Graciously
(Proverbs 25:12; Proverbs 25:9-10; Proverbs 15:1)
As an earring of gold and an ornament of fine gold, so is a wise rebuker to an obedient ear. (Proverbs
25:12)
1.
Do you want to see a truly priceless gem? Do you want to see something that is far more stunning than the
most costly jewel?
2.
This is it: a wise rebuker speaking to an obedient ear
a.
a wise rebuker is not only someone who is willing to speak a word of rebuke or warning when such a
word is required, but someone who speaks that word with grace: he speaks the truth in love
b.
an obedient ear is an ear that receives the word being spoken to it, rather than ignoring it or taking
offense at it because of wounded pride or shame
c.
Before we try to rebuke, comfort, or counsel someone, we must carefully
prepare our hearts so that we do not do more harm than good. Our words will
cause resentment unless we convey the authority of God’s truth and the
sensitivity of one who understands.
…If we are led to rebuke, comfort, or
counsel people in need, we must first feed on God’s Word and empathize with
their situation. Only then will we be spiritually prepared to minister to
them. (Our Daily Bread, 8/26/90)
d.
consider the example of Apollos, a man who was willing to be taught:
…a Jew named Apollos, a native of Alexandria, came to Ephesus. He was a learned man, with a
thorough knowledge of the Scriptures. 25He had been instructed in the way of the Lord, and he
spoke with great fervor and taught about Jesus accurately, though he knew only the baptism of
John. 26He began to speak boldly in the synagogue. When Priscilla and Aquila heard him, they invited
him to their home and explained to him the way of God more adequately. (Acts 18:24-26)
3.
A wise rebuker speaking to an obedient ear: not only is truth and righteousness being promoted, but the very
process itself is a thing of beauty and bears the mark of being a work of God
Debate your case with your neighbor privately, but do not reveal another man’s secret,
about it and curse you, and you will never lose your bad reputation. (Proverbs 25:9-10)
1.
we would do well to bear in mind the sign prominently displayed by one business owner and apply his
exhortation to our dealings with others: If you like our product, tell the world; if you have a complaint,
tell us.
The consequence of reporting your grievance indiscriminately to someone other than the offending person:
you will never lose your bad reputation

3.
or he may hear
The point of this proverb: if you have a problem with someone, go and speak to that person personally and
directly, rather than sharing your grievance with everyone other than that person

2.
10
i.e., you will gain for yourself the reputation of being someone who does not deal honestly and
forthrightly with his complaints, but chooses to vent his grievances in a dishonorable and repugnant
manner
Consider the directive issued by our Lord Jesus Christ recorded in Matthew 18:15-17;
If your brother sins against you, go and show him his fault, just between the two of you. If he listens to
you, you have won your brother over. 16But if he will not listen, take one or two others along, so that
“every matter may be established by the testimony of two or three witnesses.” 17If he refuses to listen
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to them, tell it to the church; and if he refuses to listen even to the church, treat him as you would a
Gentile or a tax collector. (Matthew 18:15-17)
A contrite answer turns away wrath, but a harsh word stirs up anger. (Proverbs 15:1)
1.
A contrite answer is so strong that it has the power to repel wrath and turn it away, making room for more
peaceful and conciliatory feelings

a contrite (]5k1r2) answer shows remorse and admits wrong doing, it seeks forgiveness and is willing to
accept blame for one’s faults
2.
When wrath is stirred up against us, our first reaction is to become defensive and justify ourselves; but if we
restrain this impulse and reflect on the situation, we will often times discover that there is just cause—or at
least some cause—for the wrath we encounter
3.
If we make such a discovery, namely, that there is some just cause for the wrath being expressed against us,
and respond with a contrite answer—honestly confessing our fault, expressing regret, and asking forgiveness—
it will go a long way toward alleviating the hostility and opening the door for reconciliation
If it is possible, as far as it depends on you, live at peace with everyone. (Romans 12:18)
4.
The second commandment for Godly Speech is this: When you must speak, speak graciously
III. Commandment #3: When You Need Not Speak, Don’t Speak
(Proverbs 11:13)
He who goes around as a gossiper reveals secrets, but he who has a faithful spirit keeps a matter
confidential. (Proverbs 11:13)
1.
The situation described in Proverbs 11:13a may be illustrated as follows:
Mr. Smith has confided in Mr. Jones; he has shared with Mr. Jones a very intimate personal matter (perhaps
for counsel, or for prayer, or for support, or for relief); but Mr. Jones has betrayed that trust, he has
revealed the matter to everyone with whom he has come into contact.
Why has Mr. Jones done so? Probably because Mr. Jones has yielded to the lust to reveal something that is
new or shocking and something that should be kept personal and private.
2.
The situation described in Proverbs 11:13b may be illustrated as follows:
Mr. Smith has confided in you; he has shared the secret burden of his heart with you; and you have spoken
to no one except God about this matter.
Why have you done so? Because you have a faithful spirit: you have integrity, honor, commitment, loyalty
to your friend, your neighbor, your Christian brother.
You also appreciate the truth expressed in Proverbs 16:28, a whisperer alienates best friends: if you fail to
honor a confidence, you will not only lose a friend, you will gain animosity and resentment in place of
friendship.
3.
Note Proverbs 25:23;
The north wind brings rain, so does a backbiting tongue bring an angry look. (Proverbs 25:23)
IV. Commandment #4: Speak Like Christ (Proverbs 18:4)
The words of a man’s mouth are like deep waters—a flowing brook, a fountain of wisdom. (Proverbs 18:4)
1.
Words that are like deep waters are words that are profound: communicating depths of truth and wisdom
2.
Words that are like a flowing brook are words that are refreshing: communicating encouragement and
assurance
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3.
The only man who is able to speak such words, the man of whom this proverb is prophetically speaking, is our
Lord Jesus Christ (note Colossians 2:3 and Isaiah 50:4)
…in Christ are hidden all the treasures of wisdom and knowledge (Colossians 2:3)
The Lord Jehovah has given me the speech of one who has been taught, so that I may know how to sustain
the weary one with a word. He wakens me every morning; he wakens my ear to listen like a disciple. (Isaiah
50:4); a passage that is prophetically referring to Jesus Christ the Messiah
4.
As Christian men and women we must consider our calling:
Do not let any unwholesome word come out of your mouth, but only what is good for edification as there
is need, so that your speech may give grace to those who listen. (Ephesians 4:29)

5.
we are called to dispense the grace of God, and to do so by means of our speech
…let us also consider the means by which we may fulfill this divine calling:
Let the word of Christ dwell in you richly as you teach and admonish one another with all wisdom, and as
you sing psalms, hymns and spiritual songs with gratitude in your hearts to God. (Colossians 3:16)
6.
The fourth commandment for Godly Speech: Speak like Christ
Conclusion
1.
One final riddle: What is the origin of the saying, “You will eat your words?”
2.
The answer, That saying is derived from Proverbs 18:20; A man’s stomach shall be filled with the fruit of his
mouth; with the harvest of his lips he shall be satisfied. (Proverbs 18:20)

this proverb is comparing the words of our mouths to seed that is planted; that “seed” produces a “harvest;”
and that “harvest” becomes the “bread” that we will eventually eat; i.e., the words that we speak will
inevitably produce results, results that will affect our lives for good or for bad (note Matthew 12:36)
But I tell you that men will have to give account on the day of judgment for every careless word they
have spoken. (Matthew 12:36)
3.
By the grace of God, may our speech be governed by these four commandments for Godly Speech found in the
book of Proverbs:




#1.
#2.
#3.
#4.
Stop (to listen and think) before you speak.
When you must speak, speak graciously.
When you need not speak, don’t speak.
Speak like Christ.
Questions on the topic of Godly Speech
1. What does Proverbs 18:13 (printed below) say about the man who is quick to give an answer without listening?
He who gives an answer before he has listened—it will be folly and bring shame to him. (Proverbs 18:13)
2. What is the point being conveyed by the imagery of Proverbs 25:11 (printed below?)
A word aptly spoken is like apples of gold in settings of silver. (Proverbs 25:11)
3. According to Proverbs 25:12 (printed below,) what two elements in personal interaction are required to produce
something as exquisitely beautiful as an ornament of fine gold?
As an earring of gold and an ornament of fine gold, so is a wise rebuker to an obedient ear. (Proverbs 25:12)
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4. Consider Proverbs 11:13 (printed below.) What might motivate someone to be a gossiper? What enables one to keep
a matter confidential?
He who goes around as a gossiper reveals secrets, but he who has a faithful spirit keeps a matter confidential.
(Proverbs 11:13)
5. How would you explain the meaning of Proverbs 18:4 (printed below?)
The words of a man's mouth are like deep waters—a flowing brook, a fountain of wisdom. (Proverbs 18:4)
6. Proverbs 18:13 declares, “He who gives an answer before he listens—it will be folly and bring shame to him.” What
might motivate one to speak before hearing out the other person? Match the possible motivations listed below with
their appropriate descriptions.
a.
b.
c.
d.
The desire to show how clever or intuitive you are. ___
You are too pre-occupied with yourself and “the more important things” to hear the full account of
what the speaker has to say. ___
You do not have enough respect for the other person to hear him out, or you just don’t care what he has
to say. ___
You just don’t have enough time to listen to the “feature length version;” if he can’t give you the
“condensed version” you are unwilling to listen any further. ___
1.
2.
3.
4.
Impatience
Inattentiveness
Pride
Lack of Consideration
7. What does Proverbs 25:12 compare to “an earring of gold and an ornament of fine gold?”
a.
b.
c.
d.
A Wise Rebuker
An Obedient Ear
Either of the Above
Both of the Above Working Together
8. According to Proverbs 11:13, what enables a man to keep a matter confidential and refrain from becoming a
gossiper is a _______ spirit. Fill in the blank
9. Complete the sentences listed below that discuss the meaning of Proverbs 18:4.
a.
b.
c.
Words that are like ___ are words that are profound; communicating much truth and wisdom.
Words that are like ___ are words that are refreshing; communicating encouragement and assurance.
Ultimately, its is Christ alone who speaks words that are ___—words that are available to us in the
Scriptures.
1. deep waters
2. a fountain of wisdom
3. a flowing brook
10. Match the proverbs listed below with the corresponding commandments for godly speech.
a.
b.
c.
d.
He who gives an answer before he has listened—it will be folly and bring shame to him. (Proverbs 18:13)
___
As an earring of gold and an ornament of fine gold, so is a wise rebuker to an obedient ear. (Proverbs
25:12) ___
He who goes around as a gossiper reveals secrets, but he who has a faithful spirit keeps a matter
confidential. (Proverbs 11:13) ___
The words of a man’s mouth are like deep waters—a flowing brook, a fountain of wisdom. (Proverbs
18:4) ___
1. When You Do Not Need to Speak, Don’t Speak
2. Stop Before You Speak
3. Speak Like Christ
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4. When You Must Speak, Do So Graciously
LESSON SIX: TOPICAL S TUDIES OF P ROVERBS
The student should prepare for his study by asking the Holy Spirit to enlighten his mind and open his heart to
receive not only the teaching of Scripture but Christ Himself as He is presented in the Scriptures.
Assignments:
1. Bible Study: By a consideration of the proverbs pertinent to them, the student will explore the following topics:
Teachability and True Religion. The student will be guided by an expositional commentary on the text. The
student will then answers the questions found at the end of the exposito ry notes.
2. Writing Your Essay: The student should continue work on his 8 -10 page essay for Bachelor's credit or 15-20
page essay for Master's credit. (See under Syllabus, "Description of Assignments," #3. The student is also
referred to the "Guidelines for Writing an Essay," provided by the facilitator.)
Note: All Scripture texts will appear in Comic Sans MS font; all extended quotations from other authors will
appear in Courier font.
BE TEACHABLE
SELECTED PROVERBS
THEME: Our Lord’s counsel is that we not be like the horse (self-willed) or like the mule (stubborn), but that we be
teachable (Psalm 32:8-9a).
I will instruct you and teach you in the way you should go; I will counsel you and watch over you. 9Do not
be like the horse or the mule, which have no understanding but must be controlled by bit and bridle…
(Psalm 32:8-9a)
PURPOSE: To exhort the students to strive to be teachable in every part of our lives, in order that we may comply with
our Lord’s counsel which is for our good and for His glory.
OUTLINE:
I. Be Teachable,
…by Appreciating the Value of Truth (Proverbs 23:23)
II. Be Teachable,
…by Applying Your Heart to Seek Knowledge (Proverbs 22:17; Proverbs 15:14)
III. Be Teachable,
…Even When It Is Hard (Proverbs 19:27)
IV. Be Teachable,
…In Order to Receive Life and Avoid Destruction (Proverbs 10:17)
Introduction
1.
When I think of the horse, I think of a majestic, stately animal.
2.
I picture a beautiful, chestnut-colored beast, quietly grazing in the midst of the pasture.
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3.
I remember the horse as an animal that calmly comes near to the fence railing to receive a lump of sugar from
your hand and to allow you to stroke its velvety head and mane.
4.
Yet, in Psalm 32:9, God tells us, Do not be like the horse.
5.
I suppose that if I were to attend a rodeo, or watch a horse being broken, I would have a very different impression
of the horse, and a better understanding of what the Lord is saying in Psalm 32:9.
6.
By nature the horse is a wild beast that resists man’s efforts to domesticate him.
7.
As soon as the saddle is placed upon him for the first time, as soon as the cowboy lifts himself upon his back,
there is trouble: he kicks out his hind legs, he thrusts back his head, he jumps up and down, spinning round and
round in a cloud of dust.
8.
The Lord says, Do not be like the horse (wild and unrestrained, self-willed). He also says, Do not be like the mule
(which is known for its stubbornness and resistance).
9.
For our next topical study from the book of Proverbs we turn our attention to the positive side of this subject, the
need to be teachable.
10. Let us strive to be teachable in every part of our lives, in order that we may comply with our Lord’s counsel that
is for our good and for His glory.
I. Be Teachable,
…by Appreciating the Value of Truth (Proverbs 23:23)
Buy the truth and do not sell it; indeed, buy wisdom and instruction and understanding! (Proverbs 23:23)
1.
The counsel to buy the truth—and wisdom, instruction and understanding—and do not sell it is emphasizing
the fact that these are precious spiritual commodities: they are worth acquiring and retaining
 truth, wisdom, instruction, understanding are things worth “purchasing” and worth keeping
2.

the fact that we are to “buy” these things, as opposed to merely receiving them, points out that there is
“a price” to be paid—these precious spiritual commodities are not just casually picked up, they are
attained by diligence, obedience and sacrifice

the reason instruction is listed among such valuable commodities as truth, wisdom and understanding is
because instruction is the means whereby we acquire those other valuable spiritual commodities.
Consider Proverbs 4:1,5-9;
Listen, my son, to a father’s instruction, pay attention so as to gain understanding. … 5Get wisdom, get
understanding; do not forget the words I speak or turn away from them. 6Do not forsake wisdom, and she
will guard you; love her, and she will watch over you. 7Wisdom is the primary thing; therefore, get wisdom.
Indeed, give all that you have acquired in order to acquire understanding. 8Hold her in high esteem, and she
will exalt you; if you embrace her, she will honor you. 9She will set a garland of grace upon your head, and
present you with a crown of beauty. (Proverbs 4:1, 5-9)
a.
b.
we may view this passage as a guidance counseling session in which the godly father is offering wise
counsel to his son:

“Son, let’s sit down and talk about your future.”

“Great Dad. Tell me, where am I going to make the most money, how am I going to have the
greatest success, how can I attain the best security? What’s the best investment, Dad?”

“Son, invest in divine truth and wisdom (knowing God and His ways). This is far more valuable than
all the money, success, and security the world can offer.”
verse 7 tells us that wisdom is the primary thing; and we are instructed to get wisdom. Indeed, give all
that you have acquired in order to acquire understanding

i.e., take all that you have acquired and make that the payment with which you “purchase”
wisdom, because there is nothing more valuable
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Again, the kingdom of heaven is like a merchant looking for fine pearls. 46When he found one of
great value, he went away and sold everything he had and bought it.. (Matthew 13:45-46)
c.
verse 6 counsels us, Do not forsake wisdom; on the contrary, according to verse 8, we are to love
wisdom, value it, and honor it

i.e., do not allow other things to become your number one priority (such things as a career, or
anything else)

furthermore, do not toss godly wisdom away as something that belongs to childhood or as
something that is irrelevant, outdated or foolish
II. Be Teachable,
…by Applying Your Heart to Seek Knowledge (Proverbs 22:17; Proverbs 15:14)
Make your ear attentive and listen to the words of the wise; apply your heart to the knowledge I
impart. (Proverbs 22:17)
1.
2.
Proverbs 22:17a instructs us to be receptive to the truth and wisdom of God:

we are to pay attention to it, as opposed to ignoring it; we are to accept it, as opposed to resisting or
rejecting it; we are to appreciate it, as opposed to taking it for granted

we must not succumb to the temptation of dismissing it because it is repetitive (what in life is not
repetitive?) or because it is not entertaining (there are many things in life that are not entertaining but
are nevertheless necessary)
Proverbs 22:17b goes on to inform us that being receptive to the truth is not enough: what is absolutely
essential is that we apply our hearts to the truth of God

let the truth of God enter the ear, pass through the mind, and reach the heart: let the truth of God
penetrate the very core of your being with conviction, asking such questions as these: What does this
mean for my life? What am I going to do about it? note Acts 2:37
When the people heard this, they were cut to the heart and said to Peter and the other apostles,
“Brothers, what shall we do?” (Acts 2:37)

let the truth of God penetrate all the way to your heart, then let it arise from your heart and influence
your life: changing and controlling your thoughts and conduct (cp. James 1:22-25)
Do not merely listen to the word, and so deceive yourselves. Do what it says. 23Anyone who listens to
the word but does not do what it says is like a man who looks at his face in a mirror 24and, after
looking at himself, goes away and immediately forgets what he looks like. 25But the man who looks
intently into the perfect law that gives freedom, and continues to do this, not forgetting what he
has heard, but doing it—he will be blessed in what he does. (James 1:22-25)
One day a young Christian came into a mission station in Korea to visit the
man who had been instrumental in his conversion to Christ. After the customary
greetings, the missionary asked the reason for his coming. “I have been
memorizing some verses in the Bible,” he said, “and I wanted to quote them to
you.” He had walked hundreds of miles just to recite some Scripture verses to
his father in the faith.
The missionary listened as he recited without error the entire Sermon on the
Mount. He commended the young man for his remarkable feat of memory, then
cautioned that he must not only “say” the Scriptures but also practice them.
With glowing face, the man responded, “Oh, that is the way I learn them. I
tried to memorize them but they wouldn’t stick, so I hit on this plan. First,
I would learn a verse. Then I would practice what the verse said on a neighbor
who was not a Christian. After that I found that I could remember it.” (Our Daily
Bread, 3/18/92)
The heart of the man who has understanding seeks knowledge; but the mouth of fools feeds on folly.
(Proverbs 15:14)
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1.
Proverbs 15:14a indicates that the state or condition of the heart determines a man’s ability to receive
knowledge and profit from it: the heart of the man who has understanding seeks knowledge
2.
In the light of this fact, let us make such passages as the following to be our prayer:
Give your servant a discerning heart … so that I may distinguish between good and evil; … (1 Kings 3:9),
such was Solomon’s request, a request that was pleasing to the Lord
I will give you a new heart and put a new spirit in you; I will remove from you your heart of stone and give
you a heart of flesh. 27And I will put my Spirit in you and move you to follow my decrees and be careful to
keep my laws. (Ezekiel 36:26-27); our prayer should be that God would fulfill His promise in us
… since the day we heard about you, we have not stopped praying for you and asking God to fill you with
the knowledge of his will through all spiritual wisdom and understanding. 10We pray this in order that you
may walk in a way that is worthy of the Lord and may please him in every way: bearing fruit in every good
work, growing in the knowledge of God (Colossians 1:9-10); the apostle’s prayer for the Colossian church
should be our prayer as well
III. Be Teachable,
…Even When It Is Hard (Proverbs 19:27)
Stop listening to instruction, my son, but then you will stray from the words of knowledge.
19:27)
1.
(Proverbs
In Proverbs 19:27a the godly father of Proverbs facetiously instructs his son to stop receiving instruction

in so doing, the father is addressing that impulse and temptation with which the son grapples, namely,
the desire to stop listening and stop submitting to the instruction and discipline (the Hebrew word,
rs2wm, means both instruction and discipline) of the godly father and the heavenly Father (cp. Hebrews
12:11)
No discipline seems pleasant at the time, but painful. Later on, however, it produces a harvest of
righteousness and peace for those who have been trained by it. (Hebrews 12:11)
2.
But, as Proverbs 19:27b indicates, if you give in to that impulse, it will not be long before you will stray
from the words of knowledge

3.
i.e., because of our sinful tendency to drift away from or ignore the words of knowledge, the
heavenly Father must enforce compliance to His commandments by means of continual teaching and
also, when necessary, disciplinary measures in our lives
The point of this proverb: divine instruction, especially as it comes in the form of rebuke and corrective
discipline, is hard, but it is also essential: its necessary and gracious function is to keep us on the pathway
of life that leads to spiritual maturity
Before I was afflicted I went astray; but now I observe your word. …71It is good for me that I have
been afflicted; so that I may learn your statutes. …75I know, O Jehovah, that your laws are righteous,
and that in faithfulness you have afflicted me. (Psalm 119:67,71,75)
4.
Consider Proverbs 12:1;
Whoever loves correction loves knowledge; but he who hates rebuke is brutish. (Proverbs 12:1)
a.
to love correction here means to accept it and to appreciate its purpose and its motivation: that it is
administered by the heavenly Father as part of His love (note, again, Psalm 119:67,71,75 quoted
above)
b.
if you love correction you are demonstrating that you have a love for knowledge: you have a desire to
know God and His ways, even if it means undergoing a painful learning experience
c.
…but he who hates rebuke is brutish
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
i.e., to resist that correction and reject it, spiritually puts you on the same level as that of a
brute beast (note Psalm 32:9)
Do not be like the horse or the mule, which have no understanding but must be controlled by
bit and bridle or they will not come to you. (Psalm 32:9)

5.
the horse does not accept the discipline of the saddle because he does not understand that it is
intended to make him useful; indeed, he has no interest in becoming useful, he simply wants his
unbridled, wild freedom
When the instruction God brings into our lives is hard, may our mind be enlightened and our spirit be made
accepting by these words of Scripture:
The ear that heeds life-giving rebuke shall dwell among the wise. (Proverbs 15:31)

the rebukes sent by God are intended to lead us into life and make us fit to inherit a permanent place
among the wise (that is to say, among those who know God and who act and think like God)
IV. Be Teachable,
…In Order to Receive Life and Avoid Destruction (Proverbs 10:17)
He who heeds correction is walking in the way of life; but he who ignores a rebuke will go astray.
(Proverbs 10:17)
1.
One source of personal assurance is our teachability: if you listen to God when He corrects you, and seek to
make the changes that are pleasing to Him, you can be assured that you are traveling the road of life

2.
illustration: If a pilot makes the navigational corrections dictated to him by the air controller he can be
assured that he is on line to safely reach his destination. But what happens if he ignores those
directives? He is headed for destruction.
But he who ignores a rebuke will go astray: if you forsake the Lord’s correction, you are making a very
serious mistake
a.
either you will find yourself confronted with a more severe measure of reproof and correction (note
Leviticus 26:23-24), …
If in spite of these things (the previously mentioned measures of discipline and punishment) you do
not accept my correction but continue to be hostile toward me, 24I myself will be hostile toward you
and will afflict you for your sins seven times over. (Leviticus 26:23-24); such is the Lord’s warning to
Israel if they continued to reject His correction and His lordship over their lives
b.
…or, such a one will be abandoned by God to pursue his own way unto the eternal punishment of
damnation (note Romans 1:28)
…since they did not think it worthwhile to retain the knowledge of God, he gave them over to a
depraved mind … (Romans 1:28)
c.
note John 10:27-28a; the Lord Jesus declares, My sheep respond to my voice; I know them and they
follow me. 28I give them eternal life
Conclusion
1.
Our Lord urges us to be neither like the horse (with a wild and unrestrained spirit; a headstrong, self-willed spirit)
nor like the mule (with a stubborn and defiant spirit).
2.
Our Lord also informs us that those who are truly His sheep are responsive to His instruction and direction.
3.
A teachable spirit—a positive, life-changing response to the Word of God—is a mark of genuine Christianity, it is a
characteristic of a true child of God.
Questions on the topic of Teachability
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1. What does the counsel given in Proverbs 23:23 (printed below) tell us about the value of instruction (as well as the
other items listed?)
Buy the truth and do not sell it; indeed, buy wisdom and instruction and understanding! (Proverbs 23:23)
2. What does Proverbs 22:17 (printed below) tell us is the way by which to receive and profit from the words of
wisdom? Note, especially, the latter part of this proverb.
Make your ear attentive and listen to the words of the wise; apply your heart to the knowledge I impart. (Proverbs
22:17)
3. What counsel does the father give his son in Proverbs 19:27 (printed below?) Do you think he seriously intends for his
son to follow this advice? If not, why do you suppose he gives such counsel?
Stop listening to instruction, my son, but then you will stray from the words of knowledge. (Proverbs 19:27)
4. What two different responses to discipline are mentioned in Proverbs 12:1 (printed below?) What does this proverb
say about each of these responses?
Whoever loves correction loves knowledge; but he who hates rebuke is brutish. (Proverbs 12:1)
5. According to Proverbs 10:17 (printed below,) what is the consequence of refusing to accept rebuke?
He who heeds correction is walking in the way of life; but he who ignores a rebuke will go astray. (Proverbs 10:17)
6. Complete the proverbs listed below that confront us with the value of wisdom and truth.
a.
b.
c.
Buy the truth and do not ___ it; indeed, buy wisdom and instruction and understanding. (Proverbs 23:23)
Get wisdom, get understanding; do not ___ the words I speak or turn away from them. (Proverbs 4:5)
Do not ___ wisdom, and she will guard you; love her, and she will watch over you. (Proverbs 4:6)
1. forsake
2. sell
3. forget
7. Proverbs 22:17 instructs us to be receptive to truth and wisdom as they are contained in the Scriptures. When it
comes to hearing God’s Word, we must be careful to avoid succumbing to what temptation(s)?
a.
b.
c.
The temptation to dismiss God’s Word because it is not relevant.
The temptation to dismiss God’s Word because it is repetitive.
The temptation to dismiss God’s Word because it is not entertaining.
8. In Proverbs 19:27 we hear a father instructing his son to stop listening to instruction. Why does the father give such
counsel?
a.
b.
c.
The father is being facetious: he knows the son’s natural inclination to reject instruction, but he wants
to alert him to the danger of succumbing to that impulse.
The father is frustrated: he has sought to give good counsel to his son, but, in the face of the son’s
persistent resistance, the father now releases his son to go his own way.
The father has failed to fulfill his role as a godly father: he had not followed the way of the Lord and
now he tragically encourages his son to follow the same sinful course.
9. Proverbs 10:17b warns, “he who ignores a rebuke will go astray.” What will happen to a man if he fails to heed this
warning?
a.
b.
c.
He will find himself confronted with a more severe measure of correction.
He will find that God, as the loving heavenly Father, will tolerate his waywardness and not hold him
accountable for it.
He may eventually be abandoned by God to pursue his own way unto the eternal punishment of
damnation.
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10. Match the proverbs listed below with what they teach us with regard to the importance of exhibiting a teachable
spirit.
a.
b.
c.
Buy the truth and do not sell it; indeed, buy wisdom and instruction and understanding! (Proverbs 23:23)
___
Stop listening to instruction, my son, but then you will stray from the words of knowledge. (Proverbs
19:27) ___
He who heeds correction is walking in the way of life; but he who ignores a rebuke will go astray.
(Proverbs 10:17) ___
1. We must appreciate the value of truth.
2. We must be teachable even though it is hard.
3. We must accept instruction to stay on course.
THE MARKS OF TRUE RELIGION
SELECTED PROVERBS
THEME: The Word of God consistently informs us that there is a vital distinction between true and false religion
PURPOSE: To urges the students to be sure that they possess the marks of true religion, in order that we may have a
true and saving relationship with the Lord our God.
OUTLINE: I. Fear the Lord Your God,
…Because that is a Mark of True Religion
(Proverbs 14:27; Proverbs 16:6; Proverbs 14:2; Proverbs 14:26; Proverbs 22:4)
II. Trust in the Lord Your God,
…Because that is a Mark of True Religion
(Proverbs 16:20; Proverbs 29:25; Proverbs 28:25)
Introduction
1.
There was once a man known as “Grandpa Hicks.” He was a man who lived a crooked life:




he trapped fish illegally in a lake near his home
he rented out boats that he did not own
he stole gasoline for his motor boat from other boats at a neighboring dock
he took catfish off the lines of other fishermen
2.
One Sunday morning two of his grandsons asked if he would take them fishing.
3.
With great conviction “Grandpa Hicks” replied, “I never fish on Sundays. I wasn’t brought up like that!” (Our
Daily Bread, 7/22/90)
4.
“Grandpa Hicks” placed great value on the observance of the Lord’s Day, but his religion did not extend beyond
that day.
5.
Indeed, his religion did not control his life because it was not rooted in his heart.
6.
As a matter of fact, “Grandpa Hicks” did not know the first thing about true religion.
7.
Our next topical study from the book of Proverbs confronts us with two characteristics of true religion:


a holy fear of the Lord
a whole-hearted trust in the Lord
I. Fear the Lord Your God,
…Because that is a Mark of True Religion
(Proverbs 14:27; Proverbs 16:6; Proverbs 14:2; Proverbs 14:26; Proverbs 22:4)
The fear of Jehovah is a fountain of life, causing a man to turn from the snares of death. (Proverbs
14:27)
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1.
Proverbs here defines the fear of the Lord as a source of life: it is compared to a spring of water issuing from
the ground, such is a welcome and vital source of life in an arid land like Israel (note Proverbs 19:23)
The fear of Jehovah leads to life; and he that has it shall rest content; he shall not be visited by calamity.
(Proverbs 19:23)
the fear of Jehovah leads to life: it will lead you to a place of lasting satisfaction, namely, the blessed
presence of the Lord Himself; and you will not be visited with calamity—i.e.; you will be spared from the
judgment of God that is coming upon sinful and disobedience mankind

2.
The fear of the Lord is a source of life precisely because it turns us away from the snares of death

temptation, the invitation and allurement of sin, is viewed as a snare (or trap) that kills its victims

but the fear of the Lord confronts us with the fatal outcome that finally results from yielding to
temptation and motivates us to resist temptation (note James 1:14-16)
…each one is tempted when, by his own evil desire, he is dragged away and enticed. 15Then, after the
desire has conceived, it gives birth to sin; and sin, when it is full-grown, gives birth to death. 16Do not
be deceived, my dear brothers. (James 1:14-16)
3.
Compare this present proverb (14:27) with Proverbs 13:14;
The teaching of the wise is a fountain of life, intended to turn a man away from the snares of death.
(Proverbs 13:14)

the point is that biblical teaching distinguishes between right and wrong, between truth and falsehood,
and defines the respective consequences: the former leading to life and blessing, the latter resulting in
death and the divine judgment

but it is the fear of the Lord that motivates us to heed the biblical teaching (cp. Hebrews 11:7)
By faith Noah, when warned about things not yet seen, moved with godly fear, prepared an ark by
which his family was saved. By faith he condemned the world and became heir of the righteousness
that comes by faith. (Hebrews 11:7)
By mercy and truth atonement is made for iniquity; and by the fear of Jehovah men turn away from evil.
(Proverbs 16:6)
1.
Proverbs 16:6a teaches that by mercy and truth sin is forgiven, it is covered and blotted out of the sight of
God

2.
Proverbs 16:6b teaches that by the fear of the Lord sin is avoided

3.
i.e., in His mercy the Lord provided His own divine sacrifice at Calvary that satisfied the demands of His
truth and justice and thereby provides us with forgiveness and reconciliation
i.e., the fear of the Lord confronts us with the consequences of sin and motivates us to turn away from it
It is significant that these two truths are brought together and presented in this order:
a.
the mercy of the Lord and the fear of the Lord are not incompatible, they are complementary
b.
at this present stage of our Christian life the fear of the Lord prevents us from abusing the mercy of the
Lord (cp. Jeremiah 7:9-11) and promotes the ultimate purpose of God’s mercy, namely, a life of Christlike holiness (note Titus 2:14)
Will you steal and murder, commit adultery and perjury, burn incense to Baal and follow other gods
you have not known, 10and come and stand before me in this house, which bears my name, and say, “We
are safe;”—safe to do all these detestable things? 11Has this house, which bears my Name, become a
den for robbers to you? But I have been watching! declares Jehovah. (Jeremiah 7:9-11); the people of
Israel abused God’s mercy, wrongly assuming that God’s mercy allowed them to continue in their sins
with impunity and without fear of judgment
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…our Savior Jesus Christ; 14… gave himself for us, so that he might redeem us from all iniquity and
purify for himself a people for his own possession, a people zealous for good works. (Titus 2:14)
He who walks in uprightness fears Jehovah, but he whose ways are perverse despises him. (Proverbs 14:2)
1.
A true fear of the Lord is expressed in the form of obedience

a holy fear of the Lord does not merely or even mainly consist in an emotion of terror and dread of just
retribution, that is the characteristic of the ungodly (note James 2:19b)
…the demons also believe, and shudder. (James 2:19b)

a holy fear of the Lord is a work of grace that moves a man to turn away from evil and walk in obedience
(note, again, Hebrews 11:7), motivated not only by fear of retribution but even more by the unbearable
prospect of being separated from Christ, the One who is the supreme object of our love (note John 13:69)
By faith Noah, when warned about things not yet seen, moved with godly fear, prepared an ark by
which his family was saved. By faith he condemned the world and became heir of the righteousness
that comes by faith. (Hebrews 11:7)
Jesus came to Simon Peter, but Peter said to him, Lord, are you going to wash my feet? 7Jesus
replied, You do not now understand what I am doing; but later you will understand. 8Peter said to him,
You shall never wash my feet. Jesus answered him, If I do not wash you, you have no part with me.
9
Simon Peter responded, Lord, not only my feet, but wash my hands and my head also. (John 13:6-9),
although he did not understand what the Lord was doing, Peter submitted to Christ because he could not
bear the thought of being separated from Christ
2.
A true fear of the Lord consists of a reverence and devotion to the Lord as much as, if not more than, a fear of
retribution (1 Samuel 12:23)

note Samuel’s concern that he should not sin against the Lord: far be it from me that I should sin
against Jehovah by ceasing to pray for you. I will instruct you in the way that is good and right. (1
Samuel 12:23)
 note that, according to Proverbs 14:2b, a true fear of the Lord is contrasted with despising the Lord
3.
Consider Proverbs 28:14;
Blessed is the man who always fears Jehovah, but he who hardens his heart shall fall into mischief.

a true fear of the Lord creates a heart that is sensitive and responsive to God and that experiences His
blessing

note how a continual fear of the Lord—i.e.; a heart controlled by godly fear—is contrasted to a hardening
of the heart

the former has the blessing of God pronounced upon it, the latter falls into mischief (the Hebrew word,
[r', translated, mischief, has both the meaning of evil as well as calamity or judgment; thus, the point
of the proverb is that the one who hardens his heart will be one who commits evil deeds and will make
himself vulnerable to calamity in the form of the righteous judgment of God)
In the fear of Jehovah there is strong confidence, and his children shall have a place of refuge.
(Proverbs 14:26)
1.
The fear of the Lord is described as a source of sure confidence, a sure refuge, a strong protective fortress
(note Psalm 34:7 and Isaiah 8:13-14)
The angel of Jehovah encamps around those who fear him, and he delivers them. (Psalm 34:7)
Jehovah of hosts, him you must sanctify; he is the one you are to fear, he is the one you are to dread—
14
and he will be a sanctuary for you … (Isaiah 8:13-14); if you sanctify the Lord—recognizing Him to be sacred
83
and thus worthy of holy worship and reverential fear, and honoring Him as sacred—He will be a sanctuary (a
place of refuge) for you
2. …and his children shall have a place of refuge.
a.
either the pronoun his is referring to the Lord and reaffirming the fact that He, indeed, is a sure refuge
for those who fear Him
b.
or the pronoun is referring to the man who fears the Lord and indicating that as his God-fearing life is
witnessed (and imitated) by his children, they, too, will discover the same truth: the Lord is a sure refuge
for those who fear Him (cp. Psalm 103:17-18)
…from everlasting to everlasting Jehovah’s love is with those who fear him, and his righteousness with
their children’s children—18with those who keep his covenant and remember to obey his precepts.
(Psalm 103:17-18)
The reward for humility and the fear of Jehovah is riches and honor and life. (Proverbs 22:4)
1.
It is the consistent teaching of Scripture that the man whose life is governed by a holy fear of the Lord shall
experience the blessing of the Lord (Psalm 31:19)
How great is your goodness that you have stored up for those who fear you, which you bestow in the sight
of men on those who take refuge in you. (Psalm 31:19)
2.
The greatness of God’s goodness stored up for those who fear Him is here in Proverbs 22:4 described as
consisting in the riches of God, honor from God, and life with God
3.
Let us fear the Lord our God—cultivating a deep awareness of His sacredness and His awesome majesty, an
awareness that governs our lives, directing us out of sin and into holiness—because this is a mark of true
religion.
II. Trust in the Lord Your God,
…Because that is a Mark of True Religion
(Proverbs 16:20; Proverbs 29:25; Proverbs 28:25)
He who heeds instruction shall find good, and whoever trusts in Jehovah—blessed is he. (Proverbs 16:20)
1.
2.
Trust in the Lord is here defined in terms of confidence in the Lord and commitment to the Lord

the Hebrew word for trust, jf1B2, literally means “to cling to;” the term conveys both confidence and
commitment

illustration: you get lost in the depths of a pitch black cave, a park ranger comes to your rescue: he
instructs you to grab hold of the back of his belt and hold on as he leads you to safety; you cling to his
belt because you have confidence in him, and that confidence inevitably translates into commitment:
because of your confidence in him you are going to follow him wherever he leads you
Trust in the Lord is closely identified with obedience to His Word: He who heeds instruction shall find good

3.
i.e., if you listen to God’s Word, believe it, and act upon it, it will lead you to what is truly good
Compare this proverb with the words of our Lord Jesus Christ as recorded in the New Testament:
Come to me, all you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest. 29Take my yoke upon you and
learn from me, for I am meek and humble in heart, and you will find rest for your souls, 30for my yoke is
easy, and my burden is light. (Matthew 11:28-30); the invitation to come to Christ for rest is coupled to the
demand that we take His yoke upon us—i.e.; that we come under His discipline
Therefore go and make disciples of all the nations, baptizing them into the name of the Father and of the
Son and of the Holy Spirit (Matthew 28:19); the Great Commission is a calling to make disciples (followers)
for Christ
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Jesus therefore said to those Jews who had believed him, If you remain in my word you will truly be my
disciples; 32and you will know the truth, and the truth will make you free. (John 8:31-32); believing in Jesus
is connected to abiding in His Word which will result in a knowledge of the truth
The fear of man brings a snare, but whoever puts his trust in Jehovah shall be safe. (Proverbs 29:25)
1.
According to Proverbs 29:25a, the fear of man (the fear of losing his favor, the fear of incurring his wrath)
becomes a snare that restrains our activity (in word and in deed) on behalf of righteousness

too often the sinful question, “What will they do?” takes precedence over the righteous question, “What
should I do?” (note John 12:42-43 and Galatians 2:12 as examples)
Nevertheless, even among the rulers many believed in him. But because of the Pharisees they did not
confess it, so that they would not be put out of the synagogue; 43for they loved the glory that is
from men more than the glory that is from God. (John 12:42-43)
Before certain men came from James, Peter had been eating with the Gentile believers. But when
they came, he withdrew and separated himself from the Gentiles, because he was afraid of those
who belonged to the faction who advocated circumcision. (Galatians 2:12)

contrast the above passages with the example of the Lord Jesus as witnessed by His enemies:
the Pharisees sent their disciples to him along with the Herodians. Teacher, they said, we know you
are a man of integrity and that you teach the way of God in accordance with the truth. You are not
swayed by men, because you pay no attention to who they are. (Matthew 22:16)
He trusts in God. Let God rescue him now if he wants him, for he said, I am the Son of God.
(Matthew 27:43)
2.
Proverbs 29:25b goes on to say, whoever puts his trust in Jehovah shall be safe (literally, he shall be set
on high).

here is not only the promise of God’s protective care (to be set on high was to be set out of danger),
…here is also the promise that God will bestow honor upon us as we reject the fear of man by placing
our confidence in the Lord and doing what is right in His sight (note 1 Samuel 2:30b)
Jehovah declares, … Those who honor me I will honor, but those who despise me shall be distained. (1
Samuel 2:30b)
He who has a greedy spirit stirs up strife, but he who puts his trust in Jehovah shall be made fat.
(Proverbs 28:25)
1.
The context indicates that trust in the Lord not only involves confidence and commitment, but also
contentment: the man who trusts in the Lord is contrasted with the man who has a greedy spirit
2.
Conversely, that contentment stems from confidence in the Lord; the promise of Scripture is that the man
who trusts in the Lord shall be made fat—in His time the Lord shall abundantly bless that man who trusts in
Him
Jehovah God is a sun and a shield. Jehovah will give grace and glory; no good thing will he withhold from
those who walk uprightly. 12O Jehovah of hosts, blessed is the man that trusts in you. (Psalm 84:11-12)
Blessed be the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, who in accordance with his great mercy has
given us new birth for a living hope through the resurrection of Jesus Christ from the dead—4for an
inheritance that is imperishable and unspoilable and permanent, reserved in heaven for you 5who by the
power of God are being preserved through faith for the salvation that is ready to be revealed at the last
time. (1 Peter 1:3-5)
3.
Trust in the Lord your God—clinging to Christ alone with a confidence that generates commitment and
contentment—because this is a mark of true religion.
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Conclusion
1.
In contrast to old “Grandpa Hicks,” a man who did not know the first thing about true religion, …
2.
…may our lives be characterized by a holy fear of the Lord and whole-hearted trust in the Lord, …
3.
…because these are the marks of true religion.
Questions on the topic of True Religion
1. How is "the fear of Jehovah" described in Proverbs 14:27 (printed below?)
The fear of Jehovah is a fountain of life, causing a man to turn from the snares of death. (Proverbs 14:27)
2. According to Proverbs 14:2 (printed below,) how is a godly fear of the Lord (Jehovah) expressed?
He who walks in uprightness fears Jehovah, but he whose ways are perverse despises him. (Proverbs 14:2)
3. What is one blessed result of possessing and exhibiting a holy fear of the Lord? See Proverbs 14:26 (printed below)
In the fear of Jehovah there is strong confidence, and his children shall have a place of refuge. (Proverbs 14:26)
4. Consider Proverbs 29:25 (printed below.) How would you explain the first part of this proverb? What assurance is
provided in the latter half of the proverb?
The fear of man brings a snare, but whoever puts his trust in Jehovah shall be safe. (Proverbs 29:25)
5. What message and what promise are contained in Proverbs 28:25 (printed below?)
He who has a greedy spirit stirs up strife, but he who puts his trust in Jehovah shall be made fat. (Proverbs 28:25)
6. Complete the proverbs listed below and the accompanying statements that discuss the relationship of these proverbs
to each other.
a.
b.
c.
d.
___ is a fountain of life, causing a man to turn from the snares of death. (Proverbs 14:27)
___ is a fountain of life, intended to turn a man away from the snares of death. (Proverbs 13:14)
Biblical teaching shows us the way of life and ___ us to follow that course.
But it is the fear of the Lord that ___ us to heed the biblical teaching.
1.
2.
3.
4.
exhorts
The teaching of the wise
motivates
The fear of Jehovah
7. The mercy of the Lord and the fear of the Lord are not incompatible, they are complementary. At this present stage
of our Christian life the fear of the Lord prevents us from abusing the mercy of the Lord and promotes the ultimate
purpose of God’s mercy, namely, a life of Christ-like holiness. True or False
8. Which of the following statements accurately describe and define a holy fear of the Lord?
a.
b.
c.
A holy fear of the Lord mainly consists in the emotion of terror and dread of just retribution.
A holy fear of the Lord is a work of grace that moves a man to turn away from evil and walk in
obedience.
A holy fear of the Lord primarily consists in the fear of being separated from Christ, the One who is the
supreme object of the Christian’s love.
9. Complete the following proverbs that deal with the subject of trusting in Jehovah.
a.
b.
c.
He who heeds instruction shall find good, and whoever trusts in Jehovah—___. (Proverbs 16:20)
The fear of man brings a snare, but whoever puts his trust in Jehovah ___. (Proverbs 29:25)
He who has a greedy spirit stirs up strife, but he who puts his trust in Jehovah ___. (Proverbs 28:25)
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1. shall be made fat
2. shall be safe
3. blessed is he
10. Proverbs 28:25 declares, “He who has a greedy spirit stirs up strife, but he who puts his trust in Jehovah shall be
made fat.” This proverb indicates that trust in the Lord (Jehovah) not only involves confidence and commitment, but
also ________. The man who trusts in the Lord is contrasted with the man who has a greedy spirit. Fill in the blank
LESSON SEVEN : TOPICAL S TUDIES OF PROVERBS
The student should prepare for his study by asking the Holy Spirit to enlighten his mind and open his heart to
receive not only the teaching of Scripture but Christ Himself as He i s presented in the Scriptures.
Assignments:
1. Bible Study: By a consideration of the proverbs pertinent to them, the student will explore the following topics:
Truthfulness and Wealth. The student will be guided by an expositional commentary on the text . The student
will then answers the questions found at the end of the expository notes.
2. Writing Your Essay: The student should continue work on his 8 -10 page essay for Bachelor's credit or 15-20
page essay for Master's credit. (See under Syllabus, "Description of Assignments," #3. The student is also
referred to the "Guidelines for Writing an Essay," provided by the facilitator.)
Note: All Scripture texts will appear in Comic Sans MS font; all extended quotations from other authors will
appear in Courier font.
BE TRUTHFUL
SELECTED PROVERBS
THEME: We must appreciate the fact that falsehood is something that is detestable to the Lord our God, being totally
contrary to His character as the God of truth.
PURPOSE: To exhort the students to be truthful, because we are called to be like our God and Savior who is the God
of truth.
OUTLINE: I. Be Truthful,
…by Recognizing the Evil of Deceit
(Proverbs 12:22; Proverbs 13:5; Proverbs 12:17)
II. Be Truthful,
…by Appreciating the Transitory Character of Deceit
(Proverbs 12:19)
III. Be Truthful,
…by Shunning Every Form of Deceit
(Proverbs 20:14; Proverbs 21:2)
Introduction
1.
It has been said that the two biggest lies are the following:
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2.

We’re from the government and we’re here to help you.

The check is in the mail.
When newspaper columnist Ann Landers asked her readers to nominate the third biggest or most frequent lie, she
received a flood of responses (Our Daily Bread, 1/10/93):

You made it yourself? I never would have guessed!

It’s delicious, but I can’t eat another bite.

Go ahead and tell me, I won’t be offended.

Having a great time, wish you were here!
3.
Some of these examples are so common or so absurd that they are humorous.
4.
Laughable and absurd as these particular expressions of deceit may be, the fact is, falsehood is no laughing
matter when it occurs in our daily speech and conduct.
5.
Our Lord Jesus Christ spoke and lived the truth. Why?
a. because He belonged to the truth
Jesus said to him, I am the way, and the truth, and the life (John 14:6a)
b.
because He had nothing to hide
speaking to the Jews, the Lord Jesus asked, Which one of you can convict me of sin? (John 8:46a)

6.
As Christians, we are called by God to become like our Savior: we are to be controlled by the Spirit of truth (note
John 14:16-17) in speech and in conduct.
I will ask the Father, and he will give you another Counselor to be with you forever—17the Spirit of truth. The
world cannot receive him; because it does not see him, nor does it know him. But you know him; because he
stays with you and will be in you. (John 14:16-17)
7.
Let us now give our attention to this next topical study from the book of Proverbs: Be Truthful
I. Be Truthful,
…by Recognizing the Evil of Deceit (Proverbs 12:22; Proverbs 13:5; Proverbs 12:17)
Lying lips are detestable to Jehovah, but he delights in those who deal truthfully. (Proverbs 12:22)
1.
Proverbs 12:22a is an extremely emphatic statement revealing the Lord’s revulsion to deceit; literally it reads:
Detestable to Jehovah are deceitful lips (note Proverbs 6:16-19)
There are six things that Jehovah hates; indeed, seven things that are detestable to him: 17haughty
eyes, a lying tongue, hands that shed innocent blood, 18a heart that devises wicked schemes, feet that are
swift in running to mischief, 19a false witness who utters lies, and a man who sows discord among
brothers (Proverbs 6:16-19)
2.
Why is this the case?
a.
because truth is an integral part of the very character and being of God:

God is the source and embodiment of truth
Consequently, whoever pronounces a blessing in the land will do so by the God of truth; and
whoever takes an oath in the land will swear by the God of truth…(Isaiah 65:16a)
Jesus said to him, I am the way, and the truth, and the life; no one comes to the Father, except
by me. (John 14:6)
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I will ask the Father, and he will give you another Counselor to be with you forever—17the Spirit
of truth. (John 14:16-17a)
…it is the Spirit who testifies, because the Spirit is the truth. (1 John 5:6)

God is the depository of truth
…you heard him and were taught by him. Since truth is in Jesus (Ephesians 4:21)

God is ever faithful to the truth because He cannot go contrary to His own nature and character
God is not a man, that he should lie, nor a son of man, that he should change his mind. Has he
spoken, and will he not act? Or has he promised, and will he not fulfill it? (Numbers 23:19)
… God …cannot lie (Titus 1:2)
b.
because deceit is in opposition to and at enmity against all that God is
…the devil…was a murderer from the beginning and is not established in the truth, because there is no
truth in him. When he speaks a lie, he is speaking in accordance with his own nature, because he is a
liar and the father of lies. (John 8:44)
3.
Note that Proverbs 12:22 contrasts lying lips with those who deal truthfully

i.e., the second half of the verse broadens out the demand for truthfulness as something that includes
conduct and motive as well as speech
A righteous man hates lying; but a wicked man is loathsome and will be put to shame. (Proverbs 13:5)
1.
Note that the righteous man does not only abstain from the practice of deceit, but he has a moral revulsion to
it: he hates lying

i.e., a righteous man holds the same view as the Lord God Himself: he regards lying and all forms of
deceit to be contemptible and detestable
2.
Our Lord Jesus Christ, the perfectly righteous man, indicated by His conduct at His trial that it is better to die
than to lie:
The high priest said to him, “I charge you under oath by the living God: Tell us if you are the Christ, the
Son of God.” 64“Yes, it is as you say,” Jesus replied. “But I say to all of you: In the future you shall see the
Son of Man sitting at the right hand of the Mighty One and coming on the clouds of heaven.” (Matthew
26:63-64); the Lord Jesus testified to the truth, even though He knew that by doing so the Jews would accuse
Him of blasphemy, a crime punishable by death (cp. Matthew 26:65-66)
Then the high priest tore his clothes and said, “He has spoken blasphemy! Why do we need any more
witnesses? Look, now you have heard the blasphemy. 66What do you think?” “He is worthy of death,”
they answered. (Matthew 26:65-66)
3.

such is our Lord’s respect for the truth and His commitment to the truth

such is our Lord’s moral revulsion with regard to deceit
A righteous man comes to understand…

that truth is sacred, because it originates from God and is part of His holy character; and,

that deceit is either a malicious assault against what is holy or a self-seeking/self-preserving sacrifice of
what is holy
He who speaks the truth proclaims righteousness; but a false witness proclaims deceit. (Proverbs 12:17)
1.
Proverbs 12:17a literally reads, He who breathes out truth proclaims righteousness
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
i.e., truth has become as natural to him as breathing: this is what Christ is like and what we are to
become as those who are in spiritual union with Him:
Do not lie to each other, since you have taken off your old self with its practices 10and have put on the
new self, which is being renewed in knowledge in the image of its Creator (Colossians 3:9-10)
2.
He who breathes out truth proclaims righteousness
 i.e., he, by his commitment to truth, demonstrates that he is a servant of righteousness

3.
his own life is governed by righteousness and his speech and conduct support the cause of righteousness
What about the question, Would you lie to the Nazis to protect the Jews?
a.
note the subtle way in which God’s truth is presented as operating against life—as posed, the question
implies that the choice is between truth or life—instead of promoting life (note John 14:6)
Jesus said to him, I am the way, and the truth, and the life (John 14:6)
b.
by way of practical consideration: If the Nazis actually suspected you were giving refuge to Jews, would
they simply accept “No” as a satisfactory answer? Would they not further pursue the matter and make an
investigation?
here are some things to seriously consider: In this hypothetical situation you are being asked to depart
from God’s standard of truth because of the “unique” situation—the question implies that the “right”
choice would be to lie in order to save the lives of the innocent victims of tyranny; but…
c.
d.

If you depart from God’s standard of truth in this allegedly unique situation, by so doing you are
indicating that you have no confidence in the Lord: you are actually maintaining that this is a
situation that is not under His control, here is a situation where His standard does not apply.

If you depart from God’s standard of truth in this allegedly unique situation, you are opening the
door for other “unique” cases and you are in danger of making God’s standard relative: His standard
only works in “normal” situations, not in “unique” cases, and we must decide which cases are
“normal” and which are “unique.”
for biblical guidance on this subject, consider the situation described in 1 Samuel 16:1-5, and the
provision the Lord gave:
And Jehovah said to Samuel, “How long will you mourn for Saul, since I have rejected him as king over
Israel? Fill your horn with oil and be on your way; I am sending you to Jesse of Bethlehem. I have
chosen one of his sons to be king.” 2But Samuel said, “How can I go? Saul will hear about it and kill
me.” Jehovah said, “Take a heifer with you and say, ‘I have come to sacrifice to Jehovah.’ 3Invite
Jesse to the sacrifice, and I will show you what to do. You are to anoint for me the one I indicate.”
4
Samuel did what Jehovah said. When he arrived at Bethlehem, the elders of the town trembled when
they met him. They asked, “Do you come in peace?” 5Samuel replied, “Yes, in peace; I have come to
sacrifice to Jehovah. Consecrate yourselves and come to the sacrifice with me.” Then he consecrated
Jesse and his sons and invited them to the sacrifice. (1 Samuel 16:1-5)

4.
in this instance lives were protected not by resorting to falsehood, but by God’s gracious provision of
further truth which concealed the original purpose for Samuel’s visit to Bethlehem
Proverbs 12:17b declares that a false witness proclaims deceit
 i.e., one who resorts to lies and deals in falsehood shows that he is a servant of deceit

5.
his life is governed by deceit and his speech and conduct support the cause of deceit
Let us seek to be truthful, …by recognizing the evil of deceit.
II. Be Truthful,
…by Appreciating the Transitory Character of Deceit (Proverbs 12:19)
The lips of truth shall be established forever,
But a lying tongue is but for a moment. (Proverbs 12:19)
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1.
In contrast to lips of truth, a lying tongue shall not be established: i.e.; it shall not be permanent, secure
and enduring; …
A false witness shall not be unpunished; and he who utters lies shall not escape. (Proverbs 19:5)

i.e., his deceit shall not go undetected; on the contrary, it will be exposed and condemned
A false witness shall not be unpunished; and he who utters lies shall perish. (Proverbs 19:9)

2.
far from being established, the one who practices deceit and resorts to lies will be exposed to shame
and swept away to perdition before the truth of God
Far from being established, a lying tongue is but for a moment (literally, for the blinking of an eye)
from the perspective of God’s eternal truth, falsehood is only for a moment; it is short lived, fleeting,
non-durable; it will be forever banished and consumed by the awesome truth of God

O quickly come, dread Judge of all;
For, awful though Thine advent be,
All shadows from the truth will fall,
And falsehood die, in sight of Thee:
O quickly come…
(Lawrence Tuttiett)
3.
Let us seek to be truthful, …by appreciating the transitory character of deceit (Psalm 52:3-5)
You love … falsehood rather than speaking the truth… 4… O you deceitful tongue! 5Surely God will bring
you down to everlasting ruin… . (Psalm 52:3-5)
III. Be Truthful,
…by Shunning Every Form of Deceit (Proverbs 20:14; Proverbs 21:2)
“It is no good! It is no good!” protests the buyer; then off he goes and boasts about his purchase.
(Proverbs 20:14)
1.
“It is no good! It is no good!” protests the buyer…

2.
3.
i.e., he insists that the article is of poor quality, it is not worth the price the seller is asking; the seller
must lower his price if he hopes to make the sale
…then off he goes and boasts about his purchase.

i.e., after he has made his purchase at the lower price, the buyer boasts of “what a steal” he has
made

thus, he has not only cheated the seller out of a fair price, he now proceeds to mock the man he has
just cheated
What does the Scripture command?
a.
our business transactions are to be characterized by fairness and honesty:
A dishonest scale is detestable to Jehovah, but a just weight is his delight. (Proverbs 11:1)
b.

unscrupulous, unjust, deceitful business practices are detestable to the Lord: they are nothing
less than an intolerable affront to His truth

conversely, honesty and integrity in business are his delight; such are the things in which the Lord
takes great pleasure and finds satisfaction
consider Proverbs 21:6;
Acquiring a fortune by a lying tongue is a fleeting vapor for those who seek death.
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
wealth accumulated by dishonest means is described as a fleeting vapor, or, a vapor driven to
and fro by the wind; such wealth has no true durability; the rewards of deceit are just as fleeting
as deceit itself (cp. Ecclesiastes 2:26)
God gives wisdom and knowledge and joy to the man who pleases him; but to the sinner God
gives the arduous task of gathering and storing up wealth so that He may give it to the one
that pleases Him. (Ecclesiastes 2:26)

men who resort to deceit as a means of accumulating wealth are themselves described as those
who seek death; far from enjoying “solid joys and lasting treasure,” such men find not only their
ill-gotten gain to be in jeopardy, but their own soul as well

whatever monetary/material gains we may temporarily achieve by means of deceit, they are
more than off set by our spiritual loss:
by violating God’s standard of truth, we alienate ourselves from Him
by violating the commandment of love, we alienate ourselves from our neighbor
4.
by violating our conscience, we are deadening our ability to discern and respond to right and
wrong
As another form of deceit, consider the opposite of that described in Proverbs 20:4, namely, flattery
A lying tongue hates those it hurts, and a flattering mouth causes ruin. (Proverbs 26:28)
a.
note that a flattering mouth is put into the same category as a lying tongue; both are deceitful, and
both are destructive
b.
flattery is a calculated manipulation of someone for personal gain: A man who flatters his neighbor is
spreading a net for his feet. (Proverbs 29:5)
All of a man’s ways seem right to him, but Jehovah examines the heart. (Proverbs 21:2)
1.
Yet another form of deceit is rationalizing: providing plausible but false reasons for one’s conduct
2.
Proverbs 21:2a declares, All of a man’s ways seem right to him

we can invent reasons to justify or excuse anything and everything we do
All of a man’s ways are pure in his own eyes, but Jehovah evaluates the motives. (Proverbs 16:2)
the Hebrew word rendered pure (]5z4) is literally, according to the Old Testament commentators, Keil
and Delitzsch (Commentary on Proverbs, Vol.1, p.335), piercing the eyes—i.e.; by means of selfdeception, self-justification and rationalization, all the ways of a man become dazzlingly bright and
pure in his own sight
3.
Rationalizing is an extremely dangerous form of self-deception: the more one loses touch with the truth,
the more one numbs his conscience and sears his soul
a.
consider the case of the Saul
“What have you done?” asked Samuel. Saul replied, “When I saw that the men were scattering, and
that you did not come at the set time, and that the Philistines were assembling at Micmash, 12I
thought, ‘Now the Philistines will come down against me at Gilgal, and I have not sought Jehovah’s
favor.’ So I felt compelled to offer the burnt offering.” 13”You acted foolishly,” Samuel said. “You
have not kept the commandment Jehovah your God gave you; if you had, he would have established
your kingdom over Israel for all time.”(1 Samuel 13:11-12); Saul had disobeyed Samuel’s instruction
for him to wait for Samuel’s arrival, he took it upon himself to offer the sacrifice to the Lord which
only Samuel as priest had the authority to offer; but now, rather than admit his wrongdoing, Saul
rationalizes and re-interprets his sinful conduct, defining it as a heroic act
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But Samuel said, “What then is this bleating of sheep in my ears? What is this lowing of cattle that
I hear?” 15Saul answered, “The soldiers brought them from the Amalekites; they spared the best of
the sheep and cattle to sacrifice to Jehovah your God, but we totally destroyed the rest.” (1
Samuel 15:14-15); Saul disobeyed the Lord’s command to completely destroy all the Amalekites and all
their possessions; but now when Samuel confronts him with his failure to carry out the Lord’s
command, Saul once again rationalizes, this time re-interpreting his wrong doing by defining it as an
act of devotion to the Lord
b.
note the testimony of the Psalmist: Surely you desire truth in the inward parts… (Psalm 51:6a)
Conclusion
1.
Our Lord Jesus Christ spoke and lived the truth.
2.
As Christians, we are called by God to become like our Savior.
Questions on the topic of Truthfulness
1. What does Proverbs 12:22 (printed below) tell us is the Lord's attitude towards deceit?
Lying lips are detestable to Jehovah, but he delights in those who deal truthfully. (Proverbs 12:22)
2. How does Proverbs 13:5 (printed below) describe the righteous man's attitude towards lying?
A righteous man hates lying; but a wicked man is loathsome and will be put to shame. (Proverbs 13:5)
3. According to Proverbs 12:19 (printed below,) how durable and long lasting is deceit?
The lips of truth shall be established forever; but a lying tongue is but for a moment. (Proverbs 12:19)
4. What conduct is being described in Proverbs 20:14 (printed below?) What lesson does this proverb teach with regard
to honesty in our business transactions?
"It is no good! It is no good!" protests the buyer; then off he goes and boasts about his purchase. (Proverbs 20:14)
5. What form of deceit is described in Proverbs 26:28 (printed below?)
A lying tongue hates those it hurts, and a flattering mouth causes ruin. (Proverbs 26:28)
6. Proverbs 12:22 declares, “Lying lips are detestable to Jehovah, but he delights in those who deal truthfully.” Match
the passages listed below with their teaching concerning God’s relationship to truth.
a.
b.
c.
Jesus said to him, I am the way, and the truth, and the life; no one comes to the Father, except by me.
(John 14:6) ___
You heard him and were taught by him. Since truth is in Jesus (Ephesians 4:21) ___
God is not a man, that he should lie, nor a son of man, that he should change his mind. Has he spoken,
and will he not act? Or has he promised, and will he not fulfill it? (Numbers 23:19) ___
1. God is the depository of truth
2. God is the source of truth
3. God is ever faithful to the truth
7. Which of the following statements accurately describe a righteous man’s relationship to the truth?
a.
b.
c.
d.
A righteous man does not only abstain from the practice of deceit; he has a moral revulsion to such
practice.
A righteous man holds the same view as the Lord Himself: he regards all forms of deceit to be
detestable.
A righteous man only departs from the truth and resorts to deceit when it is absolutely necessary.
All of the above
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8. Match the proverbs listed below with the various forms of deceit they condemn.
a.
b.
c.
“It is no good! It is no good!” protests the buyer; then off he goes and boasts about his purchase.
(Proverbs 20:14) ___
A lying tongue hates those it hurts, and a flattering mouth causes ruin. (Proverbs 26:28) ___
All of a man’s ways seem right to him, but Jehovah examines the heart. (Proverbs 21:2) ___
1.
2.
3.
Dishonest Business Transactions
Rationalization
Flattery
9. When the prophet Samuel was confronted with a situation in which his life would be threatened if he spoke the
truth, what did the Lord do for him?
a.
b.
c.
The Lord permitted him to lie.
The Lord spared him from facing the dilemma.
The Lord supplied more truth
10. Complete the proverbs listed below that contrast truthfulness and deceit. (Answers listed on next page)
a.
b.
c.
The lips of truth shall ___. (Proverbs 12:19a)
He who utters lies shall not ___. (Proverbs 19:5b)
A false witness shall not ___. (Proverbs 19:9a)
1. be established forever
2. be unpunished
3. escape
THREE THINGS YOU SHOULD KNOW ABOUT WEALTH
SELECTED PROVERBS
THEME: We need to have the right perspective on wealth, recognizing it as a blessing from God, but also being aware
of its pitfalls and limitations.
PURPOSE: To urge the hearers to pay careful attention to what Proverbs says about wealth, because although wealth
is a blessing from God, it is one which may so easily be misconstrued or misused.
OUTLINE: I. There is a Right Way and a Wrong Way of Acquiring Wealth
(Proverbs 14:24; Proverbs 13:4; Proverbs 12:27; Proverbs 12:11; Proverbs 28:20)
II. There are Both Benefits and Dangers in Possessing Wealth
(Proverbs 13:8; Proverbs 10:15; Proverbs 19:4; Proverbs 27:7; Proverbs18:23)
III. There are Things that are Better than Wealth
(Proverbs 17:1; Proverbs 22:1; Proverbs 28:6; Proverbs 16:16)
Introduction
1.
A Milwaukee newspaper once featured an article entitled, “How Much Do You Love Money?”
2.
In conclusion, the article offered these sage remarks:
…there’s nothing like a big chunk of change in the bank to make us feel secure and
to help soothe rough times. But guard against becoming so enamored by your loot that
you let other important things—like love and life—go untended. (The Milwaukee
Journal/Sentinel, 12/27/94)
3.
Those closing remarks are closely in line with what the Book of Proverbs has to say about wealth. Let us now
consider, Three Things You Should Know about Wealth.
I. There is a Right Way and a Wrong Way of Acquiring Wealth
(Proverbs 14:24; Proverbs 13:4; Proverbs 12:27; Proverbs 12:11; Proverbs 28:20)
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1.
Develop your skills and use wisdom.
The wealth of the wise is their crown, but the folly of fools is only folly. (Proverbs 14:24)
1.
2.
Some voices in society would have us believe that all wealthy men are wicked men: they have
accumulated their wealth either by unscrupulous means or by unmercifully taking advantage of the poor
and the weak
The Word of God does not deny that there are men who have gotten their wealth by unjust or unmerciful
means (Psalm 37:7), and it condemns
them for such practices (James 5:4-5)
Rest in Jehovah and wait patiently for him; do not fret when men succeed in their ways, when they
carry out their wicked schemes. (Psalm 37:7); the Psalmist is here speaking about men who prosper
financially because their wicked and unscrupulous ways have enabled them to succeed in business
Look! The wages you failed to pay the workmen who mowed your fields are crying out against you. The
cries of the harvesters have reached the ears of the Lord Almighty. 5You have lived on earth in luxury
and self-indulgence. You have fattened yourselves for the day of slaughter. (James 5:4-5)
3.
Nevertheless, the Word of God balances the picture by informing us that riches are the crown of honor
and reward bestowed upon skill and wisdom exercised in the business world

4.
note, the Hebrew word, tmok5j2, has the meaning of both wisdom and skill
If you develop a God-given skill and exercise wisdom in financial matters, far from being condemned, you
may expect to have your efforts rewarded with honor and material prosperity (note Proverbs 22:29)
Do you see a man who is diligent in his business? He will serve kings; he will not merely serve common
men. (Proverbs 22:29)

the Hebrew word, ryh3m2, has both the meaning diligent and skillful
Jeroboam was a mighty man of valor; when Solomon saw that the young man was industrious
(ryh3m2), he put him in charge of the whole labor force of the house of Joseph. (1 Kings 11:28)
5.
2.
When wealth is worshipped and there is no concern for the way in which it is accumulated, the society is
in trouble; …but when wealth is disparaged, even when it is accumulated by honesty and diligence, this,
too, is an indication of a society that is dangerously out of touch with the truth of God
Practice diligence, as opposed to pursuing “get rich quick” schemes.
The sluggard has a desire, yet he gets nothing; but the diligent shall be fully satisfied. (Proverbs
13:4)
1.
The sluggard may lack activity, but he does not lack desire: he, too, desires to enjoy the security and
pleasure of material prosperity
2.
But desire by itself is not sufficient to meet his material needs or bring him the security and enjoyment
of material prosperity
3.
Desire must be converted into hard work and honest labor and diligent attention to financial matters if a
man’s material needs are to be met and a profit is to be made
The slothful desire the gains that the diligent get, but they hate the pains
that the diligent take. (Matthew Henry)
The slothful man does not roast what he killed in hunting; but the wealth of men is precious to the
diligent. (Proverbs 12:27)
1.
This proverb reveals the outlook of the diligent man, it reveals how he views wealth (material
prosperity): he views it as being precious
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
2.
this does not necessarily mean that he idolizes wealth; but he does recognize that it is a blessing
and that it is the result of industriousness; consequently, he appreciates the wealth he attains, he
does not squander it or take it for granted
In contrast to the way the diligent man views wealth, consider Proverbs 20:21;
An inheritance may be quickly gained at the beginning; but its outcome shall not be blessed.
a.
an inheritance is a gift, it is not earned by one’s own labors; here is an inheritance quickly gained
(i.e., a sudden, unexpected inheritance, received without any preparation so as to appropriately
appreciate its value); but the outcome of such an inheritance will not be blessed—i.e.; it will not
produce a blessing for the inheritor, the inheritor will not enjoy it with blessing and benefit
b.
the point of this proverb: that which is easily acquired is also likely to be easily squandered and not
truly appreciated
He who tills his land shall have a sufficient amount of bread; but he who pursues worthless things
lacks understanding. (Proverbs 12:11)
1.
Proverbs 12:11a is not so much emphasizing the promise of prosperity (the Hebrew word, eb1c2, has the
meaning of either abundance or sufficiency), but reminding us of a fundamental biblical principle:
diligence and hard work meet with God’s approval and are blessed with God’s provision
2.
The latter half of the proverb warns against the foolishness of neglecting the God-appointed course in
order to pursue worthless things

what is in mind here is the pursuit of “get rich quick” schemes such as playing the lottery,
patronizing the casinos, gambling on “a hot tip” in the stock market or at the race track, all in an
effort to get rich without having to invest the effort of hard work and industriousness

also in mind here is dreaming up your own “get rich quick” schemes when you should be applying
yourself to the work at hand (note Proverbs 28:19)
He who tills his land shall have a sufficient amount of bread; but he who pursues worthless things
shall have an abundance of poverty. (Proverbs 28:19)
3. Do not depart from the path of honesty in your pursuit of prosperity.
A faithful man will be richly blessed; but a man who is hasty to get rich shall not go unpunished.
(Proverbs 28:20)
1. Proverbs 28:20a does not say that a faithful man shall always become wealthy; it says that he will be
richly blessed—enjoying the blessing of God and that of his neighbor
2.
The latter part of the proverb implies that the desire and determination to get rich quick will lead one to
pursue unscrupulous practices—and that man will not go unpunished (note Proverbs 21:6)
A fortune acquired by a lying tongue is a fleeting vapor for those who seek death. (Proverbs 21:6)
II. There are Both Benefits and Dangers in Possessing Wealth
(Proverbs 13:8; Proverbs 10:15; Proverbs 19:4; Proverbs 27:7; Proverbs 18:23)
1.
There is the benefit of security, …but it is only temporal and temporary security.
A man’s riches may ransom his life, but a poor man hears no threat. (Proverbs 13:8)
1.
On the one hand, if a rich man is kidnapped he can purchase his release by means of his wealth.
2.
But on the other hand, a poor man does not need to worry about being kidnapped in the first place!
3.
The point of the proverb: the man who possesses material prosperity possesses…
a.
a certain measure of security—his wealth can bail him out of trouble and provide him with the
comforts of life
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b.
4.
but that man also possesses a certain measure of anxiety: Is my wealth safe? (Is it protected from
robbers? Is my money protected from the economic robbers of rising inflation, falling stock
markets or bad investments?) Is my wealth protecting me, or is it making me a prime target for
unscrupulous men and those looking for a handout?
Concerning material prosperity, the Word of God is very practical and realistic: it does not disparage
riches as evil in themselves, nor does it glorify riches as the source of man’s salvation and happiness.
The rich man’s wealth is his strong city, but poverty is the ruin of the poor. (Proverbs 10:15)
1.
Money in the bank is a source of security to the man who possesses it: he has an abundant supply of
resources to meet an unexpected emergency

2.
Conversely, lack of financial resources is what brings the poor man to ruin: when he encounters an
emergency he does not have the surplus funds to pay for it, he either goes into debt or loses all he has

3.
illustration: if the rich man’s roof starts to leak, he has the money to get it repaired
illustration: if the poor man’s roof leaks, he has no extra money to get it repaired, so he must
either let the house further deteriorate or he must go into debt to pay for the roof repair, or he
must sell the house
It is important that we compare this present proverb (10:15) with Proverbs 18:11 which says, The rich
man’s wealth is his strong city, in his own imagination it is like a high wall.

it is true that the rich man’s wealth is a source of security; but it is very dangerous to
overestimate the value and ability of that financial security:

that source of security can quickly vanish, due to adverse economic conditions or multiple
emergencies (note Proverbs 23:4-5)
Do not wear yourself out in the effort to become rich; be wise enough to desist. 5Can your eyes
look at that which is gone? Riches certainly make wings for themselves, they are like an eagle
that flies toward heaven. (Proverbs 23:4-5)

that source of financial security cannot meet every need: it cannot provide physical health,
spiritual well-being, or family unity (note Proverbs 11:4)
Wealth is of no benefit on the day of wrath, but righteousness delivers a man from death.
(Proverbs 11:4)
2. There is the benefit of friends, …but few of them will prove to be true friends.
Wealth brings many friends, but a poor man is deserted by his friend. (Proverbs 19:4)
1.
Consider what this proverb teaches us about wealth:

2.
wealth has the power to attract men to itself like a magnet; men gravitate to wealth and seek to
associate with those who possess wealth
Consider what this proverb teaches us about human nature:

everyone wants to be “friends” with a wealthy man: there is within us a selfishness and selfseeking that is inclined to use people and exploit them for our own benefit; or at the very least, to
seek to benefit from them and their position and wealth
(The rich) has many friends indeed, to his money and favor, but few to his
interest. Charles Bridges
3.
Consider what impact this proverb should have on our lives:

if, in God’s providence, it goes well for us and we gain financial wealth, it will be wise to exercise
prudence with regard to the many new
“friends” we will acquire

if, in God’s providence, it goes badly for us and we fail to gain any material prosperity, it will be
then that we will discover who our true friends really are (note Proverbs 17:17)
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A friend loves at all times, and a brother is born for adversity. (Proverbs 17:17)
3. There can be the enjoyment of “the good life,” …but “the good life” is not all that great.
He who is full loathes honey, but to the man who is hungry every bitter thing tastes sweet.
(Proverbs 27:7)
Proverbs 27:7a literally says, A full soul tramples upon a honeycomb
1.

2.
i.e., the possession of wealth (the ability to have anything and everything you desire) leads one to
stop appreciating and even to start abusing the blessings of God
Far from leading to fulfillment, wealth tends to lead to boredom and dissatisfaction and even to an
acute sense of how empty the “good life” of the world really is
4. With wealth there comes prestige, …but that may also be accompanied by pride.
A poor man pleads and begs, but a rich man answers harshly. (Proverbs 18:23)
1.
Poverty reduces a man to a position where he must lay aside his pride and humbly plead for mercy

the poor man is forced to recognize that he has no resources, that he is dependent upon someone
else for help, and this realization is reflected in his humble demeanor
2.
Conversely, wealth may cause a man to address others in a harsh, dictatorial manner: the rich man does
not need the poor, they need him
3.
Consider Proverbs 22:7;
The rich rule over the poor, and the borrower is a servant to the lender.

4.
with the possession of wealth comes also the possession of power and prestige; both potent
commodities that can produce pride in the heart of their possessor if he is not on guard
Poverty carries with it the attribute of humility; wealth carries with it the potential for pride and
arrogance (note Proverbs 16:5a)
Everyone who has a proud heart is detestable to Jehovah (Proverbs 16:5a)
III. There are Things that are Better than Wealth
(Proverbs 17:1; Proverbs 22:1; Proverbs 28:6; Proverbs 16:16)
1. Peace at home and peace of heart is better than wealth.
A dry morsel of bread with peace is better than a house full of feasting with strife. (Proverbs 17:1)
1.
Peace at home is a very valuable commodity, it is to be preferred over wealth that may become a
source of strife and deprive the home of peace (note Proverbs 15:27a)
He who is greedy for wealth brings trouble upon his own household (Proverbs 15:27a)
2. Consider the warning offered in 1 Timothy 6:6-10,
… godliness with contentment is great gain, 7for we brought nothing into the world, and we can take
nothing out of it. 8But if we have food and clothing, we will be content with that. 9People who want to
get rich fall into temptation and a trap and into many foolish and harmful desires that plunge men
into ruin and destruction, 10for the love of money is a root of all kinds of evil. Some people, eager for
money, have wandered from the faith and pierced themselves with many griefs. (1 Timothy 6:6-10)
2. A good name (reputation) is better than wealth.
A good reputation is to be chosen rather than riches, and to be affectionately desired rather than
silver and gold. (Proverbs 22:1)
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
consider also Proverbs 3:3-4;
Do not let kindness and integrity forsake you, tie them around your neck, write them on the tablet of
your heart; 4then you will find favor and a good reputation in the sight of God and man.
3. Integrity is better than wealth.
The poor man who walks in his integrity is better than the man who is crooked in his ways, even
though he is rich. (Proverbs 28:6)

consider Psalm 26:1, Vindicate me, O Jehovah, for I have led a blameless life; I have trusted in
Jehovah without wavering.

note that the foundation and incentive for integrity is confidence in the Lord, confidence that the Lord
shall provide and He shall reward integrity
4. Wisdom is better than wealth.
How much better is it to get wisdom than gold, indeed, to choose understanding rather than silver!
(Proverbs 16:16)

consider Proverbs 3:16-18 as to why godly wisdom is to be preferred over the wealth of this world:
referring to wisdom, Proverbs declares, Long life is in her right hand, in her left hand are riches and
honor. 17Her ways are pleasant ways, and all her paths are peaceful. 18She is a tree of life to those
who embrace her; blessed is everyone who holds on to her.
Conclusion
1.
Here, then, are three important things Scripture says we should know about wealth:



2.
there is a right way and a wrong way of acquiring wealth
there are benefits and dangers in possessing wealth
there are things that are better than wealth
The prayer of the wise man of Proverbs would well serve to be our prayer as well:
…give me neither poverty nor riches; feed me with the food that is my necessary portion. 9Otherwise, if I
have too much, I may disown you and say, “Who is Jehovah?” Or I may become poor and steal, and by doing so
dishonor the name of my God. (Proverbs 30:8b-9)
Questions on the topic of Wealth
1. According to Proverbs 12:27 (printed below,) how do diligent men view wealth? What is the significance of this?
The slothful man does not roast what he killed in hunting; but the wealth of men is precious to the diligent.
(Proverbs 12:27)
2. According to Proverbs 12:11 (printed below,) what is the way to financial stability? What should be avoided?
He who tills his land shall have a sufficient amount of bread; but he who pursues worthless things lacks
understanding. (Proverbs 12:11)
3. According to Proverbs 13:8 (printed below,) what are the benefits and the drawbacks of wealth?
A man's riches may ransom his life, but a poor man hears no threat. (Proverbs 13:8)
4. How would you explain the meaning of Proverbs 10:15 (printed below?)
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The rich man's wealth is his strong city, but poverty is the ruin of the poor. (Proverbs 10:15)
5. What are the demeanor and the attitude of the poor man? What are the demeanor and attitude of the rich man? See
Proverbs 18:23 (printed below)
A poor man pleads and begs, but a rich man answers harshly. (Proverbs 18:23)
6. According to Proverbs, which of the following are the right ways to acquire wealth?
a.
b.
c.
Develop your skills and use wisdom.
Pursue “get rich quick” schemes.
Maintain integrity in all your business transactions.
7. Proverbs 12:27 declares, “The wealth of men is precious to the diligent.” What does this mean?
a.
b.
c.
This means that the diligent idolize wealth, exalting it to the position of God.
This means that the diligent recognize wealth to be a blessing derived from industriousness.
This means that the diligent appreciate wealth and do not squander it.
8. Complete the sentences listed below that discuss the blessings and limitations of wealth.
a.
b.
c.
Wealth provides ___, but it is only temporal.
Wealth provides ___, but it may not be genuine.
Wealth provides ___ , but it is not spiritually satisfying.
1. “the good life”
2. friendship
3. security
9. According to Proverbs, which of the following are better than wealth?
a.
b.
c.
d.
e.
f.
Poverty
Peace of Mind
A Good Reputation
An Abundance of Friends
Integrity
Wisdom
10. Match the proverbs listed below with the lessons they teach about wealth.
a.
b.
c.
He who tills his land shall have a sufficient amount of bread; but he who pursues worthless things lacks
understanding. (Proverbs 12:11) ___
A man’s riches may ransom his life, but a poor man hears no threat. (Proverbs 13:8) ___
A good reputation is to be chosen rather than riches, and to be affectionately desired rather than silver
and gold. (Proverbs 22:1) ___
1. There is a right way and a wrong way of acquiring wealth.
2. There are both benefits and dangers in wealth.
3. There are things that are better than wealth.
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LESSON EIGHT : TOPICAL S TUDIES ON PROVERBS
The student should prepare for his study by asking the Holy Spirit to enlighten his mind and open his heart to
receive not only the teaching of Scripture but Christ Himself as He is presented in the Scriptures.
Assignments:
1. Bible Study: By a consideration of the proverbs pertinent to them, the student will explore the following topics:
Wisdom, and A Worthy Woman. The student will be guided by an expositional commentary on the text . The
student will then answers the questions found at the end of the expository notes. Upon the completion of this
course, the student should prepare to take the Final Exam.
2. Writing Your Essay: The student should complete work on his 8 -10 page essay for Bachelor's credit or 15-20
page essay for Master's credit. (See under Syllabus, "Description of Assignments," #3. The student is also
referred to the "Guidelines for Writing an Essay," provided by the facilitator.)
Note: All Scripture texts will appear in Comic Sans MS font; all extended quotations from other authors will
appear in Courier font.
THE ABC’S OF GODLY WISDOM
SELECTED PROVERBS
THEME: As Christians, we need to be wise, not with the cleverness of the world, but with the wisdom of God.
PURPOSE: To urge the students to give attention to what Proverbs has to teach about the ABC’s of godly wisdom.
OUTLINE:
I. The Characteristics of Godly Wisdom
(Proverbs 10:5; Proverbs 28:7; Proverbs 10:19; Proverbs 29:11; Proverbs 12:15; Proverbs 14:16)
II. The Benefits of Godly Wisdom
(Proverbs 10:1; Proverbs 15:24; Proverbs 29:8; Proverbs 13:14)
III. The Attainment of Godly Wisdom
(Proverbs 14:33; Proverbs 13:20; Proverbs 15:33)
Introduction
1.
A young man got into a financial tangle by loaning a friend in another town $500 without the benefit of securing
from the man a written statement that he had, indeed, borrowed the money and was obligated to repay it.
2.
When the young man needed his money, he realized that he had nothing to document his claim.
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3.
In desperation, he consulted his father for advice.
4.
After a moment of consideration, his father said, “This is what you should do. Write him a note and tell him that
you need the $1000 that you loaned him.”
5.
The young man corrected his father, “It was $500, Dad.”
6.
“Yes, I know,” replied his father, “but if you write that he owes you $1000, he will immediately write back,
stating that he only owes you $500. Then you will have it in writing.” (Our Daily Bread, 9/25/92)
7.
This is a good example of what the Lord Jesus meant when He said, The sons of this world are for their own
generation wiser than the sons of light. (Luke 16:8)
8.
On another occasion, the Lord exhorted His disciples to be wise as serpents, but innocent as doves (Matthew
10:16).
9.
As Christians, we need to be wise, not with the cleverness of the world, but with the wisdom of God.
10. Our next topical study from the book of Proverbs focuses our attention on The ABC’s of Godly Wisdom.
I. The Characteristics of Godly Wisdom
(Proverbs 10:5; Proverbs 28:7; Proverbs 10:19; Proverbs 29:11; Proverbs 12:15; Proverbs 14:16)
1. A wise man understands God’s design for life
He who gathers crops in summer is a wise son, but he who sleeps during harvest season is a
disgraceful son. (Proverbs 10:5)
1.
Proverbs 10:3a gives the assurance that the Lord will provide for His people; though they may be subjected
to difficult times, the Lord will prove Himself faithful to provide for their needs:
Jehovah will not allow the righteous to be famished… (Proverbs 10:3a)
2.
Proverbs 10:4 balances the previous proverb: although the Lord is faithful to provide for His people, they
must not abuse that truth by becoming negligent; the Lord will not honor such abuse of His commitment
He who does his work negligently will become poor, but diligent labor produces wealth. (Proverbs 10:4)
3.
Proverbs 10:5 teaches that a wise man understands God’s design for life:
a.
the wise man will neither misinterpret nor abuse the Lord’s faithfulness
b.
he will rely upon God’s faithfulness and be faithful to fulfill his God-given responsibilities
2. A wise man exercises self-control over his life.
Whoever keeps the law is a wise son, but whoever is a companion with gluttons brings disgrace upon
his father. (Proverbs 28:7)

this proverb emphasizes that a wise man exercises self-control over his appetites (note 1 Corinthians 6:12)
Everything is permissible for me—but not everything is beneficial. Everything is permissible for me—
but I will not be mastered by anything. (1 Corinthians 6:12); such is the apostle Paul’s view concerning
Christian liberty
In the multitude of words there is no lack of transgression, but whoever refrains from speaking acts
wisely. (Proverbs 10:19)

this proverb emphasizes that a wise man exercises self-control over his tongue:
he understands the value of keeping silent
Wise men store up knowledge, but the mouth of the fool invites ruin. (Proverbs 10:14)
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he understands the value of wholesome speech well-spoken
The tongue of the wise utters knowledge in a beneficial way, but the mouth of the fool pours out folly.
(Proverbs 15:2)
Do not let any unwholesome word come out of your mouth, but only what is good for edification as
there is need, so that your speech may give grace to those who listen. (Ephesians 4:29)
A fool expresses all his anger, but a wise man holds it back and calms himself. (Proverbs 29:11)

this proverb emphasizes that a wise man exercises self-control over his temper (cp. Proverbs 19:11)
A man’s discretion makes him slow to anger, and it is his glory to overlook an offense. (Proverbs 19:11)
3. A wise man appreciates the value of counsel.
The way of a fool seems right to him, but a wise man listens to advice. (Proverbs 12:15)
1.
Note what James has to say about wisdom:
Who is wise and understanding among you? Let him show it by his good life, by deeds done in the
humility that comes from wisdom. (James 3:13); one characteristic of wisdom is humility, or, meekness;
that is, displaying patience and submissiveness, and showing a teachable spirit
…the wisdom that comes from heaven is first of all pure; then peace-loving, considerate, submissive,
full of mercy and good fruit, impartial and sincere. (James 3:17); godly wisdom is compliant, it is open to
reason and willing to be convinced of viable alternatives, it is not insistent on its own way
2.
In contrast to Proverbs 12:15, consider Proverbs 18:1
He who separates himself is devoted to his own desire, and he rages against all sound wisdom.
a.
this proverb speaks of a man who separates himself from the counsel and company of his friends.
b.
it further describes him as becoming infatuated or even obsessed with a desire (that is to say, some
idea, or plan, or ambition)

c.
the proverb literally says, Separating himself, he devotes himself to a desire
he is further described as raging against all sound wisdom; he has become so obsessed with this
particular idea that he has become unreasonable and even irrational; such is not the characteristic of
a wise man, it is the opposite of the behavior of a wise man
4. A wise man exhibits a holy fear of God.
A wise man fears and turns away from evil, but the fool behaves arrogantly and is confident.
(Proverbs 14:16)
1.
True godly fear is not merely an emotion, it is a stimulus that moves a man to godly action (cp. Hebrews
11:7)
By faith Noah, when warned about things not yet seen, moved with godly fear, prepared an ark by
which his family was saved. By faith he condemned the world and became heir of the righteousness
that comes by faith. (Hebrews 11:7)
2.
In contrast, the fool allows himself to go beyond the proper moral limits, being confident that no harm
will come to his soul

whereas there is a holy boldness that trusts God and says, “Even though I may be afraid, I will trust in
the Lord and do what He says and go where He leads;”…

…there is also an unholy boldness that tests God and says, “I will expose myself to evil and indulge in
evil, trusting God to deliver me and preserve me.”
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II. The Benefits of Godly Wisdom
(Proverbs 10:1; Proverbs 15:24; Proverbs 29:8; Proverbs 13:14)
1. Wisdom is a means of honoring your parents.
A wise son makes a glad father, but a foolish son is a grief to his mother. (Proverbs 10:1)
1.
This is the very first of the proverbs and it presents a theme that is repeated throughout the book of
Proverbs (note Proverbs 23:24)
The father of the righteous will greatly rejoice, and he who has a wise son will take delight in him.
(Proverbs 23:24)
2.
Note the godly father’s great desire for his son as expressed in Proverbs 4:7,
Wisdom is the primary thing; therefore, get wisdom. Indeed, give all that you have acquired in order
to acquire understanding. (Proverbs 4:7)

3.
wisdom is the ability to think and act in a way that is pleasing to God by observing the counsel and
commandments contained in His Word
Consider the godly father’s greatest joy as expressed by the apostle John:
I have no greater joy than to hear that my children are walking in the truth. (3 John 4)
2. Wisdom is a means of promoting spiritual life and health.
For the wise, the pathway of life leads upward, so that he may avoid Sheol below. (Proverbs 15:24)

the possession and practice of biblical wisdom results in a life that is morally and spiritually closer to God
… the path of the righteous is like the first gleam of dawn, shining brighter and brighter until the full
light of day. 19The way of the wicked is like darkness; they cannot see the things over which they
stumble. (Proverbs 4:18-19)
Jesus therefore said to those Jews who had believed him, If you remain in my word you will truly be
my disciples; 32and you will know the truth, and the truth will make you free (John 8:31-32)
3. Wisdom is a means of influencing others for good.
Scoffers set a city on fire, but wise men turn away wrath. (Proverbs 29:8)
1.
Scoffers are those who have no reverence for God and His law, they arrogantly set themselves in
opposition to God.

Scripture defines the scoffer as one who refuses to receive rebuke or correction (Proverbs 13:1)
and who seats himself in the judgment seat (Psalm 1:1)
A wise son accepts his father’s instruction, but a scoffer does not pay attention to a rebuke.
(Proverbs 13:1)
Blessed is the man who does not walk in the counsel of the wicked or stand in the way of sinners
or sit in the seat of scoffers. (Psalm 1:1), sitting in the seat of scoffers appears to be a
reference to the judgment seat, assuming the position of judge

the scoffer assumes the position of God (making himself the judge and standard for judgment) and
from that position he cynically and mockingly rejects all that comes from God (note 2 Peter 3:3-4)
and falsely assumes that he himself is immune to the judgment of God (note Isaiah 28:14-15a)
You may be sure that in the last days scoffers will come, expressing their scoffing, and living
for their own evil desires. 4They will say, “Where is the fulfillment of the promise that he will
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come? From the time the fathers fell asleep in death everything goes on as it has since the
beginning of the creation.” (2 Peter 3:3-4)
Therefore, hear the word of Jehovah, you scoffers who rule this people in Jerusalem. 15Because
you have said, We have made a covenant with death, and we have made a pact with Sheol; when
the overwhelming scourge passes through the land it shall not reach us (Isaiah 28:14-15a); the
scoffers wrongly assume that they are immune to the Lord’s righteous judgment which is described
here as a torrential flood sweeping through the land
2.
When scoffers exert their influence they cause others to forsake their reverence for God and His law;
consequently, the people pursue a course of life that will have an inevitable encounter with judgment.
3.
But wise men who fear God and honor His commandments serve as a guide and influence that leads in
the opposite direction: away from wrath to blessing.
The teaching of the wise is a fountain of life, intended to turn a man away from the snares of
death. (Proverbs 13:14)
1.
Every temptation is an alluring, demonically-contrived trap designed to destroy the life and soul of the
all-too-willing victim.
2.
But a wise man, because of his acquaintance with the ways of God, is able to remove “the underbrush”
and expose the hidden trap
a.
the teaching of the wise may serve to broaden our perspective beyond the immediate to the long
range, taking into account eternity itself
b.
the teaching of the wise may serve to deepen our perspective beyond mere actions to take into
account attitudes and motives and desires as well (cp. Matthew 5:27-28)
You have heard that it was said, “Do not commit adultery.” 28But I tell you that anyone who looks
at a woman lustfully has already committed adultery with her in his heart. (Matthew 5:27-28);
our Lord’s teaching reveals to us the depths of God’s holy law
III. The Attainment of Godly Wisdom
(Proverbs 14:33; Proverbs 13:20; Proverbs 15:33)
1.
Wisdom is attained by those who have an understanding heart.
Wisdom rests in the heart of the man who has understanding; but that which resides in the heart
of fools will be made known. (Proverbs 14:33)
1.
Like a bird seeking a friendly environment in which to build her nest, so wisdom makes its dwelling
place in the heart of the man who possesses understanding

2.
the Hebrew word translated understanding (,yB3) means to discern, to mark, to pay attention; i.e.,
here is a man who appreciates wisdom’s value, a man who seeks wisdom and welcomes it
Note Proverbs 10:23,
To the fool, practicing wickedness is like a sport; likewise, so is wisdom to a man of understanding.
(Proverbs 10:23)

3.
just as the fool finds it to be a source of entertainment to practice wickedness, so a man of
understanding finds it to be pleasurable to meditate upon wisdom and seek to understand it
May the prayer of Solomon also be our prayer,
Give your servant a discerning heart … so that I may distinguish between good and evil… . (1 Kings
3:9)
2.
Wisdom is attained by those who value good associations.
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Walk with wise men and you will become wise, but whoever is a companion with fools shall suffer for
it. (Proverbs 13:20)
1.
The counsel of Proverbs 13:20a is to walk with wise men

2.
this itself is a wise thing to do, and it is a means of making you wise, for you will be associating
yourself with those who are wise and learning from their speech and conduct
Where do you find wise men, how do you recognize them?
a.
first and foremost, spend time in the Scriptures with the Lord Jesus Christ, the One in whom all the
treasures of wisdom are hidden
b.
then, also, spend time with wise and notable Christian men by reading their works
c.
furthermore, ask the Lord to provide you with wise Christian friends and counselors
3. Wisdom is attained by those who fear the Lord.
The fear of Jehovah teaches a man wisdom, and before honor comes humility. (Proverbs 15:33)
2.
The fear of Jehovah, this is what leads to wisdom, it is the starting point and first principle of godly
wisdom
Fear the Lord, this is the instruction given by wisdom, it is the summary of wise conduct and attitude
3.
Why is this the case?
1.

because the fear of the Lord causes us to listen to and to heed what He commands, and thereby
causes us to walk in the way of life and of blessing and of the knowledge of the Lord
Conclusion
1.
Here, then, are the ABC’s of godly wisdom as they are presented to us in the book of Proverbs.
2.
May the Lord impart to us the grace to appreciate the value of godly wisdom, to seek after it, and to grow in it.
Questions on the topic of Wisdom
1. In light of Proverbs 10:3-4 (printed below,) what does Proverbs 10:5 (also printed below) tell us about the conduct
and understanding of a wise man?
Jehovah will not allow the righteous to be famished, but he thwarts the craving of the wicked. (4) He who does his
work negligently will become poor, but diligent labor produces wealth. (Proverbs 10:3-4)
He who gathers crops in summer is a wise son, but he who sleeps during harvest season is a disgraceful son.
(Proverbs 10:5)
2. What does Proverbs 14:16 (printed below) tell us about a wise man in contrast to a fool?
A wise man fears and turns away from evil, but the fool behaves arrogantly and is confident. (Proverbs 14:16)
3. What does Proverbs 29:8 (printed below) tell us about a wise man in contrast to a scoffer?
Scoffers set a city on fire, but wise men turn away wrath. (Proverbs 29:8)
4. What does Proverbs 13:14 (printed below) say about "the teaching of the wise?" What do you think this means?
The teaching of the wise is a fountain of life, intended to turn a man away from the snares of death. (Proverbs
13:14)
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5. What kind of man receives wisdom? See Proverbs 14:33 (printed below)
Wisdom rests in the heart of the man who has understanding; but that which resides in the heart of fools will be
made known. (Proverbs 14:33)
6. Proverbs 10:3 gives the assurance, “Jehovah will not allow the righteous to be famished.” Based on this assurance,
what will a wise man do?
a.
b.
c.
He will not bother to plant seed in the spring.
He will gather crops in the summer.
He will sleep during harvest season.
7. One characteristic of a wise man is his exercise of self-control over his life. Match the proverbs listed below with
their teaching concerning a wise man’s exercise of self-control.
a.
b.
c.
Whoever keeps the law is a wise son, but whoever is a companion with gluttons brings disgrace upon his
father. (Proverbs 28:7) ___
In the multitude of words there is no lack of transgression, but whoever refrains from speaking acts
wisely. (Proverbs 10:19) ___
A fool expresses all his anger, but a wise man holds it back and calms himself. (Proverbs 29:11) ___
1. He exercises self-control over his temper.
2. He exercises self-control over his tongue.
3. He exercises self-control over his appetites.
8. According to Proverbs, what are the characteristics of godly wisdom?
a. A wise man understands God’s design for life.
b. A wise man is not afraid of exposing himself to evil.
c. A wise man exercises self-control over his life.
d. A wise man appreciates the value of good counsel.
9. Match the proverbs listed below with what they teach with regard to the benefits of godly wisdom.
a.
b.
c.
A wise son makes a glad father, but a foolish son is a grief to his mother. (Proverbs 10:1) ___
For the wise, the pathway of life leads upward, so that he may avoid Sheol below. (Proverbs 15:24) ___
The teaching of the wise is a fountain of life, intended to turn a man away from the snares of death.
(Proverbs 13:14) ___
1. Wisdom is a means of honoring one’s parents.
2. Wisdom is a means of influencing others for good.
3. Wisdom is a means of promoting spiritual life.
10. According to Proverbs, how is godly wisdom attained?
a.
b.
c.
Wisdom is attained by those who are blessed with exceptional intelligence.
Wisdom is attained by those who value good associations.
Wisdom is attained by those who fear the Lord.
A WORTHY WOMAN
SELECTED PROVERBS
THEME: The beauty that is especially precious to God is the beauty that goes deeper than mere physical appearance,
it is the beauty of a godly character.
PURPOSE: To exhort Christian sisters to strive, by the grace of God, to be the type of godly woman described in
Proverbs, because such a woman is precious in the sight of God.
OUTLINE: I. Be a Worthy Woman,
…by Developing a Virtuous Character
II. Be a Worthy Woman,
…by Making Your Home Your Top Priority
III. Be a Worthy Woman,
…Who is Truly Deserving of Praise
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Introduction
1.
Whether they realize it or not, contemporary feminists are searching for Kathrine Kersten’s grandmother, …and
her grandmother is a reflection of the godly woman of Proverbs.
2.
Let me explain: in the feminist bestsellers of the 1960’s and ’70’s, women were portrayed as being “empty
vessels.” In The Feminine Mystique, 1963, Betty Friedan spoke of women as being “empty,” “infantile” creatures,
lacking “a core of human self.” Women were presented as being…

timid, weak, bewildered creatures

defined by their sufferings and victimhood (i.e., their only statement of identity was that of a victim and a
sufferer, according to these feminist writers)
easily threatened, unable to stand alone; only comfortable when operating within the pack, or “sisterhood”
of fellow-sufferers

3.
Over the past 30 years influential feminist writers have continued to portray women in the same way: an empty
vessel in search of identity, meaning, purpose

in 1983 Gloria Steinem wrote of her struggle to make herself “real” and overcome her nagging “feelings of
non-existence” (Outrageous Acts and Everyday Rebellions)

in 1993 Susan Faluchi wrote that women are “blind to their own interests and abilities” and continue to “live
in the shadows,” groping “in the dark” for purpose and direction (Backlash)
4.
Why is she so weak and vulnerable? Because, unlike Kathrine Kersten’s grandmother, she seems to have little idea
of who she is, what she believes, or how she should live.
5.
According to Kathrine Kersten,
My grandmother and great-grandmother knew who they were, why they were here, and what they
had to do. They had well-considered ideas about what the good life is, and they had
the internal resources of virtue and character necessary to live that life. They were
strong women, like the industrious woman of “noble character” praised in Proverbs 31.
(Christianity Today, June 20, 1994, p.22)
6.
In our next topical study from the book of Proverbs we come to consider what the Lord has to say to us about the
Worthy Woman.
I. Be A Worthy Woman,
…by Developing a Virtuous Character
1.
A virtuous character includes integrity: commitment to God’s moral standard.
A worthy woman…is worth far more than rubies. (Proverbs 31:10)

the Hebrew word (ly3j1) translated worthy contains the concepts of moral strength and integrity

Kathrine Kersten writes, My grandmother’s identity grew out of a web of relationships
and personal loyalties defined in part by mutual obligations and moral duties.
She knew that the duties that arise from membership in a family or community are
really pathways, not obstacles, to fulfillment. …
My grandmother was able to discern and carry out her duties under challenging
circumstances because she made the cultivation of virtue and character the
central task of her life. To her, being a “whole, independent human being” did
not mean constantly taking her emotional and spiritual temperature. Rather, it
meant becoming a grown up.
What does it mean to be a grown up? It means growing wise through experience and
through empathy. It means being humble and admitting your mistakes. It means
cultivating the very adult virtue of self-control. It means being resilient and
good-humored. Being a grown up means putting others’ needs and interests before
your own, when those others are dependent on you. Most of all, it means asking at
all times not what is pleasant or convenient, but what is right. (Christianity Today,
June 20, 1994, p.25)
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Her husband has complete confidence in her, and he shall lack nothing of value. (Proverbs 31:11)

the first part of this verse literally says, The heart of her husband trusts in her—i.e.; her husband can
count on her and not be disappointed, because she is trustworthy, faithful and dependable

she proves herself to be his true friend (note Proverbs 17:17a and Proverbs 18:24b)
A friend loves at all times… (Proverbs 17:17a)
…there is a friend who sticks closer than a brother. (Proverbs 18:24b)
She does good to him and not harm, all the days of her life. (Proverbs 31:12)

she is, by virtue of her integrity and commitment, a continual source of blessing and of good to her
husband, not a source of harm
A worthy woman is the crown of her husband, but she who causes him disgrace is like rottenness in his
bones. (Proverbs 12:4)

by her integrity she is a source of honor (a crown) to her husband

note Proverbs 31:23, Her husband is respected at the city gate, when he takes his seat among the elders
of the land.
a. her trustworthiness (as well as her industriousness) allows her husband to participate in his civic and
religious duties (cp. Job 29:7,14-17)
When I went to the gate of the city and took my seat in the public square… 14I put on righteousness
as my clothing, and the justice I practiced was like a robe and a turban. 15I was eyes to the blind
and feet to the lame. 16I was a father to the needy; I investigated the stranger’s case. 17I broke
the fangs of the wicked and snatched the victims from their teeth. (Job 29:7,14-17)
b.
furthermore, in no small measure, it is due to the noble character of his wife that the husband is
recognized and respected
conversely, if she behaves herself in a shameful (unfaithful) manner, she is like rottenness in his bones

a.
her shameful/unfaithful behavior is deeply felt by her husband
b.
it has a devastating impact on him: his dignity is crushed, he cannot hold himself upright
2. A virtuous character includes prudence: the ability to carefully manage one’s life and resources
She gets up while it is still dark; she provides food for her family and assigns her maidservants their
tasks. (Proverbs 31:15)
She diligently watches over the affairs of her household and does not idly sit by indulging herself.
(Proverbs 31:27)
Houses and wealth are inherited from fathers, but a prudent wife is from Jehovah. (Proverbs 19:14)

you may receive wealth as an inheritance from your father, but a prudent wife is a special blessing from
your heavenly Father
Like a gold ring in a pig’s snout, so is a beautiful woman who lacks discretion. (Proverbs 11:22)
a.
a gold ring in a swine’s snout is painfully out of place and incongruous; a ring of gold was an elegant piece
of jewelry, it is totally inappropriate and even offensive to see such a thing in a swine’s snout
b.
likewise, it is just as offensive and incongruous to find a woman who possesses physical beauty but lacks
discretion—i.e.; a woman who lacks a sense of what is right, proper, appropriate, tasteful, tactful,
gracious, honorable
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c.
Abigail, the wife of Nabal, is described as a woman who was both physically beautiful as well as a woman
of discretion: She was an intelligent and beautiful woman (1 Samuel 25:3)

when she takes action to prevent David from personally taking vengeance on her self-centered,
ungrateful husband, David praises her:
May you be blessed for your good judgment (or, discretion) and for keeping me from shedding
blood this day and from avenging myself with my own hands. (1 Samuel 25:33)
3. A virtuous character includes a quiet spirit.
A foolish son brings ruin to his father, and a quarrelsome wife is like a constant dripping.
19:13)
a.
a quarrelsome wife is one who is constantly finding fault, nagging, complaining, and arguing

b.
(Proverbs
far from seeking to promote the peace and unity of the home, she is a constant source of turmoil and
unrest
such a wife is as aggravating as the continual dripping of a leaky faucet or a leaking roof in the middle of
the night
It is better to live on the corner of a roof than in a spacious house with a quarrelsome woman.
(Proverbs 21:9)

it is better, in the sense of being more peaceful, to live on the rooftop, even though it means being
exposed to the wind and rain and cold, than to dwell with a contentious woman
It is better to live in a desolate land than with a quarrelsome and ill-tempered woman. (Proverbs 21:19)

c.
it is preferable to live out in the desert under the broiling sun and among the snakes and scorpions,
than to dwell with a contentious and fretful woman
ten proverbs deal with the subject of women, five of those ten address the problem of a contentious
woman
A constant dripping on a very rainy day and a quarrelsome woman are alike;
restraining the wind or grasping oil with one’s hand. (Proverbs 27:15-16)
16
restraining her is like
i.
the contentious wife may have just cause for being upset, she may have a legitimate grievance
ii.
but she unwisely resorts to contentiousness in seeking to rectify the situation: complaining,
nagging, quarrelling, and doing so continuously
iii.
the consequence of her behavior: rather than having her complaint addressed and the situation
corrected, she is creating a state of unrest and further alienation
iv.
consider these biblical alternatives to contentiousness:
May your beauty not merely be the external beauty of having elaborately braided hair and
wearing gold jewelry or dressing in exquisite garments; 4rather, may it be the inner beauty of
the heart, consisting in the imperishable beauty of a humble and quiet spirit, which is very
precious in the sight of God. (1 Peter 3:3-4)
If your brother sins against you, go and show him his fault, just between the two of you. If
he listens to you, you have won your brother over. 16But if he will not listen, take one or two
others along, so that every matter may be established by the testimony of two or three
witnesses. 17If he refuses to listen to them, tell it to the church; and if he refuses to listen
even to the church, treat him as you would a Gentile or a tax collector. (Matthew 18:15-17)
Cast your burden upon Jehovah and he will sustain you; he will never allow the righteous to be
moved. (Psalm 55:22)
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This is part of your calling, because Christ also suffered for you, leaving you an example with
the intention that you should follow in his footsteps. 22He “committed no sin, neither was any
deceit found in his mouth.” 23When they insulted him, he did not insult them; when he
suffered, he did not threaten; rather, he committed himself to him who judges righteously.
(1 Peter 2:21-23)
v.
the husband (verse 16) can no longer tolerate the contentiousness of his wife, so what course of
action does he take?
vi.

he seeks to restrain her—note: he seeks to stop her nagging and complaining, but he
foolishly fails to address and alleviate the cause of her complaint

but he finds that it is impossible to restrain her: his efforts to do so are compared with
trying to restrain the wind or picking up oil with your hand; he only makes matters worse,
further aggravating his wife and himself
consider these biblical ways of preventing contention or dealing with it in a godly manner when
it arises:
Likewise, may the husbands live with their wives in an understanding way: showing respect to
the wife as a weaker partner and as a co-heir of the grace of life. Conduct yourselves in this
way so that your prayers are not hindered. (1 Peter 3:7)
A contrite answer turns away wrath, but a harsh word stirs up anger. (Proverbs 15:1)
Husbands, love your wives and do not be harsh with them. (Colossians 3:19)
Husbands, love your wives, just as Christ loved the church and gave himself up for her
(Ephesians 5:25)
4. Be a worthy woman, …by developing a virtuous character consisting of integrity, prudence, and a quiet
spirit.
II. Be A Worthy Woman,
…by Making Your Home Your Top Priority
1.
Consider the broad scope of this woman’s life:
a.
she is an enterprising and successful business woman
She evaluates a piece of property and purchases it; out of her earnings she plants a vineyard.
(Proverbs 31:16)

she is able to evaluate a piece of property, negotiate the purchase of that property, and turn the
land into productive and profitable use

Proverbs 31:11 indicates that her husband has complete confidence in her; one dimension of that
trust is his confidence in his wife’s abilities
She makes linen garments and sells them, and she supplies the merchants with sashes. (Proverbs
31:24)

b.
she is engaged in a profitable garment-making business: confidently dealing with the buying public
and with businessmen, providing a high quality product (linen garments)
she is actively involved in a ministry of charity in the community
She opens her arms to the poor; indeed, she extends her hands to the needy. (Proverbs 31:20)

she is complying with the command of Deuteronomy 15:11
…I command you to be open-handed toward your brothers and toward the poor and needy in
your land. (Deuteronomy 15:11)
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2.
Consider, also, the focus of this woman’s life: she makes her home her top priority: she carries on all her
business activities on behalf of her family, not at the expense of her family
She gets up while it is still dark; she provides food for her family and assigns her maidservants their
tasks. (Proverbs 31:15)
When it snows, she has no fear for her household, for all of them are clothed in scarlet. (Proverbs 31:21)
She diligently watches over the affairs of her household and does not idly sit by indulging herself.
(Proverbs 31:27)
Her husband has complete confidence in her, and he shall lack nothing of value.
not harm, all the days of her life. (Proverbs 31:11-12)
3.
12
She does him good and
Consider the counsel of Proverbs 14:1,
Every wise woman builds up her house, but a foolish woman tears hers down with her own hands. (Proverbs
14:1)
4.
a.
a wise woman invests her energies in the building up of her home and family
b.
all her activities, however diverse and far reaching, contribute to the well being of her home, they are
not undertaken at the expense of her home or as a substitute for her home
c.
in contrast to the wise woman, a foolish woman tears hers down with her own hands

Would you ever pick up an axe and start hacking your own house to pieces? If your top priority is
not your home and family, if your energy and attention is found to be focused somewhere other
than your home, you are tearing it down.

beware of this fact even when your attention and energy may be focused on “a worthy cause:”
The famous baseball player, Ted Williams, suffered neglect as a child because his mother devoted
all her time and energy to the worthy cause of the local Salvation Army, but failed to attend to her
own home and family
Be a worthy woman, …by making your home your top priority.

bear in mind the admonition of 1 Corinthians 7:34,
…the woman who is not married and the virgin care about the things of the Lord, such a woman’s
concern is to be holy both in body and in spirit. But the married woman must be concerned about the
things of the world, how she can please her husband. (1 Corinthians 7:34)
III. Be A Worthy Woman,
…Who is Truly Deserving of Praise
1.
Charm is deceptive… (Proverbs 31:30a)

2.
…beauty is fleeting… (Proverbs 31:30b)

3.
i.e., a woman may be charming and thus attract men to herself; but if there is nothing of godly
substance below the surface of her charm, then that charm is deceitful; it is an alluring package, but
disappointingly, there is no substantial content
mere outward beauty, all by itself without the accompaniment of the beauty of a godly character, is
empty, it is lacking in lasting, spiritually nourishing substance
…but a woman who fears Jehovah,—one whose life is governed by a holy reverence for the Lord her God—
she shall be praised (Proverbs 31:30c)
a.
she should be praised by her children
Her children stand up and call her blessed (Proverbs 31:28a)
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b.
she should be praised by her husband
…her husband…praises her, saying,
(Proverbs 31:28b-29)
c.
29
“Many women do noble things, but you surpass them all!”
she should be praised by the church
…let her works bring her praise at the city gate. (Proverbs 31:31b), the godly woman receives public
praise among the people of God
d.
she will be honored by her God
May your beauty not merely be the external beauty of having elaborately braided hair and wearing
gold jewelry or dressing in exquisite garments; 4rather, may it be the inner beauty of the heart,
consisting in the imperishable beauty of a humble and quiet spirit, which is very precious in the
sight of God. (1 Peter 3:3-4)
4.
Be a worthy woman, …a woman who is truly deserving of praise
Conclusion
1.
Kathrine Kersten speaks of her great grandmother and her grandmother in the following terms:
My great grandmother … was widowed at a young age. After her husband died, she took
her eight children to Colorado and homesteaded there as a single mother. She nursed
four children who died before the age of 18. She worked hard, night and day, battling
the elements to insure that the children who survived would become honorable and
productive citizens. In similar fashion, my grandmother raised five children almost
single-handedly during the Depression. She started a business and drove her Model T
30,000 miles across the country to establish a chain of distributors. With the money
she earned, she helped to send her children to college.
What made it possible for my grandmother and great grandmother to accomplish so much?
…They knew who they were, why they were here, and what they had to do. They had wellconsidered ideas about what the good life is, and they had the internal resources of
virtue and character necessary to live that life. They were strong women, like the
industrious woman of “noble character” praised in Proverbs 31. (Christianity Today, June 20,
1994, p.22)
2.
In reliance upon the grace of Christ our Savior, may our Christian sisters strive to become the type of worthy
woman described in the book of Proverbs:



3.
one who develops a virtuous character
one who makes her home her top priority
one who is truly deserving of praise
And may we, as Christian brothers and husbands, pray for and help our sisters successfully undertake this
spiritually worthy endeavor.
Questions on the topic of A Worthy Woman
1. According to Proverbs 31:10-12 (printed below), of what value is a worthy woman to her husband?
A worthy woman...is worth far more than rubies. (11) Her husband has complete confidence in her, and he shall lack
nothing of value. (12) She does good to him and not harm, all the days of her life. (Proverbs 31:10-12)
2. What does Proverbs 11:22 (printed below) tell us about the importance of discretion in a woman's character?
Like a gold ring in a pig's snout, so is a beautiful woman who lacks discretion. (Proverbs 11:22)
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3. According to Proverbs 14:1 (printed below,) after God, what should be a woman's top priority?
Every wise woman builds up her house, but a foolish woman tears hers down with her own hands. (Proverbs 14:1)
4. What activities occupy the time and attention of the worthy woman? See Proverbs 31:16,20,24 (printed below)
She evaluates a piece of property and purchases it; out of her earnings she plants a vineyard... (20) She opens her
arms to the poor; indeed, she extends her hands to the needy... (24) She makes linen garments and sells them, and
she supplies the merchants with sashes. (Proverbs 31:16, 20, 24)
5. According to Proverbs 31:30 (printed below,) what is the most valuable asset a woman can have?
Charm is deceptive, beauty is fleeting; but a woman who fears Jehovah—she shall be praised (Proverbs 31:30)
6. According to Proverbs 31, what attributes are included in the virtuous character of the worthy woman?
a.
b.
c.
d.
A virtuous character includes integrity: commitment to God’s moral standard.
A virtuous character includes prudence: the ability to carefully manage one’s life and resources.
A virtuous character includes self-assertiveness: aggressively seeking self-fulfillment by insisting upon
one’s rights.
All of the above
7. Complete the proverbs listed below that describe a quarrelsome woman.
a.
b.
c.
A quarrelsome wife is like ___. (Proverbs 19:13b)
It is better to live on ___ than in a spacious house with a quarrelsome woman. (Proverbs 21:19)
A constant dripping on ___ and a quarrelsome woman are alike. (Proverbs 27:15)
1. a constant dripping
2. a very rainy day
3. the corner of a roof
8. Match the following passages from Proverbs 31 with the activities in which the worthy woman is engaged.
a.
b.
c.
She evaluates a piece of property and purchases it; out of her earnings she plants a vineyard. (Proverbs
31:16) ___
She makes linen garments and sells them, and she supplies the merchants with sashes. (Proverbs 31:24)
___
She opens her arms to the poor; indeed, she extends her hands to the needy. (Proverbs 31:20) ___
1. She is engaged in charitable work.
2. She is engaged in a profitable business enterprise.
3. She engages in successful business ventures.
9. According to Proverbs 31, the worthy woman makes her personal fulfillment her top priority. True or False
10. According to Proverbs 31:30, what is/are the most valuable asset(s) a woman can have? (
a.
b.
c.
d.
Love for Her Family
Fear of the Lord
Charm and Beauty
Independence and Self-Assertiveness
(At some point, perhaps after a time of review, the facilitator should ad minister
the Final Exam on Proverbs (3).)
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