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Lesson # 8: “Flee from Immorality!” (Prov 5:1-23)

The beginning of Proverbs contains 10 lessons of wisdom (Ch 1-9). This blog post will examine Lesson # 8, where the father devotes an entire chapter to a “man to man” talk with his son about sexual immorality. The structure is first: a warning (5:1-6), second: a laying out of consequences for disobedience (5:7-14), third, a contrast given of the intimate beauty and joy found within the boundaries of marriage (5:15-20), and finally, this lesson is concluded with a summary (5:21-23). Like guardrails on the highway, God’s wisdom gives us guidance on how our desire for intimacy can be channeled in an appropriate direction, without bringing harm to us or others. This lecture (Rated PG-13) begins with the familiar words, “My son.”

5:1 My son, pay attention to my wisdom,
    turn your ear to my words of insight,
2 that you may maintain discretion
    and your lips may preserve knowledge.
3 For the lips of the adulterous woman drip honey,
    and her speech is smoother than oil;
4 but in the end she is bitter as gall,
    sharp as a double-edged sword.
5 Her feet go down to death;
    her steps lead straight to the grave.
6 She gives no thought to the way of life;
    her paths wander aimlessly, but she does not know it.

(Prov 5:1-6, NIV)

People were often married at a young age in the ancient near east, such as King Josiah (age 14), and King Jehoiachin (age 16). Therefore, the warning here is against being unfaithful to one’s spouse, particularly with the “adulterous woman” or “unchaste woman” who is also married already as well (Prov 6:34). Solomon begins with a description of her seductive speech. The imagery of honey and oil are employed to describe her dripping words and smooth talk. Before the widespread use of sugar, refined honey was known as one of the sweetest, tempting substances to consume. The path toward illicit passion starts out with attractive, flattering words, lubricating a greased chute toward sexual sin. Immorality is often accompanied by love songs, whispered sweet nothings, and seductive charm. The question is, will the son listen to her words, or will the son listen to his father words?

Though sweet at first, in the end, the father says indulging in sexual immorality is like drinking bitter “gall,” (or “wormwood”), a substance drawn from a poisonous plant with lethal consequences. You may recall from Shakespeare’s play, Juliet’s nurse spoke of the weaning process of dabbing on her breast wormwood. This was a common symbol of bitterness in the bible. The old adage fits this lesson well, “The honey is sweet, but the bee stings.” 

7 Now then, my sons, listen to me;
    do not turn aside from what I say.
8 Keep to a path far from her,
    do not go near the door of her house,
9 lest you lose your honor to others
    and your dignity to one who is cruel,
10 lest strangers feast on your wealth
 and your toil enrich the house of another.
11 At the end of your life you will groan,
    when your flesh and body are spent.
12 You will say, “How I hated discipline!
    How my heart spurned correction!
13 I would not obey my teachers
    or turn my ear to my instructors.
14 And I was soon in serious trouble
    in the assembly of God’s people.”

(Prov 5:7-14, NIV)

If the son were to fail in the ethical area of promiscuity, here the father gets very specific about the potential economic and social ruin that will be caused by these kinds of sins. As a negative motivation, the father pleads with his son with two major risks, one being reputational and the other being financial.

First, he implores his son not to give up his “honor” and lose his “dignity,” allowing the best years of life to be squandered and lost in regret. No doubt his failure in this area would damage his reputation through personal shame, public embarrassment and lost honor in the public square. 

Second, the economic impact of failure here could also be quite significant. His son’s wealth could be lost through blackmail. Or, his son’s acquisitions made through toil and hard work could be in jeopardy of being passed to another household if they are plundered.

Imagining this scenario occurring, four times the foolish son condemns himself here as the one who would be solely responsible. He would be the one to have not listened to his father (or any of the other sages). He would be the one to have thrown away his own moral compass. These kinds of wounds are self-inflicted and therefore, since this catastrophe was preventable, the regret would be almost too much to bear. In the end, he would “groan” or growl as a beast that had been mortally wounded.

Friends, there are shattering, soul-destroying effects of sexual sin, the consequences can even be deadly. The modern day woes of alimony, child support, broken homes and sexually transmitted infections testify to this timeless truth. Not much has changed. Commentator David Hubbard states “In recent times, a number of politicians and religious leaders could be summoned to verify the accuracy of the teacher’s words.” (a) 

The father then turns to give the son the positive benefits of wisdom in this area of his life. In this next section (v 15-20), he lifts up the joy found in making and keeping the covenant of marriage.

15 Drink water from your own cistern,
    running water from your own well.
16 Should your springs overflow in the streets,
    your streams of water in the public squares?
17 Let them be yours alone,
    never to be shared with strangers.
18 May your fountain be blessed,
    and may you rejoice in the wife of your youth.
19 A loving doe, a graceful deer—
    may her breasts satisfy you always,
    may you ever be intoxicated with her love.
20 Why, my son, be intoxicated with another man’s wife?
    Why embrace the bosom of a wayward woman?

(Prov 5:15-20, NIV)

Here Solomon uses “water” as an image for quenching the son’s sexual desires or thirsts with one’s wife (Song 5:1). Rainfall was scarce and a cistern would be a prized possession. As a private well, she will provide cool and lasting refreshment for the son’s “hot” desires. The erotic description of the ecstasy of lovemaking lifts up the deep and lasting pleasure and joy found only inside the committed marriage bed. This sacred pleasure is even likened to a kind of intoxication (Song 5:19-20). Our culture constantly sends us messages through Hollywood and the media that unrestricted sexual behaviors will lead to freedom and satisfaction. The scriptures teach us the exact opposite. Namely, that it’s actually inside of a radical commitment to monogamy that will lead us to the most satisfying sex life. In fact, this will be so life-giving, that the rhetorical question (in v 20) expresses amazement that his son would ever even consider choosing anything else. This would be such folly! Commentator David Hubbard states, “When this kind of companionship is available at home, is it not sheer stupidity to seek it in the arms of a person whose name, values, and habits of life are foreign to you?” (b) 

21 For your ways are in full view of the Lord,
    and he examines all your paths.
22 The evil deeds of the wicked ensnare them;
    the cords of their sins hold them fast.
23 For lack of discipline they will die,
    led astray by their own great folly.

(Prov 5:21-23, NIV)

According to the Law of Moses, adultery was a capital offense (Lev 20:10, Deut 22:22), but it may be the practical consequences for this kind of sin that is in view here. We learn elsewhere that the LORD lets sin punish itself (Prov 1:31-32) Bruce Waltke explains, “No thunderbolt from heaven strikes him down. Rather sin will catch him.” (c) As the New Testament teaches elsewhere, we will “reap what we sow” (Gal 6:7).  

The Lesson:

The application of this lesson is rather obvious: Flee from sexual immorality! (1 Cor 6:18-20) The son must become as Joseph with Potiphar’s wife (Gen 39:8-9), fending off her malevolence. The reasons for this are many, as poor choices in the area of our sexual lives can have a life-long impact. 

To those who are single, you need to look beyond the temporary, passing pleasures of sin and embrace a life of abstinence, faithfulness and self-control in accordance with God’s design of marriage (Gen 2:24-25). The wise son knows that God’s wisdom is for his own flourishing. You need to decide today you will obey, as unless you are prepared ahead of time you can hardly resist! Weigh the transient pleasure against the perpetual consequences! 

To those who are married, you must remember that a husband and wife are bound by covenant to forsake all others and cleave to one another in love (Gen 2:24-25). We must keep our passions kindled and affections alive. Ultimately, there is a larger reason we obey, our faithfulness to our spouse is to be reflective of our covenant-keeping God – who is always loyal to us.

To all of us, let us pray as our Lord taught us, “Lead us not into temptation, but deliver us from the evil one.” (Matt 6:13)

Flee from Immorality.

Next, we will consider Lesson # 9.

The Ten Lessons of Wisdom: 

REFERENCES:

(a) David Hubbard, Proverbs, The Preacher’s Commentary, Vol 15 (Nashville: Thomas Nelson, 1989), 93.

(b) Hubbard, Proverbs, 95. 

(c) Bruce Waltke, The Book of Proverbs: Chapters 1-15 (Grand Rapids: Eerdmans, 2005), 324.

Lesson # 7: “Guard your Heart!” (Prov 4:20-27)

The beginning of Proverbs contains 10 lessons of wisdom (Ch. 1-9). Today we will examine lesson # 7 from Proverbs 4:20-27, beginning as usual with the familiar introductory words “My son…”

The main topic in this lesson is about “Guarding the heart.” In terms of a biblical anthropology, the “heart” is the “source” of all our other activity. Here it is called (in Hebrew) the fountain or “well spring.” (ESV “spring”) This term would be universally understood by the readers of Solomon’s time because you always had a water source in every human settlement. A city would be built around the wellspring, and then walls would be built around the city so the wellspring could be guarded and protected.

Friends, there is a wellspring or reservoir in each and every one of us, it’s called “the heart.” The Message translation reads, “Keep vigilant watch over your heart; that’s where life starts.” Let’s look at the lesson as a whole: 

My son, pay attention to what I say;
    turn your ear to my words.
Do not let them out of your sight,
    keep them within your heart;
for they are life to those who find them
    and health to one’s whole body.
Above all else, guard your heart,
    for everything you do flows from it.
Keep your mouth free of perversity;
    keep corrupt talk far from your lips.
Let your eyes look straight ahead;
    fix your gaze directly before you.
Give careful thought to the paths for your feet
    and be steadfast in all your ways.
Do not turn to the right or the left;
    keep your foot from evil.

(Prov 4:20-27, NIV)

The overarching theme in this lesson has to do with the human anatomy. Notice all the parts of the human body that are mentioned: “the ear” (v 20), the “eyes” (v 21), the “mouth” (v 21), the “lips” (v 21), the “whole body” (v 22), the “feet” (v 26), and most importantly “the heart” (v 21 and v 23). The lesson here is that all of the entire self will need to be fully engaged in the task of living out God’s wisdom.

With our feet we are to make morally good decisions. The phrase “Do not turn” means no moral deviation, staying on the path of wisdom. Don’t swerve. Don’t go down the way of folly. There is no third way. (see Lesson # 6)

With our eyes we are to be careful what we allow into our lives. You may be familiar with the children’s song, “Be careful little eyes what you see.”

With our mouths we are to honor God. With our lips we are to stay away from corrupt talk. Why? Where does all of this behavior come from? It all comes from the wellspring. For example, you may recall that Jesus said in Matthew 12:35, “the mouth speaks what the heart is full of” – whether good or evil. In other words, when I let myself have a moment of unrestrained conversation, whatever comes out of my mouth is what’s in my heart. What one is and what one says are inseparable. Our words and actions all flow from somewhere … this leads us to the center of the lesson, the command to put a guard around the heart.

Proverbs 4:23 says, “Guard your heart!” Notice the phrase “above all else,” this command is supreme. A pastor and friend of mine, Peter Pendell, calls this the “mother of all battles.” The heart is the place where God works. This is where conviction takes place, at the heart level. This is what we are to “guard.” 

What are the signs and symptoms of a heart that is unguarded and in danger?

First, there are emotional signs, like low grade anger or depression. Or, there are signs that your emotions just went AWOL and aren’t there. You are flat-lined. You just “study and do” in a kind of robotic way. But you are just doing things out of duty, your heart isn’t in it.

Second, there are also relational signs. Those kinds of stoic or out of control emotions don’t make for good relational connection. You begin to hurt others as you become insensitive to where they are.

Friends, this is so important. God desires our hearts be guarded. It affects everything! Above all else, guard your heart! 

The Lesson:

You must post a guard around your heart today. You must be careful about what or who you allow in. You must also be careful about becoming too busy or carrying too heavy a load. You must be careful about what is most important to you. Anything other than God at the center of our being becomes idolatrous. Tim Keller’s book “Counterfeit gods” goes deeper into this issue. St. Augustine said it well, “Thou hast made us for thyself, and our hearts are restless until they find their rest in Thee.”

Guard your Heart.

For further study on this, I would like to recommend watching this sermon by Peter Pendell on this topic. Next we will consider Lesson # 8.

The Ten Lessons of Wisdom: 

Lesson # 6: “Choose the Way of Wisdom.” (Prov 4:10-19)

The book of Proverbs begins with 10 lessons of wisdom (Ch 1-9). Here in this blog post we will examine lesson # 6. It begins with the familiar address, “My son.” The main theme in this lesson has to do with “the path,” a dominant metaphor in this biblical book. This theme is reflected in the title of our sermon series for Proverbs, “The Way of Wisdom.” The topography of Israel with its craggy hills, rocky cliffs, dark shadowy trails and treacherous pits would provide a vivid word picture for the son.

Notice the words “way” (v 11, 14, 19), “tracks” (v 11), “step” (v 12), “path” (v 14, 18), “lead” (v 11), “walk” (v 12), “run “v 12), “tripped up” (v 12, 16), “stop” (v 13), “enter” (v 14), “take a step” (v 14), “traverse” (v 15), “turn aside” and “pass on” (v 15). There are two paths described in this lesson, the way of wisdom (v 1-13) and the path of the wicked (v 14-17), followed by a concluding summary (v 18-19).

Listen, my son, accept what I say,
    and the years of your life will be many.
I instruct you in the way of wisdom
    and lead you along straight paths.
When you walk, your steps will not be hampered;
    when you run, you will not stumble.
Hold on to instruction, do not let it go;
    guard it well, for it is your life.

(Prov 4:10-13, NIV)

The “way of wisdom” is the book of Proverbs is not some abstract philosophy, it is a metaphor for one’s ongoing practical lifestyle. Each step represents a decision to conduct one’s self in a consistent manner. The wise lifestyle is likened a road that has come into existence because other godly people have walked this ancient and proven path before in obedience to God’s word. The way of wisdom is straight, safe, and it will lead the son to his divine destiny.

On the other hand, the way of the wicked is hard, it brings fatigue, it contains obstacles (a metaphor for debilitating moral consequences), and it will lead to ruin…

Do not set foot on the path of the wicked
or walk in the way of evildoers.
Avoid it, do not travel on it;
    turn from it and go on your way.
For they cannot rest until they do evil;
    they are robbed of sleep till they make someone stumble.
They eat the bread of wickedness
    and drink the wine of violence.

(Prov 4:14-17, NIV)

Notice here that the wicked “cannot rest” until they do evil. OT scholar Bruce Waltke states that Solomon, “graphically represents their evil state of mind by representing them as ‘evilholics.'” (a) Sin is part of their daily diet. They have lost the battle within. Mr. Hyde has conquered Dr. Jekyl. The way of the wicked leads to a frightening conclusion. The two paths couldn’t be more different, they are like night and day.

The path of the righteous is like the morning sun,
    shining ever brighter till the full light of day.
But the way of the wicked is like deep darkness;
    they do not know what makes them stumble.

(Prov 4:18-19, NIV)

This poetic metaphor of light and dark, day and night, provides a profound closing illustration. In the early morning, the day begins with what’s called “first light,” then the sun will come up and it will grow stronger and stronger and brighter and brighter in its intensity throughout the day. Solomon tells us that is what a life of righteousness is like. It starts dim but grows stronger throughout life. It doesn’t fade. On the other hand, there are a lot of exploits of the wicked that are done in youth that are wrong, but at the time seem flashy and “cool.” College students think it’s fun to party, and sleep around or violate the law. But, that kind of lifestyle, though it starts out as a flash in the pan, over a period of time it grows weaker and weaker in is attractiveness through the years, doesn’t it? Not the righteous, they’re different. The way of wisdom doesn’t start out really popular, instead it starts with just a small light, but then as life goes on, when it comes tot he wise, their character and reputation just gets brighter and brighter until the full day. The wicked on the other hand start out at dusk and then their way gets darker and darker until it is pitch black. The righteous life is dim at first, it is not very flashy or impressive, but over time a life lived with wisdom and integrity becomes brilliant and attractive. That is what Solomon wants his son to become. This occurs by following the way of wisdom. The wise person will see the connection between choices and consequences, the wicked will never understand that or learn.

The Lesson:

The lesson reminds me of the words of this well-known poem by Robert Frost:

Two roads diverged in a wood, and I –

I took the one less traveled by,

And that has made all the difference.

We must turn away from the way of the wicked. There are no shortcuts, and it may feel slow as you only take one step at a time, still at the end of your life, you will end up worlds apart from the wicked. 

Choose the Way of Wisdom. 

Next we will examine Lesson # 7. 

The Ten Lessons of Wisdom: 

REFERENCES:

(a) Bruce Waltke, The Book of Proverbs: Chapters 1-15 (Grand Rapids: Eerdmans, 2005), 286.

Lesson # 5: “Your Spiritual Inheritance Comes With a Price.” (Prov 4:1-9)

The beginning of the book of Proverbs contains 10 lessons of wisdom (Ch. 1-9). This blog post will examine the fifth lesson from Proverbs 4:1-9.

Here in this fifth lesson we are actually learning the grandfather’s lesson that was first given to him. Linking the generations, Solomon quotes directly from his father’s lecture and we get a personal glimpse into the family tree. Solomon urges his son to take part in the family legacy that’s being built. By quoting his father David, Solomon implies that he too, like his son, once sat in the seat of the student. The tradition of gaining wisdom from the previous generation is being passed along and this teaching  and tradition deserves to be preserved. Gaining wisdom in this way is the son’s most valuable spiritual inheritance. He will carry on the family’s name and legacy.

Listen, my sons, to a father’s instruction;
    pay attention and gain understanding.
I give you sound learning,
    so do not forsake my teaching.

(Prov 4:1-2, NIV)

The word “listen” in verse one means to pay careful attention. The goal is to gain insight and understanding, not just hear what is said. In college, sometimes I would audit a course without doing the work for credit. This is not the idea here behind the command. The father is urging his son to take this work very seriously. The phrase “sound learning” in verse two implies a good teaching that has been tried and tested and proven. In other words, whenever this teaching has been applied it has brought blessing. And, it implies whenever it was neglected it has brought pain and heartbreak. It is sound. Next, Solomon relays to his son what it was like when he was a young child who was precious and cherished in the home of his father David.

For I too was a son to my father,
    still tender, and cherished by my mother.
Then he taught me, and he said to me,
    “Take hold of my words with all your heart;
    keep my commands, and you will live.

(Prov 4:3-4, NIV)

These words have such gravitas. Here Solomon is giving us a glimpse into his own childhood when he grew up with a loving mother and a father as his mentor. The father was willing to teach and the student was ready to receive it. Commentator Bruce Waltke calls this a “beautiful cameo of the pious Israelite home in which the father was an inexperienced child who depended on the gentle care of his father and mother’s tenderness.” (a)

We are told elsewhere that Solomon’s father, King David, was a man after God’s own heart (1 Sam 13:14). He was Israel’s greatest king. Solomon carried royal DNA. But, King David had also made significant mistakes including adultery and murder, which brought him life-long consequences. These are regrets that he explained to his son as warnings not to go down those same sinful and foolish paths. This is like an alcoholic father who is dying from cirrhosis of the liver telling his son not to drink alcohol. (b) Family patterns and cycles must be broken. David’s similar instructions to Solomon are found elsewhere: 

“Keep the charge of the Lord your God, to walk in His ways, to keep His statutes, His commandments, His ordinances, and His testimonies, according to what is written in the law of Moses, that you may succeed in all that you do and wherever you turn.”

(1 Kgs 2:3)

Learning from mistakes and breaking dysfunctional family patterns is a large part of good parenting. These final words are words to live by. Next, after preparing the soil, Solomon gives his son the essence of their  grandfather’s lecture:

Get wisdom, get understanding;
    do not forget my words or turn away from them.

Do not forsake wisdom, and she will protect you;
    love her, and she will watch over you.

(Prov 4:5-6, NIV)

The lesson here is simple yet profound, Solomon is encouraging his son to “get” or “acquire” wisdom at all costs. The word “get” (which occurs 4x here for emphasis) means “to purchase, or to acquire goods through a financial transaction.”

What in the world does this mean? The key to unlock the meaning of this lesson is to understand the image of an ancient wedding. Wisdom is personified as not just a woman here, but a bride for whom a dowry price would be paid. In this case, she will cost the son everything he owns. As such, this can only be done out of true love. The word “love” here means to cherish and set your sincere affection upon something, upon wisdom, just as you would set your affection on your own wife.  

The beginning of wisdom is this: Get wisdom.
    Though it cost all you have, get understanding.
Cherish her, and she will exalt you;
    embrace her, and she will honor you.
She will give you a garland to grace your head
    and present you with a glorious crown.

(Prov 4:7-9, NIV)

The phrase “the beginning of” signifies either a starting point or the chief thing. The case is being made that because wisdom is supreme, she is worth all the son owns. For the New Testament parallel, she is like the pearl of great price. (Matt 13:45-46) Solomon concludes this lesson with another powerful motivation. The benefits of wisdom are compelling and attractive, she will care for you and you will wear a crown. Again, this is wedding imagery as a bridegroom would wear this on his head during the ceremony (Song 3:11).

The Lesson:

Lesson # 5 is a “heart to heart” talk. Son, do you really want wisdom? Do you want the benefits of following God’s instructions? If we are honest, often the truth is – we want the benefits but do not want to do the hard work that it takes to acquire wisdom. The price for wisdom is too high. It will cost you nothing less than your very heart. This is a gut check. Do you really love and want wisdom? This is your spiritual birthright, provided you desire and are willing to take hold of it. Derek Kidner puts it bluntly, “What it takes is not brains or opportunity, but a decision. Do you want it? Come and get it.” (c)

Your Spiritual Inheritance Comes With a Price. 

Next we will examine Lesson # 6.  

The Ten Lessons of Wisdom: 

REFERENCES: 

(a) Bruce Waltke, The Book of Proverbs: Chapters 1-15 (Grand Rapids: Eerdmans, 2005), 278.

(b) I am indebted to Professor Peter Hook at Philadelphia Biblical University for this insight. OT Poetic Books. Course Notes. 2000.

(c) Derek Kidner. Proverbs. Tyndale Old Testament Commentaries. (Downers Grove, IVP, 2009), 67.

Lesson # 4: “Wisdom is a Tree of Life.” (Prov 3:13-35)

What is your greatest treasure? The central theme of this lesson is that the father presents a case to his son that Wisdom is the most important resource in all the world. It is more precious than jewels, it offers creative power, it provides divine protection and it gives one’s life divine purpose.

Background: The beginning of Proverbs (Prov Ch. 1-9) contains 10 Lessons of Wisdom. Typically, each lesson contains the words “My son.” Typically, this is in the beginning, but in this lesson this formal address comes in the middle (in v. 21). Lesson # 4 contains four related parts. Scholars believe these were likely four independent poems which were forged together into one unit, breaking down as follows:  

  1. The Value of Wisdom to Humanity. (3:13-18)
  2. The Value of Wisdom to God. (3:19-20)
  3. The Value of Wisdom to the son. (3:21-26)
  4. Implications of Wisdom for being a good neighbor. (3:27-35)

 The lesson begins with this word of “blessing.”

Blessed are those who find wisdom,
    those who gain understanding,
for she is more profitable than silver
    and yields better returns than gold.
She is more precious than rubies;
    nothing you desire can compare with her.
Long life is in her right hand;
    in her left hand are riches and honor.
Her ways are pleasant ways,
    and all her paths are peace.
She is a tree of life to those who take hold of her;
    those who hold her fast will be blessed.

(Prov 3:13-18, NIV)

In this first section, the father makes the case that wisdom is supremely valuable and therefore should be irresistible. It is compared to the most precious minerals found in geology. (For a passage with similar imagery, see Job 28:1-11.) Each culture has its status symbols, for some it is clothing, for others it is nice vehicles, for some it is jewelry, we all value something, but the most exquisite badge of wealth for God’s people should be wisdom. A Jewish Talmudic saying puts it well: 

“Lackest thou wisdom, what hast thou acquired? Hast thou acquired wisdom, what lackest thou?” (a)

In verse 18, the tree of life imagery is intriguing and profound and deserves further comment here. This is a theme which hearkens back to Genesis. The word translated “those” (in v 13, NIV) is literally the word “Adam” (this can be translated as a proper name or as more generally “humankind”). In the garden of Eden, “Adam” grasped for wisdom apart from God by grasping for the tree of the knowledge of good and evil. This self-focused rebellion of autonomy resulted in the fall, exile and the way to the tree of life was blocked by the cherubim. But here, we see that “Adam” (“humanity”) is given grace, a second chance to pursue and eat from the tree of life! How? We can do this by humbling ourselves and listening to the wisdom of God. OT scholar Bruce Waltke states, “Proverbs functions symbolically as the tree of life that was lost in Gen. 2:22-24.” (b) 

By wisdom the Lord laid the earth’s foundations,
    by understanding he set the heavens in place;
by his knowledge the watery depths were divided,
and the clouds let drop the dew.

(Prov 3:19-20)

Here in this second section we see that God Himself accomplished the great work of creation with wisdom as his primary tool. Wisdom had the power to split the heavens and set the earth on its foundations. Commentator David Hubbard restates the father’s argument as follows: “If Yahweh with wisdom as His tool could accomplish the wonders of the various phases of creation … think what wisdom will do, better, what Yahweh will do through wisdom in the lives of those who find it.” (c) 

My son, do not let wisdom and understanding out of your sight,
    preserve sound judgment and discretion;
they will be life for you,
    an ornament to grace your neck.
Then you will go on your way in safety,
    and your foot will not stumble.
When you lie down, you will not be afraid;
    when you lie down, your sleep will be sweet.
Have no fear of sudden disaster
    or of the ruin that overtakes the wicked,
for the Lord will be at your side
    and will keep your foot from being snared.

(Prov 3:21-26, NIV)

Do you prize wisdom? If so, the benefits will be many. Wisdom will guard, surround and protect the son all around. The imagery of the human body here denotes total protection (your eyes”, “neck”, “foot”, and “loins”).  One of the most wonderful benefits is that a life lived in accordance with wisdom will provide sweet refreshing sleep. (see also Psalm 3:5). We have an expression, “I slept like a baby.” The child of God will have a clear conscience, a fulfilling workload and be so secure that he rests well without fear, worry or interruption. The son should prize wisdom as his treasure. This will ultimately impact the way he interacts with others, leading to the final section of this lesson:

Do not withhold good from those to whom it is due,
    when it is in your power to act.
Do not say to your neighbor,
    “Come back tomorrow and I’ll give it to you”—
    when you already have it with you.
Do not plot harm against your neighbor,
    who lives trustfully near you.
Do not accuse anyone for no reason—
    when they have done you no harm.

Do not envy the violent
    or choose any of their ways.

For the Lord detests the perverse
    but takes the upright into his confidence.
33 The Lord’s curse is on the house of the wicked,
    but he blesses the home of the righteous.
34 He mocks proud mockers
    but shows favor to the humble and oppressed.
35 The wise inherit honor,
    but fools get only shame.

(Prov 3:27-25, NIV)

Here in this final section we have an admonition toward neighborly generosity. A life lived with wisdom has implications for loving one’s neighbor as one’s self. Just as God in His wisdom loves the poor, the outcast, the vulnerable and oppressed, so also the son endowed with God’s wisdom will reflect this divine attribute also. This good work should not be put off indefinitely, it is urgent. To seek others over and above one’s self is the essence of true wisdom.

The Lesson:

Here we learn that Wisdom is to be valued as supreme. It outweighs all wealth or any other earthly pursuit. The good life is not found through earthly goods or a life of self-seeking, but in the wisdom of loving God and men. Until we reach the tree of life in Revelation 2:7, we must hold fast to the life-giving wisdom on display in the book of Proverbs.

Ultimately, as Christians we read this passage and see that our supreme value is Christ, the ultimate personification of wisdom. Where we as sons fail, Jesus Christ is the greatest son and the greatest king, the one who even superseded Solomon in his wisdom (Matt 12:42). Could there ever be a wiser king? Could there be a greater treasure? Was there ever a greater act of neighborly love than the work of the cross of Christ? Following Jesus offers to us the tree of life. We must esteem Him as our highest treasure and seek to emulate our Lord in all we do. In Christ “are hidden all the treasures of wisdom and knowledge.” (Col 2:3, NIV)

Wisdom is a Tree of Life.

Next we will look at Lesson # 5. 

The Ten Lessons of Wisdom: 

References:

(a) Cohen, Proverbs, p. 17. Quoted in Bruce Waltke, The Book of Proverbs: Chapters 1-15 (Grand Rapids: Eerdmans, 2005), 258.

(b) Bruce Waltke, The Book of Proverbs: Chapters 1-15 (Grand Rapids: Eerdmans, 2005), 260.

(c) David Hubbard, Proverbs, The Preacher’s Commentary, Vol 15 (Nashville: Thomas Nelson, 1989), 76.

Lesson # 3: “Live before God with Consistency.” (Prov 3:1-12)

The beginning of the book of Proverbs contains 10 lessons of wisdom. We have already examined Lesson # 1 and Lesson # 2. This blog post will examine Lesson # 3 from Proverbs 3:1-12. As with each lesson, the father begins with the words “My son…”

Here this lesson contains God’s promises and the son’s obligations. It consists of twelve verses (totaling six parts), each of which presents an admonition (found in the odd verses) followed by a motivating argument (found in the even verses). Note as is typical the use of synonymous parallelism throughout. Let’s begin with verses 1-2:

My son, do not forget my teaching,
    but keep my commands in your heart,
for they will prolong your life many years
    and bring you peace and prosperity.

(Prov 3:1-2, NIV)

The father’s first command is to not forget his teaching (or catechism). The word “forget” is much more than mere absent-mindedness. The word literally means to “abandon.” We abandon God when we become self-sufficient and do not have an immediate need for Him. For most of us when things are going great our dependence slides. In light of that, who should we be praying for? (a) 

Usually we are tempted to abandon God when things are going well. This was the same warning given by Moses to the children of Israel after they settled into the land: 

When you have eaten and are satisfied, praise the Lord your God for the good land he has given you. Be careful that you do not forget the Lord your God, failing to observe his commands, his laws and his decrees that I am giving you this day. Otherwise, when you eat and are satisfied, when you build fine houses and settle down, and when your herds and flocks grow large and your silver and gold increase and all you have is multiplied, then your heart will become proud and you will forget the Lord your God, who brought you out of Egypt, out of the land of slavery.

(Deut 8:10-14, NIV)

If we trust God in good times and in bad times, this will result in a life filled with delight, enjoyment and peace (shalom) as good gifts from God above. Often in a Jewish environment, I will hear someone raise their wine glass in a toast and say, “L’chaim!” which means “To Life.” This is the language of blessing being used here in Proverbs 3. The father continues:

Let love and faithfulness never leave you;
    bind them around your neck,
    write them on the tablet of your heart.
Then you will win favor and a good name
    in the sight of God and man.

(Prov 3:3-4, NIV)

The two virtues of “love” and “faithfulness” mentioned here may be a way of referring symbolically to the father’s teaching and commandments. God’s commands are an expression of His love, they are for our blessing. Ultimately our love for others is the fulfillment of the Law. (see also Rom 13:8-13). This stands in contrast with the behavior of sinful men (2:16). Embracing these ethics and values will win favor with our two fundamental relationships (God and man, lit “Adam”). This will require trust in God.

Trust in the Lord with all your heart
    and lean not on your own understanding;
in all your ways submit to him,
    and he will make your paths straight.

(Prov 3:5-6, NIV)

Here in v. 5-6 we have the most frequently quoted words in the book of Proverbs by Christian disciples. These words have the outline of a wedding ceremony, words of commitment and renunciation.The acknowledgment (or “submission”) required here has to do with a relational and personal knowledge, an intimate experience with God Himself.The father’s demand is for an exclusive and exhaustive commitment of trust in God (“with all your heart” and “in all your ways.”) This trust is even above trusting in our own understanding. I must say, I read these verses with a hint of regret. We know from elsewhere that Solomon himself struggled to put into practice this command as he himself had a divided trust. For example, we read this in the book of Kings:

“King Solomon loved many foreign women … from the nations of whom the Lord had said to the children of Israel, “You shall not intermarry with them, nor they with you. Surely they will turn away your hearts after their gods.” Solomon clung to these in love… and his wives turned away his heart…and his heart was not loyal to the Lord his God, as was the heart of his father David.”

(1 Kings 11:1-4, NIV)

Here in Proverbs, I believe Solomon is writing to urge his son not to make the same mistakes he made of dividing his trust among idols or trusting in his own peace-making schemes. Trusting will not always be natural or easy, especially when the wicked prosper (14:26; 16:3; 18:10). The wise son must trust the Lord to act according to his sovereign pleasure for his ultimate good. We must remain confident that God will uphold his promises, albeit in his time and in his way. The “straight paths” may not appear that way from our perspective, but we do not see the bird’s eye view that God does and so we must choose to trust Him.

Do not be wise in your own eyes;
    fear the Lord and shun evil.
This will bring health to your body
    and nourishment to your bones.

(Prov 3:7-8, NIV)

To do things right “in one’s own eyes” in the Bible is the essence of sin, it is to be self-centered and foolish. (Judg 17:6, 21:25) The opposite approach to life is to turn toward God and experience salvation and true healing in every sense of the word. This extends to every area, including our finances:

Honor the Lord with your wealth,
    with the firstfruits of all your crops;
then your barns will be filled to overflowing,
    and your vats will brim over with new wine.

(Prov 3:9-10, NIV)

The word “honor” (Heb “Kabbed”) comes from the root word to be “heavy” and signifies esteeming someone with value and weight. The “first fruits” in the Bible referred to the first and best of all our resources: grain, crops, produce, livestock and even our children (Gen 49:30, Hos 9:10). God deserves our best. The reward for this allegiance is that the Creator will bless the true son more than one can ever ask or imagine. (Eph 3:20) Though we may experience God’s financial blessing, we in the New Covenant must remember that these instructions and the book of Proverbs were written within the economy of the Mosaic Covenant (Lev 26:3-13). There is much interplay between Proverbs and the Law, including consequences for disobedience: 

My son, do not despise the Lord’s discipline,
    and do not resent his rebuke,
because the Lord disciplines those he loves,
    as a father the son he delights in.

(Prov 3:11-12, NIV)

Wrong choices have consequences and God’s correction can feel unpleasant at the time it is offered. (see Heb 12:3-12) Nonetheless, divine discipline is always for the purpose of enabling the son to obey in order to enjoy the promises. C.S. Lewis once offered this helpful illustration: An artist may not be troubled over a picture drawn to amuse a child, but they will exert much effort to protect their greatest work of art. God’s discipline is a sign that he loves us deeply and takes our lives seriously.

The Lesson:

Here in Lesson # 3 we learn that we should never abandon God, in good times and bad. We also learn that our faith has practical applications. A true follower of God cannot separate their spiritual life with the ethical sphere of their practical life. This will yield much fruit. The benefits of obedience are long life and peace (v. 2), favor with God and others (v. 4), straight paths (v. 6), holistic healing (v. 8), blessed finances (v 10), and a father’s love (v. 12).

Trust in the Lord with all your heart, and lean not on your own understanding; in all your ways submit to him, and he will make your paths straight! 

Live before God with Consistency.

Next we will examine Lesson # 4. 

The Ten Lessons of Wisdom: 

References:

(a) I am indebted to Professor Peter Hook at Philadelphia Biblical University for this insight. OT Poetic Books. Course Notes. 2000.

 

Lesson # 2: “Diligently Seek Wisdom … and You Will Experience Her Protective Benefits.” (Prov 2:1-22)

The beginning of Proverbs contains 10 lessons of wisdom. In our previous blog post we examined (in two parts) Lesson # 1. Here we will examine Lesson # 2.

Proverbs 2:1-22 contains the father’s second lecture to his impressionable son in the form of a beautifully crafted poem. This entire passage is a single sentence consisting of 22 verses, matching the number of letters in the Hebrew alphabet. The poem can be divided neatly into two halves: Part 1 (Prov 2:1-11) and Part 2 (Prov 2:12-22). Every verse in Part 1 begins with the first letter of the Hebrew alphabet (aleph). Every verse in part 2 begins with the 12th letter in the Hebrew alphabet (lamed). This second lecture is not just filled with a brilliant lesson in wisdom, it is also truly a work of art.

Commentator David Hubbard says, “No chapter in Proverbs is more tightly knit than this.” (a) To read this poem skillfully, one must recognize how the poem displays the Hebrew convention of synonymous parallelism, meaning each verse is a couplet, with the second half of the couplet repeating the theme of the first half only in different words. Let’s begin with verses 1-4:

My son, if you accept my words
and store up my commands within you,
turning your ear to wisdom
and applying your heart to understanding—
indeed, if you call out for insight
and cry aloud for understanding,
and if you look for it as for silver
and search for it as for hidden treasure,

(Prov 2:1-4, NIV)

Here in this introduction we see the command to “accept” and “store up” (i.e. “treasure”) his father’s words. The phrase “apply your heart to” (v. 2) is the idea of turning toward someone and yielding. The heart will become a very important term in this section (see Prov 4:23), as it is the source or wellspring of life. Bruce Waltke states that in a sense, the son should seek to become like the “temple” of God, whose inner sanctuary housed the very words of God. (b) 

In verses 3-4 we move from the more passive commands of “listen” and “turning the ear to” the teacher’s wisdom to the more aggressive commands of “call out for” and “look for” wisdom. Wisdom is more precious than silver (a metal which was rare in Palestine and therefore very valuable). Here the writer is urging God’s people to pursue an education in godly ethics. The father begins with conditions that need to be met (note the word “if” in verses 1-4) in order to experience the positive consequences of wisdom’s protection (note the word “then” in v. 5ff). If you engage your mind and listen and search for God’s wisdom, He will answer you and protect you. The benefits are worth the effort.

then you will understand the fear of the Lord
and find the knowledge of God.
For the Lord gives wisdom;
from his mouth come knowledge and understanding.
He holds success in store for the upright,
he is a shield to those whose walk is blameless,
for he guards the course of the just
and protects the way of his faithful ones.
Then you will understand what is right and just
and fair—every good path.
For wisdom will enter your heart,
and knowledge will be pleasant to your soul.
Discretion will protect you,
and understanding will guard you.

(Prov 2:5-11, NIV)

Here we see introduced the “fear of the Lord” (v 5), a major theme in the book of Proverbs. It is important to note that this and understanding are the results of the son’s commitment to obey God’s commands, not the other way around. In other words, first, we must commit to obey, then we will understand. Our society teaches the opposite approach.

The contrast here is of two paths: the way of life (v 9) and the way of death (v 15). Waltke notes, “The way of life is straight, smooth, well lit, open, and public. The paths of death are crooked, rough, in deep gloom, and secretive.” (c) 

The way of wisdom will bring protection from the consequences of associating with wicked men (v 12-15) or associating with the seduction of unchaste women (v 16-19). The two temptations being mentioned have not changed much 3,000 years later, easy money and easy sex.

Wisdom will save you from the ways of wicked men,
from men whose words are perverse,
who have left the straight paths
to walk in dark ways,
who delight in doing wrong
and rejoice in the perverseness of evil,
whose paths are crooked
and who are devious in their ways.

(Prov 2:12-15, NIV) 

These wicked men have their value system turned upside down. These men have “abandoned” the law of God and delight not in good, but in evil instead. They do not trust the LORD, but rather they despise him (14:2), and therefore trust their own devious plans. The Lord is disgusted with their conduct (see Prov 3:32). The writer continues: 

Wisdom will save you also from the adulterous woman,
from the wayward woman with her seductive words,
who has left the partner of her youth
and ignored the covenant she made before God.
Surely her house leads down to death
and her paths to the spirits of the dead.
None who go to her return
or attain the paths of life.

(Prov 2:16-19, NIV)

In this section we see the language of marriage. The “adulterous” or “wayward woman” is a literally called “strange” or a “foreignness.” Solomon is not referring to her ethnicity, rather she is a spiritual outsider as she has left, ignored or “forgotten” (meaning she deliberately fails to obey) her marriage vows. Wisdom will offer protection from the woes of infidelity, but more saliently, from the woes of leaving one’s covenant with God. Spiritually speaking, marriage is a dominant metaphor for Israel’s relationship with her God (see Ezekiel 16, Hosea 1, Eph 5 et al). As such, this warning could also refer more broadly to a kind of “spiritual adultery,” i.e. – taking on Canaanite pagan practices in the worship of foreign deities. God’s people are called to keep their vows of covenant faithfulness to God, or the consequences are fatal. We see this in the next section: 

Thus you will walk in the ways of the good
and keep to the paths of the righteous.
For the upright will live in the land,
and the blameless will remain in it;
but the wicked will be cut off from the land,
and the unfaithful will be torn from it.

(Prov 2:20-22, NIV) 

Here we see two contrasting outcomes between the fate of the wise and the end of the fool. One will remain on the good earth (a promise which will be expanded in the New Testament) but the other will be cut off and relinquished to the grave and the realm of the dead. Why? The wicked (the treacherous) have displayed unfaithfulness to their relationship with their creator, resulting in separation. The upright and blameless on the other hand, will be rewarded with life eternal.

The Lesson:

What do we learn from this second lesson? We must understand that God’s wisdom is both essential and powerful. It is the key to protection and survival in this life and beyond. The stakes are very high. However, we must also realize that gaining wisdom will not occur automatically. We will not drift into it lazily. Instead, it will require a deliberate decision and involve an all-out effort on our parts. If you engage your mind and listen, if you search for God’s wisdom as treasure, He will answer you and deliver you from all kinds of dangers. Diligently seek wisdom and you will experience her protective benefits. Like this poem, your life will be filled with stunning beauty. 

Diligently Seek Wisdom … and You Will Experience Her Protective Benefits.

Next we will continue with Lesson # 3 (Proverbs 3:1-12) 

The Ten Lessons of Wisdom: 

REFERENCES: 

(a) David Hubbard, Proverbs, The Preacher’s Commentary, Vol 15 (Nashville: Thomas Nelson, 1989), 60.

(b) Bruce Waltke, The Book of Proverbs: Chapters 1-15 (Grand Rapids: Eerdmans, 2005), 219. 

(c) Bruce Waltke, The Book of Proverbs, 226. 

Lesson # 1: “Reject the Enticement of Sinners.” (Prov 1:8-33) – Part 2

In the previous post (Part 1), we discussed the first lesson of the book of Proverbs which was about “Resisting the enticement of sinners.” (Prov 1:8-33) Here we will see in part 2 of this same passage that we are to listen to an alternative voice instead, the voice of Lady Wisdom. Wisdom in the book of Proverbs is personified as a woman, an intriguing rhetorical device. 

Life is full of competing voices, we hear from our friends, family members, coworkers, and the media as well as other sources. If we are mindless in our consumption of content (just scrolling our feeds, just flipping the channels, just watching the news, etc. and not being discerning), we will not be able to clearly hear Lady Wisdom speaking. How do we tune our ear to the voice of wisdom and turn all the other voices down? Proverbs 1:20 says, 

“Out in the open wisdom calls aloud, she raises her voice in the public square; on top of the wall she cries out, at the city gate she makes her speech.” (Prov 1:20-21)

Wisdom is not silent. Wisdom is speaking and she is passionate, Lady wisdom “shouts, pleads, scolds, reasons, threatens, warns, and even laughs.” (a) Here in this speech, Lady Wisdom offers the negative side of her proclamations, compared with the positive side which will be relayed in her speech later in chapter 8. She continues, 

“How long will you who are simple love your simple ways? How long will mockers delight in mockery and fools hate knowledge.” (Prov 1:22)

The phrase “How long” posits that these audience members are not little boys. No, these are overgrown, gullible young men, who should have known better at this point. Commentator David Hubbard says her question implies chastisement, “It is not a true question by an implied statement. You have had long enough; you should have answered my call by now.” (b) She continues, 

“Repent at my rebuke! Then I will pour out my thoughts to you, I will make known to you my teachings. But since you refuse to listen when I call and no one pays attention when I stretch out my hand, since you disregard all my advice, and do not accept my rebuke. (Prov 1:23-25)

She centers her rebuke around the word “Repent” (Literally in Hebrew “Turn!”), a common word used in the prophetic literature (see Hos 3:6). Up until this point, her audience has refused to listen to her rebuke or even pay attention to her. The phrase literally reads “none gives heed” and suggests a willful, conscious ignoring rather than just an inattentive use of the ears. The sad reality is the consequences for this will be dire. Since they did not listen to her, she will not listen to them! She continues, 

“I in turn will laugh when disaster strikes you; I will mock when calamity overtakes you. when calamity overtakes you like a storm, when disaster sweeps over you like a whirlwind, when distress and trouble overwhelm you. Then they will call to me but I will not answer; they will look for me but will not find me.” (Prov 1:26-28)

Here we see vivid storm imagery, a devastating whirlwind that turns everything upside down in its path. The victory is so lopsided that there is a comic aspect to the reversal of fortunes, provoking mockery over the enemy. Waltke states, “Wisdom rejoices in turning the present upside-down world right-side up, when wisdom overturns folly, righteousness ousts wickedness, knowledge overcomes ignorance, humility topples pride, and life swallows up death.” (c) 

When will they finally come to listen to Lady Wisdom? Only after the calamity comes. Then, suddenly their attitude of complacency turns to sheer terror. But, at that point Wisdom says, “No, Don’t come knocking on my door now. It’s too late.” We were indifferent to her, so she will be indifferent to us. Notice the contrast: 

     1:24      I call …                you refuse to listen.
     1:28      They will call … I will not answer.

The gullible did not respond to her, so she will not respond to them. She continues, 

“Since they hated knowledge and did not choose to fear the Lord. Since they would not accept my advice and spurned my rebuke they will eat the fruit of their ways and be filled with the fruit of their schemes.” (Prov 1:29-31)

Note the finality here. When the threatened judgment falls, it will be too late to respond. Waltke states, “Wisdom’s saving voice is not at human disposal. It can be forfeited through prior rejection.” (d) 

Wisdom refused to help, why? Because they ““spurned” her. They failed to appreciate her. She was undervalued. Their behavior was rooted in their unbelief of her good intentions (see Gen 3:4-5). Wisdom has no problem allowing them to suffer the consequences of their actions. This is the “fruit” of their behavior. It’s like the old saying “You are what you eat.” Their end is both final and certain. There is no second chance. She concludes with a word of hope for us. Here we see in v 32-33 a summary of the destinies of the foolish and the wise. 

“For the waywardness of the simple will kill them, and the complacency of fools will destroy them; but whoever listens to me will live in safety and be at ease, without fear of harm.” (Prov 1:32-33)

Notice that word “complacency.” The idea here is a careless sense of ease. The wise person must be proactive. The world’s troubles will occur simply by doing nothing at all. Like weeds that grow in the garden, invasive difficulties come without provocation. Our lives require constant maintenance. Those who listen to wisdom will be safe (Hebrew “betah” means “to feel secure / unconcerned”). This first speech is the most threatening. This is a parting appeal to other rebellious young people who may hear and give up their alternative lifestyles and listen to wisdom instead.

The Lesson:

What do we learn here? This first lesson of the prologue to Proverbs introduces two voices, first there is the enticement of sinners, the second voice is the wisdom of God (first given by the mother and father). There is no third voice or third way, we all must make a choice, a decision about who to listen to and accept that the consequences are serious either way. As a specific application for parents, we don’t help our kids by removing consequences from their lives. We teach our kids wisdom by offering “reality discipline,” we allow children to experience the real consequences for their actions. For example, if you don’t set your alarm, it’s not the parent’s job to make sure you’re on time. We let them be late. That’s reality. We teach them this when failure in our home occurs with a safety net. This prepares them for the real world.

For all of us, we can either choose to listen to the voice of Lady Wisdom or her rival thugs. The wise person must listen to the Voice of Wisdom before it is too late. We aren’t promised tomorrow. Opportunities pass. The problem with delaying obedience is we don’t know how long we have. There is hope, but it will not be available forever. We must listen to the voice of Wisdom as she cries out today. 

Reject the Enticement of Sinners. 

In the next post we will move to Proverbs chapter 2 and examine Lesson # 2. 

The Ten Lessons of Wisdom: 

REFERENCES: 

(a) Bruce Waltke, The Book of Proverbs: Chapters 1-15 (Grand Rapids: Eerdmans, 2005), 202.

(b) David Hubbard, Proverbs, The Preacher’s Commentary, Vol 15 (Nashville: Thomas Nelson, 1989), 56.

(c) Waltke, The Book of Proverbs, 207. 

(d) Waltke, The Book of Proverbs, 210. 

Lesson # 1: “Reject the Enticement of Sinners.” (Prov 1:8-33) – Part 1

I remember sitting in a Dallas Seminary classroom listening to a lecture on the Dynamics of Leadership by the late Dr. Howard Hendricks who made this profound statement. “The person you will be in five years is determined primarily by two things: the books you read and the people you surround yourself with.” I have never forgotten this piece of wisdom. 

What are you reading? Who are you surrounded by? 

Background: The book of Proverbs was originally written as a training manual to prepare the king’s son to gain the wisdom to be Israel’s next king. It was also used to equip other boys to serve in the royal court as well. The book’s purpose was later expanded to serve as a wisdom manual for all of God’s people, including you and me. The book of Proverbs is divided into two major sections. The first section contains ten lessons of wisdom made up of didactic (teaching) poems (These make up chapters 1-9). Each new lesson begins with the words, “My son …” The second section contains the anthology of proverbs, those short pithy sayings (These make up Chapters 10-31). For an introduction to the book, go here. 

The first of ten lessons of wisdom centers around the dangers of following after the wrong crowd. It begins with an exhortation: 

Listen, my son, to your father’s instruction and do not forsake your mother’s teaching.
They are a garland to grace your head and a chain to adorn your neck. (Prov 1:8-9, NIV)

In the scriptures we read that it is the parents’ responsibility to raise their children in the nurture and admonition of the Lord (Deut 6:4-8, Eph 6:4). Without this important spiritual instruction, there is great danger for the individual and for the society as a whole. This principle is stated elsewhere, “Where there is no vision, the people cast off all restraint.” (Prov 29:18) Bruce Waltke states,

“When the moral fiber of a nation is not formed by this sort of catechesis, society unravels and anarchy ensues.” (a)

I can’t think of a more relevant need for our nation right now than a compelling moral vision. The stakes are high, therefore, the son should “listen” and not “forsake” (abandon) his parents’ instruction. The reward for obeying his parents’ teaching is likened to an adornment of clothing. In a literal sense, this could be a kind of jewelry that was part of their culture. For example, the well-known archeological find of two silver amulets found in the 7th century with Numbers 6:24-26 inscribed on them was a chain of this kind. Like a wedding band, this jewelry was a symbol of their values. Symbolically, this could also mean that the one who followed these instructions would have noticeable eye-catching beauty. Next, we see a warning, a call to resist the gang’s invitation:

My son, if sinful men entice you, do not give in to them. If they say, “Come along with us; let’s lie in wait for innocent blood, let’s ambush some harmless soul; let’s swallow them alive, like the grave, and whole, like those who go down to the pit; we will get all sorts of valuable things and fill our houses with plunder; cast lots with us; we will all share the loot.”  (Prov 1:10-14, NIV)

The word for “sinful men” (in v 10) is the Hebrew word “hattaim” and it means those who “miss the mark.” The root of this word has to do with a “disqualifying” error. (see also Prov 8:36 and Judges 20:16) Their motivation was greed and envy (found in v 19 for “ill-gotten gain”), a desire for material goods. This group of thugs reminds me of the team of thieves put together in the movie “Ocean’s 11,” a film about Danny Ocean (played by George Clooney) who assembles a group of con artists to rob a Las Vegas hotel vault. Sinners work together, and sinners love company. 

There is nothing wrong with precious goods, but there is something wrong with taking someone else’s precious goods and claiming them as your own. This is called “stealing” and it’s prohibited in the ten commandments (Ex 20:15). The word “entice” here is the idea of being seduced, as in being baited with a hook and a lure. 

Bruce Waltke states, “Like their father, the devil, who tempted the first human beings to join him in his folly (Gen. 3:1-6), they now tempt the son.” (b)

Imagine the voice of this band of sinners calling out, “Wouldn’t you like their home?” “Wouldn’t you like their spouse?” “Wouldn’t you like their goods?” Notice how they flaunt their injustice, underscoring the monstrosity of their deeds against what is right. They are going after “innocent blood” and “harmless souls.” This is clearly evil, and so the father offers a strong admonition: 

My son, do not go along with them, do not set foot on their paths; for their feet rush into evil, they are swift to shed blood. (Prov 1:15-16, NIV)

The father warns his son that they are “swift.” Proverbs 1:15 says they “rush.” This is a “get-rich-quick” scheme. But, nothing worthwhile in life comes quickly or easily. You can’t build a home or a career or a family “in a hurry.”

I remember one time when someone stole my car stereo. They smashed the back window of the car in and ripped it out of the dash. I remember how tedious it had been to purchase it and install that stereo myself … and now in a moment, it was gone. I have been robbed a few times in my life and it has always struck me how quickly the thief, in just a few minutes, can take what takes someone quite some time to save up for and purchase.

The father is warning his son, “Do not go!” “Stay away from them!” “Do not set foot on their paths…” The word for “paths” here (Heb “derek”) is a metaphor for their lifestyle. Do not experiment with this way of life! Why not? These evil men are seeking immediate wealth outside the limits of the law rather than through hard work and delayed gratification taught elsewhere (Prov 16:29). Solomon says:

“Wealth gained hastily will dwindle, but whoever gathers little by little will increase it.” (Prov 13:11, ESV)

Next, the sage introduces another motivating reason to resist:

How useless to spread a net where every bird can see it! These men lie in wait for their own blood; they ambush only themselves! Such are the paths of all who go after ill-gotten gain; it takes away the life of those who get it. (Prov 1:17-19)

It’s a trap! Even in nature, the wise bird can see the net, but here the father says these sinners are more foolish than the animals. The book of Proverbs teaches the principle of retribution (see Prov 5:21-23, 10:2-3) The father is warning his son that these sinners are enticing you to death. The lesson is that sin begets harm. (Gal 6:7) Therefore, it is not just wrong, it is stupid to go with them. The unjust gain clings to the criminal until it destroys him. All their own devices will boomerang against them. These sinners are only pursuing their own demise, because justice will prevail. What they plan for others will come upon them. We see poetic justice for sinners illustrated elsewhere in the Scriptures. For example, recall Haman, the evil villain in the book of Esther. He set up the gallows to hang the innocent Mordechai, but he was hung on his own gallows (Esther 7:10).The irony is they are plotting for their own downfall.

Life Lessons:

What do we learn here? The lesson for God’s people today is straightforward: Do not be enticed by sinners. Do not be outwitted by evil men. Stand against the schemes of the devil. Who we become is determined in large part by the company we keep. As Christians we have our discipleship programs for good, but sinners have a discipleship program of their own going on. We need to resist.

As parents, when my kids ask my wife and I if they can go somewhere, we typically ask a few standard questions, “What will you do there?” “What time will you be home?” And perhaps the most important question we ask is, “Who else will be there?” We always listen carefully to their answer to this last question. Why? Because we know other kids are influential. As parents, we must raise our children to be able to say “No” to sinners. “No! I’m not going to join you in that.” “No. I’m not going to laugh at that joke.” “No. I’m not going to participate with you…” The wise will follow the teaching of their mother and father, listen to their parents and pay attention to what they say (1:8-9).

Reject the Enticement of Sinners. 

There is another voice which calls out as well, this is the voice of Wisdom (1:20-33). We will pick it up there, next time in Part 2 of this first lesson of wisdom.

The Ten Lessons of Wisdom: 

REFERENCES: 

(a) Bruce Waltke, The Book of Proverbs: Chapters 1-15 (Grand Rapids: Eerdmans, 2005), 187.

(b) Bruce Waltke, The Book of Proverbs, 191. 

Wisdom in Strange Places (Prov 30:25-28)

What do ants, badgers, locusts, and lizards have in common? What lessons of wisdom are there for us to learn from them? That’s the question I want to ask and answer in this blog post from the book of Proverbs as we look at this scripture:

Four are among the tiniest on earth, yet they are the wisest of the wise.
The ants are a people with no power, yet they prepare food for themselves in the summer.
The badgers are a people without strength, yet they make a home in the rock.
The locust has no king, yet he marches forth in formation.
The lizard can be grasped in the hands, yet it is found in the palace of the king.
(Proverbs 30:25-28)

The observation of the Sage here draws our attention to the superlative nature of wisdom found in the animal kingdom, where he has found “the wisest of the wise.”

The first group of animals are the ants (this is what the Hebrew lexicon suggests as most probable). What is striking about them is they “prepare, or make ready” food and drink. This action of the ants displays wisdom in that they show “skill” in preparing for what their needs will be in the future instead of squandering what they harvest immediately on wanton pleasures (as for example the sluggard does in Prov. 24:30-34). The wise person similarly delays gratification. 

The second animal is the rock badger, a species without strength or power, yet they “make a home” (Lit. “to set up, install, place, or lay”) in the rock or cliffs. This also exhibits “wisdom/skill” in that they are using the limited materials accessible to them but they are still able to make due quite well. This is something humanity needs to emulate. 

The third observation has to do with the locust. The Hebrew lexicon, HALOT, suggests this refers to migratory locusts which “go forth (as in to battle)” in the military sense in formation. Literally it reads they are “divided into groups.” This behavior also displays wisdom in that the locust is not in need of a king to organize themselves and delegate, rather they are skillful in that they are doing it without even being asked or commanded to do so. We can learn a lesson about cooperation and self-motivation from these bugs! 

The final lesson is drawn from the lizard, again, the Hebrew lexicon (HALOT) suggests this is “a type of lizard, or wall gecko.” The lizard displays wisdom in that it is able to navigate its way into important places despite its ability to be seen and caught easily. This animal displays both elusiveness and boldness. We need to learn to be shrewd and adaptive. 

What do we learn here? As God’s people, we can learn the value of wisdom found on display in these four animals. This wisdom is in spite of their weaknesses in both size and strength, yet they still have success in skill. Their forethought and organization displays wise ingenuity to find security, sustenance, order and cooperation to accomplish goals. Let the one who has ears, hear. 

God’s creation has so many lessons of wisdom to be learned by humankind, albeit in strange places. 

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