By Jay T. Robertson, Ph.D.
Assistant Professor of Christian Studies, University of Mobile
Charted Waters
Proverbs 1:7–19
One thing is for certain during these “novel” times: we all need wisdom to navigate these trying days. Providentially, this quarter we have the joy of studying the Book of Proverbs and the Song of Songs. We begin with Proverbs.
Solomon is credited with writing the proverbs in chapters 1–29. Chapters 1–24 may have been written during his reign (970–931 B.C.). The proverbs in chapters 25–29 were Solomon’s, collected by King Hezekiah during his reign (716–687 B.C.). The last two chapters are credited to Agur and Lemuel, about whom nothing else is known.
What is a proverb? It is a brief, practical statement derived from astute observations about how life usually works. The proverbs in Scripture are divinely inspired, and since they come from God, we know they are true and beneficial. When applied in one’s life by the power of the Holy Spirit, proverbs impart wisdom. Wisdom is the righteous application of true knowledge.
Starting Point (7)
Having a right relationship with God is the beginning of knowledge. There cannot be any comprehension of true knowledge that glorifies God without a right relationship with God. The expression “the fear of the Lord” refers to a deep sense of awe, reverence, worship and humble submission to the one true God. To truly experience the fear of the Lord as expressed by Solomon, an individual must repent of his or her sin and believe in the Messiah, the Lord Jesus Christ. However, “fools despise wisdom and instruction.” This statement is a declaration of truth and a principle believers must teach their children. As children are taught to pursue wisdom, they will encounter others going the opposite direction who will be encouraging them to do likewise. The way of the wise is contrasted with the way of the fool.
Path of Obedience (8–9)
The book of Proverbs is an instruction manual for wise living as the covenant people of God. These proverbs cannot be lived out apart from the grace of God at work in our lives. Both fathers and mothers are responsible for teaching their children the commands and wisdom of God. Solomon appeals for his son to stay on the right path. If he stays on the path of obedience, godly wisdom typically will bring favor, respect, health and wealth if he consistently follows the path of obedience.
Resist Sin (10–14)
Godly parents seek to educate, train and prepare their children to glorify God when they move into adulthood. Even the most obedient children will face temptations, often from their friends. This very thought strikes terror into the hearts of many godly parents. This is why the Bible is so clear on the fact that godly parents must train their children in the truths of Scripture as they go through life together and not leave their children’s relationship with God in the hands of a pastor or student pastor.
The wise father instructed his son not to consent or give in when sinners entice him. “Sinners” in this context are people who do not follow the principles of godly wisdom the son learned from his parents. The Apostle Paul wrote: “Do not be deceived: ‘Bad company corrupts good morals’” (1 Cor. 15:33). For a young person to participate in sinful activities he would have to abandon the teaching of his godly parents and live life as he wanted, with no fear of the Lord.
Sin’s Results (15–19)
The godly father urges his son to reject the way of sin. He urges him not to begin on the road of a sinfully rebellious life which can easily become a lifestyle. Solomon characterized rebellion against godly wisdom as self-destructive while those involved in the sinful lifestyle are blind to the end result. We must remember that no one ever sins and gets away with it. We must look to Christ with repentance and faith and submit ourselves to Him.
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