Proverbs 1
THIS book of wisdom shows the safe, the divine path for man in a crooked world. It tells unmistakably the consequences of the ways in which man may choose to go. Solomon (in 2 Chronicles 1:7-127In that night did God appear unto Solomon, and said unto him, Ask what I shall give thee. 8And Solomon said unto God, Thou hast showed great mercy unto David my father, and hast made me to reign in his stead. 9Now, O Lord God, let thy promise unto David my father be established: for thou hast made me king over a people like the dust of the earth in multitude. 10Give me now wisdom and knowledge, that I may go out and come in before this people: for who can judge this thy people, that is so great? 11And God said to Solomon, Because this was in thine heart, and thou hast not asked riches, wealth, or honor, nor the life of thine enemies, neither yet hast asked long life; but hast asked wisdom and knowledge for thyself, that thou mayest judge my people, over whom I have made thee king: 12Wisdom and knowledge is granted unto thee; and I will give thee riches, and wealth, and honor, such as none of the kings have had that have been before thee, neither shall there any after thee have the like. (2 Chronicles 1:7‑12)) had asked for wisdom and knowledge, that he might rightly govern his people and God gave him his desire in a way surpassing all others.
The purpose of this book is given in verses 2 to 4. "Subtilty," in verse 4 is "prudence." Verse 7 gives the key to what is true knowledge: the fear of the Lord (Jehovah).
The book divides into two quite distinct portions, the first nine chapters give the general principles of behavior, and the succeeding twenty are comprised of the proverbs or moral sentences which show the path of wisdom. At the close are two chapters of special character.
In a day like this, the instruction contained in verses 8 and 9 is very important; "children obey your parents" is God's word, not in Old Testament only but in the New (Ephesians 6:11Children, obey your parents in the Lord: for this is right. (Ephesians 6:1); Colossians 3: 20) .
The two well known forms in which sin, or the will of man is seen, are first spoken of. Corruption, in verse 10: "If sinners entice thee, consent not." Refuse to listen to them.
Violence, in verses 11-14: "Walk not in the way with them; keep back thy foot from their path." Wholesome words these are, and the sure light of God's Word for the Christian's conduct.
The consequences of sin are plainly told in verses 18 and 19. Verse 20 introduces a solemn warning, one of the most solemn words of the Scriptures. Those who make light of the Bible may well take heed to the fearful language of verses 24 to 28 which portrays the end of those who refuse, ignore or reject the true wisdom, who do not choose the fear of the Lord.
In verse 28 "early" has the sense of "earnestly."
Messages of God’s Love 3/27/1932