Category: Proverbs

Evil vs Just – Part 2

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Proverbs 12:12-13 The wicked desires the net of evil men: but the root of the righteous yields fruit. The wicked is snared by the transgression of his lips: but the just shall come out of trouble. 

Thirty characteristics of wicked men (1Tim. 3:2-13) [continues]: Trucebreakers [Greek: asunthetos] are not morally bound to any agreement; not dependable; treacherous to covenants; faithless to promises; and false to trusts. False accusers [Greek: diabolos] slanderer; adversary. Incontinent [Greek: akrates] no control of appetites and passions. Fierce [Greek: anemeros] wild; savage; uncivilized. Despisers of good men [Greek: aphilagathos] unfriendly to good men. Traitors (2Tim. 3:4) [Greek: prodotes] betrayers (Luke 6:16; Acts 7:52). Heady [Greek: propetes] rash; hasty; reckless; headstrong. Highminded [Greek: tuphoo] senseless; conceited; silly. Lovers of pleasure. Sensual gratification is their god (2Tim. 3:4). Having a form of godliness (2Tim. 3:5) [Greek: morphosis] a semblance; sketch; form (Rom. 2:20). Their religion is only in their creed and formal confession of faith, not in their hearts. Denying the power of godliness (2Tim. 3:5).

To be continued…

Evil vs Just – Part 1

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Proverbs 12:12-13 The wicked desires the net of evil men: but the root of the righteous yields fruit. The wicked is snared by the transgression of his lips: but the just shall come out of trouble. 

‘The wicked desires the net of evil men: but the root of the righteous yielded fruit.’ The wicked desire the prey taken in the net of other evil men, but the root of the righteous is made sure.

‘The wicked is snared by the transgression of his lips.’ Five examples of being snared by own lips: Korah (Num. 16:1-3, 31-35; Ps. 64:8); the Amalekite (2Sam. 1:2-16). Adonijah (1Kin. 2:23); Daniel’s accusers (Dan. 6:24) and the Jews (Matt. 27:25).

Thirty characteristics of wicked men (1Tim. 3:2-13): Lovers of themselves (2Tim. 3:2) [Greek: Philautos] fond of oneself; selfish. Covetous [Greek: philarguros] fond of money. Boasters [Greek: alazon] braggarts; self-exalted (Rom.1:30). Proud [Greek: huperephanos] self-important. Blasphemers [Greek: blasphemia from blasphemos] were it means to speak evil of (Jude 1:8; Eph. 4:31); rail (1Tim. 6:4; 2Pet. 2:11); revile (Matt. 27:39); defame (1Cor. 4:13); slander (Rom. 3:8); insult by blasphemy (Matt. 12:31). Disobedient to parents, head-strong children (Rom. 1:30). Unthankful [Greek: acharistos] ungrateful (Luke 6:35). Unholy [Greek: anosios] without piety; no reverence. Without natural affection (2Tim. 3:3). Living in unnatural affection sins; perverts; homosexuals; sodomites (Rom. 1:21-32). To be continued…

Be Satisfied

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Proverbs 12:11 He that tills his land shall be satisfied with bread: but he that follows vain persons is void of understanding. 

‘He that tills his land shall be satisfied with bread.’ Two examples of tilling: are Isaac (Gen. 26:12) and Jacob (Gen. 30:14; cp. Pro. 28:19).

Matthew 10:10, Lucas 10:7 and 1 Timothy 5:18 all clearly state that the workman is worthy of his meat or labour (12:14) and 2 Thessalonians 3:10 that if any would not work, neither should he eat. This principle is based upon the part of the curse to make a living by the sweat of the brow (Gen. 3:19). Idleness has always been a curse and always will be. It is wrong to support men who will not work and share their own responsibility. Ephesians 4:28 explains that we should not steal (even through begging) from others but rather labour and work with his hands that which is good. 

‘He that follows vain persons is void of understanding.’ Two examples of the following of vain persons: are Abimelech (Jdg. 9:1-57; cp. Pro. 24:21) and Theudas (Acts 5:36-37). Being void of understanding means one does not have the wisdom to discern evil (7:7) and most people are followers of such individuals which will most certainly lead to their own downfall. We are commanded to follow Christ and the example He set for us (1Pet. 2:21-23).

Mercies

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Proverbs 12:10 A righteous man regards the life of his beast: but the tender mercies of the wicked are cruel. 

‘A righteous man regards the life of his beast: but the tender mercies of the wicked are cruel.’ The righteous are merciful, but the wicked are not. The man who shows mercy edifies his soul, is compassionate, and has a merciful spirit (Matt. 5:7; 18:27; 1Pet. 3:8).

Twelve commands for Christians: Be one of mind (1Pet. 3:8; Eph. 4:1-3). Have compassion for one another. Love as brethren (1Cor. 13:1-13). Be pitful (tenderhearted). Be courteous (friendly). Not rendering evil for evil (1Pet. 3:9). Not railing for railing. Be a blessing to others. Control your tongue (1Pet. 3:10; Jas. 3:1-18). Do not be deceptive. Shun evil and do good (1Pet. 3:11). Seek peace and pursue it.

Despised

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Proverbs 12:8-9 A man shall be commended according to his wisdom: but he that is of a perverse heart shall be despised. He that is despised, and has a servant, is better than he that honours himself, and lacks bread. 

‘A man shall be commended according to his wisdom.’ Four examples of commending wisdom: Joseph (Gen. 41:39); David (2Sam. 14:17-20); Daniel (Dan. 5:16) and Paul (2Pet. 3:15-16).

‘Wisdom’ [Hebrew: sekel] insight. Translated as wisdom (12:8; 23:9); understanding (3:4; 13:15; 16:22); and discretion (19:11).

‘But he that is of a perverse heart shall be despised.’ Three examples of being despised: are Hophni and Phinehas (1 Samuel 1:3-2:30). Nabal (1Sam. 25:2, 17) and the prodigal son (Luke 15:15-16).

‘He that is despised, and has a servant, is better than he that honours himself, and lacks bread.’ The poor man who provides for himself is better than the proud who lacks bread.

Righteous vs Wicked

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Proverbs 12:5-7 The thoughts of the righteous are right: but the counsels of the wicked are deceit. The words of the wicked are to lie in wait for blood: but the mouth of the upright shall deliver them. The wicked are overthrown, and are not: but the house of the righteous shall stand. 

‘Thoughts’ [Hebrew: machshebowth] devices, plans (12:5; 15:26; 16:3; 21:5; Gen. 6:5; Ps. 33:11; 40:5; 56:5; 94:11; Isa. 55:7-8).

‘Counsels of the wicked.’ Six examples of wicked counsellors: Korah and company (Num. 16:1-50); Jeroboam (1Kin. 12:28); Sanballat (Neh. 6:2); Haman (Est. 3:5-8); Herod (Matt. 2:8, 16) and Judas (John 12:4-6).

‘Deceit’ [Hebrew: mirmah] cheating, deception (12:5, 17, 20; 14:8, 25; 26:24).

‘Words’ [Hebrew: dabar] speech. The speech or talk of the wicked concerns murder, but the words of the innocent deliver them from the plans of the wicked.

‘The wicked are overthrown.’ Three examples of the wicked being overthrown: Pre-Adamites (Gen. 1:2; Isa. 14:12-14; Jer. 4:23-26; 2Pet. 3:5-7); Antediluvians (Genesis 6-8); Sodom and Gomorrah (Gen. 19:1-38).

‘But the house of the righteous shall stand.’ Three examples of righteous houses standing: are Abraham (Gen. 17:19; Luke 1:70-73); David (2Sam. 7:1-29; Ps. 89:3-4) and Jacob (Luke 1:32-33).

Virtuous

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Proverbs 12:4 A virtuous woman is a crown to her husband: but she that makes ashamed is as rottenness in his bones. 

‘Virtuous’ [Hebrew: chayil] strength of mind or body (Rth. 3:11; Pro. 12:4; 31:10, 29). A morally strong woman is a crown to her husband, but the morally weak contracts and transmits destructive diseases.

‘Crown’ [Hebrew: ‛atarah] is used here as an emblem of honour (cp. Est. 8:15; Job 19:9; Pro. 4:9; 14:24; 16:31; 17:6; Isa. 28:1-5; 62:3). Ten crowns are mentioned in Scripture: Crown of honour (12:4; 17:6; Est. 8:15; Job 19:9). Crown of kings (2Sam. 12:30; Est. 1:11; 2:17; Rev. 19:12-16). High Priest’s crown (Ex. 29:6). Crown of pride (Isa. 28:1-5). Crown of thorns (Matt. 27:29; Mark 15:17; John 19:2-5). Crown of glory (1Pet. 5:4; Pro. 4:9; 16:31; Isa. 62:3). Crown of righteousness (2Tim. 4:8). Crown of life (Jas. 1:12; Rev. 2:10). Corruptible crown (1Cor. 9:25). Soul winner’s crown (1Thess. 2:19).

Thirty-one characteristics of a virtuous woman: Morally perfect (complete) (31:10); invaluable; trustworthy (31:11); inherently good and true (31:12); ingenious – proficient (31:13); thrifty – laborious (31:14); dutiful – considerate (31:15); versatile – judicious (31:16); tireless – healthy (31:17); joyful – efficient (31:18); watchful – cautious; thrifty – skilful (31:19); charitable – benevolent (31:20); generous – merciful; fearless – provident (31:21); clever at decorating – furnishing (31:22); refined in taste; respected – popular (31:23); industrious – prosperous (31:24); dependable – honest (31:25); confident – hopeful; wise – discreet (31:26); kind – understanding; prudent – practical (31:27); energetic – ever active; an ideal wife and mother (31:28); honoured by her family (31:27-28); excels in virtue (31:28); God-fearing – humble (31:30); deserving – successful (31:31); honoured by the public (31:31).

Wickedness

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Proverbs 12:3 A man shall not be established by wickedness: but the root of the righteous shall not be moved. 

‘A man shall not be established by wickedness: but the root of the righteous shall not be moved.’ Lawlessness will not establish a man, but righteousness will. All sin against man is primarily against God.

Seven things God opposes: He takes no pleasure in wickedness (Ps. 5:4). He cannot dwell with evil. He cannot tolerate the foolish (boasters) to stand in His presence. He hates workers of iniquity (Ps. 5:5). He hates leasing (falsehood, Ps. 5:6). He abhors bloody men. He abhors deceitful men.

Four main traits of wicked men: [1] Unfaithful. [Hebrew: kuwn] Translated as stable (1Chr. 16:30); stablish (2Sam. 7:13; 1Chr. 17:12; 2Chr. 17:5; Ps. 93:1; Hab. 2:12); stand (Jdg. 16:26); firm (Jos. 3:17; 4:3); and establish (2Sam. 7:12; 1Chr. 17:11; 22:10; etc.). Here it means no steadfastness or stability; no dependability in what is said. [2] Inwardly wicked – corrupt to the core. “Wickedness” comes from the Hebrew word havvah translated as wickedness (Ps. 5:9; 52:7; 55:11), perverse thing (Job 6:30), iniquity (Ps. 94:20), and naughtiness (Pro. 11:6). Its root means “to fall.” “Inward part” comes from the Hebrew word qereb, meaning the centre. Translated as inward (Ps. 5:9; 49:11; 64:6; Isa. 16:11; Jer. 31:33) and inwards (Ex. 29:13-22; Lev. 1:9-13; 3:3-14; 4:8-11; 7:3; 8:16-25; 9:14). [3] The throat is an open sepulchre [Hebrew: qeber] grave (Ps. 5:9; Isa. 22:16; Jer. 5:16). Streams of impurities come from within (Mark 7:19-21). [4] They flatter with their tongue (Ps. 5:9; 12:3; Pro. 26:28; 28:23; 29:5).

Seven facts about the wicked: They work wickedness in the heart (Ps. 58:2). Their hands are filled with violence. They are estranged from the womb (Ps. 58:3). They go astray from birth. They speak lies from childhood. They are as poisonous as serpents (Ps. 58:4). They are like a deaf adder.

Good vs Wicked

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Proverbs 12:2 A good man obtains favour of the LORD: but a man of wicked devices will he condemn. 

‘A good man obtains favour of the LORD: but a man of wicked devices will he condemn.’ God gives grace to the righteous but condemns the wicked (Jas. 4:5-11). Their plans or devices will turn against them.

Luke 6:45 states that a good man out of the good treasure of his heart brings forth that which is good. From Scripture, we have these good treasures summarized in 1Corinthians 13:4-8 describing the nature of godly love and Galatians 5:22-23 describing the fruit of the Spirit.

Colossians 3:10-15 also gives examples and we see the nine things to put on as a true believer (Col. 3:10, 12): The new man (Eph. 4:24); bowels of mercies (2Cor. 6:12); kindness (1Cor. 13:4); humbleness of mind; meekness; longsuffering; forbearance (Gal. 5:22); forgiveness (Matt. 18:35); divine love (1Cor. 13:4).

Divine love is to be put on as the outer garment and finishing touch to a well-dressed Christian. After putting on the eight other things, one is to put on this outer cloak as the bond of perfectness or as a girdle. It is to cover all, unite all, and bind all together as one. This is true perfection (Matt. 5:43-48; 1Cor. 13:1-13).

Luke 6:45 also states that an evil man out of the evil treasure of his heart brings forth that which is evil (Matt. 15:19; Mark 7:21; Rom. 1:21-32; 1Cor. 6:9-11; Gal. 5:19-21).

Instruction vs Reproof

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Proverbs 12:1 Whoso loves instruction loves knowledge: but he that hates reproof is brutish. 

‘Instruction’ [Hebrew: muwcar] to understand; comprehend; chasten; discipline.

‘Whoso loves instruction loves knowledge.’ The one who rejects wisdom and sins against her does so to the damnation of his own soul (8:36). It is therefore not so much sin and satan, but the man himself that is responsible for his rejection or reception of wisdom which leads to eternal life. If he receives the teaching of God, sin will not have dominion over him, and if he resists satan, the devil will flee from him (Jas. 4:7; Rom. 6:14-23; 8:12-13).

‘But he that hates reproof is brutish.’ He is as stupid as an animal (cp. Pro. 30:2; Ps. 49:10; 73:22; 92:6).

Seven facts about the wicked: They are brutish (Ps. 92:6). They are ignorant of the truth. They are fools. They work iniquity (Ps. 92:7-8). They are enemies of God (Ps. 92:9). They shall be scattered. They shall perish; be destroyed forever off the earth (Ps. 92:7, 9).

Those who live with their consequences and in lives that are broken and sometimes beyond repair because of continuous iniquities are guilty of hating instruction. They don’t follow any godly advice (20:18; Ps. 1:1) and hate to ask for it, for they are almost always wise in their own eyes (3:7; Rom. 11:25). God’s Word is perfect in converting the soul and it makes the simple wise (Ps. 19:7). It is the Wisdom we should hear, walk in and obey (8:32,34; Ps. 119:2).

Ignorance is the state of the average heathen who gets to know only a little about nature. Christianity teaches man the true and full knowledge of God and nature and of the origin and destiny of all things (Acts 15:18; Eph. 2:7; 3:9-11).