Tag: Reproof and Instruction

Reproof and Instruction – Part 2

~ iolaHC ~ Leave a comment

Proverbs 15:31-32 The ear that hears the reproof of life abides among the wise. He that refuses instruction despises his own soul: but he that hears reproof gets understanding. 

The Holy Spirit engages with rational souls, working through the mind, conscience, and moral understanding to enlighten, convict, and persuade. But when a person closes their mind to truth, resists correction, hardens their conscience against righteousness, and suppresses the call toward their highest good, they descend into full rebellion. The result is a hardened heart and the tragic outcome of spiritual ruin.

‘He that refuses instruction despises his own soul: but he that hears reproof gets understanding.’ To reject counsel is to despise one’s own soul, but those who receive and apply correction gain wisdom and understanding (15:32).

‘Dispises his own soul.’ Six examples of those who hated their own souls – these individuals rejected truth, correction, or godly counsel, choosing destruction over life: Dathan – Rebelled against Moses and perished in judgment (Num. 16:12-14, 31-33). Zedekiah – Refused to humble himself before the word of the Lord and was taken captive (2Chr. 36:12; Jer. 39:1-7). Nebuchadnezzar – Ignored Daniel’s warning and was humbled by God through madness (Dan. 4:27-33). Belshazzar – Knew the truth but still mocked God, resulting in his sudden fall (Dan. 5:22-30). The Jews in Jesus’ day rejected their Messiah and faced national judgment (Matt. 23:34-38). The Gadarenes valued comfort over Christ’s presence and asked Him to leave (Luke 8:37).

‘Hears reproof gets understanding.’ Four examples of those who gained wisdom and knowledge – these individuals responded to correction, truth, or divine encounter with humility and growth:  Job’s Friends – Humbled themselves and followed God’s instruction through Job (Job 42:7-9). The Samaritan Woman acknowledged her sin and received living water from Christ (John 4:17). Two Disciples on the road to Emmaus – Gained insight as Christ opened the Scriptures to them (Luke 24:26-32). Paul (Saul of Tarsus) – From persecutor to preacher, transformed through divine revelation (Acts 9:6-22).

Reproof and Instruction – Part 1

~ iolaHC ~ Leave a comment

Proverbs 15:31-32 The ear that hears the reproof of life abides among the wise. He that refuses instruction despises his own soul: but he that hears reproof gets understanding. 

‘The ear that hears the reproof of life abides among the wise.’ Those who accept correction and heed wise counsel become companions of the wise (15:31).

The righteous person corrects others with kindness, not to condemn or destroy, unlike the reproof of the wicked, which often tears down (Ps. 141:5).

God’s Word is profitable, it brings benefit through sound doctrine, reproof, correction, and training in righteousness (2Tim. 3:16). It shapes character, convicts the heart, and guides the believer toward godliness.

God uses many means to lead people to repentance and save them from judgment: Truth, exhortation, correction, and instruction. Patience, love, gentleness, meekness, and perseverance. And at times, even drastic measures to turn men from hell and the wrath to come. Yet, He never forces anyone against their will.

Though the fallen human will is weaker than it was in Adam and Eve before sin, every person still bears the responsibility to choose.

In the end, the decision to follow God must be made freely. God desires all to be saved (John 3:16; 1Tim. 2:4; 2Pet. 3:9), and His invitation still stands: “Whoever wills, let him come…” (Rev. 22:17).

To be continued…