Proverbs 7:18

Come, let us take our fill of love till morning. Let us delight in loving caresses!

Study Bible

Come
The invitation "Come" is a beckoning call, often used in Scripture to invite someone into an action or experience. In the Hebrew context, it is a persuasive word, suggesting urgency and immediacy. This word sets the tone for the seductive and enticing nature of the invitation, drawing the listener into a decision point. It reflects the allure of temptation, which often presents itself as an appealing and immediate opportunity.

let us take our fill
The phrase "let us take our fill" implies indulgence and excess. In Hebrew, the concept of being filled often relates to satisfaction or satiation, but here it is used in a negative sense, indicating overindulgence in sinful pleasure. This reflects the deceptive nature of sin, which promises fulfillment but ultimately leads to emptiness and regret. The phrase warns against the dangers of giving in to desires that are contrary to God's will.

of love
The word "love" in this context is a euphemism for illicit sexual relations. In Hebrew, the term can refer to both genuine, godly love and its counterfeit, lust. The adulteress in Proverbs uses the language of love to mask the true nature of her intentions. This highlights the importance of discerning true love, which is selfless and pure, from lust, which is self-serving and destructive.

till morning
The phrase "till morning" suggests a temporary and fleeting encounter. In the biblical context, night often symbolizes darkness and sin, while morning represents light and righteousness. The promise of pleasure "till morning" underscores the transient nature of sinful indulgence, which offers momentary satisfaction but lacks lasting fulfillment. It serves as a reminder that true joy and peace are found in the light of God's truth.

let us delight
The invitation to "let us delight" speaks to the pursuit of pleasure. In Hebrew, delight can refer to joy and satisfaction, but here it is twisted to describe sinful enjoyment. This reflects the human tendency to seek happiness in ways that are contrary to God's design. The verse challenges believers to find their delight in the Lord, who offers true and lasting joy.

in loving caresses
The phrase "in loving caresses" is a euphemism for physical intimacy outside the bounds of marriage. In the Hebrew culture, physical affection was meant to be an expression of the covenantal love between a husband and wife. The misuse of such intimacy highlights the distortion of God's gift of sexuality. This serves as a caution against the misuse of God's gifts and a call to honor Him in all aspects of life, including relationships.

Persons / Places / Events

1. The Seductress
A central figure in Proverbs 7, she represents temptation and the allure of sin. Her words are enticing, aiming to lead the young man astray.

2. The Young Man
A symbol of naivety and vulnerability, he is the target of the seductress's advances. His lack of wisdom makes him susceptible to her temptations.

3. The House of the Seductress
Represents a place of danger and moral compromise. It is where the seductress lures the young man, away from the path of righteousness.

4. Solomon
Traditionally considered the author of Proverbs, he uses this account to impart wisdom and warn against the dangers of succumbing to temptation.

5. The Night
Symbolic of secrecy and sin, the night is when the seductress invites the young man to indulge in forbidden pleasures.

Teaching Points

The Deceptive Nature of Sin
Sin often presents itself as pleasurable and fulfilling, but its end is destruction. We must be vigilant and discerning to recognize and resist temptation.

The Importance of Wisdom and Discernment
Proverbs emphasizes the need for wisdom to navigate life's challenges. Seeking God's wisdom helps us make righteous choices and avoid the pitfalls of sin.

Guarding Our Hearts and Minds
We must be proactive in guarding our hearts and minds against influences that lead us away from God. This involves immersing ourselves in Scripture and prayer.

The Consequences of Yielding to Temptation
Yielding to temptation can have severe consequences, not only spiritually but also relationally and emotionally. Understanding this helps us to resist and seek God's strength.

The Role of Accountability
Having accountability partners can help us stay on the right path. Sharing our struggles with trusted believers provides support and encouragement.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does the portrayal of the seductress in Proverbs 7:18 serve as a warning against the allure of sin in our own lives?

2. In what ways can we apply the wisdom of Proverbs 7 to modern-day temptations and challenges?

3. How do the teachings in 1 Corinthians 6:18-20 reinforce the message of Proverbs 7:18 regarding sexual purity?

4. What practical steps can we take to guard our hearts and minds against the temptations described in Proverbs 7?

5. How can accountability with fellow believers help us resist the temptations that Proverbs 7 warns about?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Proverbs 5:3-4
This passage warns about the dangers of the adulterous woman, whose words are sweet but lead to bitterness and destruction.

1 Corinthians 6:18-20
Paul advises believers to flee from sexual immorality, emphasizing that our bodies are temples of the Holy Spirit.

James 1:14-15
Describes how desire, when conceived, gives birth to sin, and sin, when fully grown, leads to death.