If you are wise, you are wise to your own advantage; but if you scoff, you alone will bear the consequences. If you are wiseThe Hebrew word for "wise" here is "חָכָם" (chakam), which implies not just possessing knowledge, but applying it skillfully in life. Wisdom in the biblical sense is deeply rooted in the fear of the Lord (Proverbs 9:10). It is a practical, moral, and spiritual understanding that guides one's actions. In the ancient Near Eastern context, wisdom was highly valued and often associated with successful living and leadership. The phrase suggests that wisdom is a personal responsibility and benefit, emphasizing the individual nature of spiritual growth and understanding. you are wise to your own advantage but if you scoff you alone will bear the consequences Persons / Places / Events 1. SolomonTraditionally considered the author of Proverbs, Solomon was known for his wisdom, which he received from God. His writings often contrast wisdom and folly. 2. The Wise Person Represents those who seek and apply God's wisdom in their lives, leading to personal benefit and growth. 3. The Scoffer Symbolizes those who reject wisdom and mock instruction, ultimately facing negative consequences. 4. Wisdom Personified throughout Proverbs as a guiding principle that leads to life and prosperity. 5. Consequences The outcomes or results of one's actions, particularly in the context of choosing wisdom or folly. Teaching Points The Personal Benefit of WisdomEmbrace wisdom as it leads to personal growth and advantage. Seeking God's wisdom is not just for spiritual growth but also for practical, everyday living. The Isolation of the Scoffer Understand that scoffing and rejecting wisdom leads to isolation and personal detriment. The consequences of folly are borne alone, without the support of a community. The Principle of Personal Responsibility Recognize that each individual is responsible for their choices. Wisdom leads to positive outcomes, while folly results in negative consequences. The Invitation to Choose Wisely Every day presents opportunities to choose wisdom over folly. Make conscious decisions that align with God's principles. The Role of Community in Wisdom Engage with a community of believers who value wisdom. Fellowship with others who seek God's wisdom can provide support and encouragement. Bible Study Questions 1. How does the concept of personal responsibility in Proverbs 9:12 challenge or affirm your current decision-making process?2. In what ways can you actively seek wisdom in your daily life, and how does this align with James 1:5? 3. Reflect on a time when you faced consequences for scoffing or rejecting wise counsel. What did you learn from that experience? 4. How can you encourage others in your community to pursue wisdom, and what role does fellowship play in this pursuit? 5. Consider the principle of sowing and reaping as described in Galatians 6:7-8. How does this principle relate to the message of Proverbs 9:12, and how can it be applied in your life today? Connections to Other Scriptures Proverbs 1:7This verse highlights the fear of the Lord as the beginning of knowledge, contrasting wisdom with the folly of despising instruction. Galatians 6:7-8 These verses discuss the principle of sowing and reaping, emphasizing that one's actions have direct consequences, similar to the message in Proverbs 9:12. James 1:5 Encourages believers to seek wisdom from God, who gives generously, reinforcing the idea that wisdom is beneficial and accessible.
People SolomonPlaces JerusalemTopics Alone, Bear, Bearest, Full, Hast, Heart, Mock, Mocker, Pain, Pride, Reward, Scoff, Scoffest, Scorned, Scornest, Suffer, Thyself, Wisdom, WiseDictionary of Bible Themes Proverbs 9:12 8782 mockery Library The Temple of Wisdom(Preached at Wellington College, All Saints' Day, 1866.) PROVERBS ix. 1-5. Wisdom hath builded her house, she hath hewn out her seven pillars: she hath killed her beasts; she hath mingled her wine; she hath also furnished her table. She hath sent forth her maidens; she crieth upon the highest places of the city, Whoso is simple, let him turn in hither: and to him that wanteth understanding, she saith to him, Come, eat of my bread, and drink of the wine which I have mingled. This allegory has been … Charles Kingsley—Discipline and Other Sermons The Dryness of Preachers, and the Various Evils which Arise from their Failing to Teach Heart-Prayer --Exhortation to Pastors to Lead People Towards this Form Of Letter xxi (Circa A. D. 1128) to the Abbot of S. John at Chartres To Pastors and Teachers From his Entrance on the Ministry in 1815, to his Commission to Reside in Germany in 1820 The Authority and Utility of the Scriptures An Analysis of Augustin's Writings against the Donatists. The Gospel Feast Proverbs Links Proverbs 9:12 NIVProverbs 9:12 NLT Proverbs 9:12 ESV Proverbs 9:12 NASB Proverbs 9:12 KJV Proverbs 9:12 Commentaries Bible Hub |
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