Proverbs 23:23 Buy the truth, and sell it not; also wisdom, and instruction, and understanding. This statement is not to be understood in a literal or commercial sense. Following the figure that is here used, see — I. THAT THE TRUTH OUGHT TO BE CAREFULLY EXAMINED. No wise man buys an article without looking very closely into it. There is no good thing but has its counterfeits and imitations. The article we are here advised to purchase is admitted to be the most valuable of all things, and it is therefore the last thing that should be taken on trust. That it is liable to be perverted and debased we all know. The great Teacher did not require His hearers to take His declarations upon trust. He courted and even demanded inquiry. The principle of private judgment may be abused. II. THE TRUTH HAS TO BE APPRAISED. A careful estimate of its value has to be formed. It is offered only on one condition — the sacrifice, or at least the free surrender of all we have. III. TO COMPLETE THE TRANSACTION WE MUST CLOSE WITH THE TERMS ON WHICH ARTICLE IS OFFERED. The truth is a system of doctrine and discipline, which needs to be carefully studied, thoroughly grasped, and diligently improved. IV. THE TRUTH CAN NEVER BE SOLD, EXCEPT AT A SERIOUS LOSS. It may be sold or sacrificed — 1. From a spirit of mere cowardice. 2. From a feeling of false charity and selfish complaisance. 3. By being accommodated to what is called "the spirit of the age." (Walter M. Giloray, D.D.) Parallel Verses KJV: Buy the truth, and sell it not; also wisdom, and instruction, and understanding.WEB: Buy the truth, and don't sell it. Get wisdom, discipline, and understanding. |
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