◄ Proverbs 28 ►
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The Boldness of the Righteous 1The wicked flee when no one pursues, but the righteous are as bold as a lion. 2A land in rebellion has many rulers, but a man of understanding and knowledge maintains order. 3A destitute leader who oppresses the poor is like a driving rain that leaves no food. 4Those who forsake the law praise the wicked, but those who keep the law resist them. 5Evil men do not understand justice, but those who seek the LORD comprehend fully. 6Better a poor man who walks with integrity than a rich man whose ways are perverse. 7A discerning son keeps the law, but a companion of gluttons disgraces his father. 8He who increases his wealth by interest and usury lays it up for one who is kind to the poor. 9Whoever turns his ear away from hearing the law, even his prayer is detestable. 10He who leads the upright along the path of evil will fall into his own pit, but the blameless will inherit what is good. 11A rich man is wise in his own eyes, but a poor man with discernment sees through him. 12When the righteous triumph, there is great glory, but when the wicked rise, men hide themselves. 13He who conceals his sins will not prosper, but whoever confesses and renounces them will find mercy. 14Blessed is the man who is always reverent,a but he who hardens his heart falls into trouble. 15Like a roaring lion or a charging bear is a wicked ruler over a helpless people. 16A leader who lacks judgment is also a great oppressor, but he who hates dishonest profit will prolong his days. 17A man burdened by bloodguilt will flee into the Pit;b let no one support him. 18He who walks with integrity will be kept safe, but whoever is perverse in his ways will suddenly fall. 19The one who works his land will have plenty of food, but whoever chases fantasies will have his fill of poverty. 20A faithful man will abound with blessings, but one eager to be rich will not go unpunished. 21To show partiality is not good, yet a man will do wrong for a piece of bread. 22A stingy manc hastens after wealth and does not know that poverty awaits him. 23He who rebukes a man will later find more favor than one who flatters with his tongue. 24He who robs his father or mother, saying, “It is not wrong,” is a companion to the man who destroys. 25A greedy man stirs up strife, but he who trusts in the LORD will prosper. 26He who trusts in himself is a fool, but one who walks in wisdom will be safe. 27Whoever gives to the poor will not be in need, but he who hides his eyes will receive many curses. 28When the wicked come to power, people hide themselves; but when they perish, the righteous flourish. Footnotes: 14 a Or always fears the LORD; Hebrew does not include the LORD. 17 b Or will be a fugitive until death 22 c Hebrew A man whose eye is evil Berean Standard Bible (BSB) printed 2016, 2020, 2022, 2025 by Bible Hub and Berean.Bible. Produced in cooperation with Bible Hub, Discovery Bible, unfoldingWord, Bible Aquifer, OpenBible.com, and the Berean Bible Translation Committee. This text of God's Word has been dedicated to the public domain. Free downloads and unlimited usage available. See also the Berean Literal Bible and Berean Interlinear Bible. Bible Hub Proverbs 28 Summary The Boldness of the Righteous Verses 1–5 – Courage of the Upright and the Fragility of Evil The wicked panic at imagined threats, but the righteous stand their ground like lions. Wise leadership stabilizes a nation, whereas moral rebellion multiplies rulers and unrest. Oppressive poverty-stricken officials drain the land like a storm that wrecks the crop. Abandoning God’s law emboldens evil; keeping it arms people to resist. Those who seek the Lord gain true insight into justice. Verses 6–9 – Integrity Tempered by the Law Better to be honest and poor than crooked and rich. A law-keeping child honors his family; gluttonous companions disgrace them. Wealth built on interest and exploitation slips away to the one who shares with the poor. Closing one’s ears to God’s instructions turns prayer itself into an offense. Verses 10–14 – Paths, Pitfalls, and Mercy Those who lure the upright into sin fall into their own trap, while the blameless inherit good. Self-confident wealth can blind, yet clear-eyed poverty discerns. Public celebration follows righteous victories; wicked ascendancy drives people into hiding. Concealing sin blocks prosperity, but confession and renunciation open the door to mercy. Ongoing reverence keeps a person safe; a hardened heart invites disaster. Verses 15–18 – Leadership that Devours vs. Leadership that Guards A tyrant over helpless people is a roaring lion or charging bear. Foolish rulers become oppressors; hating dishonest gain lengthens one’s life. The murderer flees toward the grave with no help forthcoming. Integrity keeps a person secure; perversity brings a sudden fall. Verses 19–22 – Work, Wealth, and Temptation Working one’s own field brings plenty; chasing fantasies breeds poverty. Faithfulness draws blessing, while a rush for riches invites punishment. Partiality corrupts for the price of a crust. Greedy haste toward wealth ends in need. Verses 23–28 – Words, Giving, and the Fate of the Wicked Honest rebuke wins lasting favor above flattery. Claiming “no wrong” when robbing parents aligns a person with destroyers. Greed fuels conflict, but trusting the LORD leads to flourishing. Self-reliance is folly; walking in wisdom brings safety. Generosity to the poor averts need; shutting one’s eyes draws curses. Wicked rule drives the righteous into hiding, yet their downfall releases the land to flourish. Proverbs 28, a chapter in the wisdom literature of the Bible, is an impactful piece that highlights the importance of righteous living and the consequences of wrongdoing. It contrasts the actions of the wise with those of the fool, the rich with the poor, and the righteous with the wicked. Filled with timeless truths, the chapter offers insights on moral living and leadership. Literary Setting Proverbs 25–29 are often linked to the scribes of King Hezekiah (Proverbs 25:1). Their collection emphasizes public life—courts, markets, and royal halls. Chapter 28 focuses on righteousness expressed in civic, economic, and family arenas. Political Turbulence and Social Stability Verse 2: “A land in rebellion has many rulers.” Archaeological layers from the divided monarchy show frequent regime change: inscriptions list successive governors in short spans. Jeremiah 22:13-19 echoes the theme—unjust kings destabilize Judah. In contrast, Joseph’s wise administration steadied Egypt during famine (Genesis 41), illustrating “a man of understanding and knowledge maintains order.” Honest Labor and the Ancient Economy Verse 19 praises working one’s land. Excavations at Iron-Age farmsteads around Beersheba reveal family plots with cisterns and threshing floors—evidence of the small-scale agriculture assumed here. Paul evokes the same principle: “If anyone is not willing to work, he shall not eat” (2 Thessalonians 3:10). Usury and Israelite Law Verse 8 warns about wealth gained by “interest and usury.” Exodus 22:25 and Deuteronomy 23:19-20 forbid charging interest to a fellow Israelite in need. Cuneiform tablets from Mesopotamia record rates up to 33 percent; Israel’s law countered such exploitation, reflecting covenant compassion. Confession, Mercy, and Temple Practices Verse 13 stresses confession. Leviticus 5 describes verbal admission of sin alongside a guilt offering. David models this: “I acknowledged my sin to You… and You forgave” (Psalm 32:5). In the New Testament, 1 John 1:9 carries the principle forward: “If we confess our sins, He is faithful… to cleanse us.” Kings, Officials, and the Weight of Bloodguilt Verse 17 pictures the murderer fleeing. Cities of refuge (Numbers 35) provided temporary asylum, yet deliberate murderers faced execution. Ancient city gates at Tel Dan show chambers where elders sat to judge such cases, linking the proverb to real civic procedure. Poverty, Generosity, and Covenant Ethics Verses 27-28 highlight giving to the poor. Ruth 2 illustrates gleaning rights for the needy; Boaz prospers while showing kindness. Jesus draws on the same ethic: “Give to the one who asks you” (Matthew 5:42). Paul reminds that generosity yields “the harvest of your righteousness” (2 Corinthians 9:10). Linking Proverbs 28 to the Prophets • Verse 4 aligns with Isaiah 5:20—calling evil good when the law is abandoned. • Verse 15’s image of predatory rulers reappears in Ezekiel 22:27. • Verse 26’s warning against self-trust parallels Jeremiah 17:5-7, contrasting the cursed man who trusts flesh with the blessed man who trusts the LORD. Echoes in the Teachings of Jesus and the Apostles • Verse 1’s lion-like boldness surfaces in Acts 4:13, where Peter and John speak fearlessly after the resurrection. • Verse 6’s praise of honest poverty resonates with the Beatitude “Blessed are the poor in spirit” (Matthew 5:3). • Verse 13’s call to confession aligns with James 5:16: “Confess your sins to one another.” • Verse 23’s “rebuke” over flattery is lived out by Paul confronting Peter in Galatians 2:11-14. Practical Wisdom for Today • Civic life: voting, advocacy, and community service mirror the proverb’s insistence on righteous public leadership. • Finances: steering clear of predatory lending and get-rich-quick schemes honors verses 8 and 20. • Family: respecting parents’ property (verse 24) extends to modern issues of elder care and inheritance. • Personal conduct: regular self-examination and honest confession (verse 13) maintain spiritual health. • Generosity: budgeting for charity embodies verse 27 and keeps the heart from greed. Proverbs 28 stands as a vivid manual: live openly before God, treat people justly, work diligently, give generously, and insist on integrity in leaders. In every age, such wisdom makes a community bold as a lion. Connections to Additional Scriptures Psalm 1:1-3 Highlights the blessings of walking in righteousness and delighting in God's law. Matthew 5:6 Jesus speaks about the blessing of those who hunger and thirst for righteousness. 1 John 1:9 Encourages confession of sins and assures us of God's faithfulness to forgive. James 5:16 Stresses the importance of confessing sins to one another and praying for healing. Teaching Points The Righteous and the Wicked Proverbs 28:1 states, The wicked flee when no one pursues, but the righteous are as bold as a lion. This verse highlights the inner peace and confidence that comes from living a righteous life. The Importance of the Law Verse 4 says, Those who forsake the law praise the wicked, but those who keep the law resist them. This emphasizes the importance of adhering to God's commandments as a means of resisting evil. Wealth and Integrity Verse 6 teaches, Better a poor man who walks with integrity than a rich man whose ways are perverse. This underscores the value of integrity over material wealth. Justice and Leadership Verse 16 warns, A leader who lacks judgment is also a great oppressor, but he who hates dishonest profit will prolong his days. This highlights the necessity of justice and integrity in leadership. Confession and Mercy Verse 13 states, He who conceals his sins will not prosper, but whoever confesses and renounces them will find mercy. This verse encourages transparency and repentance as pathways to receiving God's mercy. Practical Applications Cultivate Boldness through Righteousness Seek to live a life that aligns with God's principles, which will naturally lead to a bold and confident spirit. Adhere to God's Law Make a conscious effort to study and apply God's commandments in your daily life, resisting the influence of wickedness. Value Integrity over Wealth Prioritize honesty and integrity in all your dealings, trusting that God values these traits more than material success. Promote Justice in Leadership Whether in your home, workplace, or community, strive to lead with fairness and integrity, setting an example for others. Practice Confession and Repentance Regularly examine your heart, confess your sins to God, and seek His mercy and forgiveness. People 1. The Wicked Described as those who flee when no one pursues them (Proverbs 28:1). The Hebrew word for "wicked" is "רָשָׁע" (rasha), indicating someone who is guilty or morally wrong. 2. The Righteous Contrasted with the wicked, they are as bold as a lion (Proverbs 28:1). The Hebrew word "צַדִּיק" (tsaddiq) refers to someone who is just or in the right. 3. The Poor Man Mentioned in the context of oppressing the poor, which is likened to a driving rain that leaves no crops (Proverbs 28:3). The Hebrew word "רָשׁ" (rash) is used for "poor," indicating someone who is needy or lacking. 4. The Lawless Those who forsake the law and praise the wicked (Proverbs 28:4). The Hebrew term "תּוֹרָה" (torah) is used for "law," referring to divine instruction or teaching. 5. The Law-Keepers Those who keep the law and resist the wicked (Proverbs 28:4). This implies adherence to God's commandments. 6. Evil Men They do not understand justice (Proverbs 28:5). The Hebrew word "רָע" (ra) is used for "evil," indicating someone who is harmful or bad. 7. Those Who Seek the LORD They fully understand justice (Proverbs 28:5). The Hebrew word "בָּקַשׁ" (baqash) means to seek or inquire. 8. The Poor Man with Integrity Better than a rich man who is perverse in his ways (Proverbs 28:6). Integrity is highlighted as a key virtue. 9. The Rich Man Mentioned in contrast to the poor man with integrity (Proverbs 28:6). Wealth is not equated with righteousness. 10. A Discerning Son Keeps the law (Proverbs 28:7). The Hebrew word "בִּין" (bin) means to understand or discern. 11. A Companion of Gluttons Brings shame to his father (Proverbs 28:7). This implies indulgence and lack of self-control. 12. The Usurer and Extortioner Gathers wealth for someone who will be kind to the poor (Proverbs 28:8). This highlights the futility of unjust gain. 13. One Who Turns Away His Ear from the Law His prayer is an abomination (Proverbs 28:9). This emphasizes the importance of obedience to divine instruction. 14. The One Who Leads the Upright Astray Will fall into his own pit (Proverbs 28:10). This warns against causing others to sin. 15. The Blameless Will inherit good (Proverbs 28:10). The Hebrew word "תָּם" (tam) means complete or blameless. 16. The Rich Man Wise in His Own Eyes A poor man with discernment sees through him (Proverbs 28:11). This critiques self-deception and pride. 17. The Faithful Man Will abound with blessings (Proverbs 28:20). Faithfulness is a key virtue. 18. The One Eager to Get Rich Will not go unpunished (Proverbs 28:20). This warns against greed. 19. The Partial Man Is not good (Proverbs 28:21). Partiality is seen as unjust. 20. The One Who Rebukes a Man Will find more favor than one who flatters (Proverbs 28:23). This highlights the value of honesty. 21. The One Who Robs His Father or Mother Is a companion to a man who destroys (Proverbs 28:24). This underscores the severity of dishonoring parents. 22. The Proud-Hearted Stirs up strife (Proverbs 28:25). Pride is linked to conflict. 23. The One Who Trusts in the LORD Will prosper (Proverbs 28:25). Trust in God is encouraged. 24. The One Who Trusts in Himself Is a fool (Proverbs 28:26). Self-reliance is contrasted with wisdom. 25. The One Who Walks in Wisdom Will be kept safe (Proverbs 28:26). Wisdom is associated with security. 26. The One Who Gives to the Poor Will lack nothing (Proverbs 28:27). Generosity is rewarded. 27. The One Who Hides His Eyes Will receive many curses (Proverbs 28:27). Ignoring the needy is condemned. 28. The Wicked Ruler Over a poor people is like a roaring lion or a charging bear (Proverbs 28:15). This describes oppressive leadership. Places 1. The Place of the Wicked Proverbs 28:1 states, "The wicked flee when no one pursues, but the righteous are as bold as a lion." This verse describes a state of fear and insecurity that characterizes the wicked, contrasting it with the confidence of the righteous. 2. The Place of the Righteous In contrast to the wicked, the righteous are described as bold and secure. This "place" is one of confidence and strength, rooted in moral integrity and faith. 3. The Place of Understanding Proverbs 28:5 says, "Evil men do not understand justice, but those who seek the LORD comprehend fully." This suggests a place of spiritual insight and understanding that comes from seeking God. 4. The Place of Poverty and Wealth Proverbs 28:6 mentions, "Better a poor man who walks with integrity than a rich man whose ways are perverse." This highlights the moral and ethical "place" of integrity over material wealth. 5. The Place of Justice Proverbs 28:12 states, "When the righteous triumph, there is great glory, but when the wicked rise, men hide themselves." This describes a societal state where justice prevails, leading to public celebration and safety. 6. The Place of Concealment Proverbs 28:13 says, "He who conceals his sins will not prosper, but whoever confesses and renounces them will find mercy." This refers to a spiritual state of hiding versus openness and repentance. 7. The Place of Hardness of Heart Proverbs 28:14 warns, "Blessed is the man who is always reverent, but he who hardens his heart falls into trouble." This describes a state of spiritual stubbornness and its consequences. 8. The Place of Leadership Proverbs 28:16 notes, "A leader who lacks judgment is also a great oppressor, but he who hates dishonest profit will prolong his days." This refers to the ethical and moral responsibilities of leadership. Events 1. The Righteous and the Wicked "The wicked flee when no one pursues, but the righteous are as bold as a lion." (Proverbs 28:1) - This verse contrasts the fearfulness of the wicked with the confidence of the righteous. 2. A Nation's Stability "When a land transgresses, it has many rulers, but a man of understanding and knowledge maintains order." (Proverbs 28:2) - This highlights the importance of wise leadership for national stability. 3. Oppression and Poverty "A poor man who oppresses the poor is like a driving rain that leaves no food." (Proverbs 28:3) - This metaphor illustrates the destructive nature of oppression among the impoverished. 4. Law and Understanding "Those who forsake the law praise the wicked, but those who keep the law resist them." (Proverbs 28:4) - This verse emphasizes the importance of upholding the law to oppose wickedness. 5. Evil and Understanding "Evil men do not understand justice, but those who seek the LORD comprehend fully." (Proverbs 28:5) - This contrasts the lack of understanding in evil men with the insight of those who seek God. 6. Integrity and Wealth "Better a poor man who walks with integrity than a rich man whose ways are perverse." (Proverbs 28:6) - This teaching values integrity over wealth. 7. Discernment and Law "A discerning son keeps the law, but a companion of gluttons disgraces his father." (Proverbs 28:7) - This highlights the importance of discernment and obedience to the law. 8. Usury and Gain "He who increases his wealth by interest and usury lays it up for one who is kind to the poor." (Proverbs 28:8) - This suggests that ill-gotten gains will ultimately benefit the righteous. 9. Prayer and Law "If one turns his ear away from hearing the law, even his prayer is detestable." (Proverbs 28:9) - This emphasizes the necessity of obedience to the law for effective prayer. 10. Leading the Upright Astray "He who leads the upright along an evil path will fall into his own pit, but the blameless will inherit what is good." (Proverbs 28:10) - This warns against leading others into sin. 11. Rich and Poor "A rich man is wise in his own eyes, but a poor man with discernment sees through him." (Proverbs 28:11) - This contrasts the self-deception of the rich with the insight of the discerning poor. 12. Righteousness and Rejoicing "When the righteous triumph, there is great glory, but when the wicked rise, men hide themselves." (Proverbs 28:12) - This describes the societal impact of righteous leadership versus wicked rule. 13. Concealing and Confessing Sin "He who conceals his sins will not prosper, but whoever confesses and renounces them will find mercy." (Proverbs 28:13) - This highlights the importance of confession and repentance. 14. Fear of the LORD "Blessed is the man who is always reverent, but he who hardens his heart falls into trouble." (Proverbs 28:14) - This emphasizes the blessing of reverence and the danger of a hardened heart. 15. Ruler and Oppression "Like a roaring lion or a charging bear is a wicked ruler over a helpless people." (Proverbs 28:15) - This metaphor describes the destructive nature of oppressive leadership. 16. Greed and Longevity "A man burdened by bloodguilt will flee into the Pit; let no one support him." (Proverbs 28:17) - This warns against aiding those guilty of serious sin. 17. Blamelessness and Safety "He who walks with integrity will be kept safe, but whoever is perverse in his ways will suddenly fall." (Proverbs 28:18) - This contrasts the safety of integrity with the downfall of perversity. 18. Work and Provision "He who works his land will have plenty of food, but whoever chases fantasies will have his fill of poverty." (Proverbs 28:19) - This emphasizes the value of hard work over chasing unrealistic dreams. 19. Faithfulness and Blessing "A faithful man will abound with blessings, but one eager to be rich will not go unpunished." (Proverbs 28:20) - This highlights the rewards of faithfulness versus the pitfalls of greed. 20. Partiality and Sin "To show partiality is not good, yet a man will do wrong for a piece of bread." (Proverbs 28:21) - This warns against the sin of partiality and the ease of falling into wrongdoing. 21. Greed and Trouble "A stingy man hastens after wealth and does not know that poverty awaits him." (Proverbs 28:22) - This warns of the consequences of greed. 22. Rebuke and Favor "He who rebukes a man will later find more favor than one who flatters with his tongue." (Proverbs 28:23) - This values honest rebuke over flattery. 23. Theft and Complicity "He who robs his father or mother, saying, 'It is not wrong,' is a companion to a man who destroys." (Proverbs 28:24) - This condemns theft from parents and equates it with destruction. 24. Pride and Humility "A proud heart stirs up strife, but he who trusts in the LORD will prosper." (Proverbs 28:25) - This contrasts the strife caused by pride with the prosperity of trusting in God. 25. Self-reliance and Wisdom "He who trusts in himself is a fool, but one who walks in wisdom will be safe." (Proverbs 28:26) - This warns against self-reliance and promotes wisdom. 26. Generosity and Lack "He who gives to the poor will lack nothing, but he who hides his eyes will receive many curses." (Proverbs 28:27) - This highlights the blessings of generosity. 27. Rising and Hiding "When the wicked rise, men hide themselves; but when they perish, the righteous increase." (Proverbs 28:28) - This describes the societal impact of wickedness and the flourishing of righteousness. Lessons from Proverbs 28 1. The Power of Righteous Living Proverbs 28:1 tells us, "The wicked flee when no one pursues, but the righteous are as bold as a lion." Living a life aligned with God's principles instills a confidence that cannot be shaken. When you walk in righteousness, you carry a boldness that empowers you to face challenges head-on, knowing that God is with you. This boldness is not arrogance but a quiet assurance that comes from living in truth. 2. The Value of Understanding In Proverbs 28:2, we read, "A land in rebellion has many rulers, but a man of understanding and knowledge maintains order." Understanding and wisdom are crucial for maintaining peace and order, whether in a nation, a community, or your personal life. Seek wisdom through prayer and study of the Word, and you'll find that it brings clarity and stability to your decisions. 3. The Blessing of Generosity Proverbs 28:8 reminds us, "He who increases his wealth by interest and usury lays it up for one who is kind to the poor." Generosity is a hallmark of a life well-lived. When you give to those in need, you are not only blessing others but also aligning yourself with God's heart. Generosity opens doors to blessings that go beyond material wealth, enriching your spirit and community. 4. The Importance of Integrity "A faithful man will abound with blessings, but one eager to be rich will not go unpunished," says Proverbs 28:20. Integrity is a cornerstone of a life that honors God. When you live with honesty and faithfulness, you invite God's blessings into your life. Integrity builds trust and respect, paving the way for meaningful relationships and opportunities. 5. The Consequences of Ignoring the Law Proverbs 28:9 warns, "He who turns his ear away from hearing the law, even his prayer is detestable." Ignoring God's commandments leads to spiritual deafness. When you neglect His Word, you cut yourself off from the guidance and wisdom it offers. Embrace the Scriptures as your roadmap, and your prayers will be powerful and effective. 6. The Dangers of Pride "Pride brings a person low, but a lowly spirit gains honor," states Proverbs 28:23. Pride is a trap that leads to downfall, while humility opens the door to honor and respect. Cultivate a humble heart by recognizing your dependence on God. In humility, you find strength and grace to navigate life's challenges. 7. The Reward of Hard Work Proverbs 28:19 encourages, "He who works his land will have plenty of food, but he who chases fantasies will have his fill of poverty." Diligence and hard work are rewarded with abundance. When you commit to your responsibilities and put in the effort, you reap the benefits. Avoid the temptation of shortcuts and embrace the satisfaction that comes from honest labor. 8. The Wisdom of Seeking Counsel "Plans fail for lack of counsel, but with many advisers they succeed," says Proverbs 28:26. Seeking wise counsel is a sign of strength, not weakness. Surround yourself with godly mentors and friends who can offer guidance and support. Their insights can help you make informed decisions and avoid pitfalls. 9. The Peace of Trusting in the Lord Proverbs 28:25 teaches, "A greedy man stirs up strife, but he who trusts in the LORD will prosper." Trusting in God brings peace and prosperity. When you place your confidence in Him rather than in material wealth or human strength, you find a peace that surpasses understanding. Trust in the Lord, and He will direct your paths. 10. The Joy of Walking in Integrity Finally, Proverbs 28:18 declares, "He who walks with integrity will be kept safe, but whoever is perverse in his ways will suddenly fall." Walking in integrity is a source of joy and security. It ensures that your life is built on a solid foundation, free from the fear of exposure or failure. Embrace integrity, and experience the joy of a life well-lived in the sight of God. Topics 1. The Righteous and the Wicked (Proverbs 28:1-2) The chapter begins by contrasting the boldness of the righteous with the fearfulness of the wicked. The Hebrew word for "righteous" (צַדִּיק, tzaddik) implies one who is just and in right standing with God, while "wicked" (רָשָׁע, rasha) refers to those who are morally wrong or guilty. 2. The Law and Understanding (Proverbs 28:4-5) Those who forsake the law praise the wicked, but those who keep the law resist them. The Hebrew term for "law" (תּוֹרָה, torah) signifies instruction or teaching, emphasizing the importance of divine guidance. 3. Wealth and Integrity (Proverbs 28:6, 8) Better is a poor man who walks in integrity than a rich man whose ways are perverse. The Hebrew word for "integrity" (תֹּם, tom) suggests completeness or moral innocence. 4. Discernment and Wisdom (Proverbs 28:7, 11) A discerning son keeps the law, while a companion of gluttons disgraces his father. The Hebrew root for "discerning" (בִּין, bin) involves understanding or insight. 5. Justice and the Poor (Proverbs 28:3, 27) Oppressing the poor to increase wealth or giving to the rich leads to poverty. The Hebrew word for "oppress" (עָשַׁק, ashaq) means to exploit or defraud. 6. Prayer and Righteousness (Proverbs 28:9) If one turns away from hearing the law, even his prayer is an abomination. The Hebrew term for "abomination" (תּוֹעֵבָה, to'evah) indicates something detestable or loathsome to God. 7. Leadership and Stability (Proverbs 28:12, 15-16) When the righteous triumph, there is great glory, but when the wicked rise, people hide. The Hebrew word for "triumph" (עָלַץ, alatz) conveys a sense of exultation or rejoicing. 8. Confession and Mercy (Proverbs 28:13) He who conceals his sins does not prosper, but whoever confesses and renounces them finds mercy. The Hebrew root for "confess" (יָדָה, yadah) involves acknowledging or admitting. 9. Trust in the Lord (Proverbs 28:25-26) A greedy man stirs up strife, but he who trusts in the LORD will prosper. The Hebrew word for "trust" (בָּטַח, batach) implies confidence or reliance. 10. Justice and Bribery (Proverbs 28:21) Showing partiality is not good, yet a man will do wrong for a piece of bread. The Hebrew term for "partiality" (פָּנִים, panim) literally means "faces," indicating favoritism based on appearances. Themes 1. Righteousness vs. Wickedness Proverbs 28 contrasts the lives and outcomes of the righteous and the wicked. For example, verse 1 states, "The wicked flee when no one pursues, but the righteous are as bold as a lion." The Hebrew word for "righteous" (צַדִּיק, tzaddik) implies one who is just and in right standing with God, highlighting the theme of moral integrity. 2. Justice and Fairness The theme of justice is prevalent, as seen in verse 5: "Evil men do not understand justice, but those who seek the LORD comprehend fully." The Hebrew word for "justice" (מִשְׁפָּט, mishpat) underscores the importance of fairness and divine order in society. 3. Wealth and Poverty Proverbs 28 addresses the moral implications of wealth and poverty. Verse 6 states, "Better a poor man who walks with integrity than a rich man whose ways are perverse." This theme emphasizes the value of integrity over material wealth. 4. Leadership and Governance The chapter discusses the impact of leadership on a nation. Verse 2 notes, "When a land transgresses, it gains a succession of rulers, but with a man of understanding and knowledge, its stability endures." The Hebrew root for "understanding" (בִּינָה, binah) suggests discernment and insight, essential qualities for effective leadership. 5. The Consequences of Sin The theme of sin and its consequences is evident, as in verse 13: "He who conceals his sins will not prosper, but whoever confesses and renounces them will find mercy." The Hebrew word for "confesses" (יָדָה, yadah) implies acknowledgment and repentance, highlighting the importance of transparency before God. 6. The Fear of the Lord Reverence for God is a recurring theme. Verse 14 states, "Blessed is the man who is always reverent, but he who hardens his heart falls into trouble." The Hebrew word for "reverent" (פָּחַד, pachad) conveys a sense of awe and respect for God's authority. 7. The Power of Words The impact of speech is addressed in verse 23: "He who rebukes a man will later find more favor than one who flatters with his tongue." This theme underscores the value of honest and constructive communication over deceitful flattery. 8. The Importance of Wisdom Wisdom is highlighted as a guiding principle for life. Verse 26 warns, "He who trusts in himself is a fool, but one who walks in wisdom will be safe." The Hebrew word for "wisdom" (חָכְמָה, chokmah) suggests skillful living and practical application of knowledge. 9. Generosity and Compassion The chapter encourages generosity, as seen in verse 27: "He who gives to the poor will lack nothing, but he who hides his eyes will receive many curses." This theme emphasizes the blessings associated with compassion and charity. 10. The Role of Discipline Discipline is portrayed as essential for a righteous life. Verse 19 states, "He who works his land will have plenty of food, but whoever chases fantasies will have his fill of poverty." This theme highlights the importance of diligence and self-control in achieving prosperity. Prayer Points Pray for a heart that seeks righteousness and boldness in living out your faith. Ask God for wisdom and strength to adhere to His commandments and resist evil influences. Seek God's guidance in valuing integrity over material wealth and making ethical decisions. Pray for leaders in your community and nation to act with justice and integrity. Confess any known sins and ask for God's mercy and forgiveness, committing to a path of repentance. As we reflect on Proverbs 28, may we be inspired to live lives marked by righteousness, integrity, and a deep commitment to God's truth. Answering Tough Questions 1. How can “the wicked flee when no one pursues” (Proverbs 28:1) always hold true when many powerful wrongdoers seem unafraid? 2. If “those who seek the Lord understand all things” (Proverbs 28:5), why do virtuous believers sometimes misjudge situations? 3. How does “whoever increases wealth by taking interest or profit” (Proverbs 28:8) align with modern banking systems that seem beneficial yet charge interest? 4. If ignoring the law makes one’s prayers detestable (Proverbs 28:9), how do we account for apparent answered prayers among those who openly violate biblical commands? 5. Why does “when the wicked rise to power, people go into hiding” (Proverbs 28:12) conflict with historical examples where oppressed individuals publicly resist unjust rulers? Bible Study Discussion Questions 1. How does Proverbs 28 differentiate between the righteous and the wicked? 2. What does it mean to be "as bold as a lion" in our contemporary context? 3. How do the lessons about leadership in Proverbs 28 apply to today's leaders? 4. What are the consequences of choosing wealth over integrity according to this chapter? 5. How does this chapter view self-trust and self-reliance in comparison to seeking advice from others? 6. How does this Proverb link poverty and wealth to morality? 7. How can we apply the principle of 'trusting in the Lord' in our day-to-day life? 8. How can we interpret and apply the lessons about the dangers of greed in our consumerist society? 9. What does it mean in our present context to "give rebuke" over flattery? 10. How does this Proverb view guilt and its consequences? 11. How can we cultivate the wisdom and understanding of justice as described in this Proverb? 12. How can we apply the principles of Proverbs 28 in our relationships? 13. How do the principles in this chapter guide us in our professional lives? 14. What does the contrasting of the wicked and the righteous teach us about the biblical understanding of justice? 15. How does this chapter's teaching on leadership apply to our roles within our families or communities? 16. How can the lessons on the consequences of wrongdoing help shape our decision-making process? 17. In what ways does Proverbs 28 suggest we approach wealth and poverty? 18. How can we use the wisdom in Proverbs 28 to navigate societal pressures and expectations? 19. How does the concept of 'fearing the Lord' apply to our understanding of faith? 20. How can we use this chapter to guide us in our pursuit of wisdom and righteousness? 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