A foolish scheme is sin, and a mocker is detestable to men. A foolish schemeThe Hebrew word for "foolish" is "אִוֶּלֶת" (ivvelet), which often denotes not just a lack of wisdom, but a moral deficiency. In the context of Proverbs, foolishness is frequently contrasted with wisdom, which is rooted in the fear of the Lord. A "scheme" here implies a plan or device that is crafted without regard for God's righteous standards. Historically, the Israelites were warned against devising plans that were contrary to God's will, as seen in the narratives of the Old Testament where human schemes often led to downfall. This phrase serves as a reminder that any plan or thought process that does not align with divine wisdom is inherently sinful. is sin
The Hebrew word for "sin" is "חַטָּאת" (chatta'ah), which means to miss the mark. In the biblical context, sin is not just an action but a state of being that separates humanity from God. The use of "is" indicates a definitive state, emphasizing that foolishness is not merely an error in judgment but a moral failing. This aligns with the conservative Christian understanding that sin is a pervasive condition that affects all aspects of human life and requires divine intervention for redemption. and a mocker
The term "mocker" comes from the Hebrew "לֵץ" (lets), which refers to someone who scorns or ridicules. In the wisdom literature of the Bible, mockers are often depicted as those who reject wisdom and instruction, choosing instead to deride and belittle others. This behavior is not only socially disruptive but spiritually dangerous, as it reflects a heart that is hardened against God. The historical context of ancient Israel shows that mockers were often those who led others astray, undermining the community's moral and spiritual fabric. is detestable
The Hebrew word "תוֹעֵבָה" (to'evah) is used here, which is often translated as "abomination." This term is used throughout the Old Testament to describe actions and attitudes that are utterly repugnant to God. The use of "detestable" underscores the severity of the mocker's sin, indicating that such behavior is not only socially unacceptable but also deeply offensive to the divine order. In a conservative Christian perspective, this highlights the importance of aligning one's attitudes and actions with God's standards to avoid falling into behaviors that are abhorrent to Him. to men
This phrase indicates the social dimension of sin. While sin is primarily an offense against God, it also has horizontal implications, affecting relationships and community dynamics. The mocker, by their very nature, disrupts harmony and sows discord, making them detestable not only to God but also to their fellow human beings. This serves as a cautionary note that our actions and attitudes have real-world consequences, and living in accordance with God's wisdom is essential for maintaining healthy, God-honoring relationships. Persons / Places / Events 1. The FoolIn the context of Proverbs, the fool is someone who rejects wisdom and understanding, often characterized by sinful behavior and poor decision-making. 2. The MockerThis person is known for ridiculing and scorning others, often showing contempt for wisdom and righteousness. 3. SolomonTraditionally attributed as the author of Proverbs, Solomon was the king of Israel known for his wisdom. 4. Ancient IsraelThe cultural and historical backdrop of Proverbs, where wisdom literature was highly valued. 5. The WiseThose who seek and apply God's wisdom, often contrasted with the fool and the mocker in Proverbs. Teaching Points Understanding Sinful SchemesRecognize that any plan or thought that deviates from God's wisdom is considered sin. Evaluate your intentions and align them with biblical principles. The Danger of MockeryMockery is not just a social faux pas but a serious offense that alienates us from others and from God. Cultivate a spirit of encouragement and respect. Pursuing Godly WisdomActively seek wisdom through prayer, scripture, and godly counsel. This pursuit guards against foolishness and mockery. The Impact of Our ActionsUnderstand that our actions and attitudes affect our relationships with others. Strive to be a person who uplifts rather than tears down. Reflecting Christ in ConductAs Christians, our behavior should reflect Christ's love and wisdom. Avoid behaviors that are detestable to others and dishonor God. Bible Study Questions 1. How does Proverbs 24:9 define a foolish scheme, and what are some modern examples of such schemes? 2. In what ways can mockery manifest in our daily lives, and how can we guard against it? 3. How does the fear of the Lord serve as a foundation for avoiding foolishness and mockery? 4. What practical steps can you take to seek and apply godly wisdom in your decision-making? 5. How can the teachings of Jesus in the New Testament help us understand and apply the principles found in Proverbs 24:9? Connections to Other Scriptures Proverbs 1:7This verse highlights the fear of the Lord as the beginning of knowledge, contrasting the wisdom of the wise with the folly of fools. James 1:5Encourages believers to seek wisdom from God, who gives generously to all without finding fault. Psalm 1:1Describes the blessedness of avoiding the counsel of the wicked, which aligns with the rejection of foolish schemes. Matthew 5:22Jesus warns against harboring anger and contempt, which can be related to the behavior of a mocker. 1 Corinthians 3:19Paul speaks of the wisdom of the world as foolishness in God's sight, echoing the themes of Proverbs. People SolomonPlaces JerusalemTopics Abomination, Authority, Detest, Detested, Devising, Disgusting, Folly, Foolish, Foolishness, Hater, Mocker, Purpose, Schemes, Scoffer, Scorner, SinDictionary of Bible Themes Proverbs 24:9 8760 fools, characteristics
8782 mockery Proverbs 24:8-9 6186 evil scheming Library The Sluggard's Garden
'I went by the field of the slothful, and by the vineyard of the man void of understanding; 31. And, lo, it was all grown over with thorns, and nettles had covered the face thereof, and the stone wall thereof was broken down.'--PROVERBS xxiv. 30, 31. This picture of the sluggard's garden seems to be intended as a parable. No doubt its direct simple meaning is full of homely wisdom in full accord with the whole tone of the Book of Proverbs; but we shall scarcely do justice to this saying of the wise …
Alexander Maclaren—Expositions of Holy ScriptureThe Broken Fence
A sermon (No. 3381) published on Thursday, November 20th 1913. Delivered by C. H. Spurgeon at the Metropolitan Tabernacle, Newington. "I went by the field of the slothful, and by the vineyard of the man void of understanding; and to, it was all grown over with thorns, and nettles had covered the face thereof, and the stone wall thereof was broken down, Then I saw, and considered it well: I looked upon it and received instruction."--Proverbs 24:30-32. This slothful man did no hurt to his fellow-men: …
C.H. Spurgeon—Sermons on Proverbs The Sluggard's Farm
A sermon (No. 2027) intended for reading on Lord's Day, June 3rd 1888, delivered by C. H. Spurgeon at the Metropolitan Tabernacle, Newington. "I went by the field of the slothful, and by the vineyard of the man void of understanding; And, lo, it was all grown over with thorns, and nettles had covered the face thereof, and the stone wall thereof was broken down. Then I saw, and considered it well: I looked upon it, and received instruction."--Proverbs 24:30-32. No doubt Solomon was sometimes glad …
C.H. Spurgeon—Sermons on Proverbs Epistle xxxvi. To Maximus, Bishop of Salona .
To Maximus, Bishop of Salona [113] . Gregory to Maximus, &c. When our common son the presbyter Veteranus came to the Roman city, he found me so weak from the pains of gout as to be quite unable to answer thy Fraternity's letters myself. And indeed with regard to the nation of the Sclaves [114] , from which you are in great danger, I am exceedingly afflicted and disturbed. I am afflicted as suffering already in your suffering: I am disturbed, because they have already begun to enter Italy by way …
Saint Gregory the Great—the Epistles of Saint Gregory the Great The Portrait of a Drunkyard
'Who hath woe? who hath sorrow? who hath contentions? who hath babbling? who hath wounds without cause? who hath redness of eyes? 30. They that tarry long at the wine; they that go to seek mixed wine. 31. Look not thou upon the wine when it is red, when it giveth his colour in the cup, when it moveth itself aright. 32. At the last it biteth like a serpent, and stingeth like an adder. 33. Thine eyes shall behold strange women, and thine heart shall utter perverse things. 34. Yea, thou shalt be as …
Alexander Maclaren—Expositions of Holy Scripture 2 Cor. Iii. 5
Not that we are sufficient of our selves, to think any thing as of our selves: but our Sufficiency is of God. IN my former Discourse upon these Words, I shewed you that it was the sole Design of St. Paul in them, to declare, that, in the setting about, and executing, the difficult and laborious Work of an Apostle, He did not arrogate to himself the Power, and Ability, and Success, which he had: but that he ascribed his Sufficiency for this great Work, as well as his being designed to it, to God himself, …
Benjamin Hoadly—Several Discourses Concerning the Terms of Acceptance with God How to Make Use of Christ for Taking the Guilt of Our Daily Out-Breakings Away.
The next part of our sanctification is in reference to our daily failings and transgressions, committed partly through the violence of temptations, as we see in David and Peter, and other eminent men of God; partly through daily infirmities, because of our weakness and imperfections; for, "in many things we offend all," James iii. 2; and, "if we say we have no sin, we deceive ourselves, and the truth is not in us," 1 John i. 8; "a righteous man falleth seven times," Prov. xxiv. 16; "there is not …
John Brown (of Wamphray)—Christ The Way, The Truth, and The Life The Justice of God
The next attribute is God's justice. All God's attributes are identical, and are the same with his essence. Though he has several attributes whereby he is made known to us, yet he has but one essence. A cedar tree may have several branches, yet it is but one cedar. So there are several attributes of God whereby we conceive of him, but only one entire essence. Well, then, concerning God's justice. Deut 32:4. Just and right is he.' Job 37:23. Touching the Almighty, we cannot find him out: he is excellent …
Thomas Watson—A Body of Divinity The Necessity of Actual Grace
In treating of the necessity of actual grace we must avoid two extremes. The first is that mere nature is absolutely incapable of doing any thing good. This error was held by the early Protestants and the followers of Baius and Jansenius. The second is that nature is able to perform supernatural acts by its own power. This was taught by the Pelagians and Semipelagians. Between these two extremes Catholic theology keeps the golden mean. It defends the capacity of human nature against Protestants and …
Joseph Pohle—Grace, Actual and Habitual Meditations on the Hindrances which Keep Back a Sinner from the Practice of Piety.
Those hindrances are chiefly seven:-- I. An ignorant mistaking of the true meaning of certain places of the holy Scriptures, and some other chief grounds of Christian religion. The Scriptures mistaken are these: 1. Ezek. xxxiii. 14, 16, "At what time soever a sinner repenteth him of his sin, I will blot out all," &c. Hence the carnal Christian gathers, that he may repent when he will. It is true, whensoever a sinner does repent, God will forgive; but the text saith not, that a sinner may repent whensoever …
Lewis Bayly—The Practice of Piety Scriptures Showing the Sin and Danger of Joining with Wicked and Ungodly Men.
Scriptures Showing The Sin And Danger Of Joining With Wicked And Ungodly Men. When the Lord is punishing such a people against whom he hath a controversy, and a notable controversy, every one that is found shall be thrust through: and every one joined with them shall fall, Isa. xiii. 15. They partake in their judgment, not only because in a common calamity all shares, (as in Ezek. xxi. 3.) but chiefly because joined with and partakers with these whom God is pursuing; even as the strangers that join …
Hugh Binning—The Works of the Rev. Hugh Binning A Treatise on Good Works
I. We ought first to know that there are no good works except those which God has commanded, even as there is no sin except that which God has forbidden. Therefore whoever wishes to know and to do good works needs nothing else than to know God's commandments. Thus Christ says, Matthew xix, "If thou wilt enter into life, keep the commandments." And when the young man asks Him, Matthew xix, what he shall do that he may inherit eternal life, Christ sets before him naught else but the Ten Commandments. …
Dr. Martin Luther—A Treatise on Good Works Proverbs
Many specimens of the so-called Wisdom Literature are preserved for us in the book of Proverbs, for its contents are by no means confined to what we call proverbs. The first nine chapters constitute a continuous discourse, almost in the manner of a sermon; and of the last two chapters, ch. xxx. is largely made up of enigmas, and xxxi. is in part a description of the good housewife. All, however, are rightly subsumed under the idea of wisdom, which to the Hebrew had always moral relations. The Hebrew …
John Edgar McFadyen—Introduction to the Old Testament Links Proverbs 24:9 NIVProverbs 24:9 NLTProverbs 24:9 ESVProverbs 24:9 NASBProverbs 24:9 KJV
Proverbs 24:9 Commentaries
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