I am on the brink of utter ruin in the midst of the whole assembly." I am on the brinkThis phrase captures a moment of intense realization and urgency. The Hebrew root here is "כמעט" (kim'at), which conveys a sense of being on the verge or edge of something significant. In the context of Proverbs, it suggests a critical point where one must make a decisive choice. Historically, this reflects the wisdom literature's emphasis on the importance of timely decisions and the consequences of one's actions. The imagery of a brink or edge is powerful, evoking the precariousness of life choices and the need for divine wisdom to navigate them. of utter ruin in the midst of the assembly and congregation Persons / Places / Events 1. The SpeakerThe speaker in this verse is a person who has realized the consequences of their actions, particularly in the context of ignoring wisdom and falling into immorality. 2. The Assembly This refers to the community or congregation, possibly indicating a public setting where the speaker's shame and ruin are evident to others. 3. The Context of Proverbs 5 This chapter is a warning against adultery and the consequences of straying from the path of wisdom. It is part of the larger collection of Solomon's proverbs, which emphasize the importance of wisdom and moral integrity. Teaching Points The Consequences of Ignoring WisdomIgnoring wisdom leads to personal and public ruin. The speaker's lament in Proverbs 5:14 serves as a stark warning of the consequences of straying from God's path. The Importance of Community Accountability The mention of the "whole assembly" underscores the role of community in holding individuals accountable. Being part of a faith community can provide support and correction. Repentance and Restoration While the speaker is on the brink of ruin, there is always hope for repentance and restoration. God's grace is available to those who turn back to Him. Guarding Against Temptation Proverbs 5 warns against the allure of immorality. Believers are called to guard their hearts and minds, staying vigilant against temptation. The Role of Discipline in Spiritual Growth Experiencing the consequences of sin can be a form of divine discipline, intended to bring us back to the path of righteousness. Bible Study Questions 1. How does the speaker's realization in Proverbs 5:14 serve as a warning for us today?2. In what ways can being part of a faith community help prevent us from reaching the "brink of utter ruin"? 3. How do the themes of Proverbs 5 relate to Paul's teachings in 1 Corinthians 6:18-20 about our bodies being temples of the Holy Spirit? 4. What steps can we take to guard our hearts against the temptations described in Proverbs 5? 5. How can we view the consequences of our actions as opportunities for spiritual growth and restoration? Connections to Other Scriptures Proverbs 1:20-33This passage personifies wisdom as calling out in public places, warning against ignoring her voice. It connects to Proverbs 5:14 by highlighting the public nature of folly's consequences. 1 Corinthians 6:18-20 Paul warns against sexual immorality, emphasizing that our bodies are temples of the Holy Spirit. This connects to the theme of Proverbs 5, where the consequences of such actions lead to ruin. Hebrews 12:5-11 This passage discusses the Lord's discipline as a sign of His love. It relates to the idea that ignoring wisdom leads to discipline and correction.
People SolomonPlaces JerusalemTopics Almost, Assembled, Assembly, Brink, Company, Congregation, Evil, Gathered, Midst, Nigh, Point, Ruin, Utter, Well-nighDictionary of Bible Themes Proverbs 5:1-14Library The Cords of Sin'His own iniquities shall take the wicked himself, and he shall be holden with the cords of his sins.'--PROVERBS v. 22. In Hosea's tender picture of the divine training of Israel which, alas! failed of its effect, we read, 'I drew them with cords of a man,' which is further explained as being 'with bands of love.' The metaphor in the prophet's mind is probably that of a child being 'taught to go' and upheld in its first tottering steps by leading-strings. God drew Israel, though Israel did not yield … Alexander Maclaren—Expositions of Holy Scripture Last Things Sinners Bound with the Cords of Sin Sinners Bound with the Cords of Sin How the Silent and the Talkative are to be Admonished. How the Rude in Sacred Learning, and those who are Learned but not Humble, are to be Admonished. Twenty Second Sunday after Trinity Paul's Thanks and Prayers for Churches. "The Truth. " Some Generals Proposed. Thirdly, for Thy Actions. The Right Understanding of the Law Second Great Group of Parables. Proverbs Links Proverbs 5:14 NIVProverbs 5:14 NLT Proverbs 5:14 ESV Proverbs 5:14 NASB Proverbs 5:14 KJV Proverbs 5:14 Commentaries Bible Hub |
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