Solomon
The son of David, King of Israel
1:1
Much of Solomon’s success can be credited to his father. As
Christians we can rejoice because we have a Heavenly Father who loves us.
The simple
Lacks prudence
1:4
Prudence is the ability to govern and discipline oneself by the
use of reason.
The young man
Lacks knowledge and discretion
1:4
That is why the book of Proverbs was written.
A wise man
Will hear and increase in learning
1:5
Even the wisest man still has much to learn.
A man of understanding
Will attain wise counsel (to understand a proverb and the
interpretation, the words of the wise and their riddles)
1:5-6
If a man of understanding will attain wise counsel, how much more
should a man who lacks understanding do likewise.
Fools
Despise wisdom and instruction
1:7
Fools don’t simply ignore wisdom and instruction, they despise it.
My son
Needs to hear the instruction of his father, and not forsake the law
of his mother
1:8
This is the first commandment with a promise.
Sinners
May entice sons
1:10
Sons are not told to “just say no”, but instead they are given a
reason to avoid them.
Wisdom
Calls aloud outside and raises her voice
1:20-21
Wisdom is freely offered from the LORD.
Simple ones
Love simplicity
1:22
The simple are content is their condition.
Scorners
Delight in their scorning
1:22
Scorners are also content in their condition, but the LORD can
change their heart to delight in good things.
Fools
Hate knowledge
1:22
Fools are not indifferent toward knowledge, they hate it.
The simple
The waywardness of the simple will slay them
1:32
The simple have heard and have turned away.
Fools
The prosperity of fools will destroy them
1:32
Our current circumstances are not an indicator of our future.
Those listen to wisdom
Will dwell safely and will be secure without fear of evil
1:33
Given the contentment of wisdom’s audience, it is a miracle that
they would listen.
