key verse: 7
THE BEGINNING OF KNOWLEDGE
Introduction to Proverbs
This book contains proverbs of many authors but the main one is Solomon. Wisdom, which is more precious than pearls or gold, is the theme of this book. The fear of the Lord is the beginning of wisdom. Justice, holiness, humility, mercy, peace, diligence, keeping God's word, correcting children, virtuous women, etc are all examples of wisdom. The result of wisdom is life (chapter 3). In most cases, this book deals with wisdom in the world, though sometimes it deals with wisdom pertaining to eternal life (12:28, 15;24, etc).
Solomon wrote Proverbs to make knowledge known to men. This part is divided into three sections: introduction, bad influence and God's answer to resistant men.
1. The Beginning of Knowledge (1-9)
Words of wisdom help us receive instruction, justice, equity and integrity. Wisdom builds as our desire to learn increases. Contrary to human wisdom, divine wisdom can be obtained only through the fear of the Lord. Only fools reject it.
2. Bad Influence (10-19)
Psalm 1 says "Blessed is the man who walks not in the counsel of the wicked, nor stands in the way of sinners, nor sits in the seat of scoffers." When temptation comes, we must be vigilant and hold fast to justice, or risk running after evil. He who tempts others will fall into his own snare.
3. God's answer to man's resistance (20-33)
Wisdom takes revenge. She cries out against stupidity. She invites the simple to follow her ways. However, people refuse to understand or listen. Their resistance is not without consequence and they receive their just rewards. Though God called many times, they turned a deaf ear. Now, it is God's turn. When they reach out to him for help, he will turn a deaf ear. Since they hated knowledge, God will not rescue them. Since they despised is correction, they will wander. Those who listen to his words will live in a secure and prosperous home.
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