Evil Men Seek Rebellion

Proverbs 17:10–19
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An usher once handed the famous evangelist D.L. Moody a note as he entered the auditorium. The evangelist thought that it was an announcement, so he prepared to read it. Opening the folded piece of paper he found scrawled in large print only one word: “Fool.” Equa … More

Fool

A wise man realizes his limitations and is thankful for correction while a fool is unresponsive (v. 10). An evil man rebels against authority, but eventually he will be punished by a merciless official (v. 11). Challenging a foolish person is like stepping between a mother bear and her cubs. Solomon warns that a fool is more dangerous than a mother bear (v. 12). You will always have trouble if you are mean to those who are good to you (v. 13). Starting a quarrel may seem like a minor matter, but it is like a small leak in a dam. If neglected, a tiny hole will get larger and larger until the dam breaks, destroying everything in front of it (v. 14).

The Lord hates it when we call evil good and good evil. Only a fool would do this (v.15). The abortion issue is a glaring example of this in our modern day. Why should fools have money for an education when they refuse to learn (v. 16)? We should greatly value our true friends and brothers, those who prove themselves in times of trouble by helping whenever and wherever they are needed (v. 17). Christ Jesus is a friend like that. There are repeated warnings throughout the Scriptures against guaranteeing someone else’s financial note (v. 18). If a someone does not have the money to buy something, then it is best not to get it. This can be God’s way of saying “No” or “Not Yet”. “He that exalts his gate seeks destruction” (v. 19). Solomon’s day private homes were often entered through a high and elaborate gateway which spoke of wealth and social prestige. People who lacked the funds were often tempted to construct such a gate and thus brought themselves to financial ruin. Men today also often adopt a life-style that is beyond their means.

Application

What is my chief goal in life? Do I find myself spending more time thinking about how I can improve my living standard than I do about what I can accomplish for Christ?

Proverbs 17:10-19 (English Standard Version)

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