Bible Study Guide: Proverbs Volume 2: Ancient Words Bible Study Series

By Andrew J. Lamont-Turner

Welcome to the second volume of the verse-by-verse study of the Bible Book of Proverbs. This study covers chapters 15 to 24. Unlock the timeless wisdom of the Book of Proverbs with this comprehensive verse-by-verse study. Dive deep into the heart of each proverb and discover practical insights that can transform your life. This book will guide you through the Book of Proverbs, exploring the themes of wisdom, knowledge, understanding, morality, relationships, and work ethic. With clear explanations, relevant examples, and thought-provoking questions, you'll gain a deeper understanding of the wisdom passed down through the ages. Whether you're a seasoned scholar or a curious newcomer, this book will help you uncover the riches of the Book of Proverbs and apply its teachings to your everyday life.

• Language: English
• Publisher: Andrew J. Lamont-Turner
• Release date: May 29, 2024
• ISBN: 9798227700506

Andrew J. Lamont-Turner

Andrew Lamont-Turner is a theological scholar, author, and Bible teacher who has dedicated his life to pursuing theological knowledge and disseminating spiritual wisdom. With a profound understanding of the scriptures and a passion for teaching, Andrew has emerged as a leading voice in the field of theology. His extensive academic qualifications and love for God and his family have shaped him into a multifaceted individual committed to nurturing spiritual growth and intellectual exploration. Academic Journey: Andrew's academic journey reflects his thirst for theological understanding. He holds a Bachelor of Theology, Bachelor of Theology (Honours), Master of Theology, and a Doctor of Philosophy in Theology. These qualifications represent years of rigorous study and a commitment to excellence in his field. Furthermore, Andrew's intellectual curiosity extends beyond theology, as he also possesses a Bachelor of Education (Honours) and several Postgraduate Certificates in various commercial fields. This interdisciplinary approach has enriched his perspective and broadened his ability to connect theological principles with everyday life. Teaching and Writing: Andrew's knowledge of theology has been expressed through his teaching and writing endeavours. As an educator, he has inspired countless students through his engaging lectures and insights into the scriptures. His ability to distil complex theological concepts into accessible teachings has garnered him a reputation as an exceptional communicator. In addition to his teaching, Andrew is a prolific author who has published several books and a comprehensive Bible study series. His books delve into various aspects of Christian theology, offering insights, practical guidance, and thought-provoking reflections. With meticulous research, clear exposition, and a genuine desire to bridge the gap between academic theology and everyday faith, Andrew's writings have touched the lives of many, nurturing their spiritual growth and deepening their understanding of God's Word. Pastoral Leadership: Living his faith ensures Andrew takes his Pastoral Leadership very seriously. He is the Pastor of a community church in rural South Africa, where he ensures the flock entrusted to him by God is well-fed and looked after.

Book preview

Foreword

The Book of Proverbs is a timeless and valuable piece of literature that provides practical wisdom and guidance for daily living. Its teachings are based on the fear of God and the pursuit of righteousness, which is relevant for all people of all ages.

In this book, the reader is taken on a learning journey, equipped with insights on how to live a life of integrity, wisdom, and success. The book's teachings are presented through various literary forms such as poetry, aphorisms, and allegory, making it an interesting and captivating read.

The Book of Proverbs offers practical guidance on various aspects of life, such as relationships, work, money, and ethics. Its teachings are relevant for Christians and anyone seeking to live a life of wisdom and purpose.

As you read through the pages of this book, may you be inspired to pursue wisdom and apply the principles found in the book to your daily life. May you be empowered to live a life that is pleasing to God and beneficial to yourself and those around you.

May the teachings of the Book of Proverbs be a source of wisdom and inspiration to you as you journey through life.

In Christ

Andrew

Introduction to this Study

This study comprises questions based on the various verses of Scripture taken from the Book of Proverbs. This is the Book of Proverbs's second part (Volume 2).

Part 1 of this study explores the background information of the book, for example, who wrote it, when, to whom, why, and other aspects of the book, which is found in Volume I.

Part 2 is the verse-by-verse study that requires the reader to complete the questions and tasks at the end of each chapter. If this is done in a cell group environment, these answers should be discussed within the group.

Part 3 encompasses a Test Your Knowledge, where you can test your memory and knowledge of the Book of Proverbs.

After all the chapters have been studied, there are true, false, and multi-choice questions to test your knowledge of this book.

Suppose you are using the eBook version of this study. In that case, it is advisable to have a notebook handy to record the answers to the questions. Additional space may also be required to work through the test your knowledge questions.

Answering the questions is not a race. Careful thought should go into writing down the answers, specifically the life application of these questions and their answers.

Engaging in a Bible Study suggests that the reader recognises their need to understand Scripture and the depth of wisdom that follows knowing and understanding God and His ways. This is a spiritual journey, and it takes time as you investigate the verses, their meaning as the writer intended them to be, and their life application. Ensure prayer precedes each step of the way, allowing the Holy Spirit to guide you and opening your heart and mind to the knowledge of God.

This study matters as it might apply to your life’s reality. In other words, this study considers the Book’s Theology and other principles derived from the book within a framework that makes it easier to apply principles to our daily lives. This study is not a commentary, and although specific information about each book is provided, this study does not engage in textual criticism.

Summary of Proverbs Chapters 1 to 14

In chapters 1 to 14 of the book of Proverbs, we are presented with a treasure trove of wisdom and practical guidance for living a righteous and fulfilling life. These chapters lay the foundation for the book, setting the tone and introducing us to the key themes and teachings that will unfold.

The overarching message in these chapters is the pursuit of wisdom. Proverbs repeatedly emphasise the value and importance of wisdom, portraying it as a precious jewel to be sought after with zeal. It encourages us to listen to instruction, to seek knowledge and understanding, and to walk in the fear of the Lord.

Throughout these chapters, we encounter practical advice on various topics. Proverbs provide insights into the power of our words, the importance of integrity, the blessings of humility, and the dangers of pride and arrogance. It teaches us the value of hard work, the significance of honouring our parents, and the rewards of generosity and kindness.

In these chapters, Proverbs also warns us against the pitfalls of foolishness, laziness, and the allure of temptation. It urges us to exercise discernment, avoid the paths of the wicked, and prioritise righteousness and justice in all aspects of life.

Proverbs introduces us to the personification of Wisdom herself. Wisdom is depicted as calling out in the streets, offering her knowledge and understanding to all who would listen. She invites us to choose the path of righteousness and warns of the consequences of rejecting her counsel.

As we reflect on chapters 1 to 14 of Proverbs, we are reminded of its teachings' timeless relevance and practicality. These chapters provide a blueprint for wise living, guiding our relationships, speech, work, and character. They call us to be attentive and diligent in pursuing wisdom, knowing that it is through wisdom that we find true life and blessings.

May we heed the wisdom of Proverbs and allow its teachings to shape our thoughts, words, and actions. Let us embrace the path of wisdom, walking in the fear of the Lord and seeking to live lives that bring glory and honour to Him.

Part 2 Continued...

Proverbs Chapter 15:1-33

¹⁵:1 A gentle answer turns wrath away, but a harsh word stirs anger. 

This verse encapsulates the wisdom of responding to anger with gentleness and self-control. This lesson remains relevant in our interactions today. This wise adage is illustrated by the contrasting responses of Gideon and Jephthah to the men of Ephraim in the book of Judges. Gideon's gentle answer to the angry men of Ephraim in Judges 8:1-3 defused tension and avoided conflict. At the same time, Jephthah's harsh words in Judges 12:1-6 led to disastrous consequences. These examples demonstrate the power of words in resolving disputes.

Another example can be found in the story of Abigail and Nabal. Abigail's wise and gentle words prevented David from taking rash actions, whereas Nabal's harsh words almost led to his downfall. These stories emphasise the importance of choosing our words carefully, especially when dealing with people on the verge of losing their temper.

Using gentle language can be powerful in winning difficult arguments and calming heated situations. However, it requires a great deal of true character to respond with calm and composed words in the face of anger. This approach is far more commendable than responding with harshness or malice. Many people mistakenly believe that it is unmanly to let insults go unchallenged. Yet, the ability to control one's emotions and respond calmly reflects the true strength of character, while giving in to anger shows a lack of self-control.

¹⁵:² The tongue of the wise commends knowledge, but the mouth of fools gush out folly. 

In the context of wise and foolish communication, the distinction lies not in the quantity of words but in the thoughtfulness behind them. A wise person contemplates their words before speaking, making their speech pleasant. In contrast, a fool speaks without consideration, resulting in foolishness. The wise person knows when to speak and remain silent, whereas the fool speaks even when silence is prudent. The wise do not merely convey the truth; they present it beautifully and effectively. They harness their rhetorical skills to communicate wisdom clearly and persuasively.

For instance, Joseph demonstrated wisdom by keeping silent before his brothers until the right moment (Genesis 42–45). Similarly, Paul instructed Timothy to rebuke certain teachers in Ephesus who lacked a true understanding of what they taught, showing concern that their ignorance might mislead others (1 Timothy 1:3–7).

The book of Proverbs encapsulates essential truths about human communication into four key ideas:

Speech is a wonderful gift from God.

Speech can be used to do good.

Speech can be employed to do evil.

Only God can guide us to use speech for good.

These principles emphasise the power and responsibility of our words, urging us to seek divine guidance in our communication. As Proverbs 18:21 (WEB) states, Death and life are in the power of the tongue; those who love it will eat its fruit. This verse reminds us of the significant impact our words can have, either to build up or to tear down, highlighting the need for thoughtful and wise communication.

¹⁵:³ Yahweh’s eyes are everywhere, keeping watch on the evil and the good. 

Because God sees everything, we must live with the awareness that He is constantly observing us and will respond based on His observations. David was acutely aware of the all-seeing eyes of the LORD, which led him to pray, asking God to examine his life and reveal anything displeasing to Him: Search me, God, and know my heart. Try me, and know my thoughts. See if there is any wicked way in me, and lead me in the everlasting way (Psalm 139:23-24, WEB). This divine scrutiny, God's omniscience, can be terrifying and reassuring.

The idea of God’s omniscience is a double-edged sword. On one hand, it is terrifying because it means that nothing we do, say, or even think is hidden from Him. Every action, every word, and every thought is laid bare before the Almighty. This realisation can instil a sense of fear and accountability, compelling us to live righteously.

On the other hand, God's omniscience is significantly reassuring. Knowing that God sees and understands every aspect of our lives means that He is fully aware of our struggles, pains, and desires. We can find comfort in His intimate knowledge of us, trusting He will guide us and help us grow. This divine understanding assures us we are never alone and always within His care and concern.

Thus, the awareness of God’s omniscience should lead us to live lives of integrity and devotion, seeking His guidance and correction. As we navigate our daily lives, we can take solace in the fact that God sees us completely and loves us unconditionally, guiding us toward righteousness and eternal life.

¹⁵:⁴ A gentle tongue is a tree of life, but deceit in it crushes the spirit. 

Words like soothing can heal and sustain life like a fruitful tree. When used effectively, they can mend relationships and uplift spirits. For instance, Abraham's words to Lot in Genesis 13:8 brought about reconciliation and peace: Abram said to Lot, 'Please, let there be no strife between you and me, and between your herdsmen and my herdsmen; for we are relatives.' This gentle approach healed their relationship and prevented further conflict.

Conversely, poorly chosen words can have a devastating impact, crushing the spirit and causing discord. Sheba's remarks to David in 2 Samuel 20 led to severe tension and unrest in the kingdom, showcasing how harmful words can be: Sheba the son of Bichri has lifted up his hand against king David (2 Samuel 20:21).

Despite the advancements in modern technology, such as computers and price scanners, the timeless wisdom of the Proverbs remains relevant. Proverbs like A gentle tongue is a tree of life, but perverseness in it breaks the spirit (Proverbs 15:4, WEB) still hold true today. Speech retains its power to either aid or hinder people, unchanged by technological progress. It is deeply intertwined with all aspects of human existence, making it the most essential art form for us to master.

Using words wisely is crucial; they can shape our relationships, influence our emotional well-being, and impact our communities. By mastering the art of speech, we can harness its potential to heal, encourage, and bring life to those around us.

¹⁵:⁵ A fool despises his father’s correction, but he who heeds reproof shows prudence. 

A young child who does not value discipline from their parents is foolish, as the purpose of discipline is to guide and improve them. A wise child understands that parental discipline is for their benefit and future well-being. For example, Isaac displayed wisdom by obeying Abraham’s correction (Genesis 22:7-8), while Jacob showed folly by deceiving his father (Genesis 27:18-19).

Honouring one's parents is likely the second most important value emphasised by the wise authors of the book of Proverbs, following reverence for the Lord. Numerous verses highlight the significance of this value: Proverbs 6:20; 10:1; 17:6; 17:25; 19:26; 20:20; 27:11; 28:7; 29:3). These verses reflect the significant importance placed on honouring one's parents, which is integral to living a life of wisdom and reverence for the Lord. Honouring parents brings harmony and joy to the family and aligns with divine wisdom, contributing to a well-ordered and meaningful life.

¹⁵:⁶ In the house of the righteous is much treasure, but the income of the wicked brings trouble. 

The phrase in the house of the righteous encompasses various forms of wealth, extending beyond financial prosperity. This wealth includes love, joy, and serenity—priceless treasures that money cannot buy but are infinitely more valuable. These blessings are the true riches that God bestows upon us.

Job's story provides a vivid illustration of this concept. Before and after his trials, Job's family experienced an abundance of different kinds of wealth. Initially, Job was described as the greatest of all the children of the east (Job 1:3, WEB), blessed with extensive possessions and a loving family. Despite losing everything during his trials, Job's faithfulness was rewarded. He was even more abundantly in the end: The Lord blessed the latter end of Job more than his beginning (Job 42:12, WEB). This included not only material wealth but also deeper relational and spiritual riches.

For the wicked, difficulty and trouble pervade their lives. This truth is starkly illustrated in the story of Achan. When Achan sinned by taking forbidden items during the conquest of Jericho, he brought calamity upon himself and his family. His illicit gains led to severe consequences: Achan answered Joshua, and said, 'I have sinned against Yahweh, the God of Israel, and this is what I have done' (Joshua 7:20, WEB). His actions destroyed his family, highlighting that ill-gotten gains bring only hardship and suffering.

These contrasting examples from Scripture highlight that the true wealth in the house of the righteous is found in the intangible, God-given blessings of love, joy, and peace. Meanwhile, the wicked face inevitable turmoil and strife. Proverbs 15:6 (WEB) encapsulates this wisdom: In the house of the righteous is much treasure, but the income of the wicked brings trouble. Thus, the righteous enjoy a significant, multifaceted wealth that transcends material riches, rooted in their relationship with God and manifesting in their daily lives.

¹⁵:⁷ The lips of the wise spread knowledge; not so with the heart of fools. 

The words of intelligent people spread knowledge not necessarily by revealing significant truths but by focusing on what is edifying to listeners. They speak to build others up, provide valuable insights, and foster understanding. In contrast, foolish people often talk excessively about trivial matters, reflecting the meaningless things in their hearts. This distinction is evident in the biblical account of Paul and Elymas at Paphos.

In Acts 13:6-12, Paul and Barnabas encounter Elymas, a sorcerer who tries to oppose them and turn the proconsul away from the faith. Paul's words are directed at enlightening and guiding the proconsul toward the truth. Paul, filled with the Holy Spirit, rebukes Elymas, saying, You son of the devil, you enemy of all righteousness, will you not cease to pervert the right ways of the Lord? (Acts 13:10). This confrontation results in Elymas being struck blind. This powerful demonstration leads the proconsul to believe, being astonished at the teaching of the Lord (Acts 13:12).

Elymas, on the other hand, embodies the foolish person. His words and actions are aimed at deceit and obstruction, offering no value or truth but instead spreading confusion and falsehood. His resistance to the gospel illustrates foolish speech's empty, harmful nature.

Proverbs 15:2 captures this dynamic well: The tongue of the wise commends knowledge, but the mouth of fools gushes out folly. This proverb highlights that wise people use their words to share knowledge and edify others. At the same time, fools speak without substance, revealing the emptiness of their hearts.

The lesson here is clear: our words should aim to uplift and educate, aligning with the wisdom from a heart filled with understanding and truth. By doing so, we follow the example of Paul, whose words at Paphos spread knowledge and brought others closer to the faith.

¹⁵:⁸ The sacrifice made by the wicked is an abomination to Yahweh, but the prayer of the upright is his delight. 

In one way, offering God an animal or vegetable sacrifice is more difficult and costly than praying to God because it involves more effort from the worshipper. It stands to reason that God would place a higher value on something requiring greater sacrifice. However, the LORD takes greater pleasure in the straightforward prayer of the righteous than in the sacrifices offered by the wicked. Despite the greater effort involved, these offerings are an abomination to Him when the offerer's heart is not right. God values the individual's relationship with Him, based on sincere prayer, more than the sacrifices themselves.

Prayer, which freely expresses one's heart and personality, is not mandated by the law because it is a natural human response. However, prayer is the essence of all sacrifices. It is more meaningful than the sacrifices, which are material and legally required performances. Sacrifices are closely related to dead works, while prayer reflects a living relationship with God.

Before God can decorate the exterior of the universe, He must first beautify the interior. Until He has completed the work of interior transformation in your life, He is not concerned with outward appearance. This concept is exemplified in the story of Saul, who presented a sacrifice to God. Still, it was not accepted because to obey is better than sacrifice (1 Samuel 15:22, WEB). Saul's disobedience nullified his offering, highlighting the priority of a genuine relationship with God over ritual actions.

In the book of Luke, Jesus extolled the publican, whose humble prayer was heard by God because it came from a place of genuine devotion (Luke 18:13). The publican's sincere and heartfelt prayer stood in stark contrast to the empty ritualism of the Pharisee.

Thus, while sacrifices require more from the worshipper, God places a higher value on the sincere prayer of the righteous. True devotion and obedience are more pleasing to Him than any material offering. This principle calls us to focus on our inner relationship with God, prioritising heartfelt prayer and genuine obedience over outward rituals.

¹⁵:⁹ The way of the wicked is an abomination to Yahweh, but he loves him who follows after righteousness. 

This adage elaborates on the previous one, emphasising that God not only despises the offerings of the wicked but also detests their entire way of life. Conversely, it's not just the prayers of the righteous that please God, but the entirety of a person's life when they pursue righteousness. This highlights the importance of living a life aligned with God's principles rather than merely performing outward rituals or prayers.

The contrasting lives of David and Saul exemplify this principle. David, a man after God's heart, pursued righteousness throughout his life despite his flaws and mistakes. He displayed genuine repentance and sought to follow God's will despite challenges and failures. In contrast, Saul's life was marked by disobedience, pride, and a lack of genuine devotion to God. Despite his outward acts of sacrifice and religious observance, Saul's heart was far from God, leading to his downfall.

The difference between David and Saul illustrates that God values isolated acts of righteousness or piety and consistently pursues a righteous life. This encompasses our attitudes, actions, and relationships, reflecting a heart devoted to God and His ways.

Proverbs 21:21 encapsulates this principle: He who follows after righteousness and kindness finds life, righteousness, and honour. This verse emphasises that the entire path of a person's life, characterised by the pursuit of righteousness and kindness, is pleasing to God and leads to blessings and honour.

Thus, the adage highlights the importance of aligning our lives with God's principles, not just in isolated acts of worship or prayer, but in the totality of our existence. It challenges us to cultivate a lifestyle of righteousness, integrity, and devotion to God, knowing that this pleases Him.

¹⁵:¹⁰ There is stern discipline for one who forsakes the way: whoever hates reproof shall die.