Wisdom or Scorn?
08.28.24
The fear of the LORD is the beginning of wisdom: and the knowledge of the holy is understanding. (Proverbs 9:10)
In the 9th chapter of Proverbs, Solomon presents a contrast between two feasts. One is offered by wisdom (1-6) and the other by folly (13-18) We have taken time to look at the feast of wisdom. We will soon look at the feast offered by folly.
In between these two feasts Solomon offers a second contrast—between the wise man and the scorner (7-12). We will consider this contrast today.
He that reproves a scorner gets to himself shame: and he that rebukes a wicked man gets himself a blot. Reprove not a scorner, lest he hate you: rebuke a wise man, and he will love you. Give instruction to a wise man, and he will be yet wiser: teach a just man, and he will increase in learning. The fear of the LORD is the beginning of wisdom: and the knowledge of the holy is understanding. For by me your days shall be multiplied, and the years of your life shall be increased. If you be wise, you shall be wise for yourself: but if you scorn, you alone shall bear it.
Let us first give thought to the scorner. He is an enemy of God. The whole tenor of his life is wickedness and scorn. Even to think about God is an abomination to him.
He treats all sacred things as frivolous. He mocks at that which is holy. Because of his hatred for God, he really doesn’t like his life, nor does he like other people.
He doesn’t evidence any concern for the afterlife. However, after he takes his last breath, he will be sorely and eternally disappointed.
The wise man, on the other hand, has a proper fear of the LORD. This creates a respect, love and obedience toward God. This is coupled with a hatred for that which is evil. As Solomon has been at pains to communicate to his son, the fear of the Lord is the first principle in our relationship with God
He seeks to know God—His character, His works and His Word. He readily accepts godly instruction, and loves those who instruct him in righteousness.
He thus loves life, and for him life is full and satisfying. He lives out the days that God has ordained for him. After he takes his last breath, eternal joys await!
God has given us a free will. Each person must choose for himself. What will you do with Jesus?
A puzzling question Solomon seems to leave unanswered is whether or not it is wise to reprove a scorner. He states the same paradox even more clearly later in the book (26:4, 5).
Should we write that letter to the editor? Should we speak up at a meeting when we feel that truth is being trampled? Should we talk to the person privately.
Solomon counsels that it is usually not effective to answer a fool. He advises that normally it doesn’t do any good but only incites further scorn and ridicule.
Yet, perhaps we should talk to another if we believe it will help him. There are times to speak up in the public square if we are confident that God’s honor needs defending
Seeking God’s counsel and wisdom is vital. Praying for that scornful person is surely the most important and effective thing we can do.
If we at Immanuel Baptist Church can be of any help to you, please feel free to call upon us.