Monday, July 18, 2011

Some Helps in Reading Proverbs

A few questions to ask as you read Proverbs:



  • What is this proverb urging me to avoid?

  • What is this proverb calling me to pursue?

  • What consequence of obedience or disobedience does this proverb alert me to?

  • How can I apply this proverb to my life today?

  • How does this proverb reveal the character and will of God?

  • How is Jesus the fulfillment or example of this proverb?

Some Helpful Principles to Keep in Mind When Reading Proverbs:

Context: Always interpret Proverbs in light of the rest of Scripture.

Meaning: Always interpret Proverbs as the original author intended. For example, many Proverbs are not meant to be taken literally (i.e. 22:29).

Application: Always remember that the goal of Proverbs is to change our lives, not simply to fill our minds.

Jesus: Always look for how the Savior is revealed through the wisdom of Proverbs (Luke 24:27). In Jesus are hidden all the treasures of wisdom (Col. 2:3).

“The fear of the LORD is the beginning of wisdom…” -Prov. 1:7

1 comment:

Pumice said...

On context, you are spot on about aligning with the rest of scripture but in Proverbs the immediate context is usually not key. It seems to be mostly a series of two liners.

Grace and peace.