Proverbs Introduction
- ‘A stitch in time saves nine’ is a well known proverb used by English speakers. What does it mean? Can you think of a circumstance when the wisdom in it would not apply? When- despite an early stitch- the tear/problem gets worse?
- Now read: Proverbs 26.4-5. What stands out to you about these two Proverbs?
- The fact that two Proverbs can have opposite applications shows us something about the nature of the book of Proverbs in the Bible. Proverbs describe general patterns, ways that life often works, but not in every case. There are times when one ought to answer a fool, and times one ought not. How are God’s proverbial generalisations, different, then, to the promises of God in the Scriptures (Matt 5.17-18; 2 Cor 1.20)?
- Read Proverbs 1.1 Who was the wise king behind a large part of the book of Proverbs (that is: 10.1-22.16; 25.1-29.27).
- Can you think of a key moment in Solomon’s story where he needed wisdom? Remind your group of the story (clue 1 Kings 3.1-15).
Read:
1 Kings 4:29 ‘And God gave Solomon wisdom and understanding beyond measure, and breadth of mind like the sand on the seashore, 30 so that Solomon’s wisdom surpassed the wisdom of all the people of the east and all the wisdom of Egypt. 31 For he was wiser than all other men, wiser than Ethan the Ezrahite, and Heman, Calcol, and Darda, the sons of Mahol, and his fame was in all the surrounding nations. 32 He also spoke 3,000 proverbs, and his songs were 1,005. 33 He spoke of trees, from the cedar that is in Lebanon to the hyssop that grows out of the wall. He spoke also of beasts, and of birds, and of reptiles, and of fish. 34 And people of all nations came to hear the wisdom of Solomon, and from all the kings of the earth, who had heard of his wisdom.’
6. What do we learn about Solomon’s pursuit of wisdom here?
7. Read Proverbs 1.1-7. What is a Proverb?
8. What is the foundation upon which all wisdom instruction stands?
9. Where do you see Jesus act with wisdom in the Gospels?
10. Spend some time expressing a holy fear or reverence, to God, Father, Son and Spirit.