Verse 1-11 – The need for wisdom in every place

Verse 1-11 – Doth not wisdom cry? and understanding put forth her voice? 2 She standeth in the top of high places, by the way in the places of the paths. 3 She crieth at the gates, at the entry of the city, at the coming in at the doors. 4 Unto you, O men, I call; and my voice is to the sons of man. 5 O ye simple, understand wisdom: and, ye fools, be ye of an understanding heart. 6 Hear; for I will speak of excellent things; and the opening of my lips shall be right things. 7 For my mouth shall speak truth; and wickedness is an abomination to my lips. 8 All the words of my mouth are in righteousness; there is nothing froward or perverse in them. 9 They are all plain to him that understandeth, and right to them that find knowledge. 10 Receive my instruction, and not silver; and knowledge rather than choice gold. 11 For wisdom is better than rubies; and all the things that may be desired are not to be compared to it.

Wisdom is needed in every place, every circumstance, every day, every way.
1. Verse 1 speaks directly to the preceding chapter.
  1. Solomon has just given the parable of the young man who met his defeat in life because he failed to obtain Biblical wisdom.
  2. He desires his children understand why he failed, and what he could have done to have a successful life.
  3. The word “cry” is not weep, but shout, or proclaim.
  4. Understanding is intelligence.
2. The world often rejects Biblical wisdom except in cases of extreme emergency.
  1. Ecclesiastes 9:13-18 – This wisdom have I seen also under the sun, and it seemed great unto me: 14 There was a little city, and few men within it; and there came a great king against it, and besieged it, and built great bulwarks against it: 15 Now there was found in it a poor wise man, and he by his wisdom delivered the city; yet no man remembered that same poor man. 16 Then said I, Wisdom is better than strength: nevertheless the poor man’s wisdom is despised, and his words are not heard. 17 The words of wise men are heard in quiet more than the cry of him that ruleth among fools. 18 Wisdom is better than weapons of war: but one sinner destroyeth much good.
  2. I believe II Samuel 20:16-22 gives the actual story of where Solomon got this information on the poor wise man.
    1. Joab was very vicious in his pursuit of Sheba, the son of Bichri, as is seen in his inhuman, sadistic murder of Amasa.
    2. There is no doubt Joab came upon the town of Abel of Bethmaachah with the same vengeance he slew Amasa.
    3. There was no dealing with Joab in the conventional manner, therefore the wise woman dealt with him in a very wise way, thereby saving the entire city from destruction.
3. Many people desire to know what to do, when to do it, and how to do it, but few people will recognize their ignorance, and accept the wisdom of God.
  1. Romans 1:22 – Professing themselves to be wise, they became fools.
  2. Instead of these folks going to the Bible, therefore finding real wisdom, they get angry when they cannot find a right answer.
  3. I get many angry emails from people who think I am totally stupid because of what I have on the web site.
  4. They refuse to believe the Bible, and think I am stupid because I believe it.

Wisdom is needed everywhere.
1. Every person needs wisdom, and every person knows they need wisdom.
2. Where wisdom is needed.
  1. In high places – whether that is a high government office, or any other decision making administrative body.
    1. The reason local governments, state governments, national governments and the world government are so political and crooked is because they have rejected Biblical wisdom in favor of earthly, fleshly wisdom.
    2. Thousands of laws are passed worldwide, but things do not get better, instead they get worse and worse.
    3. The United Nations is a world government which is supposed to know best for everybody, but that is probably the most corrupt government in the world, as there is little to no accountability.
    4. The larger governments get, the worse they get, as they are more able to hide their wickedness, corruption, graft and greed.
  2. In paths – Every person needs Biblical wisdom to know how to live their lives.
    1. So many people make wrong choices for their lives, and pay the consequences of those wrong choices, but most will not admit their error and seek Biblical wisdom.
    2. The world, including most educational facilities mock God and his wisdom, replacing right wisdom with earthly wisdom.
  3. At the gates, at the entry of the city, at the doors – This is the place where local governmental decisions are made.
3. Wisdom calls to men without discretion.
  1. Wisdom calls to men who think they are wise.
  2. Wisdom calls to the simple to understand.
  3. Wisdom calls fools to have an understanding heart.
4. Wisdom provides: if we will only hear.
  1. Excellent things.
  2. Right things.
  3. Truth, because wickedness is an abomination.
  4. Righteousness, and nothing froward or perverse.
5. Verse 9 – They are all plain to him that understandeth, and right to them that find knowledge.
  1. The ways of wisdom is obvious and “normal” to the person that has Godly wisdom, but to the person without Godly wisdom, they are nothing but foolishness.
  2. Romans 1:17-21 – For Christ sent me not to baptize, but to preach the gospel: not with wisdom of words, lest the cross of Christ should be made of none effect. 18 For the preaching of the cross is to them that perish foolishness; but unto us which are saved it is the power of God. 19 For it is written, I will destroy the wisdom of the wise, and will bring to nothing the understanding of the prudent. 20 Where is the wise? where is the scribe? where is the disputer of this world? hath not God made foolish the wisdom of this world? 21 For after that in the wisdom of God the world by wisdom knew not God, it pleased God by the foolishness of preaching to save them that believe.
  3. It is amazing how vicious people get when presented with the truth, both of their own ignorance, and the wisdom of God.
6. Verse 10,11 – Comparing Biblical wisdom to the treasures of this world.
  1. Matthew 6:19-21 – Jesus declares, Lay not up for yourselves treasures upon earth, where moth and rust doth corrupt, and where thieves break through and steal: 20 But lay up for yourselves treasures in heaven, where neither moth nor rust doth corrupt, and where thieves do not break through nor steal: 21 For where your treasure is, there will your heart be also.
  2. All the treasures of this world cannot be compared to the wisdom of God.
    1. Matthew 16:24-26 – Then said Jesus unto his disciples, If any man will come after me, let him deny himself, and take up his cross, and follow me. 25 For whosoever will save his life shall lose it: and whosoever will lose his life for my sake shall find it. 26 For what is a man profited, if he shall gain the whole world, and lose his own soul? or what shall a man give in exchange for his soul?
      1. The entire purpose of most education is to prepare a person to earn more money.
      2. Many people work their entire lives to gain the treasures of this world, then die and leave it all to another, whom they cannot control, and who will not take care of their wealth, and will spend it freely, because they did not sweat to earn it.
    2. Eternal wisdom is eternal, while the treasurers of this world will pass away.
      1. The streets of the new Jerusalem is pure gold, which is the most precious substance on this earth.
      2. The foundations of the new Jerusalem is made up of all sorts of precious minerals, which the people of this world work all their lives to get.

Verse 12-21 – The use of wisdom is in every place

Verse 12-21 – I wisdom dwell with prudence, and find out knowledge of witty inventions. 13 The fear of the LORD is to hate evil: pride, and arrogancy, and the evil way, and the froward mouth, do I hate. 14 Counsel is mine, and sound wisdom: I am understanding; I have strength. 15 By me kings reign, and princes decree justice. 16 By me princes rule, and nobles, even all the judges of the earth. 17 I love them that love me; and those that seek me early shall find me. 18 Riches and honour are with me; yea, durable riches and righteousness. 19 My fruit is better than gold, yea, than fine gold; and my revenue than choice silver. 20 I lead in the way of righteousness, in the midst of the paths of judgment: 21 That I may cause those that love me to inherit substance; and I will fill their treasures.

Introduction.
1. The purpose of this lesson is to teach that Biblical wisdom is of value in the real world.
  1. Many people believe Godly wisdom is of no value except in “church”, which they suppose is totally, completely separate from the rest of the world.
    1. The truth is that God made the entire world, and created all the principles this world operates by.
    2. These principles God has related to us in his Holy Bible.
  2. If any person (saved or lost) would accept the Bible under those precepts, and apply those holy principles, they will find true, lasting joy and happiness in this present world.
    1. The reason so many people have so much grief in this life is simply because they refuse to give any sort of credence at all to the Bible.
    2. Many people believe that submitting themselves to the principles God established in his word is restrictive.
    3. They somehow believe true freedom is doing all those things God declares is bad.
    4. Like the woman in the Garden of Eden, many people fall for Satan’s lie that doing the forbidden will allow more.
    5. In fact, doing that which God forbids brings on all the trouble, trials, and tribulation this present world is experiencing.
  3. Most people, when they find themselves in trouble because they have forsaken God’s word, refuse to admit they were wrong.
    1. Instead of admitting their fault, they try to work out whatever difficulty they have created for themselves.
    2. They get deeper and deeper into themselves, and farther and farther away from God.

Verse 12 – I wisdom dwell with prudence, and find out knowledge of witty inventions.
1. What do you think when you think of wisdom dwelling with prudence?
  1. Prudence is defined in the dictionary of the day as: the state, quality, or fact of being prudent, careful management, economy.
    1. SYNONYM: prudence, discretion, foresight, forethought, circumspection.
    2. These nouns are compared as they refer to the exercise of good judgment and common sense, especially in the conduct of practical matters.
      1. Prudence, the most comprehensive, implies not only caution but also the capacity for judging in advance the probable results of one’s actions: “She had been forced into prudence in her youth, she learned romance as she grew older” (Jane Austen).
      2. Discretion suggests prudence coupled with wise self-restraint, as in resisting the impulse to take rash action: “The better part of valor is discretion” (Shakespeare).
      3. Foresight implies the ability to foresee and make provision for what may happen: She had the foresight to realize that once the ugly rumor had begun to circulate, only the truth could put it to rest.
      4. Forethought suggests advance consideration of future eventualities: An empty refrigerator illustrates a lack of forethought.
      5. Circumspection implies discretion together with prudent heed for possible consequences, as out of concern for moral or social repercussions: “The necessity of the times, more than ever, calls for our utmost circumspection, deliberation, fortitude and perseverance” (Samuel Adams).^¹
  2. We often associate the word prudence with what we call a prude.
    1. The definition of the word “prude”: One who is excessively concerned with being or appearing to be proper, modest, or righteous.
    2. [French, short for prude femme, virtuous woman : Old French prude, feminine of prud, virtuous.
  3. WORD HISTORY:
    1. Being a prude has never been widely considered a good thing, but if we dig further into the history of the word prude, we will find that it had a noble past.
    2. The change for the worse took place in the French language.
    3. The French word prude first had a good sense, "wise woman," but apparently a woman could be too wise or, in the eyes of some, too observant of decorum and propriety, and so prude took on the sense in French that was brought into English along with the word, first recorded in 1704.
    4. The French word first meant "wise woman" because prude was a shortened form of prude femme (earlier in Old French prode femme), a word that was modeled on earlier preudomme, "a man of experience and integrity."
    5. The second part of this word is, of course, homme, "man." Old French prod, meaning "wise, prudent," is from Vulgar Latin prodis with the same sense. Prodis in turn comes from Late Latin prode, "advantageous," derived from the verb prodesse, "to be good."
    6. We can see that the history of prude is filled with usefulness, profit, wisdom, and integrity, but in spite of all this, things did not turn out that well.). ^²
2. Wisdom finds out knowledge of witty inventions.
  1. These witty inventions speak of two very different things.
    1. Wicked inventions of men that enable them to do more wickedness, and to enlarge on their wickedness.
    2. To be able to discern what is good and the end result of that which is good.
  2. Only the person with wisdom is able to understand these two things.
    1. The fool, the person without Godly wisdom, will stumble along in their ignorance, and fall into condemnation because they did not see the end result of their wickedness.
      1. Many wicked people believe the result of their wickedness will not happen to them, but will happen to others.
      2. When the results of wickedness come, foolish people do not blame themselves, or their actions; instead blaming anything and anybody else they can.
      3. Wisdom teaches Godly principles apply to all, even those that have Godly wisdom.
    2. The wise person, possessing Godly wisdom, is able to discern not only the wicked results of evil, but also discern the good results of obedience.

Verse 13 - The fear of the LORD is to hate evil: pride, and arrogancy, and the evil way, and the froward mouth, do I hate.
1. Some definitions of the fear of the Lord:
  1. Proverbs 9:10 – The fear of the LORD is the beginning of wisdom: and the knowledge of the holy is understanding.
  2. Proverbs 10:27 – The fear of the LORD prolongeth days: but the years of the wicked shall be shortened.
  3. Proverbs 14:26 - In the fear of the LORD is strong confidence: and his children shall have a place of refuge.
  4. Proverbs 14:27 - The fear of the LORD is a fountain of life, to depart from the snares of death.
  5. Proverbs 15:16 - Better is little with the fear of the LORD than great treasure and trouble therewith.
  6. Proverbs 15:33 - The fear of the LORD is the instruction of wisdom; and before honour is humility.
  7. Proverbs 16:6 - By mercy and truth iniquity is purged: and by the fear of the LORD men depart from evil.
  8. Proverbs 19:23 - The fear of the LORD tendeth to life: and he that hath it shall abide satisfied; he shall not be visited with evil.
  9. Proverbs 22:4 - By humility and the fear of the LORD are riches, and honour, and life.
  10. Proverbs 23:17 - Let not thine heart envy sinners: but be thou in the fear of the LORD all the day long.
2. There are some things the fear of the Lord will cause us to hate.
  1. Some believe if we fear the Lord, we will love everything, but that is Satan’s lie.
  2. It is true, according to Matthew 5:43-48, that we should love every person, even our enemies, but we should never love sin, wickedness or the result of those evil things.
  3. Definitions:
    1. “Evil” is wickedness, mischief, hurt, bad, trouble, or sore affliction.
    2. “Pride” is thinking of a thing more than it is valued.
    3. “Arrogancy” is having excellency, majesty, or pomp more than is justified.
    4. The “evil way” is exactly the same as evil above, but it is the path evil, or journey evil takes.
    5. The “froward mouth” is perverse sayings, or false commandments.

Verse 14-16 – Counsel is mine, and sound wisdom: I am understanding; I have strength. 15 By me kings reign, and princes decree justice. 16 By me princes rule, and nobles, even all the judges of the earth.
1. Of course, these verses are speaking of those that reign correctly, not tyrants.
  1. Every tyrant, whether they rule over a large kingdom, or a small church, rules according to their own thoughts, not the Word of God.
  2. Their decrees and the direction of their “kingdom” is toward self-fulfillment instead of what is best for everybody.
2. There are different types of rulers – all of them need the wisdom of God.
  1. There are kings, who rule over entire kingdoms, and providences.
  2. There are princes who rule under the kings, nobles who rule under the princes, and judges who rule under the nobles.
  3. All who rule need the wisdom of God, for without God’s wisdom, they will fail, and will likely cause the entire kingdom to fall.
3. The reign of the good ruler.
  1. Deuteronomy 17:18 - And it shall be, when he sitteth upon the throne of his kingdom, that he shall write him a copy of this law in a book out of that which is before the priests the Levites:
    1. God gave this instruction to all who would rule the nation of Israel, so that person would have good understanding of God’s direction.
    2. It would probably be a good idea if we would all write a Bible for ourselves instead of buying a copy, and not reading it in depth.
      1. A druggist in Oblong, Illinois reported that after reading the afore mentioned Bible verse, he determined he would write out some Bible verses.
      2. When he wrote out some Bible verses, he saw how much he was not understanding by reading because he read over many valuable details.
      3. He was working on writing his own personal copy of the Bible, and discovering many details he had previously overlooked.
      4. I think all of us would understand more of the scriptures if we had to write our own Bible instead of buying a copy.
  2. Every king needs good counselors to aid him in making decisions.
    1. I Chronicles 27:33 – Ahithophel was King David’s counselor, and gave good advice, except when God defeated his counsel by using Hushai.
    2. The best counselor a king can have is the counsel of God Almighty, given to him through the holy Bible.

Verse 17-19 - I love them that love me; and those that seek me early shall find me. 18 Riches and honour are with me; yea, durable riches and righteousness. 19 My fruit is better than gold, yea, than fine gold; and my revenue than choice silver.
1. The love of wisdom is returned.
  1. Love always seeks the best for those that are loved.
    1. Wisdom is no exception.
    2. Just as parents who love their children try to give the best to them, wisdom also gives the best to those that love wisdom and attempt to apply wisdom’s principles to everyday life.
  2. Those that seek wisdom early will find wisdom.
    1. It is easier to find wisdom early because false wisdom does not have to be “unlearned” before true wisdom can be understood.
    2. I must remark again that true wisdom comes only from the Bible, not from following your heart, or the advice of others.
    3. I must remark again that wisdom must be sought, it does not come automatically, nor does it come naturally.
  3. Seek wisdom early.
    1. It is very possible to seek wisdom late in life, as it is always better to seek wisdom late than not at all.
      1. However old a person may be, that is the time to begin to seek wisdom.
      2. Often, wisdom will not be sought until a situation presents itself that requires more than our natural, earthly wisdom.
    2. It is necessary to seek wisdom early before wrong decisions are made, which produce erroneous and painful results.
    3. It is necessary to seek wisdom early in life because when some decisions are made, there is no reversing the consequences.
2. The value of wisdom.
  1. If men would seek the wisdom of God instead of earthly wealth, they would have all the earthly wealth they desire.
    1. I do not mean they will be rich, but they will be rich enough.
    2. Their dependence on God, who owns the cattle on a thousand hills, is sufficient for them.
    3. If they do not personally own the cattle on a thousand hills, that is perfectly all right, because they know their father will give them the cattle if, and when, it is necessary.
  2. Riches and honor go together.
    1. In this world, riches and honor do not often go together, because riches are often gained at the expense of character.
      1. When fleshly wisdom is dishonest, there may be material gain, but the end result is the destruction of the soul.
      2. The worldly man gambles (called “gaming” today) because of the promise of “easy” money, yet his soul is destroyed by his selfish motives.
      3. Lot followed his fleshly wisdom toward the well watered plains of Sodom and Gomorrah, and eventually lost all his wealth, his family, and all he held dear.
    2. When the principles of Godly wisdom is applied, the kingdom of God is sought with all the life, then God adds riches, while retaining honor.
      1. When Godly wisdom is applied, the goal is not to gain earthly wealth.
      2. Abraham left Ur of the Chaldees in obedience to God’s command, and God gave him great wealth.
    3. Men often believe they must seek riches before they seek wisdom, but God does not think as men think, Isaiah 55:8.
      1. Matthew 19:27-29 declares, Then answered Peter and said unto him, Behold, we have forsaken all, and followed thee; what shall we have therefore? 28 And Jesus said unto them, Verily I say unto you, That ye which have followed me, in the regeneration when the Son of man shall sit in the throne of his glory, ye also shall sit upon twelve thrones, judging the twelve tribes of Israel. 29 And every one that hath forsaken houses, or brethren, or sisters, or father, or mother, or wife, or children, or lands, for my name’s sake, shall receive an hundredfold, and shall inherit everlasting life.
      2. Matthew 6:19-34 gives a promise from Jesus Christ himself that he would supply all the necessities of this life if we would only seek his kingdom before we seek anything else.
  3. Durable riches and righteousness go together.
    1. Durable riches have to do with riches that shall last.
      1. God will protect these earthly riches.
      2. When a person applies Godly wisdom, he will lay up treasure in heaven, not just on this earth.
    2. Knowledge of holy wisdom reveals that material wealth is temporary at best, and is not to be sought.
    3. Matthew 6:20 – Moth and rust do not destroy and thieves do not break through and steal these durable riches.
  4. The fruit of wisdom is better than fine gold.
    1. Fruit is the natural byproduct of a plant.
    2. Revenue is profit from the wise use of resources.

Verse 20-21 - I lead in the way of righteousness, in the midst of the paths of judgment: 21 That I may cause those that love me to inherit substance; and I will fill their treasures.
1. The order of events in these verses is:
  1. The receipt of wisdom.
  2. Righteousness comes as a result of obtaining and applying Godly wisdom.
  3. The righteousness of God causes the person to live in the center of God’s will, not on the edge of God’s righteousness.
  4. The wise person has not sought wealth, but God causes the person to inherit substance.
    1. The inheritance comes from our heavenly Father, who died that we might have life.
    2. Our heavenly Father loves us and willingly provides all we will ever need.
  5. The inheritance of God causes the treasures of the wise person to be filled.
    1. The word “filled” means to be full.
    2. Treasures means a storehouse.
    3. Whether all this is in our possession is not important.
    4. Knowing that God is well able to provide all we need is enough.
2. God knows the necessities of men and willingly gives them the wealth of this world.
  1. Wise people understand the futility of trusting earthly wealth, therefore the “ups and downs” of earthly wealth does not upset them.
  2. Their trust is in Christ, not earthly wealth, which …moth and rust doth corrupt, and where thieves break through and steal.
3. Believers often rebuke themselves with this thought because they do not want to be greedy of this world’s material goods.
  1. Deuteronomy 8:18 states, But thou shalt remember the LORD thy God: for it is he that giveth thee power to get wealth, that he may establish his covenant which he sware unto thy fathers, as it is this day.
    1. Believers should enjoy this world more than unbelievers because we know God made it all, and that he will receive glory from it all.
    2. Sometimes believers think they are not serving God if they work hard and gain material wealth.
      1. We must all understand that the main thing we are to do is to serve God, but God does not mind if we have wealth.
      2. God gives us our wealth, and God can take our wealth away just as easily.
      3. When our main emphasis is worshipping God, God will take care of all our necessities.

Verse 22-31 – Wisdom is known in every place

Verse 22-31 – The LORD possessed me in the beginning of his way, before his works of old. 23 I was set up from everlasting, from the beginning, or ever the earth was. 24 When there were no depths, I was brought forth; when there were no fountains abounding with water. 25 Before the mountains were settled, before the hills was I brought forth: 26 While as yet he had not made the earth, nor the fields, nor the highest part of the dust of the world. 27 When he prepared the heavens, I was there: when he set a compass upon the face of the depth: 28 When he established the clouds above: when he strengthened the fountains of the deep: 29 When he gave to the sea his decree, that the waters should not pass his commandment: when he appointed the foundations of the earth: 30 Then I was by him, as one brought up with him: and I was daily his delight, rejoicing always before him; 31 Rejoicing in the habitable part of his earth; and my delights were with the sons of men.

Introduction.
1. God and wisdom is synonymous. See the attribute of God – Wisdom.
  1. All of the attributes of God is a part of God, not something separate from him.
  2. We may think the attributes of God are the way God acts, but the attributes, (characteristics) of God are God.
2. Wisdom is Jesus.
  1. James 1:5 – What are we asking for when we ask for wisdom?
    1. Not salvation.
    2. Not knowledge or understanding that is apart from God, or apart from Jesus Christ.
    3. We are asking for the attribute (characteristic) of Jesus Christ.
    4. Jesus is wisdom.
    5. We are asking to be like Jesus Christ.
  2. Wisdom is that gift of God that comes to us from outside ourselves.
    1. Wisdom is not education, but inspiration.
    2. Wisdom is inspired of God, not education.
    3. Godly wisdom is not “common sense”, but uncommon, spiritual sense.
    4. Wisdom is thinking as God thinks, not the way we think.
    5. Godly wisdom replaces our natural wisdom, not added to our natural wisdom.
3. Scriptures that confirm that Jesus Christ is wisdom.
  1. I Corinthians 1:20-31.
    1. I Corinthians 1:24 - But unto them which are called, both Jews and Greeks, Christ the power of God, and the wisdom of God.
    2. 1 Corinthians 1:30 - But of him are ye in Christ Jesus, who of God is made unto us wisdom, and righteousness, and sanctification, and redemption:
  2. Jesus (wisdom) was used by God to create the present universe.
    1. Proverbs 3:19 - The LORD by wisdom hath founded the earth; by understanding hath he established the heavens.
      1. This is a very simple statement of truth.
      2. If this truth is accepted, it is the same thing as accepting Christ, not in salvation, but in wisdom.
      3. If this truth is rejected, Christ is also rejected, not necessarily in salvation (because there are those who believe in some forms of evolution who give a good testimony of salvation), but the wisdom of God is rejected.
    2. John 1:1 - In the beginning was the Word, and the Word was with God, and the Word was God. 2 The same was in the beginning with God. 3 All things were made by him; and without him was not any thing made that was made.
      1. The word of God is linked to Jesus Christ, who is the creator.
      2. The word of God (the Bible) is not Jesus Christ, because the Word of God (the Bible) is not an attribute or characteristic of God.
      3. The word of God (the Bible) is the spoken word of God, which reveals Jesus Christ, and his “master plan” to us.
    3. Colossians 1:17 - And he is before all things, and by him all things consist.
      1. It is necessary to read at least verse 13-20.
      2. Verse 13 – God has delivered us from darkness into the kingdom of Jesus Christ.
      3. Verse 14 – We have redemption (forgiveness of sin) through the blood of Jesus Christ.
      4. Verse 15 – Jesus Christ is the image of the invisible God.
      5. Verse 16 – God created all things through Jesus Christ.
      6. Verse 17 – Jesus Christ was God before the creation.
      7. Verse 18 – Christ is the head of the church, and everything else, because he is to be first of everything.
      8. Verse 19 – God determined that Jesus Christ would reveal everything.
      9. Verse 20 – Christ has made peace through his blood, therefore is able to reconcile everything to himself.

Verse 22-26 – Wisdom was with God before Creation.
1. Verse 22 – The LORD “possessed” wisdom, not “created” wisdom.
  1. The LORD did not create Jesus Christ, because Jesus Christ is God.
    1. The Septuagint version states that the LORD created Jesus Christ, which interpretation led to other errors.
    2. This is the version Arius^³ followed, which lead him to believe that Christ is a creation of God.
      1. He believed Christ was the first creation (or firstfruits), but his belief was error.
      2. He believed Christ is not the same with God, but was of a nature like God, and was created at some point in eternity, before the heavens and earth were created.
      3. This is an obvious error because there is no point in eternity at which Christ was created, because there is no time (or point of creation) in eternity; creation is the beginning of time.
      4. It is error to believe that God created Jesus Christ, who is wisdom, because it would have been necessary for God to be without wisdom when Jesus Christ (wisdom) was created.
      5. Also, Christ, as the Word of God and the wisdom of God, is the creator of all things, not the created one.
    3. What is amazing about Arius and the other false teachers is that none of them were followers of the early church.
      1. The early church had already determined all the doctrines those in false churches were continually trying to determine with all their various counsels.
      2. They were all doubters of God’s word, using other books to determine what they considered to be the truth.
      3. Their truth, of course, had to fit their own imaginations, and be accepted of all the other “religious” ideas of the day.
  2. In the beginning of his way, before his works of old.
2. Verse 22 - The LORD possessed me in the beginning of his way, before his works of old.
  1. Wisdom is Jesus Christ, and both were with God, possessed by him, and not created by him.
  2. Before his works of old refers to the creation of this universe and all the worlds.
  3. This establishes a time, if we can call eternity, which was before time, a time.
3. Verse 23 - I was set up from everlasting, from the beginning, or ever the earth was.
  1. The word “set up” is defined as “poured out” as in casting a metal image, or in anointing a king.
    1. T
      
      Everlasting
      he word has to do with establishing or anointing Christ as the Son of God.
    2. The “time” of this establishing is before the earth was created.
    3. I Peter 3:18-21 - Forasmuch as ye know that ye were not redeemed with corruptible things, as silver and gold, from your vain conversation received by tradition from your fathers; 19 But with the precious blood of Christ, as of a lamb without blemish and without spot: 20 Who verily was foreordained before the foundation of the world, but was manifest in these last times for you, 21 Who by him do believe in God, that raised him up from the dead, and gave him glory; that your faith and hope might be in God.
  2. The word “everlasting” has to do with “everlasting” or “evermore”, not confused with the word “beginning”, which has to do with the chief, or first.
    1. C
      
      Beginning
      olossians 1:18 - And he is the head of the body, the church: who is the beginning, the firstborn from the dead; that in all things he might have the preeminence.
    2. Revelation 3:14 - And unto the angel of the church of the Laodiceans write; These things saith the Amen, the faithful and true witness, the beginning of the creation of God;
    3. These verses do not mean that Christ had a beginning, as we think of beginning.
    4. These verses state that Christ is revealed to us as being an integral part of God before the creation of this world and universe.
  3. …
    
    Before the Earth was
    Or ever the earth was refers to the creation of the world, which is described in the following verses of Proverbs 8:24-31.
    1. Before time was established as a measuring device for our lives, Jesus Christ was established as the Son of God.
    2. Jesus Christ was also established as the holy anointed one of God, who would die that we might have everlasting life.
4. Verse 24 - When there were no depths, I was brought forth; when there were no fountains abounding with water.
  1. Jesus Christ was “brought forth” to be the Son of God, or pained in deliverance before there were depths, and before there was water to fill the depths.
    1. “Brought forth” does not mean to be born, or to come into existence.
    2. The phrase means to be in pain, to dance with joy, to anxiously await.
    3. This is the decree spoken of in Psalms 2:7 which states, I will declare the decree: the LORD hath said unto me, Thou art my Son; this day have I begotten thee.
    4. The verse speaks of the pain, anguish and suffering of God in revealing his son to us, as he knows beforehand the sufferings he must endure to grant us eternal life.
  2. Notice the comparison of Jesus Christ to all men.
    1. Job 15:7 - Art thou the first man that was born? or wast thou made before the hills? (Eliphaz speaks to Job)
    2. Psalms 51:5 - Behold, I was shapen in iniquity; and in sin did my mother conceive me. (David speaks of himself)
    3. Psalms 2:7 states, I will declare the decree: the LORD hath said unto me, Thou art my Son; this day have I begotten thee. (God speaks of his “beginning” – his decree to reveal himself to us through his only begotten son.)
      1. This verse does not mean that Christ had a beginning, rather that a decree was made declaring that Jesus Christ (God himself) would be revealed to men.
      2. Rather there was “a day” when Christ is declared to us that he is the Son of God.
      3. Jesus Christ was always the Son of God for in eternity, there is no beginning, nor an end.
5. Verse 25 - Before the mountains were settled, before the hills was I brought forth:
  1. The mountains and hills are settled, or fixed in their places by the power of God, not by the happenstance of evolution.
  2. Psalms 65:6 - Which by his strength setteth fast the mountains; being girded with power:
  3. It would seem very “natural” for Christ to be established before he could establish the mountains and hills in their respective places.
  4. Because Jesus Christ is God, we can say with Psalms 90:2 - Before the mountains were brought forth, or ever thou hadst formed the earth and the world, even from everlasting to everlasting, thou art God.
  5. The phrase “before I was brought forth” is repeated from verse 24, so we can see the importance of this fact.
6. Verse 26 - While as yet he had not made the earth, nor the fields, nor the highest part of the dust of the world.
  1. Verse 24 refers to the depths of the earth and the water that would fill those depths.
  2. Verse 25 refers to the mountains and hills that God would settle into the respective places.
  3. Verse 26 refers to the habitable parts of the earth, the fields, and the dust of the earth.
    1. The dust of the mountains could refer to the valuable minerals of this earth: gold, silver and precious stones.
    2. The dust could also refer to the foundations upon which the mountains rest, but I think the dust refers to precious minerals.

Verse 27-31 – Wisdom was with God in Creation.
1. Verse 27 - When he prepared the heavens, I was there: when he set a compass upon the face of the depth:
  1. The verses are speaking particularly about wisdom, but we know Jesus Christ created the universe and all things therein.
  2. It was by wisdom and not haphazardness that God created the universe through Jesus Christ.
2. There was some preparation that took place before the actual building began, just as there is preparation before a building is built.
  1. The word “set” indicates the establishing of the laws of physics that govern this universe.
  2. The word “compass” is the bounds of water, that they cannot pass over.
  3. It could also be that God has established the earth as the only planet with water.
    1. Explorations into space are always looking for water, because without water, there can no life as we know it.
    2. There is water, of course, in clouds, but it may be that water is nowhere in the universe except the earth.
3. Verse 28 - When he established the clouds above: when he strengthened the fountains of the deep:
  1. Here is the height and the depth of the wisdom of God.
  2. Hebrews 1:10 - And, Thou, Lord, in the beginning hast laid the foundation of the earth; and the heavens are the works of thine hands:
  3. Jesus Christ and wisdom were present when the laws that governor clouds and the fountains of the deep were established.
    1. It is amazing that the clouds are comprised of water, yet the cloud is not rent under the weight of the water.
    2. God has determined the physical law, which was changed as the flood during Noah’s day commenced, that it might rain.
  4. There is an order to the universe, as each part of the creation establishes and reinforces all the other parts of the universe.
  5. God strengthened the fountains of the deep so the hydrological cycle could continue unabated.
    1. Ecclesiastes 1:7 - All the rivers run into the sea; yet the sea is not full; unto the place from whence the rivers come, thither they return again.
    2. Men overlook this fact of recycled water and purified water, but God established this principle before the created the heavens and the earth.
4. Verse 29 - When he gave to the sea his decree, that the waters should not pass his commandment: when he appointed the foundations of the earth:
  1. This verse is a promise to us, regardless of what the “global warmers” may cry.
  2. Jeremiah 5:22 - Fear ye not me? saith the LORD: will ye not tremble at my presence, which have placed the sand for the bound of the sea by a perpetual decree, that it cannot pass it: and though the waves thereof toss themselves, yet can they not prevail; though they roar, yet can they not pass over it?
    1. Liberals who are afraid of global warming do not know God, nor his power over this present wicked world.
    2. The waves might roar against the land, but they will not prevail, just as wicked people may roar against God and his people, but they will not finally prevail victorious.
  3. The foundations of the earth are seemingly build upon nothing, but there is a foundation (and that foundation is God himself) that is stronger than anything man can see or make.
    1. Job 26:7 - He stretcheth out the north over the empty place, and hangeth the earth upon nothing.
    2. Psalms 24:2 - For he hath founded it upon the seas, and established it upon the floods.
    3. Psalms 104:5 - Who laid the foundations of the earth, that it should not be removed for ever.
  4. Christ has laid such a stable foundation for the physical earth, and the foundation he has laid for us in eternity is just as stable, because it is build upon himself.
5. Verse 30 - Then I was by him, as one brought up with him: and I was daily his delight, rejoicing always before him;
  1. Christ and wisdom was always with God, as it is impossible to separate them.
    1. The word “brought up” means “architect, master workman, skilled workman”, not the same as in verse 24 and 25.
    2. The verse means that Jesus Christ, wisdom and God are “co-founders” of creation.
  2. …I was daily his delight is a wonderful place to be!
    1. John 17:24 - Father, I will that they also, whom thou hast given me, be with me where I am; that they may behold my glory, which thou hast given me: for thou lovedst me before the foundation of the world.
      1. It is wonderful to think that Jesus Christ is always the delight of his Father.
      2. They agreed on everything in wonderful accord and unison.
      3. This is also what Christ desires for us, and which place we will soon have, not because we deserve it, or work for it, but because it pleased the Father to give us to Jesus Christ for redemption of sins and full fellowship with him and other believers.
    2. Matthew 3:17 - And lo a voice from heaven, saying, This is my beloved Son, in whom I am well pleased.
      1. Matthew 25:21, 23 – Christ told the two servants who had gained talents: Well done, thou good and faithful servant: thou hast been faithful over a few things, I will make thee ruler over many things: enter thou into the joy of thy lord.
      2. The most important part is entering into the joy of thy lord, not the gaining of position.
6. Verse 31 - Rejoicing in the habitable part of his earth; and my delights were with the sons of men.
  1. The habitable parts of the earth.
    1. This is the parts of the earth designed by God for men to dwell, raise their families, and worship God.
      1. There are some parts of the earth that are necessary, but not designed by our creator for habitation.
      2. God created the entire world, but created a special garden he called Eden, and there he placed the man whom he had created.
    2. God did not put Adam in an inhabitable part of the earth.
  2. God delights in men.
    1. Notice the word is “delights” not “delight”.
      1. God has multiple delights in man, not just one or two.
      2. God delighted in men before they were ever created, and before they sinned, casting themselves into the deepest depravity before a most holy God.
      3. It is remarkable to know that God loves us even before the foundation of the world when he foreknew we would cast ourselves into sin.
      4. It is remarkable to know Christ foreknew he would have to become a part of his creation and die that they might have everlasting life, and he continued with the creation even though he knew all that bad about us.
    2. It might be easy to believe God delighted in un-fallen Adam, and that is true, but he also delighted in fallen Adam, seen in God’s search for such a sinner.
    3. God did not delight in angels, although he made them as well as us.
    4. God did not delight in animals, although he made them as well as us.

Verse 32-36 – Another admonition to seek wisdom

Verse 32-36 - Now therefore hearken unto me, O ye children: for blessed are they that keep my ways. 33 Hear instruction, and be wise, and refuse it not. 34 Blessed is the man that heareth me, watching daily at my gates, waiting at the posts of my doors. 35 For whoso findeth me findeth life, and shall obtain favour of the LORD. 36 But he that sinneth against me wrongeth his own soul: all they that hate me love death.

Introductions: Reasons wisdom should be sought.
1. The word “therefore” is there for a reason.
  1. Solomon has given many illustrations, which he believes will show his children the result of wisdom, or the result of the lack of wisdom.
  2. This is the final chapter of Solomon’s instructions to his children in this manner.
  3. Beginning in chapter 10, Solomon will continue his instructions of wisdom, but he will use a different technique.
2. The various comparisons given in the previous chapters, both positive and negative.
  1. Proverbs 1:10-19 – If you want to lose your money and your life, give them away to those who promise quick returns.
  2. Proverbs 3:2 – If you want long life, and eternal life, instead of a quick and eternal death, do not seek nor obtain wisdom.
  3. Proverbs 3:10 – If you want happiness, seek wisdom.
  4. Proverbs 4:2 – If you want good doctrine, do not forsake wisdom.
  5. Proverbs 4:14-19 – The path of the wicked is completely opposite the path of the righteousness.
  6. Proverbs 5 – Moral purity produces its own reward, while immorality produces its own calamitous end.
  7. Proverbs 6:1-5 – If you want to destroy yourself financially, co-sign financial notes for those you are not responsible for.
  8. Proverbs 6:6-11 – If you want financial security, work for it, but continue to trust God for provide it.
  9. Proverbs 6:16-19 – If you want God to approve your actions, refrain from doing the things God hates.
  10. Proverbs 7 – Godly wisdom will cause you to understand the viciousness of people who say they have some good things for you.
  11. Proverbs 8 – Understanding wisdom is a guide to understanding more about Jesus Christ and God and the way he works in this world.
3. There is only so much any parent can do to instruct their children.
  1. There is a time when the parent must stop talking and give holy words time to sink into the mind and heart of the child.
  2. The first nine chapters of the book of Proverbs is the foundation of the rest of the book.
  3. After a parent has laid a good foundation of wisdom, they can continually give short lessons on wisdom, as Solomon does in the remainder of the book.
  4. Only God can make the lessons of God effective and lasting, but we all have a responsibility to give good instructions which God will use.
4. A very sad thing to note here is the desire of Solomon for his children to be find wisdom and use wisdom in their lives, but Solomon did not rightly apply his own instruction, but went away from Godly wisdom.
  1. The fact that Solomon is here teaching his children is wonderful beyond comparison.
  2. Solomon here reveals his understanding of the importance of being holy and following wisdom if there is to be any kind of peace and tranquility in a life.
  3. It is easy for parents to give good words to their children, but if the actions of the parents are not consistent with their instructions, all is vain.
  4. Proverbs 8:24 reveals that Solomon understands that wisdom is to be sought and applied daily, but in the end of his life, he failed to follow his own instructions.
  5. God will hold him more guilty than the person who did not know in their youth.
  6. Every one of us must be extremely careful and diligent lest we fall, day by day, into rebellion against God.
5. Integrity is our most important asset.
  1. Integrity is gained by closely adhering to the Word of God, daily applying his wisdom to everyday actions.
  2. Some have said an accusation will destroy a Godly person, whether they are guilty or not.
  3. We should so live that people will understand our innocence even though we are accused.
    1. I am fully aware that some will accuse when they know we are innocent.
    2. I am also fully aware that some will never believe our innocence, regardless of the facts.

Verse 32 - Now therefore hearken unto me, O ye children: for blessed are they that keep my ways.
1. The word hearken means not only to hear, but also to obey, to publish to others because of clear understanding, to be completely obedient to wisdom.
  1. Solomon’s love for his children, and quiet desperation for their uncertain future is heard in this verse.
  2. It is extremely good if children would hear the words of God in their youth so they will not sow wild oats, and will not reap evil consequences.
  3. If children understand the right way to live when they are young, and begin to follow that righteous path, they will be able to live as god directs all their lives, and receive the blessings of God.
2. People are blessed because they hear the voice of wisdom – the voice of God, not the voice of parents, even though parents should teach God’s holy commandments.
  1. Every person must get their instructions from the holy word of God, do not take anybody’s word for what wisdom is, or what God demands.
  2. If we take the word of people, true Godly wisdom will gradually disappear because no person remembers, and no person hears completely.
  3. We all forget and do not remember.
  4. That is why God gave us his word, which never changes.
  5. The Bible is true to all generations.

Verse 33 - Hear instruction, and be wise, and refuse it not.
1. There is a choice.
  1. Every person can hear Godly instruction and be wise,
  2. or they can refuse Godly wisdom and be unwise.
2. The passion and desire in Solomon’s voice as he urges his children toward holy wisdom is very clear.
  1. Solomon is king over all Israel, but is powerless to put wisdom into the heart and mind of his children.
  2. All parents have God’s authority over their children, but it is impossible for any parent to put into the heart and mind of their children to seek, and use Godly wisdom.

Verse 34 - Blessed is the man that heareth me, watching daily at my gates, waiting at the posts of my doors.
1. Definition of the major words in this verse.
  1. The word “hear” means to more than hearing with the natural ear, but also to understand and obey so completely that a natural part of our lives is spent publishing to others the daily and eternal benefits of God’s wisdom.
  2. The word “watch” means to be awake, and to be alert.
  3. The word “waiting” means to keep, as in heeding and observing so as to preserve the principles of wisdom.
2. Any person who desires to be blessed, or happy, must hear, watch, and wait for wisdom.
  1. There is of necessity a time to hear wisdom.
    1. There is also a necessity of continually, every day, watching and waiting for wisdom.
    2. If a person forsakes seeking wisdom for one day, that might be the day Satan will take advantage of them.
  2. Even in old age, there is a necessity to continually seek wisdom.
    1. I think sometimes there is so much emphasis put on youth that older people forget they are still important in God’s work.
    2. An older person is old only in their body, their mind is still as young as ever.
  3. It is never too late to seek and apply Godly wisdom, but it must be done today.
    1. None of us, regardless of how old we are, or how young we are, are going to pass this way again.
    2. Today is the day to be faithful to God, to seek Godly wisdom and apply that wisdom.
    3. I have lost many blessings of God because I did not seek and apply Godly wisdom years ago.
      1. Those blessings I have lost, I can never regain.
      2. A long while ago, I stopped playing the piano; I do not know why.
      3. I lost many playing skills I once possessed, because I failed to practice daily. I
      4. I have never been able to regain the agility I once had in playing the piano, which I deeply regret.
    4. Therefore, I beseech you not to lose that which you have gained.
      1. Be faithful to God today, and seek his wisdom, because you will never come this way again.
      2. If God has put on your heart to do a certain thing for him, today is the day to accomplish that thing.
      3. It may be too late tomorrow.
    5. The fact that older instructors have a struggle with not seeking and applying Godly wisdom ought to give us compassion as we watch younger people struggle with the same things we all struggle with.

Verse 35-36 - For whoso findeth me findeth life, and shall obtain favour of the LORD. 36 But he that sinneth against me wrongeth his own soul: all they that hate me love death.
1. There are two ways or paths a person can take.
  1. Find wisdom, find life and favour of the LORD.
  2. Reject wisdom, sin against his own soul and love death.
2. There are no other paths of life, regardless of what the modern counselors declare.

3 See: ..\Theology\Theology Terms - 2.doc Article on Arius and Arianism.