Sketches in Proverbs

Study 2

Introduction & purpose

The proverbs of Solomon the son of David, king of Israel; to know wisdom and instruction; to perceive the words of understanding; To receive the instruction of wisdom, justice, and judgment, and equity; To give subtilty to the simple, to the young man knowledge and discretion. A wise man will hear, and will increase learning; and a man of understanding shall attain unto wise counsels: To understand a proverb, and the interpretation; the words of the wise, and their dark sayings.

Prov.1:1-6

It is interesting to compare these opening verses of Proverbs, which give its purpose, and to the famous passage by Paul in relation to the overall purpose of scripture.

All scripture is given by inspiration of God, and is profitable for doctrine, for reproof, for correction, for instruction in righteousness: That the man of God may be perfect, throughly furnished unto all good works.

II Tim. 3:16-17

Here is a table of comparisons for meditation

Proverbs 1:1-6	II Tim.3:16-17	Refs.
To know (=what was not previously known) of surety (= certainty) the counsels and corrections. To perceive (= discern and have insight) the words of understanding (=discernment)	Doctrine	Heb.11:1;II Tim. 2:15; II Tim. 3:14-15; Rom.6:17;Jn.6:16-17
To receive (= take what is given)the instruction (=To correct and reform) of wisdom, justice, and judgment, and equity. For instruction in righteousness	Reproof for correction	Prov.6:23; Eph.4:14; Heb.4:12
To give subtilty to the simple (=inexperienced), to the young man knowledge and discretion.	That the man of God may be perfect , thoroughly furnished unto all good works	Subtilty=same word in Gen.3:1. cf Mtt.10:16; II Tim.2:21

Note:

Justice = to be just/righteous
Judgement = to bring matters to the rule of right
Equity = Straight/ righteousness/ evenness

Contents Study 3