Bible Studies

THE BOOK OF PROVERBS

Title of the Book: Understanding True Wisdom

The book of Proverbs is a collection of verses submitted by several different writers, most of these words are attributed to Solomon.  While there is no clear way of outlining the book, the first six verses serve as a preface and introduction, giving to us the reason for writing this book:

"he 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"

Then in verse seven, we find the source of  true wisdom:

"The fear of the Lord is the beginning of knowledge: but fools despise wisdom and instruction”.

In order to get the greatest benefit from this book, a suggested outline will help as you meditate on these precious truths.

1. Wisdom and its application to worship and communion.

2. Wisdom in facing dangers while living in a hostile world.

3. Wisdom in achieving happy family relationships.

4. Wisdom as to making wise decisions.

5. Wisdom in relation to ethical standards.

6. Wisdom as to maintaining spiritual purity.

While these are only suggested principles, the challenge would be for one to develop their own outline on how understanding this book would help them the most.

DISCUSSION QUESTIONS

1. In chapter 1:1-6, what reason does the author give for writing this book, and who is this author?

2. From 1:7, discuss where true wisdom originates.

3. In Proverbs 3:5,6, discuss what comfort this verse gives to those who are seeking direction in their lives?

4. In chapter 3:13-19, discuss the blessings associated with walking in wisdom.

 5. In chapter 5, discuss the dangers that a young man (person)may face and what he should avoid doing it.

6. Proverbs 29:18, this verse is often used to show the importance of having a vision. Compare this verse with I Samuel 3:1, Amos 8:11, also consider Judges 21:25 to see what happens when the people live without a word from God. A proper translation of this verse is "without a prophetic vision, the people cast off restraint."

7. Turn to Proverbs chapter 31 and discuss the different ways that this chapter is written compared to the others.

8. Who is the writer of chapter 31? Notice in this chapter the admiration and respect that he shows toward women (especially wives and mothers".)

9. In chapter 31:9-31, discuss the high standards of what a virtuous woman has.

10 From these verses, using the title "A Medley of a Model Mother", fill in the rest of this outline in the following manner: for instance, she is a priceless treasure: verse 10. Second, she is a confidence builder: verse 11, 12: She is an early riser verse 15, etc.