Proverbs 25:1-14

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TALKS FOR GROWING CHRISTIANS

Wisdom in Study

Chapter 25 returns to the proverbs written by Solomon and collected by the men of Hezekiah. Solomon lived about _____ years before King Hezekiah’s time and according to 1 Kings 4:32, Solomon spoke proverbs numbering ________. Only about _____ of these are in the Book of Proverbs.
Considering the truth found in Deuteronomy 29:29 and the wisdom of the proverb in verse 2, what should be our practice regarding the things God has revealed?
In this chapter, verses 4 and 5 obviously go together, forming what is called ____________ parallelism. What are the two practical lessons we can learn from these verses?
1 Corinthians 6:1-8 teaches us that believers are not to take one another to secular court to settle cases against one another. Verses 8-10 of this chapter in Proverbs, provides guidance regarding wrongs done to a believer by an unbeliever. Explain the guidance given here.

Solomon lived about 250 years before King Hezekiah’s time. Solomon spoke 3000 proverbs. However, only about 900 of these are in the Book of Proverbs.
God has not revealed everything about Himself or His creation to us, but we should develop the consistent and careful practice of searching out and studying what He has revealed.
Verses 4 and 5 of this chapter form what is called emblematic parallelism. The word picture about removing dross from the silver is emblematic of and parallel with the removal of the wicked from the kingdom. We learn from this proverb that without the removal of the dross or wickedness, there cannot be beautiful silver or a righteous kingdom. From the positive perspective, we are taught that with the removal of the dross or the wickedness, there can be beautiful jewelry made and there can be a righteous kingdom established.
The guidance given in verses 8-10 regarding being wronged by an unbeliever is twofold. First, do not be eager to rush into court. Secondly, if you do decide to go to court, be sure to have all of the facts surrounding the case and be well prepared before going before the judge. Your reputation is at stake. Read Matthew 5:25 and 26 in this regard.

Consider the potential advantages of settling disagreements or unresolved legal issues brought upon you by believers or unbelievers by means other than going into secular court. Discuss the availability of Christian organizations whose purpose and function is to provide other options for resolution that are effective and in keeping with biblical principles.

Have you found yourself turning away from the portions of Scripture that may be difficult to understand? Do you withdraw from readings and conversations about the complexities of God’s created universe? God is pleased, and you will be edified for His glory, when you take the challenge of entering into thorough study, seeking out trustworthy teaching and experiencing a deepening faith in His Word and understanding of His creation.

“A word fitly spoken is like apples of gold in settings of silver. Like an earring of gold and an ornament of fine gold is a wise reprover to an obedient ear.” Proverbs 25:11, 12