Proverbs 30:1-9

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TALKS FOR GROWING CHRISTIANS

Wisdom in Requests

Who is Agur, the author of the wise sayings here in chapter 30 of Proverbs?
To whom are the wise sayings of Agur addressed? Does this mean that they are not applicable to believers today?
In verses 2 and 3, is Agur saying that he has a low IQ or that he cannot think like a man, or is he making a statement of _____________?
Verse 4 speaks about nature, God’s ___________ revelation to man. Verses 5 and 6 both speak about Scripture, God’s __________ revelation to man. Verse 5 affirms the _____________ of God’s Word, and verse 6 affirms the ______________ of God’s Word.

We cannot be certain of the identity of Agur. The Jewish Talmud suggests that Agur is another name for Solomon. The wording of verse 1 could indicate that Agur, the son of Jakeh, is a descendent of the Ishmaelite people. (See Genesis 28:13, 14.)
The wise sayings of Agur are addressed to Ithiel and Ucal. However, as the Word of God, they are applicable to us as well.
In verses 2 and 3, Agur is not saying that he has a low IQ or that he cannot think like a man. He is making a statement of humility, acknowledging that by human searching alone you cannot attain the wisdom and the knowledge of God no matter how smart you are.
Verse 4 speaks about nature, God’s general revelation to man. Verses 5 and 6 speak about Scripture, God’s special revelation to man. Verse 5 affirms the infallibility of God’s Word, and verse 6 affirms the sufficiency of God’s Word.

Discuss the requests made of God by Agur in his prayer in verses 7-9. Consider the appropriateness of these prayer requests for you, your family and your Christian friends today. Discuss the meaning of “poor” and “rich” in the context of our culture, and your willingness to make Agur’s request in this area of life a genuine request of your own.

Are you thoroughly convinced of the infallibility and sufficiency of God’s Word? If you are to be able to convince others of the truths in the Bible and be able to contend for its accuracy and reliability, you must, like Agur, truly believe that “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 complete, thoroughly equipped for every good work” (2 Timothy 3:16, 17). Pray that God will give you an understanding of, and an unwavering belief in His inspired Word.

“Every word of God is pure; He is a shield to those who put their trust in Him. Do not add to His words, lest He reprove you, and you be found as a liar.” Proverbs 30:5, 6