10/21/14

From Mark Copeland... Wisdom Regarding Riddles (Proverbs)

                         "THE BOOK OF PROVERBS"

                        Wisdom Regarding Riddles

INTRODUCTION

1. In the prologue of Proverbs, among the purposes of the book stated is
   this one...
   a. "To understand a proverb and an enigma,"
   b. "The words of the wise and their riddles." - Pr 1:6

2. According to the Preacher's Commentary...
   a. "Proverbs that begin with clusters of questions may be classified
      as riddles or their offspring (see Pr 23:29-30; 30:4)"
   b. "As may be some of the numerical sayings in chapters 6 and 30."

3. Among the more picturesque riddles are the numerical sayings of King
   Agur...
   a. Containing observations of common things in groups of four or more
      - Pr 30:1,11-31
   b. Shedding light on human behavior and conveying moral truth - Roy
      Harbison

[In this study, we shall consider the numerical sayings of King Agur,
first posing them in the form of actual riddles.  For example...]

I. WHAT ARE FOUR CLASSES OF EVIL DOERS?

   A. THOSE THAT DESPISE THEIR PARENTS...
      1. Who curse their fathers and do not bless their mothers - Pro 30:11
      2. Whose end is graphically depicted later in this chapter - Pro 30:17; cf. also 20:20

   B. THOSE THAT ARE BLIND TO THEIR FAULTS...
      1. Who are clean to their own eyes, but not washed of their filth
         - Pr 30:12
      2. Who may justify themselves, but will be judged by the Lord
         - Pr 21:2

   C. THOSE WHO ARE ARROGANT...
      1. With lofty eyes, who lift their eyelids high - Pr 30:13
      2. Clearly condemned elsewhere in Proverbs - Pr 6:17; 21:4

   D. THOSE WHO CONSUME THE POOR...
      1. With teeth like swords, and fangs like knives - Pr 30:14
      2. Who will themselves come to poverty - Pr 22:16

[Such conduct is indicative of an evil generation, and evidenced by some
living in the "last days" (2Ti 3:1-5).  Continuing with the numerical
sayings, we ask in the form of a riddle...]

II. WHAT THINGS ARE NEVER SATISFIED?

   A. THE LEECH...
      1. Who has two daughters:  Give and Give! - Pr 30:15
      2. The leech depicts those filled with insatiable greed, they are
         never satisfied - cf. Ec 5:10

   B. THE GRAVE...
      1. The grave (Sheol, the Hebrew word for the dead) can never be
         filled - Pr 30:16
      2. And so covetousness is insatiable like Hell (Sheol) and
         Destruction - cf. Pr 27:20

   C. THE BARREN WOMB...
      1. The woman who desperately wants to conceive and give birth
         - Pr 30:16
      2. Like Rachel said to Jacob, "Give me children, or else I die!"
         - cf. Gen 30:1

   D. THE EARTH...
      1. The dry earth that absorbs rain, soon wanting more - Pr 30:16
      2. Another illustration of insatiable greed

   E. THE FIRE...
      1. Which consumes as long as combustible matter is available - Pro 30:16
      2. The final example of things never satisfied

[These five images appear designed to illustrate covetousness and greed.
Now for another "riddle"...]

III. WHAT THINGS ARE A WONDER TO BEHOLD?

   A. THE WAY OF AN EAGLE IN THE AIR...
      1. The grace and speed of an eagle in flight - Pr 30:18-19
      2. Soaring high in the sky, but then leaving no evidence behind

   B. THE WAY OF A SERPENT ON A ROCK...
      1. The slithering of a serpent - Pr 30:19
      2. Who leaves tracks on the sand, but not on a rock

   C. THE WAY OF A SHIP IN THE SEA...
      1. The sailing ship, tacking back and forth - Pr 30:19
      2. Progressing forward, but whose waves soon dissipate

   D. THE WAY OF A MAN WITH A VIRGIN...
      1. The mystery of courtship - Pr 30:19
      2. The exchange of affection and attraction between them

   E. THE WAY OF AN ADULTEROUS WOMAN...
      1. How she can commit adultery, and then claim innocence - Pro 30:20
      2. Note:  "This is the way..." - tying this verse with the
         proceeding verses
      3. Thus she maneuvers, toying with affection and attraction like a
         man and a virgin, but like the eagle, serpent, and ship,
         believing she leaves nothing of substance behind

[These five images illustrate the ultimate wonder of adultery that
claims innocence.  The next "riddle" might be expressed in this way...]

IV. WHAT THINGS CAUSE TURMOIL?

   A. A SERVANT WHEN HE REIGNS...
      1. It normally is not fitting - Pr 30:21-22; cf. 19:10
      2. He becomes arrogant and overbearing, drunk with his new
         position - Believer's Bible Commentary (BBC)
      3. Like Jeroboam, such is the rule - Joseph was the exception

   B. A FOOL WHEN HE IS FILLED WITH FOOD...
      1. Having all that he desires to eat - Pr 30:22
      2. His prosperity causes him to be more insolent than ever - BBC

   C. A HATEFUL WOMAN WHEN SHE IS MARRIED...
      1. Who finally succeeds in getting married - Pr 30:23; cf. 21:9,
         19
      2. Her wretched disposition would normally have kept her single,
         but by some fluke, she lands a husband. Then she becomes
         imperious and haughty, taunting those who are still unmarried.
         - BBC

   D. A MAID SERVANT WHO SUCCEEDS HER MISTRESS...
      1. Who now rules over those who were once her equals - Pr 30:23
      2. She doesn't know how to act with refinement and grace, but is
         coarse, rude, and vulgar - BBC

[These scenarios contribute to social chaos.  Our next "riddle" reveals
examples of wise behavior...]

V. WHAT THINGS ARE LITTLE BUT WISE?

   A. THE ANTS...
      1. They are not strong, but they prepare their food in the summer
         - Pr 30:24-25
      2. A lesson for all, especially the sluggard - Pr 6:6-8
      3. The lesson:  plan ahead

   B. THE ROCK BADGERS...
      1. They are feeble, but they make their homes in the crags
         (cliffs) - Pr 30:26
      2. Where they are able to escape animals of prey or human hunters
         - Ps 104:18
      3. The lesson:  make wise choices

   C. THE LOCUSTS...
      1. They have no king, yet all advance in ranks - Pr 30:27
      2. Like a well-drilled army - cf. Joel 2:7-11,25
      3. The lesson:  work in unison with others

   D. THE SPIDER (LIZARD)...
      1. Skillfully grasps with its hands, and is in kings' palaces
         - Pr 30:28
      2. Newer translations have "lizard"; probably like a gecko
      3. The lesson:  skillfully persevere

[Much wisdom can be gleaned from observing God's creation, even its
smallest creatures.  Finally, we ask again in the form of a riddle...]

VI. WHAT THINGS ARE MAJESTIC?

   A. A LION...
      1. Mighty among beasts, turning away from none - Pr 30:29-30
      2. Majestic and unruffled as it walks - BBC

   B. A GREYHOUND (STRUTTING ROOSTER)...
      1. The Hebrew is uncertain (lit., "girded at the loins") - Pro 30:31
      2. Whether greyhound or strutting rooster, both are stately in
         their walk

   C. A MALE GOAT...
      1. "a picture of noble bearing as it strides at the head of a
         flock" - BBC
      2. "which marches in the head of the flock in grave and stately
         manner, conducting them with great courage and resolution, and
         being ready to fight for them, either with beasts or men that
         oppose him" - Poole

   D. A KING WITH HIS TROOPS...
      1. "against whom there is no rising up" (KJV) - Pr 30:31
      2. How foolish then, to lift up oneself, to think evil, or to be
         angry (against such a king?) - cf. Pr 30:32-33

CONCLUSION

1. These "riddles" that we've considered are not always easy to
   understand...
   a. The Hebrew word actually means "dark saying, hard question" - cf.
      KJV, ASV
   b. Scholars vary quite a bit in their interpretation and application
      of these riddles

2. But for the most part, the riddles offer illustrations and lessons
   providing wisdom...
   a. On human behavior
   b. On moral truths

Such is the nature of the book of Proverbs.  Like the Old Testament as a
whole, it was written for our learning and admonition (cf. Ro 15:4; 1Co 
10:11).  I hope this study has increased your appreciate for Proverbs,
which like 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." - 2Ti 3:16-17

Executable Outlines, Copyright © Mark A. Copeland, 2011

From Jim McGuiggan... THE CLASH OF KINGDOMS


THE CLASH OF KINGDOMS

His name was Levi but most New Testament readers know him better as Matthew. He was a tax-collector. Rome had set up a system of "client kings". It offered its approval and military support to this king or that if the king would agree to raise taxes for Rome's needs [the client king got his cut, of course]. Rome would assess how much they wanted from a kingdom and the client king would give that to Rome. It didn't matter how much he could wring out of his people so long as he could give to Rome what they asked.

The Jewish people had two reasons to despise the tax-collectors—Rome and the Herodian family with whom Rome had made the agreement.

We're not to think of tax-collectors as poor little things who were mistreated; we get a better view of them as a class when we think of those who collaborated with the Nazis in France or Belgium or Holland. Tax-collectors must have been emotionally and socially tough to take such a place in the midst of their own people. Don't you think they would have had to harden themselves to work for the hated and abusive authorities? Would they not be resentful and bitter and tough when every day they were despised, jeered at, isolated and passed by in silence? And if they had wives and children would they not have to steel themselves against the pain their loved ones would surely feel in such a society?

That's the man who was sitting at his place when Jesus walked up to him. Imagine this. There he stands looking in silence at him, those big brown eyes searching Matthew while Matthew looks 
up at him every now and then with a "Well, what do you want?"

Then Jesus says: "Leave all that and follow me!"

I'm going to take it that Matthew knew something of the one who spoke to him. It cannot have been that just anyone—the local butcher, for example—came and said that to him.

It would be nice [though not needed] to have Matthew tell us about that moment. "There he stood looking at me, saying nothing for what seemed like a lifetime and then, those words..."
Surely some critic saw and heard it all and as soon as Jesus said, "Leave all that and come and follow me," he ran off to tell his friends. "Guess who the new prophet asked to follow him!" They might guess this one or that and the informant would say, "No, no, better than that! Guess again!" When they'd exhausted their list of pious people who loved Israel and hated the Herod family he'd say, "No, it was 'old money-bags' himself. Matthew the tax-collector." And he might have added, "It'll be a cold day in you know where when that happens." They'd all have a good laugh at the prophet's naivete but their laughing and jeering and gossiping would stop and astonishment would take their place when the word got around that Matthew had got up and done it! 

The God-generated capacity for it was there all along and only Jesus had the love to see it and the goodness and power to harness it!

All the hatred, all the sneering, all the isolation and intimidation couldn't turn him from his tax-gathering table, couldn't melt his hardness or strengthen him to finally join the oppressed against his ruthless masters—the world powers. But one long look at this Jesus, one strong sweet appeal from him and Matthew strode out of one world and into another, said a once-for-all goodbye to a way of life and never looked back.

When I think of such a dramatic turn around all sorts of questions swirl around in my mind—questions I have no satisfying answers to. Now and then when I think of it, it makes me half wish I had had Matthew's experience and felt the dramatic urge. I was never a great kid but my coming to the Lord Jesus, my entering the waters of baptism and taking his name upon me as my Lord and Savior was almost a quiet and steady process—as it is with most of us. I love that too but the drama of Matthew's conversion [and many like him down the centuries] thrills me as it must thrill you.

Every coming to the Lord Jesus has its drama even if it isn't obvious. It's more than [not less than] a personal u-turn. Worlds collide and empires clash on such occasions. People by God's grace throw off the shackles and throw ourselves into an adventure that knows no end. Once again, in each conversion, the Story of God as told in the person of Jesus Christ is re-told and re-enacted in a faith-filled baptism, in a weekly Suppering with the living Lord at the Lord's Supper when they culminate in the rehearsal of His resurrection to new life and a new world [Romans 6:3-7]. 

Such conversions are an ongoing witness to the presence of God's saving power and the present existence of a new creation.

People are called to and made for adventure when Jesus comes calling and transforming them with truth about a new world, a new creation and to a cosmic mission. 

In the days of the sailing ships, sailors who had sailed with Drake would come back and tell stories of what it was like to sail with such a captain. They'd tell tales not of balmy days in safe lagoons and gentle breezes. They'd tell of storms, raging seas and battles with giant waves; they whip off their shirts and show scars they'd got as a result of battle with sea monsters and jagged rocks, they'd show calloused hands that rowed for half a day and then another half and then another until exhausted but successful in bringing their ship into contact with a friendly wind that would fill the sails. Farm boys—barefoot farm boys, eyes wide with the longing for adventure, boys who'd never seen the sea would shrug off their harnesses, leave their ploughs lying in the fields and run off to another life—to another world!

That same Jesus is walking the earth today, stopping here and there and looking long at women and men, boys and girls, then saying, "Come and follow me and I will show you what you were made for." And then and there, even the same life setting, will become new and shot through with adventure! 

Philemon and Slavery by Dave Miller, Ph.D.

http://apologeticspress.org/APContent.aspx?category=11&article=560

Philemon and Slavery

by  Dave Miller, Ph.D.

American abolitionist, editor, orator, author, statesman, and reformer, Frederick Douglass, himself a former slave, was invited to deliver a speech in 1852 (eight years before the Civil War) to a women’s anti-slavery society in Rochester, New York. His assigned subject? “What, to the Slave, is the Fourth of July?” His remarks demonstrate forcefully that the Bible and the Christian religion were not to be blamed for the existence or perpetuation of slavery. In his brilliant oration, Douglass demonstrated that those “Christians” and churches in America at the time that used the Bible to sanction slavery were misinterpreting and misrepresenting it. He stated:
But the church of this country is not only indifferent to the wrongs of the slave, it actually takes sides with the oppressors. It has made itself the bulwark of American slavery, and the shield of American slave-hunters. Many of its most eloquent Divines [preachers—DM], who stand as the very lights of the church, have shamelessly given the sanction of religion and the Bible to the whole slave system. They have taught that man may, properly, be a slave; that the relation of master and slave is ordained of God; that to send back an escaped bondman to his master is clearly the duty of all the followers of the Lord Jesus Christ; and this horrible blasphemy is palmed off upon the world for Christianity.... Fellow-citizens! I will not enlarge further on your national inconsistencies. The existence of slavery in this country brands your republicanism as a sham, your humanity as a base pretence, and your Christianity as a lie.... Standing with God and the crushed and bleeding slave on this occasion, I will, in the name of humanity which is outraged, in the name of liberty which is fettered, in the name of the constitution and the Bible, which are disregarded and trampled upon, dare to call in question and to denounce, with all the emphasis I can command, everything that serves to perpetuate slavery—the great sin and shame of America! (1852, emp. added).
Douglass was insistent and adamant: to propagate the form of slavery in America at that time was to disregard and trample upon the Bible (and the Constitution!), and to misrepresent and deny the very essence of Christianity and the will of Christ.
Douglass surely understood the New Testament correctly. In a succinct personal note to a fellow Christian (Philemon), the apostle Paul presented a fascinating glimpse into the Christian attitude toward slavery. In a masterpiece of pathos, Paul blended together tender affection, encouraging commendation, unanswerable logic, heartfelt sympathy, and respectful persuasion to convince Philemon to exude Christian compassion.
In examining the successive thoughts that Paul offers in verses 1-15 and 18-25, one is apt to miss the primary point that the apostle was making. Stripping away the side points that he musters along the way in building his appeal allows the central purpose of the letter to come into view as a result of Paul’s triple repetition of “receive him” in verses 12, 15, and 17. He folds the culminating objective in between the latter two verses. The climax is seen in his explicit allusion to the nature of the reception: to get Philemon to receive Onesimus back “no longer as a slave” (vs. 16).
Here is the real message of Philemon—and the Christian stance on slavery: God would have slaves not to be treated as slaves! This divine intention effectively eradicates the forms of slavery that are deemed objectionable. To treat a slave as an equal (“more than a slave”—vs. 16), and to treat him the way one wishes to be treated himself (Matthew 7:12), strips the institution of slavery of its objectionable traits. Who would not want to be the “slave” of a person who treats you as a dear, beloved brother? Paul’s directives to masters elsewhere in the New Testament focus on this same necessity of being just, fair, impartial, and non-threatening (Ephesians 6:9; Colossians 4:1). Recognizing that slavery would continue in the Roman Empire until Christian principles were able to gradually permeate and infiltrate its institutions, Paul gave sensible advice to Corinthian Christians:
Let each one remain in the same calling in which he was called. Were you called while a slave? Do not be concerned about it; but if you can be made free, rather use it. For he who is called in the Lord while a slave is the Lord’s freedman. Likewise he who is called while free is Christ’s slave (1 Corinthians 7:20-22, emp. added).
A Christian can be a Christian anytime, anywhere. His commitment to Christ is unaffected by his environment or what others may do to him. If he can (ethically and scripturally) improve his physical circumstances, then certainly he is authorized to do so. But if not, “let each one remain in the same calling in which he was called,” that is, one must fulfill one’s pre-baptism (legitimate) obligations (which, in the case of slavery, may entail financial or other matters). The Christian’s focus is to remain on being faithful to God—even in the midst of very unjust or inhumane circumstances. This is the consistent portrait given in the New Testament (e.g., Ephesians 6:5-8; Colossians 3:22-24). It certainly is no overstatement to insist that if Christianity, in its pure and accurate form, were implemented throughout the world, the evils of slavery would be eradicated.

REFERENCES

Douglass, Frederick (1852), Oration Delivered in Corinthian Hall, Rochester, http://books.google.com/books?id=1glyAAAAMAAJ&printsec=frontcover&dq=frederick+douglass&hl=en&sa=X&ei=cmlfT5zROISygwfG57yCCA&ved= 0CFcQ6AEwBg#v=onepage&q=frederick%20douglass&f=false.

From Mark Copeland... Wisdom Regarding Authority (Proverbs)

                         "THE BOOK OF PROVERBS"

                       Wisdom Regarding Authority

INTRODUCTION

1. Throughout life, we must deal with the matter of authority...
   a. Sometimes we find ourselves in positions of authority (boss,
      parent, elder, president)
   b. Most of the time we find ourselves having to submit to authority
      (employee, child, citizen)

2. Wisdom regarding authority is a virtue often lacking...
   a. People with authority frequently do poorly, even abusing their
      authority
   b. People under authority don't always handle it gracefully, making
      their situation worse

3. In Proverbs, we find wisdom regarding authority...
   a. Mostly spoken in terms pertaining to the rule of a king or prince
   b. Which can easily be applied to other areas involving authority
      (work, family, church)

[In this study, we shall seek to summarize what is said in Proverbs
about the subject of authority, beginning with some...]

I. WISDOM FOR THOSE IN AUTHORITY

   A. THEIR DUTIES...
      1. To make judgments - Pr 16:10; 25:2
         a. Those in authority are often called upon to make decisions
         b. Decisions that affect those under their authority
      2. To administer justice - Pr 20:8,26; 29:4a,14
         a. Such is the responsibility of those in authority
         b. Not for their personal benefit, but for those under their
            authority
      -- Whether one is a king, a company CEO or manager, an elder, or a
         parent, God expects them to exercise authority with justice

   B. THEIR QUALITIES...
      1. They must be righteous - Pr 16:10,12
         a. Necessary to administer justice
         b. To judge righteously and fairly
      2. Free of evil influence - Pr 25:4-5
         a. Such as covetousness, the love of material things - Pr 28:
            15-16
         b. Such as bribery, the tool of many 'lobbyists' - Pr 29:4
         c. Such as women and alcohol, bane of many politicians and
            businessmen - Pr 31:1-5
      3. They must be fair and merciful - Pr 31:8-9
         a. For those unable to speak for themselves
         b. For those who are poor and needy
      -- Those in authority need the qualities that will ensure
         righteous and merciful judgment

[In other words, the same sort of judgment they would want if they
themselves were not in positions of authority!  Now for some...]

II. WISDOM FOR THOSE UNDER AUTHORITY

   A. THEIR DUTIES...
      1. To honor those in authority - Pr 24:21-22
         a. To fear (reverence, respect) them like we do the Lord
         b. Avoid those given to 'revolution', who often bring calamity
            on themselves
      2. To gain their favor, when possible and appropriate - Pr 16:15;
         19:12; 20:2
         a. For such favor can be a blessing
         b. And their wrath can be a curse
      -- Those in authority deserve our respect - for the position if
         not the occupant

   B. THEIR QUALITIES...
      1. Wise conduct, not shameful - Pr 14:35
      2. Righteous speech - Pr 16:13
      3. Purity of heart and graceful lips - Pr 22:11
      4. Excellence in one's work - Pr 22:29
      5. Self-control of one's passions and appetites - Pr 23:1-3
      6. Humility - Pr 25:6-7
      7. Patience and gentleness - Pr 25:15
      -- Such are the qualities that gain the favor of those in
         authority

CONCLUSION

1. If such wisdom regarding authority were commonplace...
   a. In nations
   b. In businesses
   c. In churches
   d. In families

2. Where those in authority...
   a. Fulfilled their duties with justice
   b. Were men and women of righteous conduct

3. Where those under authority...
   a. Respected those over them
   b. Gained the respect of those over them through their own conduct

Then how wonderful it would be!  With the aid of such wisdom as that
found in Proverbs, it can happen...
Executable Outlines, Copyright © Mark A. Copeland, 2011

From Mark Copeland... Wisdom Regarding Money (Proverbs)

                         "THE BOOK OF PROVERBS"

                         Wisdom Regarding Money

INTRODUCTION

1. People often have conflicting ideas about money...
   a. Some say that it is sinful to be rich; others, that it is a virtue
      to be poor
   b. Many think that money provides the ultimate security

2. The Bible says a great deal about money...
   a. It speaks about earning and spending, saving and giving
   b. It even warns about wasting our money

3. The Book of Proverbs in particular discusses issues related to
   money...
   a. Such as wealth and poverty
   b. Such as generosity and greed

[What wisdom can be gleaned from Proverbs concerning money?  Let's first
consider what is said regarding...]

I. WEALTH AND POVERTY

   A. REGARDING WEALTH...
      1. Wealth does have its advantages
         a. A degree of security - Pr 10:15; 18:11; e.g., 13:8
         b. Companionship of 'friends' - Pr 14:20; 19:4,6-7
         c. Power or influence - Pr 22:7
         d. The ability to speak more freely - Pr 18:23
      2. But wealth does not provide everything
         a. It does not deliver us from death - Pr 10:2; 11:4
         b. Those who trust in their riches will fall - Pr 11:28
      3. The acquisition of wealth
         a. Must be gained honestly, such as through labor - Pr 13:11
         b. Best if by labor, not inherited - Pr 20:21
         c. Best if gained gradually, not with haste - Pr 28:20,22
         d. Wealth acquired unscrupulously is temporary and bitter - Pro 20:17; 21:5-6; 28:8
      4. Keeping wealth in perspective
         a. Do not overwork to be rich - Pr 23:4
         b. Riches easily disappear - Pr 23:5
      -- Wealth can be blessing, but it can easily become a curse;
         wisdom makes the difference!

   B. REGARDING POVERTY...
      1. Some are poor because of circumstances beyond their control
         a. The greed of others - Pr 30:14
         b. Usury and extortion - Pr 28:8
      2. Others are poor because of their own sinful conduct
         a. Laziness - Pr 6:6-11; 10:4; 14:23; 20:13; 24:30-34
         b. Refusing to heed correction - Pr 13:18
         c. Pleasure seeking - Pr 21:17
         d. Drunkenness, gluttony - Pr 23:21
         e. Wasting time on frivolous things - Pr 12:11; 28:19
      -- Poverty is not always self-inflicted, but in many cases it is!

[Poverty also comes from other causes (natural disasters, God's
chastisement, persecution, even voluntary choice).  But as most
Christians today are blessed with relative wealth, let's now consider
what wisdom can be gleaned from Proverbs regarding the use of our
money...]

II. GENEROSITY AND GREED

   A. REGARDING GENEROSITY...
      1. The expression of generosity
         a. Toward the needy (giving to the poor) - Pr 28:27
         b. Toward the Lord (honoring Him with our first fruits) - Pro 3:9
      2. The benefits of generosity
         a. Natural benefits (the inherent joy of giving) - Pr 11:17;
            14:21
         b. Divine benefits (the blessing of the Lord) - Pr 3:10; 11:
            24-25; 19:17
      -- For true happiness, with the Lord as our Benefactor, we must be
         generous

   B. REGARDING GREED...
      1. The qualities of greed
         a. Insatiable desires (like a leech) - Pr 30:15-16
         b. Laziness - Pr 21:25-26
         c. Hypocrisy - Pr 23:6-8
      2. The danger of greed
         a. Troubles one's self - Pr 1:19
         b. Troubles one's family - Pr 15:27
   -- To avoid misery, for ourselves and others, we must not be greedy

CONCLUSION

1. With the aid of the Book of Proverbs, we can have wisdom regarding...
   a. Wealth and poverty
   b. Generosity and greed

2. With the blessing of the Lord, we can experience both...
   a. Wealth that comes from honest labor
   b. Generosity that springs from a merciful heart

Certainly there is no place for arrogance and abuse when we have been
materially blessed:

   The rich and the poor have this in common, The LORD is the maker
   of them all. - Pr 22:2

   He who oppresses the poor reproaches his Maker, But he who honors
   Him has mercy on the needy. - Pr 14:31

May the Lord give us the wisdom and grace to use our wealth properly...!

Executable Outlines, Copyright © Mark A. Copeland, 2011

From Mark Copeland... Wisdom Regarding Alcohol (Proverbs)

                         "THE BOOK OF PROVERBS"

                        Wisdom Regarding Alcohol

INTRODUCTION

1. A serious problem today involves the consumption of alcohol...
   a. More than thirty percent of Americans at some time in their lives
      has had an alcohol use disorder - Bridget Gant, National Institute
      On Alcohol Abuse And Alcoholism
   b. Nearly 100,000 people die every year of alcohol-related causes
      - Dr. James C. Garbutt, medical director of the Alcohol and
      Substance Abuse Program (UNC at Chapel Hill)
   c. Alcohol is more dangerous than some illegal drugs like marijuana
      or Ecstasy and should be classified as such in legal systems
      - Professor David Nutt, Bristol University
   d. Alcohol is blamed for more than half of all visits to hospital
      emergency rooms - ibid.

2. The Book of Proverbs warns against the dangers of alcohol...
   a. Whether in the form of wine or strong drink
   b. With the potential of leading one astray - Pr 20:1

[What further wisdom can be gleaned from Proverbs concerning alcohol?
Let's see...]

I. ALCOHOL IN THE BOOK OF PROVERBS

   A. ALCOHOL CAN LEAD TO POVERTY...
      1. A warning against those who love wine - Pr 21:17
      2. A warning against spending time with winebibbers and drunkards
         - Pr 23:20-21
      -- Alcohol has been the downfall of many businessmen

   B. ALCOHOL CAN DESTROY LIVES...
      1. It can lead to woe and sorrow, contentions and complaints,
         wounds without cause and redness of eyes - Pr 23:29-30
      2. It is seductive, and can destroy one just like the seductress
         - Pr 23:31-32; 5:3-5; 6:24-26
      3. It can alter your senses, leading you to say things you'll
         later regret (e.g., "office parties") - Pr 23:33
      4. It gives a false sense of security, exposing you to great
         danger (e.g., "driving drunk") - Pr 23:34-35
      -- Alcohol has destroyed many lives, both those who drink and
         innocent ones who cross their paths

   C. ALCOHOL IMPAIRS JUDGMENT...
      1. Which is why kings and princes were to abstain - Pr 31:4-5
      2. It is better reserved for the dying and devastated - Pr 31:6-7
      -- Alcohol is not for those who would be wise

[Indeed, "Wine is a mocker, Strong drink is a brawler, And whoever is
led astray by it is not wise." (Pr 20:1).  Because of such warnings,
and with the serious problems with alcohol in our society, let's review
what is said about...]

II. ALCOHOL IN THE LIVES OF CHRISTIANS

   A. WHAT IS CONDEMNED...
      1. Drunkenness
         a. A work of darkness, not an element of the armor of light
            - Ro 13:11-14
         b. Conduct that not repented of will keep one out of the
            kingdom of God - 1Co 6:9-10; Ga 5:19-21
         c. Conduct suitable for church discipline - 1Co 5:11-13
      2. Social drinking
         a. We are to dedicate ourselves to doing the will of God, not
            the lusts of men - 1Pe 4:1-2
         b. Thus we are to abstain from drunkenness, revelries, drinking
            parties - 1Pe 4:3
         c. Though we should expect others to think ill of us for
            abstaining - 1Pe 4:4
      -- The popular and common use of alcohol has no place in the life
         of the Christian

   B. WHAT IS COMMANDED...
      1. Concern for the weaknesses of others - Ro 14:14-18
         a. Are we willing to destroy the one for whom Christ died?
         b. Are we more interested in righteousness, peace, and joy in
            the Holy Spirit?
      2. Willingness to forego wine if a stumbling block to others - Ro 14:19-21
         a. Do we know someone who struggles with alcohol abuse and
            addiction?
         b. Do we love them more than any presumed right we may have to
            drink?
      3. Evidently Timothy had chosen  to forego wine for such reasons
         - cf. 1Ti 5:23
         a. Paul prescribed that Timothy drink wine for medicinal
            purposes
         b. Wine was often used to purify water, yet for some reason
            Timothy had abstained
      -- The Christian must prayerfully consider the role of influence
         regarding alcohol

CONCLUSION

1. What is wisdom regarding the consumption of alcohol...?
   a. In view of the warnings found in Proverbs?
      1) It can lead to poverty
      2) It can destroy lives
      3) It impairs judgment
   b. In view of the teachings found in the New Testament?
      1) Prohibitions concerning drunkenness
      2) Concerns regarding influence on weaker brethren

2. What is wisdom in light of the problems of alcohol abuse in our
   society today...?
   a. Shall we flirt with the seducing effects of alcohol?
      1) Alcohol can be tempting and easily ensnare the unsuspecting
      2) If one in three have succumbed, might not we?
   b. Shall we be insensitive to the weaknesses that many have regarding
      alcohol?
      1) Alcohol is the number one drug problem we face today
      2) If one in three have problems with it, dare we become stumbling
         blocks to them?

It shouldn't take the wisdom of Solomon to see that Christians should
take the dangers of alcohol seriously and be proactive in helping
themselves and others to remain free from its clutches...!

Executable Outlines, Copyright © Mark A. Copeland, 2011

From Mark Copeland... Wisdom Regarding Speech (Proverbs)

                         "THE BOOK OF PROVERBS"

                        Wisdom Regarding Speech

INTRODUCTION

1. Christians are to give careful heed to their speech...
   a. Avoiding corrupt words, speaking that which edifies - Ep 4:29
   b. Abstaining from filthy talk, giving thanks instead - Ep 5:4

2. The book of Proverbs has much to say about speech...
   a. The power of speech
   b. Both to tear down and to build up - Pr 11:9,11

[What wisdom can be gleaned from Proverbs concerning our speech or
language?  First, there is the...]

I. DESTRUCTIVE USE OF SPEECH

   A. LYING...
      1. Which is an abomination to God - Pr 12:22; 6:17-19
         a. Lying lips, a lying tongue
         b. Bearing false witness
      2. Often fostered by hatred - Pr 10:18; 26:24-28
         a. In efforts to hide hatred
         b. Trying to disguise one's true feelings
      3. Which will prove to be short-lived - Pr 12:19; 20:17; 21:6
         a. Just for a moment
         b. Sweet at first, but only a fleeting fantasy
      -- Lying will eventually destroy the liar, and often the one lied
         about

   B. FLATTERY...
      1. Not sincere compliments, but deceitful praise to win another's
         favor and to manipulate
      2. Also a source of ruin - Pr 26:28; 29:5
         a. Often crushing others
         b. By entrapping those who are flattered
      3. Often used effectively by the adulteress - Pr 6:24; 7:21
         a. A truly evil woman
         b. Who uses enticing speech to seduce
      -- Like lying, flattery can destroy both the user and subject of
         it

   C. GOSSIP...
      1. Also known as the tale-bearer, slanderer, whisperer - Pr 11:13
         a. Who reveals secrets
         b. Unlike a faithful person
      2. Betrays and destroys friendships - Pr 17:9
         a. By repeating a matter
         b. When one who truly loves will remain silent
      3. Creates strife - Pr 16:27-28; 26:20-22
         a. Revealing the perverse character of the gossip
         b. Whose words are like wood to a fire
      4. Destroys character and integrity - Pr 11:9; 25:9-10
         a. The work of a true hypocrite
         b. Whose own reputation will eventually be ruined
      -- Whether true or not is incidental; gossip destroys both the
         user and the subject

   D. CURSING...
      1. Especially one's parents - Pr 20:20; cf. Exo 21:17; Lev 20:9
         a. Such a person's lamp would soon be put out in deep darkness
         b. Under the Law of Moses, it was a capital offense
      2. But also another's associate - Pr 30:10
         a. Even maligning a lowly servant can be disastrous
         b. The master (or servant) may turn on you
      -- Speaking evil of others harms one's self as much as those
         spoken against

[As James tells us in his epistle, there is great danger in misuse of
the tongue (Jm 3:2-12).  But there can also be much good done through
proper speech (Pr 15:4)...]

II. CONSTRUCTIVE USE OF SPEECH

   A. GOOD WORDS...
      1. Words of the righteous - Pr 10:11,20-21
         a. A well of life
         b. As choice silver
         c. That feeds many
      2. Pleasant words - Pr 16:24
         a. Like a honeycomb
         b. Sweetness to the soul, health to the bones
      3. Comforting words - Pr 12:25
         a. Addressed to the anxious and depressed
         b. Making their hearts glad
      -- Such speech reveals the good heart of the speaker

   B. TIMELY WORDS...
      1. Well-timed words - Pr 15:23; 25:11
         a. Spoken in due season, how joyful and good it is!
         b. Like apples of gold in settings of silver
      2. Well-thought words - Pr 15:28
         a. Studied carefully by a righteous person
         b. On how best to answer
      -- Such speech reveals the wisdom of the speaker

   C. CONTROLLED WORDS...
      1. That benefits the one who speaks - Pr 13:2-3; 15:1-2; 21:23
         a. Preserving the life of the one who guards his mouth
         b. Defusing potentially violate situations
         c. Keeping one's soul from trouble
      2. That reveals true knowledge and understanding - Pr 10:19; 17:
         27-28
         a. By sparing words, with a calm spirit
         b. Which even a fool can benefit from
      -- Such speech will enhance the reputation of the speaker

CONCLUSION

1. From Proverbs we learn the value of being careful of our speech...
   a. Avoiding much harm to ourselves and to others
   b. Doing much good to ourselves and to others

2. Which may help us appreciate why Paul was so concerned that
   Christians...
   a. Let their speech always be with grace - Col 4:6
   b. Let no unwholesome word come out of their mouths, only good words
      - Ep 4:29

Do we truly appreciate the importance and wisdom of the right kind of
speech...?
Executable Outlines, Copyright © Mark A. Copeland, 2011

From Mark Copeland... Wisdom Regarding Work (Proverbs)


                         "THE BOOK OF PROVERBS"

                         Wisdom Regarding Work

INTRODUCTION

1. The responsibilities of being a Christian are many, one of which is
   providing a proper example...
   a. We are to be the light of the world and the salt of the earth - Mt 5:13-16
   b. This requires outstanding and honorable conduct on our part - 1 Pe 2:12
   c. This is especially true as we go about the business of making a
      living - cf. 2Th 3:11-12

2. But how can we be sure that we behave properly toward outsiders in
   our business affairs...?
   a. We've seen that Proverbs has much wisdom to offer in regards to
      friends and family
   b. It also has much to say regarding every day work and business!

[As one who was employed in secular work before devoting my full
energies to preaching the gospel, I found Proverbs to be especially
helpful in this area.  For example, from Proverbs I learned...]

I. TO KEEP WORK IN ITS PROPER PLACE

   A. REMEMBER WHAT SHOULD TAKE PRIORITY...
      1. It is a fact of life that we must work to live and provide forf
         our families
         a. If we aren't willing to work, the church is under no
            obligation to help us - 2Th 3:6
         b. If we don't provide for our families, we are worse than
            unbelievers - 1Ti 5:8
      2. But misplaced priorities can be very harmful to our well-being!
         a. Righteousness, not riches, is what is truly profitable - Pro 11:4
         b. One should therefore seek to be righteous, not rich - Pro 11:28
      3. It is better to have a little with righteousness, than to be
         rich and wicked - Pr 16:8

   B. INVOLVE GOD IN OUR BUSINESS AFFAIRS...
      1. For then our efforts are more likely to succeed - Pr 16:3 (cf.
         how the Lord blessed Joseph - Gen 39:2-5)
      2. We are more likely to be able to enjoy what we receive - Pro 10:22; cf. Ec 5:18-6:2

   C. REMEMBER THAT BUSINESS HAS A MAJOR SHORTCOMING...
      1. We never know what might happen tomorrow - Pr 27:1; cf. Jm 4:
         13-16
      2. Wealth is a fleeting commodity not worth killing yourself in
         order to obtain - Pr 23:4-5

[Many people come to learn these truths only after a lifetime, when they
realize they wasted their years on things not truly important, but the
value of Proverbs is that even the young can know them early and apply
them to their lives!  From Proverbs I also learned...]

II. TO BE SUCCESSFUL LABORER

   A. WHAT "NOT" TO DO...
      1. Be lazy, for it will greatly irritate your boss! - Pr 10:26
      2. Be slothful in your work, for it will ruin your company as
         quick as a competing company (and how long will your job last
         if your company can't compete?) - cf. Pr 18:9

   B. WHAT ONE "SHOULD" DO...
      1. Develop skill in your work (it will not go unnoticed) - Pro 22:29
      2. Be diligent in your work to ensure your promotion - Pr 12:24
      3. Impress people with the quality of your work, not the quantity
         of your words - Pr 14:23

[In today's competitive job market, among the best "skills" one can have
are such things as "diligence" and "honesty".  The wisdom from Proverbs
can help one become a valuable commodity!  Proverbs also provide wisdom
on how...]

III. TO BE A SUCCESSFUL MANAGER

   A. BE A WISE MANAGER...
      1. Be diligent in your planning, and not too hasty in getting
         things done - Pr 21:5
      2. Nurture and utilize counsel from others - Pr 15:22
      3. Stay on top of your job! - cf. Pr 27:23-27

   B. BE A GOOD LEADER...
      1. Don't be oppressive - Pr 28:16
      2. Be concerned for the rights of your employees - Pr 29:7
      3. Provide good treatment, and you will gain loyalty and love
         - Pr 29:21
      4. Help the employee see how his work benefits himself as well as
         the company, so he will be diligent in his efforts - Pr 16:26

CONCLUSION

1. My experience as both a laborer and a manager gave me opportunity to
   test the wisdom found in Proverbs...

2. I found that if one...
   a. Keeps the need to work in proper perspective
   b. Applies the principles found in Proverbs and other Scriptures

3. That in His providence God...
   a. Not only provides you with the necessities of life
   b. But more often than not a good degree of material abundance!

The important thing to keep in mind is that throughout our business
dealings, we must always heed the words of Jesus:

   "Seek first the Kingdom of God and His righteousness!" (Mt 6:33)

Executable Outlines, Copyright © Mark A. Copeland, 2011



From Mark Copeland... Wisdom Regarding Family (Proverbs)

                         "THE BOOK OF PROVERBS"

                        Wisdom Regarding Family

INTRODUCTION

1. As we continue our study of the Proverbs, we should keep in mind two
   things:
   a. Life is short
   b. Our eternal existence is greatly influenced by how we live during
      this short life

2. It is imperative, then, that we not waste our time through rash and
   foolish decisions...
   a. Which not only jeopardize our eternal destiny
   b. But can also make this life miserable

3. The value of wisdom is especially seen in family relationships...
   a. "He who troubles his own house will inherit the wind..." - Pro
      11:29
   b. Life is too short and families grow too fast for us to raise a
      family through "trial and error"

4. We must seek advice in this all-important task...
   a. But where shall we go?
   b. To so-called "experts" who authoritatively give advice, but then
      all too often change their views later on after the damage has
      been done?  (e.g., Dr. Spock and his earlier views on child-
      raising)

[Fortunately, in His grace God has preserved in His all-sufficient book
the wisdom needed to provide for and raise a family.  Much of this
wisdom in found in The Book Of Proverbs!  To illustrate, let's first
consider some wisdom in...]

I. PROVIDING FOR A FAMILY

   A. WHAT MANY THINK IS MOST IMPORTANT...
      1. Many would say it is the "necessities" of life
         a. Such as food and clothing
         b. And a place of shelter
      2. Most would feel that other things are also necessary...
         a. Such as the "finer things" (luxuries) for the children,
            which parents never had as children
         b. A good "education" for the children, so they too can be
            affluent

   [While there is some merit in these things, inspired wisdom from The
   Book Of Proverbs teaches us not to place emphasis upon such material
   things...]

   B. WHERE THE EMPHASIS SHOULD BE...
      1. Instilling a fear of the Lord - Pr 15:16
         a. More important than riches is providing for your family
            through your own example a deep and abiding respect for the
            Lord
         b. For the fear of the Lord provides:
            a. The beginning of knowledge - Pr 1:7
            b. A means to prolong life - Pr 10:27
            c. The key to avoiding sin - Pr 16:6
            d. The key to true wealth - Pr 22:4
         c. The fear of the Lord, then, is perhaps the most important
            "provision" that one can give to his or her family
      2. Giving them love - Pr 15:17
         a. Providing an environment where love reigns is more important
            than providing material abundance
         b. Troubled children come from homes where "love" is lacking,
            not money!
      3. Providing a peaceful family life - Pr 17:1
         a. Where there is peace and tranquility in a family, material
            affluence matters little
         b. But what value is there in wealth, if we are always fighting
            over the things it provides?
      4. A wise father (or mother) realizes that spiritual provisions
         are more important than material ones
         a. They will see that the family receives what is truly
            important
         b. Even it means cutting back on less important things

   [But when God's wisdom is truly followed, it won't be necessary to go
   without material necessities!  To see why, consider what can be
   done...]

   C. TO ENSURE ADEQUATE MATERIAL PROVISIONS...
      1. Be righteous - Pr 20:7
         a. Today that means putting the kingdom of God first in your
            life - Mt 6:33
         b. Then God will watch out for you and providentially see that
            your needs are adequately
            met!
         c. Children of righteous parents are truly blessed!
         d. But parents who fail to put God first go through life
            without God's providential help, and their children may
            suffer as a result!
      2. Concentrate on acquiring wisdom and knowledge, not wealth - Pro 24:3-4
         a. This would involve a careful study and application of God's
            Word, especially a book like Proverbs
         b. But it also involves living a dedicated life as a disciple
            (learner) of Jesus Christ, in whom are hidden the treasures
            of wisdom and knowledge - cf. Col 2:2-3

[From the Proverbs, then, we learn that the best and wisest thing
parents can do for their family is to provide themselves as obedient
servants of God, and to instill such faith in their children.  If this
is done, God will see that their material needs are met!  But what about
the matter of raising children...?]

II. RAISING CHILDREN

   A. THE PROPER USE OF CORPOREAL PUNISHMENT...
      1. Used properly, it is a demonstration of true love - Pr 13:24
      2. Proper discipline has proper objectives...
         a. To remove foolishness from the child - Pr 22:15
         b. To save the soul of the child - Pr 23:13-14
         c. To impart wisdom and to avoid shame - Pr 29:15
      3. Proper discipline has its rewards - Pr 29:17
         a. Such as "rest" and "delight"
         b. A child who will love you and live in such a way as to bring
            you delight
      4. Of course, there must be the proper application of corporeal
         punishment - Pr 19:18
         a. To be applied before the situation gets of out hand ("while
            there is hope")
         b. To be applied under controlled circumstances ("do not set
            your heart on his destruction")
            1) I.e., do not put it off until you strike in anger
            2) There is a difference between proper "spanking" and
               "child abuse"!
         c. Corporeal punishment should never be a vent for letting off
            steam...
            1) Rather, a controlled use of one method to discourage bad
               behavior
            2) To be accompanied with love! - cf. Ep 6:4 (as implied by
               the word "nurture")

   B. MORE WISDOM FROM A FAMILIAR VERSE - Pr 22:6
      1. As commonly translated:  "train up a child in the way he should
         go"
         a. This allows for the common interpretation in which a child's
            outcome is virtually dependent upon his training, especially
            in spiritual matters
            1) I.e., if the child is brought up right by godly parents,
               the child must turn out all right
            2) So if a child is not a faithful Christian, it must always
               be a failing of the parents
         b. But this view suggests "environmental predestination", or
            "behavioral determinism" (shades of B. F. Skinner, cf. his
            book "Walden II")
      2. Literally, the verse can be translated:  "train up a child
         according to his way"
         a. That is, train up a child according to his or her
            inclinations
         b. For example, don't try to force a child who is mechanically
            inclined to be a doctor or a lawyer
         c. Rather, bring up a child according to his or her aptitude,
            and they will likely continue what they start out in life
            doing (i.e., no "mid-life" crisis or career changes)
         d. Therefore, this verse, like so many in Proverbs, is simply
            giving us practical advice in raising our children (without
            necessarily any spiritual implications)
      3. However, I might add that trying to force a child to go against
         their "aptitude" may encourage a child to rebel in all areas of
         parental influence (including spiritual)

CONCLUSION

1. My purpose has not been to provide an exhaustive treatment of this
   subject covered in Proverbs

2. Rather, to illustrate its value to Christians in all areas of our
   lives...
   a. That it does speak to such matters as providing for a family,
      raising children
   b. So that we will study and meditate on it more often

Since so much of our happiness or lack of it is affected by our family
life, we should want to take advantage of the wisdom offered in this
area by the book of Proverbs...!

Executable Outlines, Copyright © Mark A. Copeland, 2011