The Purpose & Theme of the Book of Proverbs

1 The proverbs of Solomon son of David, king of Israel:

² for gaining wisdom and instruction;
    for understanding words of insight;
³ for receiving instruction in prudent behavior,
    doing what is right and just and fair;
⁴ for giving prudence to those who are simple, ^[1]
    knowledge and discretion to the young—
⁵ let the wise listen and add to their learning,
    and let the discerning get guidance—
⁶ for understanding proverbs and parables,
    the sayings and riddles of the wise. 

⁷ The fear of the Lord is the beginning of knowledge,
    but fools despise wisdom and instruction.

 

                  Those ignorant as to the scriptural meaning of ‘fear’ with regard to our God may actually think we are to be afraid of Him. The disobedient need to be afraid, but not His children; those who understand know that this use of ‘fear’ refers to honoring and respecting God. It entails living in awe of His unlimited power and being obedient to His word, wherein lie the standards by which we are to live our lives. Those who faithfully live for God will be rewarded with eternal life. Those who have an unteachable spirit, are closed to anything new and refuse to learn will be punished for being unfaithful with death. 

                  Scripture speaks in the New Testament of being born once & dying twice, as opposed to being born twice & dying only once. Those who wish to spend eternity with the Lord will need to be born twice; once physically and once spiritually. Those who blow all that off as utter nonsense will experience the second death, which is being thrown into a Lake of Fire for all eternity. ^{(Revelation 20:11-15)} The latter are those who are referred to as ‘fools’ in scripture, for they despise instruction and true wisdom that comes from above.

                  In conclusion, the purpose and theme of Proverbs is to provide instruction and insight through sayings and allegories or symbolic stories. This is how one becomes wise in God’s eyes. We cannot figure life out on our own. God knows that and if we are honest with ourselves, we know that too. God’s standard for living is fair and equitable for all mankind, but many want things their way and theirs alone. We are all individuals and just as no two snowflakes look exactly alike, so no two people, even identical twins, are exactly the same. We are all unique, made that way by our Creator. So, respect and revere God. Be awe struck by Him and worship Him; not anyone other than the One who made you, for this is the beginning of wisdom. Until next time, walk with the King and be a blessing. 

Richard Keller

Bread of Life Ministries