Proverbs at a glance

Proverbs

 

            This is the 20^th book of the Bible. Its author is David’s son, Solomon who wrote Chapters 1-29. Chapter 30 was written by a man named Agur. The first verse of that chapter states: “The sayings of Agur son of Jakeh contain this message.” Nothing is known of Agur except that he was a wise teacher who may have come from Lemuel’s kingdom.

            Chapter 31:1 tells us the following: “The sayings of King Lemuel contain this message, which his mother taught him.” All we know about Lemuel is that his name means ‘devoted to God’. There is a school of thought that Lemuel and Agur were both from the Massa kingdom in northern Arabia.

            This book is said to have been written early in Solomon’s reign as king of Israel. Proverbs was written for all to enjoy ... it’s a valuable writing that is seen as timeless. It is referred to as ‘the wisdom book’ of ‘the book of wisdom’. It’s lessons are valid to everyone throughout all generations.

 

The Book of Proverbs shares two very important points:

 

1) It is a short guide for living an effective life on earth. Proverbs contains no stories or theological teaching ... it simply states wisdom for all to read and learn from.

 

2) Two principles emphasized in this book are listening to those who’ve come before us & having humility. The reader is encouraged to avoid speaking rashly, for arrogance leads to unseemly consequences.

 

The Purpose of the Book: “To teach people how to attain wisdom, discipline, lead a prudent life, plus how to do what is right, just and fair - in short, to apply divine wisdom to daily life and to provide moral instruction.”

 

The Setting of the Book: It is a book of wise sayings for the purpose of teaching people how to live godly lives thru the repetition of wise thoughts. 

 

Interesting Fact(s): The Book of Proverbs uses varied literary forms, such as, poems, brief parables, pointed questions, and couplets.

 

The Blueprint: 

1) Wisdom for Young People ... Proverbs 1:1 thru 9:18

2) Wisdom for All People ... Proverbs 10:1 thru 24:34

3) Wisdom for Leaders ... Proverbs 25:1 thru 31:31

 

I will touch on the Blueprint found in Proverbs next time, but until then, walk with the King and be a blessing.

In His Name & for His Glory,

Richard Keller

Bread of Life Ministries

Resource:  The Life Application Study Bible & The Bible at a glance.