Reading With the People of God #14 Proverbsنموونە

The Reality of Nothing

Proverbs 13, as in many of the other Proverbs, is elliptical. The point is that whenever one finds a wise son, one can be sure that a father has made an effort to teach him. We should also include a mother as well! Both the Old and New Testaments call us to gain the skill of listening. When we listen, we are showing respect to people. It means we value who they are and what they are saying (created in the image of God). Those who reject wisdom from others tend to become violent due to their lack of self-control. Boy, could I write a book!

Other items of note that we will read today show that things are not always what they seem - one person may appear rich ( and may or may not have money), yet on a more fundamental level, have nothing. The reverse is true as well. We will also see the rich vocabulary of instruction (word, command, instruction, and reprimand) and how it is essential for success in life. Thank God for parents, teachers, coaches, and good friends! Another item of note is the 2 reasons a family may be impoverished: injustice in society and family sin (vv.22-25). So much to reflect on…

When we finally get to 1 Corinthians 13, it’s like reaching a summit on a long hike. In context, Paul felt it necessary to emphasize love as the medium for the exercise of all the gifts of the Spirit. For without love, none of the gifts can honor God and build up the church. Without love, we will be nothing and gain nothing. Paul used 15 verbs in verses 4-7 to describe the characteristic actions of love. From this, we learn that the biblical concept of love is dynamic, not static - love is something you do! As DC Talk used to sing - ‘Love is a verb!”

Paul will go on to state that love is greater than the charismatic gifts because it is eternal and they are temporal (vv.8-12). We need them now, but after the return of Jesus Christ, there will be no longer any need for the Holy Spirit to give them. In the eternal order, our knowledge of God will be “face to face.” Now, that will get you going today!

*Primer contributed by Brian Mott, Ministering Elder at Cornerstone Community Church of Chowchilla.