Lectionary Calendar
Thursday, November 21st, 2024
the Week of Proper 28 / Ordinary 33
the Week of Proper 28 / Ordinary 33
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Bible Commentaries
Bridgeway Bible Commentary Bridgeway Bible Commentary
Copyright Statement
These files are public domain.
Text Courtesy of BibleSupport.com. Used by Permission.
These files are public domain.
Text Courtesy of BibleSupport.com. Used by Permission.
Bibliographical Information
Fleming, Donald C. "Commentary on Proverbs 29". "Fleming's Bridgeway Bible Commentary". https://www.studylight.org/commentaries/eng/bbc/proverbs-29.html. 2005.
Fleming, Donald C. "Commentary on Proverbs 29". "Fleming's Bridgeway Bible Commentary". https://www.studylight.org/
Whole Bible (41)Old Testament (1)Individual Books (3)
Verses 1-27
Authority with justice (29:1-27)
Many themes that we have already met in Proverbs are repeated in this section: stubbornness, good and bad government, family values, prostitution, justice, flattery, cunning and concern for the poor (29:1-7). Scoffers are more than just fools; they are trouble-makers. They are not open to reason and cannot control their temper (8-11).
Unjust rulers oppress innocent citizens, and the rich persecute the poor, but good and bad alike receive the blessings that God gives to people in general (12-13). The ruler of a country and the head of a family should work for the contentment and well-being of those for whom they are responsible, but they can expect success only if they themselves are good and just. The pursuit of righteousness leads to stability (14-17).
One reason for a nation’s spiritual or moral decay is its neglect of the revealed word of God (18). A stubborn servant is a problem for his master, but a shrewd servant, if he receives too many favours, could one day take over his master’s property (19-21). Those who are bad tempered or arrogant bring trouble, not just to others but also to themselves (22-23).
When a person who was partner in a crime refuses to give evidence to the judge, his guilt increases (24). There can be no justice when the basis of people’s decision-making is fear of those who are influential or partiality towards those who are their friends (25-27).