Bible Commentaries
Proverbs 8

Verses 1-4

LISTEN we now to the calls of heavenly Wisdom — to the voice of the Son of God.†1 Careless soul! shall thy Divine call be slighted, when the allurements of sin and vanity have had power to arrest thine ear?†2 Can ignorance be pleaded? Doth not wisdom cry? and that — not in the hour of darkness, and in the secret corners, but in the high places — the paths of the city — the doors of thy house? Has she not followed thee to thy places of business — of diversion — of sin? Has she not put forth her voice in the Bible — in the family — in the preached word? The loudness — the perseverance of the cry betokens earnestness in thy friend, and danger in thy condition. For would she have cried so loud, or continued so long, if she had not loved thy soul; if she had not known the wrath that was hanging over thee — the hell that was before thee?

The call is unfettered; not to devils, but to men: not to the righteous, but to the sons of men. Every child, therefore, of guilty Adam has his name in the warrant. It is the proclamation of the Gospel "to every creature." (Mark 16:15 .) Wherever the word reaches, the offer is made. Wherever a lost sinner be found on this side of the grave, the free welcome of the Gospel meets him. If he be not saved, he is more lost than ever. His ruin lies at his own door. (Matthew 23:37 .)

Footnotes:

†1 We assume the speaker to be personal — essential Wisdom. Apart from the general reasons before given (Notes on Proverbs 1:20-21, Proverbs 1:24 ), this description could not without unnatural force apply to an attribute. It set out, I. Personal existence — brought forth — brought up — in conjunction with Deity — by Him (Proverbs 8:24, Proverbs 8:30 .) II. Personal properties (1.) set up (anointed, Heb.) from everlasting, for distinct office (Proverbs 8:23 ), (2.) The efficient cause in the work of creation (Proverbs 8:27-30 ), (3.) Having wisdom (Proverbs 8:14 ) which, as an attribute itself, could not be the property of an attribute; and strength (Proverbs 8:14 ) an independent quality, not a property of wisdom, (4.) Personal authority (Proverbs 8:15-16 ), (5.) Leading into the ways of truth (Proverbs 8:19-20 ), (6.) Causing to inherit. (Proverbs 8:21 .) III. Personal affections — hatred (Proverbs 8:13 ), love (Proverbs 8:17 ), joy. (Proverbs 8:30-31 .) IV. Giving personal promises. (Proverbs 8:21 .) V. Commanding obedience as a matter of life and death. (Proverbs 8:32-36 .) Whether Solomon fully understood his own words, may be a question. 1 Peter 1:10-11 . But receiving the words as from God; weighing their natural force; comparing them with Scripture parallels, we doubt not that they describe — not an attribute, but a Person — Eternal — Omniscient — in the most endearing relation to man — his Creator — Mediator — Savior.

(Note to e-Sword users: while many insightful commentators hold to a "personal wisdom" interpretation of this chapter (i.e., Christ), prayerfully take into consideration the repeated feminines of these opening verses ["her", "she" "she"]. It is this "she" that continues to speak throughout the whole chapter. Note also that the chapter follows immediately after the "she" "she" "she" of Chapter 7. Could it be that Solomon, by way of contrast, sets forth this better "woman" to persue, as one of the means by which his son would be delivered from the aforementioned adultress(?). See a similar contrast in Chapter 5 ("My son, avoid this adulterous woman,,," [ Proverbs 5:1-14 ] ,,, by "rejoicing with the wife of thy youth" [ Proverbs 5:15-19 ]. Likewise 1 Corinthians 7:2 .) See how this "she-wisdom" continues to speak through the first six verses of the next chapter: Proverbs 9:1-6 .

†2 Proverbs 7. ’Imagination cannot form to itself a more exquisite and affecting piece of scenery, than that exhibited by Solomon in the Book of Proverbs. In his seventh chapter he introduces the world, by its meretricious blandishments alluring the unwary to the chambers of destruction. In the succeeding chapter, by way of perfect contrast, appears in the beauty and majesty of holiness, the Son of the Father, the true and eternal Wisdom of God, with all the tender love and affectionate concern of a parent, inviting men to the substantial joys and enduring pleasures of immortality, in the house of salvation.’ — Bishop Horne’s Sermon on the Tree of Knowledge.

Verses 5-11

5 O ye simple, understand wisdom: and, ye fools, be ye of an understanding heart. 6 Hear; for I will speak of excellent things; and the opening of my lips shall be right things. 7 For my mouth shall speak truth; and wickedness is an abomination to my lips. {an...: Heb. the abomination of my lips} 8 All the words of my mouth are in righteousness; there is nothing froward or perverse in them. {froward: Heb. wreathed} 9 They are all plain to him that understandeth, and right to them that find knowledge. 10 Receive my instruction, and not†a silver; and knowledge rather than choice gold. 11 For wisdom is better than rubies; and all the things that may be desired are not to be compared to it.

The great Teacher calls the simple and fools to hear. (Proverbs 1:23 ; Proverbs 9:4-5 .) And where else can they hear such excellent things? Worthy are they of the attention of princes†1 — his glorious person; his everlasting covenant; his rich and sovereign love to sinners. (Proverbs 8:12-31 .) Often does the truth of God, by the tradition of men†2 or the subtlety of the father of lies (Compare Matthew 4:6-7, with Psalms 91:11 ), become virtually a principle of error. (Galatians 1:7-9 .) But here all is unchangeable righteousness. There is no froward perversion. Every such wickedness is an abomination. (Proverbs 30:5 . Psalms 19:9 ; Psalms 33:4 ; Psalms 119:152, Psalms 119:160 .)

But are they within the reach of the multitude? They who "lean to their own understanding" (Proverbs 3:5 . 1 Corinthians 1:20 ; 1 Corinthians 3:18 ); who care more to be learned than to be holy; who value the tree of knowledge more than the tree of life; who desire "meat for their lust," rather than manna for their souls. Such, indeed, make difficulties for themselves. The "voice out of the whirlwind" rebukes them, as "darkening counsel by words without knowledge." (Job 38:1-2 .) Scripture difficulties belong not to the Book itself, but to man’s blind and corrupt heart. The carnal man cannot understand it, any more than the blind can see the noon-day light of the sun. But ’it is easy to all that have a desire to it, and which are not blinded by the prince of this world.’†3 The "babes" are taught of God. (Matthew 11:25 ; Matthew 18:4 .) He not only unfolds the truth, but opens their hearts to receive it. There will be, indeed, great depths. But they will grasp important, saving truths. Here ’the wisest Solomon may fetch jewels for ornament, and the poorest Lazarus bread for life.’†4 Come then — sinner — "sit," with one of old, "at the feet" of thy Divine Teacher. (Luke 10:39 .) Receive his instruction more precious than silver or fine gold. (Proverbs 8:19 ; Proverbs 16:16 . Job 28:15-19 . Psalms 19:10 ; Psalms 119:127 .) Enrich thyself with his satisfying and enduring treasures, compared with which all the things that may be desired are lighter than vanity. (Proverbs 3:15 .) And will not the children of God daily draw more abundantly from these treasures? Oh! let them not be, like the pomp of this world, the object of gaze, but of active desire and increasing enjoyment.

Footnotes:

†a Rather than silver. See next clause, and Compare Hosea 6:6 .

†1 Heb. princely.

(note; In this footnote Mr. Bridges is referring to the Hebrew word in Proverbs 8:6 translated "excellent things" (Stongs’ #05057; dygn nagiyd naw-gheed’ or dgn nagid naw-gheed’), which in the Authorized Version is translated "ruler" , "prince" , "captain" , "leader" , "governor" , "nobles" , etc.).

†2 It was a keen reply of one of the Martyrs, when asking of Bonner’s chaplain — ’Is not God’s book sufficient for my salvation?’ — the answer was — ’Yes, it is sufficient for our salvation; but not for our instruction.’ ’God send me the salvation, and you the instruction.’ — Exam. of Thomas Hawkes. Foxe, vii. 100.

†3 Reformers’ Notes. Compare Proverbs 14:6 ; Proverbs 17:24 . ’What wonder, if the unlettered and despised Christian know more of the mysteries of Heaven than the naturalists, though both wise and learned? Christ admits the believer into his bosom, and He is in the bosom of the Father.’ — Leighton’s Sermon on Heavenly Wisdom.

†4 Bishop Reynolds on Hosea 14:9 .

Verse 12

How adorable is the Being here before us! His glorious perfections, each dwelling with the other in such harmonious combination! All the witty inventions of science are ultimately traceable to this heavenly source. (Exodus 31:3-6 ; Exodus 35:30-35 . 1 Chronicles 28:19 . Isaiah 28:24-29 .) But his great mind was soaring far beyond. The vast discovery of man’s salvation was now before his eyes (Proverbs 8:22-31 ); found out, not by laborious investigation, but by the intuition of the Infinite Godhead. Here is his most splendid display of wisdom (Ephesians 3:10 ) dwelling with prudence — wisdom contriving for the highest end; prudence directing the most effective means. The same perfect combination controls all his arrangements, both as "the Head of the Church" (Colossians 1:18 ), and "the Head over all things to his Church" (Ephesians 1:22 ), for her present good, and his eternal glory. And what owe we individually, to the "riches of his grace, wherein," by the removal of insuperable difficulties, and the communication of suitable grace, "he hath abounded towards us in all wisdom and prudence! " (Ephesians 1:7-8 .)

Prudence is commonly thought to be only a moral quality. Here we see it to be an attribute of Deity. The humanity of our beloved Lord was filled with this perfection. (Isaiah 11:2 .) With what Divine acuteness of wisdom did he find out the knowledge of the inventions of his enemies, and put them to shame! (Matthew 9:4-8 ; Matthew 22:15-46 .) And how did this combination of prudence restrain him from hasty confidence (John 2:23-24 ), remove him from premature danger (Matthew 12:14-16 . John 6:15 ), and preserve him from giving needless offense! (Matthew 17:27 .) Praised be our God for such "treasures of wisdom," hid in "our glorious Head," ready for distribution for every emergency of his people’s need! (Colossians 1:19 ; Colossians 2:3 .)

Verse 13

Such is the holiness of Divine wisdom! She dwells with prudence. But she cannot dwell with evil. Therefore, the fear of the LORD, which is her very nature, is to hate evil. (Proverbs 3:7 ; Proverbs 16:6 .) Thus of pride in all its branches — arrogancy of spirit, the evil way and the froward mouth — the Wisdom of God declares without reserve — I hate them. (Proverbs 6:16-19 ; Proverbs 16:5 . Psalms 45:7 . Zechariah 8:17 .) How clearly did he mark his hatred in the days of his flesh by the full exhibition of the opposite grace! "The Son of man came not to be ministered unto, but to minister." (Matthew 20:28 . Luke 22:27 .) A proud disciple of a lowly Savior! how offensive is this contradiction to our Master! What a cause of stumbling to the world!

Verse 14

This counsel, as we have just hinted (See on Proverbs 8:12 ), is not, as with man, the fruit of deliberation, but Divine intuition. It is not that it flows from him; but that he is himself the essence — the fountainhead. (Isaiah 40:13-14 . Romans 11:34 .) it is not that he hath understanding to order and govern the world. But he is understanding. All is in him. All is derivable from him. (John 1:9 .) "His understanding is infinite; his strength Almighty, everlasting." (Psalms 147:5 . Isaiah 40:28 ; Isaiah 26:4 .) Thus we adore him — we rest in him — as the great "Counsellor" (Isaiah 9:6 ); One with his Father in the everlasting plan of salvation (Zechariah 6:12-13 ); One with his Church, undertaking her cause (Zechariah 3:1 ), guiding her in all her difficulties and perplexities. (Isaiah 63:9-14 .) His self-existent power is ever ready to execute the purpose of his counsel. (Isaiah 63:1-6 . Psalms 89:19 . Job 9:4 ; Job 12:13, Job 12:16 . Daniel 2:20 .) Behold him then, surrounded with the majesty of his mighty perfections — "Christ, the power of God, and the wisdom of God." (1 Corinthians 1:24 .) In all thy doubts and anxieties — counsel is mine, and sound wisdom. (Isaiah 48:17 .) In all thy conflicts and weariness — I have strength. (Isaiah 40:28-29 .) See him as man filled with these Divine perfections. (Isaiah 11:2 .) Remember -- -his fullness is thy portion. (1 Corinthians 1:30 . Colossians 2:10 .)

Verses 15-16

Another glorious contemplation of this Divine Person! He proclaims himself to be the source of power and authority, no less than of counsel and wisdom. "KING OF KINGS" was the mysterious name written upon his vesture. (Revelation 19:16 ; Revelation 1:5 ; Revelation 17:14 .) Yet his crown does not displace the regal diadem from the brow of earthly princes; nor is the sceptre to fall from their hands. These ensigns of power are to be held, but in subordination to his own. By me kings reign; not only by my permission, but by my appointment. They bear my name. They are stamped with my authority. (Exodus 22:28 . Psalms 82:6 . John 10:35 .) Proud anarchy disputes the prerogative, and traces the authority to the people; only that they may cast off the yoke of God, and "do that which is right in their own eyes." (Judges 17:6 ; Judges 19:1 . Hosea 8:4 . 2 Peter 2:10 . Judges 1:8 .) Scripture polities lay down the offensive truth — "There is no power but of God; the powers that be are ordained of God. They are ministers of God," not servants of the people. (Romans 13:1-6 .) Government in all its administrations — kings, princes, nobles, judges — is a Divinely-consecrated ordinance.†1 Every kingdom is a province of the universal empire of the "King of kings." Men may mix their own pride, folly, and self-will with this appointment. But God’s providential counter-working preserves the substantial blessing. Yet, if "the power be exclusively of God," then is Wisdom, by whom kings reign, the very essence and person of God. And here is our rest, our anchor in this world’s agitating storm. "The government of the world is on the shoulders" of "the Head of the Church." (Isaiah 9:6 .) All things — all power in heaven and in earth — is delivered unto him of his Father.†2 "The LORD reigneth; let the earth rejoice." (Psalms 97:1 .)

Footnotes:

†1 Psalms 75:7. Jeremiah 27:5-7 . Daniel 2:37-38 ; Daniel 4:25 ; Daniel 5:18 . Compare John 19:11 . It is interesting to trace this acknowledgment even in the darkness of heathenism. Kings inherited their septre from Jove; Magistracy was consecrated by Augurs, the Assessors and Counsellors of Jove.

†2 Matthew 11:27; Matthew 28:18 . Scott remarks the future tense in the original, as seeming to agree with the prediction of righteous kings and rulers in the latter times of the Church. Compare Psalms 72:1-3 ; Isaiah 49:23 ; Isaiah 60:16-17 . See the national blessing of godly rulers — 2 Chronicles 9:8 . Isaiah 1:26 .

Verse 17

Now behold the grace of this Divine Person to his loving children. None by nature are interested in it. (Romans 8:7 .) But his free grace first implants love in their hearts, and then cheers them with the assurance of his own love. (1 John 4:19 . John 14:21 .) The first kindling of the flame is of him. We love, because we are drawn. (Jeremiah 31:3 .) We seek, not by the impulse from within, but by the grace from above (Proverbs 16:1 . Psalms 119:32 ); and seeking, we find. (Isaiah 45:19 . Jeremiah 29:13 . Matthew 7:7-8 .) But it must be early seeking — the first desire and choice of the heart. (Proverbs 23:26 . Psalms 63:1 . Hosea 5:15 . Matthew 6:33 .) It must be early in the day (Psalms 5:3 ; Psalms 119:147 . Isaiah 26:9 . Mark 1:35 ), the first-fruits of our time. Consecrate the whole to him. Take care that God is the first person we speak to; that we see his face first before any other; else will our lamp be untrimmed, our soul estranged from his presence, our heart unready for his service. Let it be the early breaking in of the day of grace (Job 8:5-7 . Isaiah 55:6 . 2 Corinthians 6:2 ) — the improvement of the first — who knows that they be not the only — opportunities of salvation? (Proverbs 27:1 . Hebrews 4:7 .) Every present opportunity for the soul is worth worlds. Mercy is in it — grace and eternity are in it. But remember — the door of grace, that is opened to-day, may be shut to-morrow — for ever.

Again — this early seeking. Oh! let it be the early spring and morning of life (1 Kings 18:12 . 2 Chronicles 34:3 .) — when the eye is full of life, and the heart of gladness. Let it be "the kindness of youth" (Jeremiah 2:2 ) ""the first love:" before it has been devoted to the world; before the hardening habits of sin have been formed and fixed. Is he not the greatest — the most desirable — the most satisfying good? Therefore, let him be to us — as he deserves to be — the first of the first — the best of the best.

Children! Here is a special encouragement for you, added to the general one. It can never be too early for you. Even now it is too late. God has claimed you from the moment that you passed from unconscious infancy to the dignity of a responsible being. The time spent, so long estranged from God, has been all too long. Early devotedness saves from many follies and mistakes, retracing of steps, and the after misery of being "made to possess the iniquities of our youth." (Job 13:26 .) Early satisfaction — the pure fruit of early seeking — (for they that thus seek shall find) will be the joy of your whole life (Psalms 90:14, with Proverbs 8:34-35 ) — the dawn of your blessed eternity. Remember — the bud and bloom of life is specially acceptable to God (Hosea 11:1-4 ); specially honoured by him. (1 Samuel 2:18 ; 1 Samuel 3:19 . Psalms 92:12-15 .) But is it reasonable — nay — is it not a most abasing thought — to offer the flower of youth to Satan; and, when you have well worn yourself out in his service, to reserve only the dregs and sweepings of life for your Savior? (Malachi 1:8 .) Every day you lose a world of happiness; you bind a chain of sin; you take a step to hell. Come, then, and answer the call that is drawing you to Him, who is worthy of all. (1 Samuel 3:9 . Psalms 32:8 . Jeremiah 3:4 .) Never will you regret that you have come too soon. But many have been the sorrowing cries — Lord, ’I have loved thee too late!’ (Matthew 25:6-12 . Luke 13:24-25 .) Come, then, by his help, and in dependence on his grace make him your first , your present choice. Lay claim by faith to this promise to early seekers, and you shall find.

Verses 18-21

What a treasure do early seekers find! This fading world is too poor a portion. (Psalms 17:14-15 .) Theirs are durable riches of eternity (Matthew 6:19-20 . Luke 10:42 . Revelation 3:18 ); the honour of "reigning" as kings "in life" (Romans 5:17 ; Romans 8:17 . Revelation 1:6 ); a righteousness, in which they are accepted with God, and conformed to his image. (Romans 3:22 ; Romans 13:14 . Ephesians 4:24 .) Is not this fruit and revenue better than choice silver? (Proverbs 8:10-11 ; Proverbs 3:14-15 . Ecclesiastes 7:12 .) And then, when our way is shut up, how valuable is Wisdom’s counsel! (Proverbs 3:6 ; Proverbs 4:11-12 ; Proverbs 6:22 . Isaiah 48:17 ; Isaiah 49:10 ) so carefully leading in the midst of the paths; ’at a distance from the extreme’†1 on either side of the narrow way. The sober-minded Christian is equally remote from formal service and enthusiastic delusion. His apprehensions of truth are alike distinguished from the dryness of system, and from lose unconnected principles. The intelligent and spiritually-minded Churchman is alike separate from exclusiveness or idolatry on the one side, and from indiscriminate Christianity on the other. He values highly his Scriptural ordinances; yet he neither mistakes them for the substance of the gospel, nor does he substitute self-willed effervescence in their room. This is the Via Media — Christian unity, consistency, and fruitfulness. Here also is substance — things that have a being, in contrast with "things that have not" (Proverbs 23:5 . Psalms 39:6 . 1 Corinthians 7:31 ); solid realities (Isaiah 29:8, contrasted with Isaiah 55:2 ); "faith substantiating things hoped for." (Hebrews 11:1 .) Sin pardoned: the Father smiling acceptance; the Comforter witnessing our peace; a new molding of our mind and spirit. Here is no yawning vacuum, but a grand object to give interest to life, to fill up every vacancy in the heart — ’perfect happiness’†2 All that we could add from the world would only make us poorer, by diminishing that enjoyment of God, for the loss of which there is no compensation. There is one point — only one — in the universe, where we can look up, and cry with the saintly Martyn — ’With thee there is no disappointment.’†3

Now contrast the portion in this life — of the men of this world. Mark how the word of God pictures it — a fashion (1 Corinthians 7:31 ) — a dream (Psalms 73:20 ) — a nonentity (Proverbs 23:5 . Amos 6:13 ) — a lie. (Jonah 2:8 .) Thus men are spread over the world, "feeding upon ashes, a deceived heart turning them aside." (Isaiah 44:20 .) The inlet of their misery is, that they walk in a vain shadow, and "therefore they are disquieted in vain." The child of God finds substance in "returning to his" true "rest. Now Lord, what wait I for? my hope is in thee." (Psalms 39:6-7 .)

But how does he come to his portion? Has he any part in deserving it? Far from it. Free grace, not free will, is the procuring cause. It is an inheritance, now indeed "obtained," while "the earnest" is in hand (Ephesians 1:11 ); but to be fully enjoyed at the great consummation-day. Then, indeed, what here he promises will he fully make good. His joyous welcome "to them on his right hand" will indeed be causing them that love him to inherit substance (Hebrews 10:34 ) — eternal, unfading. (Matthew 25:34 .) Even now from his royal bounty does he fill their treasures. But what will be the burst of joy at that day — what the unbounded delight throughout eternity, when, endowing them with such a royal — yea — Divine bounty, the glorious Giver shall proclaim — I will fill their treasures! (1 Peter 1:4-5 .) And the countless throng of the redeemed shall unite in the testimony — One Christ hath abundantly filled us all!

Footnotes:

†1 Scott. Proverbs 4:25-27 . See Bunyan’s fine description of the middle path.

†2 Cartwright.

†3 Journals, vol. ii. 130.

Verses 22-31

It must be a perverted imagination that can suppose an attribute here.†† So glorious are the rays of eternal supreme Deity, distinct personality, and essential unity, that the mysterious, ever-blessed Being — "the Word, who was in the beginning with God, and was God" (John 1:1-2 ) — now undoubtedly stands before us. Curiously to pry into the mode of his subsistence, would be "intruding into those things which we have not seen." (Colossians 2:18 . 1 Timothy 6:16 .) To receive his own revelation of himself is our reverential privilege.

How clear is his essential unity with the Father! The LORD possessed†1 me — present with him in the bosom of Deity. Every movement of the Divine mind was infinitely known — every purpose of Divine counsel eternally present — fully developed, I was by Him†2 — in the same essence and blessedness. (John 10:30 .) Such was "the glory which he had with the Father before the world was!" (John 17:5 .) Neither man nor angel could declare it. No created intelligence could tread one footstep in the course, that realizes any conception of the mystery. The mode of his existence in the Godhead (and this is all that is revealed of this inscrutable subject) is generation — I was brought forth — "the only-begotten Son"†3 — a term which it is much safer to adore than to expound; expressing, as it does, what is unsearchable. ’Take care’ — saith an old expositor — ’that in this generation we invent nothing temporal, carnal, or human. But rather let us worship this generation, beholding it by faith; and let us take heed from searching further than Scripture doth teach us thereof. Otherwise we should deserve to be blinded and punished for our great curiosity.’†4

Not less clear is his eternal existence — in the beginning†5 of the way of God — coeval ["of the same age"] with his eternal counsels — before his works of old†6 — set up or anointed†7 from everlasting for his covenant offices (1 Peter 1:20 ); ’destined and advanced to be the Wisdom and Power of the Father, Light and Life, and All in All, both in the creation and the redemption of the World.’†8

Connected with his eternity was his agency in the work of Creation. Before the works was he brought forth. But when they were in operation he was there — and that, not, like "the sons of God," an interested spectator (Job 38:6-7 ), but an efficient cause.†9 The whole detail of the creative work is brought out — the highest part or summits of the dust of the world, with its deep and unsearchable foundations. Thus is uncreated Wisdom displayed in clear and undoubted glory — ’the Divinity and eternity of Wisdom, meaning thereby the eternal Son of God, Jesus Christ our Savior.’†10

Next he describes his unspeakable blessedness in communion with his Father. I was by him, as one brought up with him — embosomed in him as the object of daily delight;†11 rejoicing before him as the Fountain and Centre of infinite joy. All this mutual intimate satisfaction and delight had respect to the beginning of the way of God — his eternal purpose, and "the counsel of peace, which was between them both." (Zechariah 6:13 .) Here it was that the Father once and again proclaimed him to be his delight; "His elect, in whom his soul delighted; his beloved Son, in whom he was well pleased" (Isaiah 42:1 . Matthew 3:17 ; Matthew 17:5 . Compare Colossians 1:13, Gr.); ’willing that by the Son we should approach to him; in the Son we should honour and adore him; and honour the Son as himself.’†12

Yet how deeply interesting is it to see him rejoicing, not only before his Father, but in the habitable part of the earth! And what was it that here attracted his interest? Man had been created in the image of God — free to stand or fall. This freedom was the perfection of his nature. His fall was permitted as the mysterious means of his higher elevation. His ruin was overruled for his greater security. This habitable earth was to be the grand theatre of the work, that should fill the whole creation with wonder and joy. (Psalms 98:1-9 . Isaiah 44:23 .) Here "the Serpent’s head was to be visibly bruised" (Genesis 3:15 . Hebrews 2:14-15 . 1 John 3:8 ), the kingdom of Satan to be destroyed, precious "spoil to be divided with the strong." (Isaiah 53:12 . Luke 11:21-22 .) Here was the Church to be framed, as the manifestation of his glory, the mirror of all his Divine Perfections. (Ephesians 3:10, Ephesians 3:21 .)

Considering the infinite cost at which he was to accomplish this work — the wonder is — that he should have endured it — a greater wonder that, ere one atom of the creation was formed — ere the first blossom had been put forth in Paradise, he should have rejoiced in it.

But the wonder of wonders yet remains — that he, who was his Father’s infinite delight, and infinitely delighting in him, should find his delights from all eternity in the sons of men; that he should, as it were, long to be with us; that he should solace his heart with the prospect; that he should anticipate the moment with joyous readiness (Psalms 40:6-8 . Hebrews 10:7 ); that he should pass by the far nobler nature of angels "to take hold of man" (Hebrews 2:16, margin), to embrace man as one with his All-perfect self! But though he foresaw how they would despise, reject, and put him to shame; yet they were the objects of his everlasting love (Jeremiah 31:3 .) the purchase and satisfaction of the "travail of his soul" (Isaiah 53:10-11 ), the eternal monuments to his praise (Isaiah 55:13 ). Yet for their sakes did he make humanity a temple of the Deity, for them did he exchange the throne of glory for the accursed cross (Philippians 2:6-8 ) — the worship of the Seraphim for the scorn and buffeting of men (Isaiah 6:1-2, with Matthew 27:22-31 ) — inexpressible joy for unknown sorrow. (John 17:5, with Matthew 26:38 ; Matthew 27:46 .) Yes — thou adorable Redeemer, nothing but the strength of thine own love could have brought thee out from the bosom of ineffable delight to suffer such things for such sinners! But this was "the joy set before thee, for" which — unfathomable love! — thou wast content "to endure the cross, despising the shame." (Hebrews 12:2 .) For this love dost thou inherit thy Father’s justly proportioned reward. (Philippians 2:8-11 .) On this foundation is thy people’s confidence — rest — security.

Footnotes:

†† (Note to e-Sword users: while many insightful commentators hold to a "personal wisdom" interpretation of this chapter (i.e., Christ), prayerfully take into consideration the repeated feminines of these opening verses ["her", "she" "she"]. It is this "she" that continues to speak throughout the whole chapter. Note also that the chapter follows immediately after the "she" "she" "she" of Chapter 7. Could it be that Solomon, by way of contrast, sets forth this better "woman" to persue, as one of the means by which his son would be delivered from the aforementioned adultress(?). See a similar contrast in Chapter 5 ("My son, avoid this adulterous woman,,," [ Proverbs 5:1-14 ] ,,, by "rejoicing with the wife of thy youth" [ Proverbs 5:15-19 ]. Likewise 1 Corinthians 7:2 ). Holders of this view do not "suppose an attribute here", but judge that the language used can be consistent with an attribute personified. See how this "she-wisdom continues to speak through the first six verses of the next chapter: Proverbs 9:1-6 .

†1 LXX and Syriac Translation — ’created’ — most unwarrantable — one of the main pillars of the Arian heresy.

†2 John 1:2. Geier remarks, that out of above sixty instances, where this preposition occurs, not one can be produced, where vicinity is not supposed between two distinct persons or substances.

†3 John 1:18 ; John 3:16 . Colossians 1:15 — ’begotten before every creature.’ — Bishop Middleton.

†4 Cope (Michael), Exposition of Proverbs. 4to. 1580.

†5 Holden strongly advocates the Translation — supported by many Ancient Versions, and some of the best critics (see Poole’s Synopsis) — ’the beginning of the way’ — and expounds it — ’That Jehovah possessed by an eternal generation Wisdom or the Son, who is the origin, or efficient cause, of all the works of God.’ — John 1:18 ; John 3:16 . Colossians 1:15 . Geier and other accredited authorities prefer the received version upon critical grounds. Holden’s remark, however, holds good on either hypothesis: — ’It is scarcely possible in the whole compass of the Hebrew language to select terms more expressive of the eternity of Wisdom than those which Solomon employs from this verse to the thirtieth.’

†6 Contrast Job 38:4-5 . Compare Proverbs 8:23-25, with Psalms 90:2 — the sublime adoration of the eternity of God. Compare also Exodus 3:14, with John 8:58 . Micah 5:2, Revelation 1:11 .

†7 Heb. Anointing was the inaugurating ceremony in the consecration of prophets, priests, and kings — a figure of the eternal consecration of Messiah to those high offices. Compare 1 Kings 19:16, with Isaiah 41:1 ; Isaiah 62:1 . Exodus 29:7, with Psalms 110:4 . 1 Samuel 10:1 ; 1 Samuel 16:13 . 2 Kings 9:6, with Psalms 2:6, marg. [margin={set: Heb. anointed}] Psalms 45:6-7 .

†8 Henry in loco. Compare Ephesians 3:9 .

†9 John 1:3. Colossians 1:16 . Even in the creation of man he was a co-worker, Genesis 2:7, with Genesis 1:26 .

†10 Reformers’ Notes.

†11 Compare John 1:18 — the only-begotten Son, who is in the bosom of the Father — ’exhibiting at once,’ as Dr. Jamieson admirably observes — ’the idea conveyed by both the terms — brought forth, and brought up.’ — Vindication of the Doctrine of Deity of Christ, i. 224. Holden with some others prefers the rendering ’Fabricator’ for brought up. But the scope appears to be — not the power of Messiah, but the mutual delight and communion between himself and his Father, as it were, never absent from each other.

†12 Quoted by Scott.

Verses 32-33

Now therefore hearken. It is no mean and undeserving person that calls. It is none other than the Wisdom of God; the source of all light and knowledge (Proverbs 8:12-14 ); the King of kings (Proverbs 8:15-16 ); the loving rewarder of his children, especially of his young children (Proverbs 8:17 . Compare Hebrews 11:6 ); the rich portion and unfailing guide of his people. (Proverbs 8:18-19 .) Look at him once again in his Divine glory, as "the only-begotten Son of God" (Proverbs 8:22, Proverbs 8:24 ); the Mediator in the everlasting Councils of Redemption (Proverbs 8:23 ); the Almighty Creator of the world (Proverbs 8:27-30 ); the adorable Friend of sinners (Proverbs 8:31 ). How should his Divine Majesty and condescending love endear his instruction to us!†1 Yet his promised blessing belongs only to practical hearing — to those that keep his ways (Isaiah 55:2-3 . Luke 11:28 . John 14:21-23 . James 1:25 ) with godly fear, constancy, and perseverance; keeping their eye on them, their hearts towards them, their feet in them. Such are truly blessed. They choose rightly; they walk surely; they live happily; they progress honourably; they end gloriously. Is it not therefore our wisdom to hear instruction with "the obedience of faith" — not doing what he commands — (in which we may sometimes do — not his will, but our own) but doing because he commands — doing his will in it — obeying as well when it crosses our nature, as when it is more congenial with it? But for this cheerful, child-like obedience, sovereign grace must open the heart, and give the ear. (Proverbs 20:12, with Acts 16:14 .) The guilt of refusing is inexcusable — a resolved will against the most gracious call. (Acts 3:22-23 . Hebrews 2:1-3 .)

Now therefore, hearken, O ye children. Oh! happy moment, when the soul is made "willing in the day of his power" (Psalms 110:3 ); when "the bands of love are drawing" (Hosea 11:4 ) unto him! The cold, dead indifference is gone. The enmity is slain. And who will not now joyfully swear fealty; yea, count it his unspeakable delight to take such a yoke; to be bound to such a service, where there is nothing but for our good? (Deuteronomy 10:12-13 .) Oh, my Prince — my Savior! thou hast based thy dominion on thy blood. Thou hast purchased thy right by thy cross. (1 Corinthians 6:19-20 . Romans 14:9 .) Thou rulest, only that thou mightest save. Take to thyself the glory of thy victory. I am thine — not my own — for ever.

Footnotes:

†1 See how the Father manifested the glory of his Divine Son to give constraining force to his instruction. Matthew 17:1-5 .

Verses 34-36

This is the hearing of faith — the voice of Christ to the inmost ear — the impression of his word upon the heart. (John 5:25 . Revelation 3:20 .) The effect is unwearied diligence and patient expectation; like the priest waiting at the doors of the tabernacle for the assured blessing (Exodus 29:42 ); or the people watching at the temple gates for his return from his holy ministrations. (Luke 1:10, Luke 1:21 .) This free and habitual attendance upon Sacred Ordinances indicates an healthy appetite for Divine nutriment. The superficial professor excuses himself from this "weariness" (Malachi 1:13 ) by the fear of legality, or the danger of overvaluing the means. But is there not at least equal danger of undervaluing the means, to which our gracious Lord has engaged his blessing? (Exodus 20:24 . Isaiah 56:7 . Matthew 18:20 .) In gazing on the heavenly Jerusalem, the apostle "saw no temple therein." (Revelation 21:22 .) But what right-hearted Christian will doubt that the life-blood of his soul while on earth consists in watching, like the servants of the temple, daily at her gates (Psalms 84:1, Psalms 84:4, Psalms 84:10 ), when not involving the neglect of imperative obligations. Wisdom’s child will ever be familiar with Wisdom’s gates. The Weekly as well as the Sabbath assemblies will be his delight. Most thankful will he be for the service, which invigorates him in the midst of the toils of his worldly calling. "The way by the footsteps of the flock, beside the Shepherds’ tents," will be his constant resort. (Song of Song of Solomon 1:7-8 .) And never would he wound the feelings of his Shepherd by willfully absenting himself from the well, when he comes to water his flock. All the ordinances of prayer, meditation, Scripture reading, or godly conference, will be his salutary provision. When it is not so; when the common routine satisfies; when the intervals between the Sabbath pass without any appetite for food, or any effort to seek the bread of the sanctuary — Christian, is not thy pulse beating feebly? Hast thou not lost many a precious message from thy Lord (see John 20:19, John 20:24 ) — the fruit of thy Minister’s special study, a word of distinct application to thy state, and which might have guided and comforted thee to the end of thy days? Oh, listen to thy Lord’s rebuke — "Be watchful and strengthen the things that remain that are ready to die."†1

Observe the blessing breathed down upon the Lord’s waiting ones. They find life. (Isaiah 55:3 . John 5:24 .) For he on whom they wait is the Author (John 1:4 ; John 11:25 ; John 14:6 ), the Dispenser (John 10:10 ), the Keeper of life. (Colossians 3:3 . 1 John 5:11 . Judges 1:1 .) "He therefore that hath him, hath life" (1 John 5:12 ), with all its present privileges of favour of the LORD. (Isaiah 64:5 .) ’The smiles of God make heaven; and they that obtain favour of the LORD, have a heaven upon earth.’†2 Set then this expectation before thine eyes in waiting on thy God. ’I am seeking life for my soul; I will wait at the post of his doors, missing no opportunity of a means of grace; I shall not wait in vain.’

Would that the sinner — the thoughtless sinner — not the daring and ungodly only — pondered how his heartless neglect of wisdom wronged his own soul! (Proverbs 1:17-19, Proverbs 1:31 ; Proverbs 9:12 . Jeremiah 7:19 . Acts 13:46 . Numbers 16:38 .) How cruel he is to himself, while he is despising his Savior. Every bait of sin is the temptation to suicide — soul-murder. The snatching at it is as if men were in love with damnation. ’They that hate me love death. They love that which will be their death, and put that from them which would be their life. Sinners die, because they will die; which leaves them inexcusable, makes their condemnation more intolerable, and will for ever justify God when he judges. "O Israel, thou hast destroyed thyself.’"†3

Footnotes:

†1 Revelation 3:2. ’The places where the Gospel is faithfully preached, are "the gates and the posts of the doors of Wisdom," at which Christ would have his disciples to "wait daily." And may not Christians, consistently with other duties, redeem time for this waiting, as well as the children of this world find time for their vain amusements, who yet do not neglect their one thing needful? Is not the time spared from attending on a weekday, often spent in unprofitable visits or vain discourse? Ought Ministers to be "instant in season, and out of season," in preaching the word; and ought not the people to be glad of an opportunity of hearing it?’ — Scott.

†2 Lawson (George) Exposition of Proverbs. 2 vols. 12mo. 1821.

†3 Hosea 13:9. Henry in loco.