Biblical wisdom concerns the direction of your whole life: what you love, whom you trust, how you treat people, and what you do with the truth. Discernment is part of that wisdom—the ability to distinguish good from evil, truth from error, and a fitting response from a foolish one. The passages below explain how reverence, learning, prayer, counsel, and obedience work together.
Begin with reverence for God
Take God seriously as the one whose truth and goodness should direct your life. Proverbs 1:2–7 introduces wisdom through instruction, justice, judgment, and equity—learning to recognize and do what is right and fair. It welcomes the inexperienced and says that an already wise person will keep learning. Verse 7 gives the foundation: “The fear of the LORD is the beginning of knowledge.” Growth begins with a willingness to listen to God and receive his instruction.
Reverence includes trust and obedience. Proverbs 3:5–7 calls you to trust the LORD with your whole heart, acknowledge him in all your ways, and depart from evil. Those commands explain what fearing him means in practice: let his judgment correct your own and bring your conduct under his care. The same book that teaches you to use understanding teaches you to depend on the God who gives it. Your ability to reason serves that relationship.
Psalm 111:1–10 gives reasons for this confidence. The psalm praises God’s great works, compassion, covenant faithfulness, trustworthy commands, and redemption of his people. Its concluding statement about the fear of the LORD grows out of that praise and joins good understanding to doing his commandments. Reverence therefore includes gratitude for who God is and what he has done. Learn his character as you learn his commands, so that obedience grows from knowing the Lord you serve.
This also explains the kind of wisdom Scripture commends. In Deuteronomy 4:5–14, Moses tells Israel that keeping God’s righteous statutes will display wisdom before other nations; the people are to remember the God who drew near and spoke to them. These are instructions to Israel within its covenant and promised-land setting. Jeremiah 9:23–24 likewise directs boasting toward knowing the LORD, who delights in lovingkindness, judgment, and righteousness. Biblical wisdom seeks a life that pleases this God. Skill, achievement, and cleverness find their proper purpose as they serve what he calls good.
Further study: Henri Blocher · Biblical Studies Press · Kathryn M. Schifferdecker
Receive the wisdom God gives in Christ
For a Christian, growing in wisdom means learning to know and follow Jesus Christ. In 1 Corinthians 1:18–25, Paul explains why the cross is central. Some hearers see the crucified Christ as weakness or foolishness, yet God saves through the very message they dismiss. Paul calls Christ the power and wisdom of God. The passage asks you to receive God’s saving work on his terms and let it reshape what you admire and trust.
Paul brings that lesson into the church’s own life in 1 Corinthians 1:26–31. God has called people without the status the world prizes, so that their hope and boasting rest in him. Christ is their wisdom, righteousness, sanctification, and redemption. In 1 Corinthians 2:10–16, Paul explains that understanding God’s gift depends on God’s Spirit. His next words expose the Corinthians’ envy and divisions as immaturity (1 Corinthians 3:1–9). Dependence on the Spirit should make you receptive to Christ and willing to be corrected; it gives no basis for treating your own judgments as beyond examination.
Colossians 2:1–7 connects the treasures of wisdom in Christ with encouraged hearts, love, established faith, and thanksgiving. Paul’s concern is that persuasive speech might draw believers away from the Christ they have received. He therefore calls them to keep walking in him, rooted and built up in him. Colossians 2:8–15 explains why: the fullness of deity dwells in Christ, and believers have been made alive with him and forgiven. At the cross, the record standing against them is removed and hostile powers are defeated. Their growth rests in the Lord who has saved them. Seek understanding that deepens your faithfulness to him and accords with what the apostles teach about him.
Jesus makes learning from him a personal invitation. In Matthew 11:25–30, he thanks the Father for revealing what self-assured wisdom has missed, declares that the Son makes the Father known, and invites the burdened to come and learn from him. He describes himself as meek and lowly in heart. Second Timothy 3:14–17 gives Scripture its place in that learning: it makes a person wise for salvation through faith in Christ and teaches, corrects, and equips God’s servant for good works. Read to understand Christ, receive his correction, and become ready to serve him.
Further study: J. R. Daniel Kirk
Ask God for wisdom and give yourself to learning
Bring your need for understanding to God. James 1:2–5 speaks to believers facing trials and explains that tested faith produces patient endurance, leading toward maturity. When they lack wisdom, they are to ask God, who gives generously and “upbraideth not”—he does not reproach them for asking. The invitation gives you confidence to seek the understanding needed to remain faithful, especially when obedience is difficult.
Ask with trust and a willing heart. James 1:6–8 compares the wavering person to a wind-driven wave and calls him double minded. The concern includes unstable trust in God; James 4:4–8 also connects divided hearts with competing loyalties and calls them back to God. Approach him ready to receive and follow his wisdom. The passage itself begins with people who lack understanding, so having something to learn is a reason to ask. Commit yourself to the generous God from whom you seek help.
Prayer belongs with attentive effort. Proverbs 2:1–9 calls the learner to receive instruction, treasure it, incline the ear, apply the heart, cry out for understanding, and search as for hidden treasure. The reason appears in verse 6: the LORD gives wisdom. His gift and your earnest learning belong together. The rest of the chapter explains what that wisdom is for: recognizing crooked speech and faithless conduct, and walking in the paths of righteous people (Proverbs 2:10–22). Give sustained attention to learning what is true and how it should direct your conduct.
Psalm 119:97–104 shows what this attention looks like. The writer loves God’s law, meditates on it, keeps its precepts, and turns from evil ways. His understanding grows through receiving and practicing God’s instruction. In Psalm 119:105–112, the Word becomes a lamp for his path even while he faces affliction and danger. Read carefully, consider the passage’s meaning, remember it, and return to it as you obey. The prayer to be taught remains part of this growing understanding.
Solomon’s request gives a concrete biblical example. In 1 Kings 3:5–15, the newly established king acknowledges his inadequacy and asks for an understanding heart to govern God’s people and discern good from bad. God approves the request because Solomon seeks judgment for his responsibility. The dispute over the living child in 1 Kings 3:16–28 then shows that gift serving justice. When Solomon orders the child divided, the true mother pleads for the other woman to receive him alive; her concern for his life distinguishes her response. Solomon preserves the child and returns him to her. His exceptional wisdom and this judicial action belong to his particular royal calling. His request helps you ask for understanding with the people and responsibilities entrusted to you in view.
Further study: Biblical Studies Press
Welcome correction and seek faithful counsel
Treat correction as an opportunity to gain understanding. Proverbs 9:8–9 describes a wise person who loves the one who reproves him and becomes wiser through instruction. Proverbs 15:31–33 connects hearing reproof with understanding, fear of the LORD, and humility. Reproof identifies something that needs correction. Listen for what is true in it, examine your conduct, and make the change that truth requires. Willingness to learn is itself a mark of growing wisdom.
Seek counsel from people whose lives and words show that they are learning God’s ways. Proverbs 12:15 contrasts confidence in one’s own way with listening to advice. Proverbs 13:18–20 connects receiving instruction with walking among the wise, and Proverbs 15:22 says that purposes are established through many counsellors. These sayings commend the help other people can give: knowledge you lack, a correction to your reasoning, and careful consideration of what a course of action involves. Give counsel a real hearing before settling your course.
The quality of the counsel matters. In 1 Kings 12:1–14, the people ask Rehoboam to lighten their burden. The older advisers urge him to serve them and answer kindly; his companions urge a threat of harsher rule. He chooses the harsh answer, and the kingdom divides. He had consulted more than one group, yet he rejected counsel that addressed the people’s need. The account also identifies the division as fulfillment of the LORD’s judgment and ends with a command that prevents civil war (1 Kings 12:15–24). Learn from the actual choice in the story: weigh counsel by its truth and its regard for those affected, including when it challenges the display of power you prefer.
Continue receiving instruction even when you already teach others. Acts 18:24–28 describes Apollos as eloquent, knowledgeable in Scripture, and zealous in teaching, while explaining that he knows only John’s baptism. Aquila and Priscilla take him aside and explain God’s way more accurately. He then helps believers and demonstrates from Scripture that Jesus is the Christ. The narrative joins ability with further learning. Appreciate faithful people who can supply what you have not yet understood.
Make this learning part of life with God’s people. Colossians 3:12–17 surrounds mutual teaching and admonition with compassion, patience, forgiveness, love, peace, and thanksgiving. Christ’s word is to dwell richly among believers as they teach one another and worship. Receive counsel in that spirit and give it in the same way: speak truth with the aim of helping another person live faithfully, while remaining a learner yourself.
Examine teaching in the light of Scripture and Christ
Receive teaching attentively and examine whether it is true. In Acts 17:1–3, Paul reasons from Scripture that the Christ had to suffer and rise, and identifies Jesus as that Christ. When the message reaches Berea, the hearers welcome it eagerly and search the Scriptures daily to see whether it is so (Acts 17:10–12). Their readiness to learn and their examination belong together, and many believe. Follow that pattern by understanding the claim being made and considering the biblical evidence in its context.
First Thessalonians 5:19–22 gives a related instruction to the church. Paul tells the believers to welcome the Spirit’s work, take prophecies seriously, examine everything, and hold firmly to what is good. Testing has a positive goal: recognizing and keeping the truth. The KJV’s “appearance of evil” in verse 22 is rendered as every form of evil in the NET; the instruction calls for separation from evil wherever the examination finds it. Read the command within this setting of a praying, thankful community that depends on God’s faithfulness (1 Thessalonians 5:16–24).
What a teaching says about Jesus is central to this examination. First John 4:1–6 addresses false prophets and tells believers to test spiritual claims. John names the confession that Jesus Christ has come in the flesh: the real coming of Christ as a human being. His appeal to hearing “us” in verse 6 belongs with 1 John 1:1–4, where the witnesses declare the life they heard, saw, and touched, so that others may share fellowship with the Father and his Son. Attend to the actual Christ proclaimed by that testimony. Examine whether a teaching receives and faithfully explains him.
A striking sign does not remove the need to examine a message’s direction. Deuteronomy 13:1–5 addresses a sign that comes to pass while its speaker urges Israel to follow other gods. Israel is to remain devoted to the LORD who redeemed them. The passage includes a judicial penalty within Israel’s covenant law; it is not a direction for Christians to punish teachers. Its reason for rejecting the message is clear: the sign cannot authorize disloyalty to the God already known through his saving acts and commands.
Jesus also directs attention to the life and work of a teacher. In Matthew 7:15–20, false prophets can appear harmless, as wolves disguised as sheep. Jesus tells his hearers to recognize them by their fruit: grapes do not grow on thorns, and a tree’s fruit reveals its character. Matthew 7:21–23 then places claims of prophecy, exorcisms, and mighty works under his judgment and emphasizes doing the Father’s will. Taken with the tests above, this calls you to consider teaching, conduct, and obedience together. Look for truth that agrees with Christ and bears the good fruit he requires.
Further study: Biblical Studies Press
Listen carefully and learn to judge what is fitting
Give a matter enough attention to understand it before you answer. Proverbs 18:13 calls an answer offered before hearing foolish and shameful. Verse 15 commends an ear that seeks knowledge, and verse 17 observes that the first person’s case can seem right until another examines it. Hear what is actually being said, seek the information needed to judge fairly, and remain willing to revise an early conclusion. These verses give reasons for patient listening: an incomplete account can mislead even when it initially sounds convincing.
Consider your own course with the same care. Proverbs 14:8 says that the prudent person’s wisdom is to understand his way. Verses 12 and 15 distinguish a way that merely seems right from a path carefully examined; verse 16 connects wisdom with turning from evil. Ask whether a choice agrees with God’s instruction and where the conduct itself leads. Confidence becomes useful when it rests on truth and a willingness to face what the choice involves.
Some situations require choosing between responses that each have a proper use. Proverbs 26:4 says not to answer a fool according to his folly, lest you become like him; Proverbs 26:5 says to answer, lest he become wise in his own conceit. The reasons explain the difference. A reply can draw you into foolish conduct, while a fitting correction can expose it. Consider whether speaking will clarify the truth and how to answer without sharing the folly. Wisdom attends to the person, the matter, and the effect of the response.
Let love direct the judgment you are learning. In Philippians 1:9–11, Paul prays for love to grow in knowledge and judgment so that believers can approve what is excellent and be filled with righteousness through Jesus Christ. Love needs understanding if it is to choose what truly serves another’s good. Romans 12:1–8 places a renewed mind within a life offered to God because of his mercy, then moves into sober self-assessment and service in one body. Discernment should make you more faithful in love, worship, and service.
Consider another person’s good when choosing among permitted actions. In 1 Corinthians 10:14–33, Paul first forbids participation in idol worship, then permits believers to eat food sold in the market or offered in a private home. Within that permission, concern for another’s conscience can lead them to forgo food explicitly identified as an idol sacrifice. Paul explains the governing purpose: seek what benefits and builds up others, and do everything to God’s glory. Learn both parts of his reasoning. Honor God’s clear commands, and exercise the freedom he gives with thoughtful regard for the people your choice affects.
Attend also to the desires from which your decisions grow. Proverbs 4:20–27 moves from keeping instruction in the heart to guarding speech, directing the eyes, and considering the path of the feet. The heart is the source from which life’s course proceeds. Keep returning to what God teaches, let it shape what you pursue, and bring your words and actions into agreement with it. Careful judgment becomes part of a whole life taking a faithful direction.
Further study: Biblical Studies Press · Biblical Studies Press · Biblical Studies Press
Let wisdom bear the fruit of humility, mercy, and peace
Show wisdom through the way you live with other people. James 3:13 asks anyone claiming wisdom to demonstrate works done with meekness. The KJV’s “good conversation” means good conduct. James then explains why motives matter: bitter envy and selfish rivalry produce disorder and evil (James 3:14–16). The wisdom you seek should be visible in patient, truthful, and humble action that serves others.
James 3:17–18 describes wisdom from above as pure, peaceable, gentle, open to persuasion, merciful, fruitful in good, impartial, and sincere. “Easy to be intreated” describes readiness to listen and respond to a reasonable appeal. Purity gives peace its moral direction, while mercy and gentleness shape how people are treated. Pursue agreement through truth, listen when others have something to teach you, and choose actions that make for righteous peace. James presents that peace as the setting in which righteousness bears fruit.
When a dispute reveals disordered desires, bring your own heart before God. James 4:1–3 traces conflicts to desires that demand satisfaction and can even misuse prayer. Verses 6–10 answer with God’s grace to the humble, submission to him, drawing near, cleansing conduct, and repentance. Wisdom therefore includes acknowledging when your motives need correction. Receive God’s grace and turn toward the purity and peace James has described.
Abigail’s intervention in 1 Samuel 25:14–35 shows how a wise appeal can serve that kind of good. After Nabal’s insult, David has set out for violent revenge. Abigail responds to the report, brings provisions, and asks David to consider his future responsibility before the LORD and the guilt of needless bloodshed. David blesses her counsel and acknowledges that she has kept him from taking vengeance. The account supplies its own evaluation of her discernment. Learn to consider lasting faithfulness when emotions press toward immediate retaliation, and receive truthful counsel that helps you turn toward peace.
Further study: Margaret Aymer · Biblical Studies Press
Put understanding into practice and keep growing
Act on the truth you have understood. James 1:19–25 calls for receptive hearing and compares an inactive hearer to someone who sees his face in a mirror, leaves, and forgets it. The one who continues in God’s instruction and does it receives its blessing in the doing. James makes the response concrete in verses 26–27: restraining the tongue, caring for orphans and widows in distress, and keeping oneself from the world’s corruption. Let learning become truthful speech, practical care, and obedience.
Jesus gives the same responsibility lasting weight in Matthew 7:24–29. Both builders hear his words, and both houses face the storm. The wise builder does what Jesus says; that obedience is the foundation pictured by the rock. The comparison concludes the Sermon on the Mount after Jesus has spoken about the Father’s will and final accountability. Receive his words as something to build your life upon, carrying them into your actual conduct.
Repeated practice helps understanding mature. Hebrews 5:11–14 addresses listeners who have become dull in hearing and still need elementary instruction when they should be able to teach. The discussion concerns learning about Christ, whose priesthood has just been described. The author likens maturity to receiving solid food and says that the mature have their faculties trained through use to distinguish good and evil. Keep learning the truth about Christ and exercising judgment in obedience. Mature discernment grows as teaching is received, used, and increasingly understood.
Continue that obedience throughout life. Solomon had received extraordinary understanding, yet 1 Kings 11:1–13 records his heart turning after other gods and explicitly condemns his disobedience. Knowledge already gained still needs a faithful response. Second Peter 1:3–8 begins with God’s provision for life and godliness, then urges diligent growth in faith, virtue, knowledge, self-control, perseverance, godliness, brotherly kindness, and love. Keep practicing these qualities together so that your knowledge of Christ becomes fruitful.
Further study: Biblical Studies Press
Trust God while accepting the limits of your understanding
You can live wisely while some things remain beyond your understanding. Job 28:1–28 describes the ingenuity with which people find metals and precious stones deep in the earth, then asks where wisdom can be found. Wealth cannot purchase it, and God alone comprehends its way. The poem ends by telling humanity to fear the Lord and depart from evil. Its contrast gives you a clear responsibility without requiring you to explain everything God knows or does.
Receive wisdom’s benefits without making visible success the measure of faithfulness. Ecclesiastes 9:11–18 observes that speed, strength, knowledge, and skill do not secure every outcome. It also describes a poor wise man who saves a city and is then forgotten. The writer still judges wisdom better than strength and weapons of war. Good judgment remains valuable even when it brings little recognition. Proverbs 3:5–12 likewise places God’s direction alongside trust, obedience, and his loving correction. Trust his care as you pursue what is right, including when the course is difficult.
Allow this humility to strengthen responsible action. Ecclesiastes 11:3–6 says that waiting on ideal wind and clouds prevents sowing and reaping; the worker is urged to keep working despite not knowing which effort will prosper. James 4:13–17 addresses confident plans for travel and profit by reminding the planners that their very lives depend on the Lord’s will. Make your plans with that dependence, remain ready to respond to what comes, and do the good you already know to do.
Colossians 1:9–14 gives a fitting direction for continuing growth. Paul prays for knowledge of God’s will in spiritual wisdom so that believers may live worthily of the Lord, bear fruit in every good work, grow in knowing God, endure patiently, and give thanks. His prayer rests in the Father’s deliverance and the Son’s redemption. Keep asking, learning, receiving help, and obeying with that purpose: a life increasingly faithful to the God who has brought you into the kingdom of his Son.
Further study: Henri Blocher · Biblical Studies Press
Read the passages
Scripture in context
46 contextual selections for this subject, including the passages cited above and further related reading. Every selected range is reproduced in full from the KJV. Context notes identify the setting and kind of evidence.
Covenant instruction 1 selections
Deuteronomy 4:1–14 KJV · In this guide
Context: Moses addresses Israel before entry into the land, recalling Baal-peor, the LORD’s nearness, Horeb, and the covenant commands.
4:1 Now therefore hearken, O Israel, unto the statutes and unto the judgments, which I teach you, for to do them, that ye may live, and go in and possess the land which the LORD God of your fathers giveth you.
4:2 Ye shall not add unto the word which I command you, neither shall ye diminish ought from it, that ye may keep the commandments of the LORD your God which I command you.
4:3 Your eyes have seen what the LORD did because of Baal-peor: for all the men that followed Baal-peor, the LORD thy God hath destroyed them from among you.
4:4 But ye that did cleave unto the LORD your God are alive every one of you this day.
4:5 Behold, I have taught you statutes and judgments, even as the LORD my God commanded me, that ye should do so in the land whither ye go to possess it.
4:6 Keep therefore and do them; for this is your wisdom and your understanding in the sight of the nations, which shall hear all these statutes, and say, Surely this great nation is a wise and understanding people.
4:7 For what nation is there so great, who hath God so nigh unto them, as the LORD our God is in all things that we call upon him for?
4:8 And what nation is there so great, that hath statutes and judgments so righteous as all this law, which I set before you this day?
4:9 Only take heed to thyself, and keep thy soul diligently, lest thou forget the things which thine eyes have seen, and lest they depart from thy heart all the days of thy life: but teach them thy sons, and thy sons’ sons;
4:10 Specially the day that thou stoodest before the LORD thy God in Horeb, when the LORD said unto me, Gather me the people together, and I will make them hear my words, that they may learn to fear me all the days that they shall live upon the earth, and that they may teach their children.
4:11 And ye came near and stood under the mountain; and the mountain burned with fire unto the midst of heaven, with darkness, clouds, and thick darkness.
4:12 And the LORD spake unto you out of the midst of the fire: ye heard the voice of the words, but saw no similitude; only ye heard a voice.
4:13 And he declared unto you his covenant, which he commanded you to perform, even ten commandments; and he wrote them upon two tables of stone.
4:14 And the LORD commanded me at that time to teach you statutes and judgments, that ye might do them in the land whither ye go over to possess it.
Covenant law 1 selections
Deuteronomy 13:1–5 KJV · In this guide
Context: The complete first case of a prophet or dreamer leading Israel toward other gods includes its test of loyalty and covenant judicial penalty.
13:1 If there arise among you a prophet, or a dreamer of dreams, and giveth thee a sign or a wonder,
13:2 And the sign or the wonder come to pass, whereof he spake unto thee, saying, Let us go after other gods, which thou hast not known, and let us serve them;
13:3 Thou shalt not hearken unto the words of that prophet, or that dreamer of dreams: for the LORD your God proveth you, to know whether ye love the LORD your God with all your heart and with all your soul.
13:4 Ye shall walk after the LORD your God, and fear him, and keep his commandments, and obey his voice, and ye shall serve him, and cleave unto him.
13:5 And that prophet, or that dreamer of dreams, shall be put to death; because he hath spoken to turn you away from the LORD your God, which brought you out of the land of Egypt, and redeemed you out of the house of bondage, to thrust thee out of the way which the LORD thy God commanded thee to walk in. So shalt thou put the evil away from the midst of thee.
Evaluated narrative 1 selections
1 Samuel 25:1–44 KJV · In this guide
Context: The complete Nabal-Abigail-David account preserves the insult, threatened violence, Abigail’s appeal, David’s response, Nabal’s end, and the marriage epilogue.
25:1 And Samuel died; and all the Israelites were gathered together, and lamented him, and buried him in his house at Ramah. And David arose, and went down to the wilderness of Paran.
25:2 And there was a man in Maon, whose possessions were in Carmel; and the man was very great, and he had three thousand sheep, and a thousand goats: and he was shearing his sheep in Carmel.
25:3 Now the name of the man was Nabal; and the name of his wife Abigail: and she was a woman of good understanding, and of a beautiful countenance: but the man was churlish and evil in his doings; and he was of the house of Caleb.
25:4 And David heard in the wilderness that Nabal did shear his sheep.
25:5 And David sent out ten young men, and David said unto the young men, Get you up to Carmel, and go to Nabal, and greet him in my name:
25:6 And thus shall ye say to him that liveth in prosperity, Peace be both to thee, and peace be to thine house, and peace be unto all that thou hast.
25:7 And now I have heard that thou hast shearers: now thy shepherds which were with us, we hurt them not, neither was there ought missing unto them, all the while they were in Carmel.
25:8 Ask thy young men, and they will shew thee. Wherefore let the young men find favour in thine eyes: for we come in a good day: give, I pray thee, whatsoever cometh to thine hand unto thy servants, and to thy son David.
25:9 And when David’s young men came, they spake to Nabal according to all those words in the name of David, and ceased.
25:10 And Nabal answered David’s servants, and said, Who is David? and who is the son of Jesse? there be many servants now a days that break away every man from his master.
25:11 Shall I then take my bread, and my water, and my flesh that I have killed for my shearers, and give it unto men, whom I know not whence they be?
25:12 So David’s young men turned their way, and went again, and came and told him all those sayings.
25:13 And David said unto his men, Gird ye on every man his sword. And they girded on every man his sword; and David also girded on his sword: and there went up after David about four hundred men; and two hundred abode by the stuff.
25:14 But one of the young men told Abigail, Nabal’s wife, saying, Behold, David sent messengers out of the wilderness to salute our master; and he railed on them.
25:15 But the men were very good unto us, and we were not hurt, neither missed we any thing, as long as we were conversant with them, when we were in the fields:
25:16 They were a wall unto us both by night and day, all the while we were with them keeping the sheep.
25:17 Now therefore know and consider what thou wilt do; for evil is determined against our master, and against all his household: for he is such a son of Belial, that a man cannot speak to him.
25:18 Then Abigail made haste, and took two hundred loaves, and two bottles of wine, and five sheep ready dressed, and five measures of parched corn, and an hundred clusters of raisins, and two hundred cakes of figs, and laid them on asses.
25:19 And she said unto her servants, Go on before me; behold, I come after you. But she told not her husband Nabal.
25:20 And it was so, as she rode on the ass, that she came down by the covert of the hill, and, behold, David and his men came down against her; and she met them.
25:21 Now David had said, Surely in vain have I kept all that this fellow hath in the wilderness, so that nothing was missed of all that pertained unto him: and he hath requited me evil for good.
25:22 So and more also do God unto the enemies of David, if I leave of all that pertain to him by the morning light any that pisseth against the wall.
25:23 And when Abigail saw David, she hasted, and lighted off the ass, and fell before David on her face, and bowed herself to the ground,
25:24 And fell at his feet, and said, Upon me, my lord, upon me let this iniquity be: and let thine handmaid, I pray thee, speak in thine audience, and hear the words of thine handmaid.
25:25 Let not my lord, I pray thee, regard this man of Belial, even Nabal: for as his name is, so is he; Nabal is his name, and folly is with him: but I thine handmaid saw not the young men of my lord, whom thou didst send.
25:26 Now therefore, my lord, as the LORD liveth, and as thy soul liveth, seeing the LORD hath withholden thee from coming to shed blood, and from avenging thyself with thine own hand, now let thine enemies, and they that seek evil to my lord, be as Nabal.
25:27 And now this blessing which thine handmaid hath brought unto my lord, let it even be given unto the young men that follow my lord.
25:28 I pray thee, forgive the trespass of thine handmaid: for the LORD will certainly make my lord a sure house; because my lord fighteth the battles of the LORD, and evil hath not been found in thee all thy days.
25:29 Yet a man is risen to pursue thee, and to seek thy soul: but the soul of my lord shall be bound in the bundle of life with the LORD thy God; and the souls of thine enemies, them shall he sling out, as out of the middle of a sling.
25:30 And it shall come to pass, when the LORD shall have done to my lord according to all the good that he hath spoken concerning thee, and shall have appointed thee ruler over Israel;
25:31 That this shall be no grief unto thee, nor offence of heart unto my lord, either that thou hast shed blood causeless, or that my lord hath avenged himself: but when the LORD shall have dealt well with my lord, then remember thine handmaid.
25:32 And David said to Abigail, Blessed be the LORD God of Israel, which sent thee this day to meet me:
25:33 And blessed be thy advice, and blessed be thou, which hast kept me this day from coming to shed blood, and from avenging myself with mine own hand.
25:34 For in very deed, as the LORD God of Israel liveth, which hath kept me back from hurting thee, except thou hadst hasted and come to meet me, surely there had not been left unto Nabal by the morning light any that pisseth against the wall.
25:35 So David received of her hand that which she had brought him, and said unto her, Go up in peace to thine house; see, I have hearkened to thy voice, and have accepted thy person.
25:36 And Abigail came to Nabal; and, behold, he held a feast in his house, like the feast of a king; and Nabal’s heart was merry within him, for he was very drunken: wherefore she told him nothing, less or more, until the morning light.
25:37 But it came to pass in the morning, when the wine was gone out of Nabal, and his wife had told him these things, that his heart died within him, and he became as a stone.
25:38 And it came to pass about ten days after, that the LORD smote Nabal, that he died.
25:39 And when David heard that Nabal was dead, he said, Blessed be the LORD, that hath pleaded the cause of my reproach from the hand of Nabal, and hath kept his servant from evil: for the LORD hath returned the wickedness of Nabal upon his own head. And David sent and communed with Abigail, to take her to him to wife.
25:40 And when the servants of David were come to Abigail to Carmel, they spake unto her, saying, David sent us unto thee, to take thee to him to wife.
25:41 And she arose, and bowed herself on her face to the earth, and said, Behold, let thine handmaid be a servant to wash the feet of the servants of my lord.
25:42 And Abigail hasted, and arose, and rode upon an ass, with five damsels of hers that went after her; and she went after the messengers of David, and became his wife.
25:43 David also took Ahinoam of Jezreel; and they were also both of them his wives.
25:44 But Saul had given Michal his daughter, David’s wife, to Phalti the son of Laish, which was of Gallim.
Evaluated royal narrative 3 selections
1 Kings 3:1–28 KJV · In this guide
Context: The chapter introduces Solomon’s early reign, records his request at Gibeon, and demonstrates the gift in the dispute over a living child.
3:1 And Solomon made affinity with Pharaoh king of Egypt, and took Pharaoh’s daughter, and brought her into the city of David, until he had made an end of building his own house, and the house of the LORD, and the wall of Jerusalem round about.
3:2 Only the people sacrificed in high places, because there was no house built unto the name of the LORD, until those days.
3:3 And Solomon loved the LORD, walking in the statutes of David his father: only he sacrificed and burnt incense in high places.
3:4 And the king went to Gibeon to sacrifice there; for that was the great high place: a thousand burnt offerings did Solomon offer upon that altar.
3:5 In Gibeon the LORD appeared to Solomon in a dream by night: and God said, Ask what I shall give thee.
3:6 And Solomon said, Thou hast shewed unto thy servant David my father great mercy, according as he walked before thee in truth, and in righteousness, and in uprightness of heart with thee; and thou hast kept for him this great kindness, that thou hast given him a son to sit on his throne, as it is this day.
3:7 And now, O LORD my God, thou hast made thy servant king instead of David my father: and I am but a little child: I know not how to go out or come in.
3:8 And thy servant is in the midst of thy people which thou hast chosen, a great people, that cannot be numbered nor counted for multitude.
3:9 Give therefore thy servant an understanding heart to judge thy people, that I may discern between good and bad: for who is able to judge this thy so great a people?
3:10 And the speech pleased the Lord, that Solomon had asked this thing.
3:11 And God said unto him, Because thou hast asked this thing, and hast not asked for thyself long life; neither hast asked riches for thyself, nor hast asked the life of thine enemies; but hast asked for thyself understanding to discern judgment;
3:12 Behold, I have done according to thy words: lo, I have given thee a wise and an understanding heart; so that there was none like thee before thee, neither after thee shall any arise like unto thee.
3:13 And I have also given thee that which thou hast not asked, both riches, and honour: so that there shall not be any among the kings like unto thee all thy days.
3:14 And if thou wilt walk in my ways, to keep my statutes and my commandments, as thy father David did walk, then I will lengthen thy days.
3:15 And Solomon awoke; and, behold, it was a dream. And he came to Jerusalem, and stood before the ark of the covenant of the LORD, and offered up burnt offerings, and offered peace offerings, and made a feast to all his servants.
3:16 Then came there two women, that were harlots, unto the king, and stood before him.
3:17 And the one woman said, O my lord, I and this woman dwell in one house; and I was delivered of a child with her in the house.
3:18 And it came to pass the third day after that I was delivered, that this woman was delivered also: and we were together; there was no stranger with us in the house, save we two in the house.
3:19 And this woman’s child died in the night; because she overlaid it.
3:20 And she arose at midnight, and took my son from beside me, while thine handmaid slept, and laid it in her bosom, and laid her dead child in my bosom.
3:21 And when I rose in the morning to give my child suck, behold, it was dead: but when I had considered it in the morning, behold, it was not my son, which I did bear.
3:22 And the other woman said, Nay; but the living is my son, and the dead is thy son. And this said, No; but the dead is thy son, and the living is my son. Thus they spake before the king.
3:23 Then said the king, The one saith, This is my son that liveth, and thy son is the dead: and the other saith, Nay; but thy son is the dead, and my son is the living.
3:24 And the king said, Bring me a sword. And they brought a sword before the king.
3:25 And the king said, Divide the living child in two, and give half to the one, and half to the other.
3:26 Then spake the woman whose the living child was unto the king, for her bowels yearned upon her son, and she said, O my lord, give her the living child, and in no wise slay it. But the other said, Let it be neither mine nor thine, but divide it.
3:27 Then the king answered and said, Give her the living child, and in no wise slay it: she is the mother thereof.
3:28 And all Israel heard of the judgment which the king had judged; and they feared the king: for they saw that the wisdom of God was in him, to do judgment.
1 Kings 11:1–13 KJV · In this guide
Context: The narrator recounts Solomon’s divided devotion, explicitly identifies his disobedience, and announces judgment on his kingdom.
11:1 But king Solomon loved many strange women, together with the daughter of Pharaoh, women of the Moabites, Ammonites, Edomites, Zidonians, and Hittites;
11:2 Of the nations concerning which the LORD said unto the children of Israel, Ye shall not go in to them, neither shall they come in unto you: for surely they will turn away your heart after their gods: Solomon clave unto these in love.
11:3 And he had seven hundred wives, princesses, and three hundred concubines: and his wives turned away his heart.
11:4 For it came to pass, when Solomon was old, that his wives turned away his heart after other gods: and his heart was not perfect with the LORD his God, as was the heart of David his father.
11:5 For Solomon went after Ashtoreth the goddess of the Zidonians, and after Milcom the abomination of the Ammonites.
11:6 And Solomon did evil in the sight of the LORD, and went not fully after the LORD, as did David his father.
11:7 Then did Solomon build an high place for Chemosh, the abomination of Moab, in the hill that is before Jerusalem, and for Molech, the abomination of the children of Ammon.
11:8 And likewise did he for all his strange wives, which burnt incense and sacrificed unto their gods.
11:9 And the LORD was angry with Solomon, because his heart was turned from the LORD God of Israel, which had appeared unto him twice,
11:10 And had commanded him concerning this thing, that he should not go after other gods: but he kept not that which the LORD commanded.
11:11 Wherefore the LORD said unto Solomon, Forasmuch as this is done of thee, and thou hast not kept my covenant and my statutes, which I have commanded thee, I will surely rend the kingdom from thee, and will give it to thy servant.
11:12 Notwithstanding in thy days I will not do it for David thy father’s sake: but I will rend it out of the hand of thy son.
11:13 Howbeit I will not rend away all the kingdom; but will give one tribe to thy son for David my servant’s sake, and for Jerusalem’s sake which I have chosen.
1 Kings 12:1–24 KJV · In this guide
Context: The people’s request, competing counsel, harsh answer, resulting division, and divine word preventing civil war form the full crisis.
12:1 And Rehoboam went to Shechem: for all Israel were come to Shechem to make him king.
12:2 And it came to pass, when Jeroboam the son of Nebat, who was yet in Egypt, heard of it, (for he was fled from the presence of king Solomon, and Jeroboam dwelt in Egypt;)
12:3 That they sent and called him. And Jeroboam and all the congregation of Israel came, and spake unto Rehoboam, saying,
12:4 Thy father made our yoke grievous: now therefore make thou the grievous service of thy father, and his heavy yoke which he put upon us, lighter, and we will serve thee.
12:5 And he said unto them, Depart yet for three days, then come again to me. And the people departed.
12:6 And king Rehoboam consulted with the old men, that stood before Solomon his father while he yet lived, and said, How do ye advise that I may answer this people?
12:7 And they spake unto him, saying, If thou wilt be a servant unto this people this day, and wilt serve them, and answer them, and speak good words to them, then they will be thy servants for ever.
12:8 But he forsook the counsel of the old men, which they had given him, and consulted with the young men that were grown up with him, and which stood before him:
12:9 And he said unto them, What counsel give ye that we may answer this people, who have spoken to me, saying, Make the yoke which thy father did put upon us lighter?
12:10 And the young men that were grown up with him spake unto him, saying, Thus shalt thou speak unto this people that spake unto thee, saying, Thy father made our yoke heavy, but make thou it lighter unto us; thus shalt thou say unto them, My little finger shall be thicker than my father’s loins.
12:11 And now whereas my father did lade you with a heavy yoke, I will add to your yoke: my father hath chastised you with whips, but I will chastise you with scorpions.
12:12 So Jeroboam and all the people came to Rehoboam the third day, as the king had appointed, saying, Come to me again the third day.
12:13 And the king answered the people roughly, and forsook the old men’s counsel that they gave him;
12:14 And spake to them after the counsel of the young men, saying, My father made your yoke heavy, and I will add to your yoke: my father also chastised you with whips, but I will chastise you with scorpions.
12:15 Wherefore the king hearkened not unto the people; for the cause was from the LORD, that he might perform his saying, which the LORD spake by Ahijah the Shilonite unto Jeroboam the son of Nebat.
12:16 So when all Israel saw that the king hearkened not unto them, the people answered the king, saying, What portion have we in David? neither have we inheritance in the son of Jesse: to your tents, O Israel: now see to thine own house, David. So Israel departed unto their tents.
12:17 But as for the children of Israel which dwelt in the cities of Judah, Rehoboam reigned over them.
12:18 Then king Rehoboam sent Adoram, who was over the tribute; and all Israel stoned him with stones, that he died. Therefore king Rehoboam made speed to get him up to his chariot, to flee to Jerusalem.
12:19 So Israel rebelled against the house of David unto this day.
12:20 And it came to pass, when all Israel heard that Jeroboam was come again, that they sent and called him unto the congregation, and made him king over all Israel: there was none that followed the house of David, but the tribe of Judah only.
12:21 And when Rehoboam was come to Jerusalem, he assembled all the house of Judah, with the tribe of Benjamin, an hundred and fourscore thousand chosen men, which were warriors, to fight against the house of Israel, to bring the kingdom again to Rehoboam the son of Solomon.
12:22 But the word of God came unto Shemaiah the man of God, saying,
12:23 Speak unto Rehoboam, the son of Solomon, king of Judah, and unto all the house of Judah and Benjamin, and to the remnant of the people, saying,
12:24 Thus saith the LORD, Ye shall not go up, nor fight against your brethren the children of Israel: return every man to his house; for this thing is from me. They hearkened therefore to the word of the LORD, and returned to depart, according to the word of the LORD.
Wisdom poetry 1 selections
Job 28:1–28 KJV · In this guide
Context: The complete wisdom poem contrasts mining skill and precious wealth with wisdom known by God and the human duty of reverence and departure from evil. The guide does not depend on resolving the poem’s debated speaker.
28:1 Surely there is a vein for the silver, and a place for gold where they fine it.
28:2 Iron is taken out of the earth, and brass is molten out of the stone.
28:3 He setteth an end to darkness, and searcheth out all perfection: the stones of darkness, and the shadow of death.
28:4 The flood breaketh out from the inhabitant; even the waters forgotten of the foot: they are dried up, they are gone away from men.
28:5 As for the earth, out of it cometh bread: and under it is turned up as it were fire.
28:6 The stones of it are the place of sapphires: and it hath dust of gold.
28:7 There is a path which no fowl knoweth, and which the vulture’s eye hath not seen:
28:8 The lion’s whelps have not trodden it, nor the fierce lion passed by it.
28:9 He putteth forth his hand upon the rock; he overturneth the mountains by the roots.
28:10 He cutteth out rivers among the rocks; and his eye seeth every precious thing.
28:11 He bindeth the floods from overflowing; and the thing that is hid bringeth he forth to light.
28:12 But where shall wisdom be found? and where is the place of understanding?
28:13 Man knoweth not the price thereof; neither is it found in the land of the living.
28:14 The depth saith, It is not in me: and the sea saith, It is not with me.
28:15 It cannot be gotten for gold, neither shall silver be weighed for the price thereof.
28:16 It cannot be valued with the gold of Ophir, with the precious onyx, or the sapphire.
28:17 The gold and the crystal cannot equal it: and the exchange of it shall not be for jewels of fine gold.
28:18 No mention shall be made of coral, or of pearls: for the price of wisdom is above rubies.
28:19 The topaz of Ethiopia shall not equal it, neither shall it be valued with pure gold.
28:20 Whence then cometh wisdom? and where is the place of understanding?
28:21 Seeing it is hid from the eyes of all living, and kept close from the fowls of the air.
28:22 Destruction and death say, We have heard the fame thereof with our ears.
28:23 God understandeth the way thereof, and he knoweth the place thereof.
28:24 For he looketh to the ends of the earth, and seeth under the whole heaven;
28:25 To make the weight for the winds; and he weigheth the waters by measure.
28:26 When he made a decree for the rain, and a way for the lightning of the thunder:
28:27 Then did he see it, and declare it; he prepared it, yea, and searched it out.
28:28 And unto man he said, Behold, the fear of the Lord, that is wisdom; and to depart from evil is understanding.
Praise poetry 1 selections
Psalms 111:1–10 KJV · In this guide
Context: The full praise psalm recounts God’s works, covenant, and trustworthy commands before its final statement about wisdom.
111:1 Praise ye the LORD. I will praise the LORD with my whole heart, in the assembly of the upright, and in the congregation.
111:2 The works of the LORD are great, sought out of all them that have pleasure therein.
111:3 His work is honourable and glorious: and his righteousness endureth for ever.
111:4 He hath made his wonderful works to be remembered: the LORD is gracious and full of compassion.
111:5 He hath given meat unto them that fear him: he will ever be mindful of his covenant.
111:6 He hath shewed his people the power of his works, that he may give them the heritage of the heathen.
111:7 The works of his hands are verity and judgment; all his commandments are sure.
111:8 They stand fast for ever and ever, and are done in truth and uprightness.
111:9 He sent redemption unto his people: he hath commanded his covenant for ever: holy and reverend is his name.
111:10 The fear of the LORD is the beginning of wisdom: a good understanding have all they that do his commandments: his praise endureth for ever.
Prayer and wisdom poetry 1 selections
Psalms 119:97–112 KJV · In this guide
Context: Two complete alphabetic stanzas join love for the law and practiced understanding with God’s Word as a lamp amid affliction.
119:97 O how love I thy law! it is my meditation all the day.
119:98 Thou through thy commandments hast made me wiser than mine enemies: for they are ever with me.
119:99 I have more understanding than all my teachers: for thy testimonies are my meditation.
119:100 I understand more than the ancients, because I keep thy precepts.
119:101 I have refrained my feet from every evil way, that I might keep thy word.
119:102 I have not departed from thy judgments: for thou hast taught me.
119:103 How sweet are thy words unto my taste! yea, sweeter than honey to my mouth!
119:104 Through thy precepts I get understanding: therefore I hate every false way.
119:105 Thy word is a lamp unto my feet, and a light unto my path.
119:106 I have sworn, and I will perform it, that I will keep thy righteous judgments.
119:107 I am afflicted very much: quicken me, O LORD, according unto thy word.
119:108 Accept, I beseech thee, the freewill offerings of my mouth, O LORD, and teach me thy judgments.
119:109 My soul is continually in my hand: yet do I not forget thy law.
119:110 The wicked have laid a snare for me: yet I erred not from thy precepts.
119:111 Thy testimonies have I taken as an heritage for ever: for they are the rejoicing of my heart.
119:112 I have inclined mine heart to perform thy statutes alway, even unto the end.
Wisdom instruction 5 selections
Proverbs 1:1–19 KJV · In this guide
Context: The book’s purpose and foundation lead into parental instruction and the first extended warning about violent gain. Verses 1–7 and 8–19 are retained together to show wisdom’s moral purpose.
1:1 The proverbs of Solomon the son of David, king of Israel;
1:2 To know wisdom and instruction; to perceive the words of understanding;
1:3 To receive the instruction of wisdom, justice, and judgment, and equity;
1:4 To give subtilty to the simple, to the young man knowledge and discretion.
1:5 A wise man will hear, and will increase learning; and a man of understanding shall attain unto wise counsels:
1:6 To understand a proverb, and the interpretation; the words of the wise, and their dark sayings.
1:7 The fear of the LORD is the beginning of knowledge: but fools despise wisdom and instruction.
1:8 My son, hear the instruction of thy father, and forsake not the law of thy mother:
1:9 For they shall be an ornament of grace unto thy head, and chains about thy neck.
1:10 My son, if sinners entice thee, consent thou not.
1:11 If they say, Come with us, let us lay wait for blood, let us lurk privily for the innocent without cause:
1:12 Let us swallow them up alive as the grave; and whole, as those that go down into the pit:
1:13 We shall find all precious substance, we shall fill our houses with spoil:
1:14 Cast in thy lot among us; let us all have one purse:
1:15 My son, walk not thou in the way with them; refrain thy foot from their path:
1:16 For their feet run to evil, and make haste to shed blood.
1:17 Surely in vain the net is spread in the sight of any bird.
1:18 And they lay wait for their own blood; they lurk privily for their own lives.
1:19 So are the ways of every one that is greedy of gain; which taketh away the life of the owners thereof.
Proverbs 2:1–22 KJV · In this guide
Context: A father’s extended conditional appeal moves from eager reception to the LORD’s gift, moral understanding, protection from destructive ways, and walking with the righteous.
2:1 My son, if thou wilt receive my words, and hide my commandments with thee;
2:2 So that thou incline thine ear unto wisdom, and apply thine heart to understanding;
2:3 Yea, if thou criest after knowledge, and liftest up thy voice for understanding;
2:4 If thou seekest her as silver, and searchest for her as for hid treasures;
2:5 Then shalt thou understand the fear of the LORD, and find the knowledge of God.
2:6 For the LORD giveth wisdom: out of his mouth cometh knowledge and understanding.
2:7 He layeth up sound wisdom for the righteous: he is a buckler to them that walk uprightly.
2:8 He keepeth the paths of judgment, and preserveth the way of his saints.
2:9 Then shalt thou understand righteousness, and judgment, and equity; yea, every good path.
2:10 When wisdom entereth into thine heart, and knowledge is pleasant unto thy soul;
2:11 Discretion shall preserve thee, understanding shall keep thee:
2:12 To deliver thee from the way of the evil man, from the man that speaketh froward things;
2:13 Who leave the paths of uprightness, to walk in the ways of darkness;
2:14 Who rejoice to do evil, and delight in the frowardness of the wicked;
2:15 Whose ways are crooked, and they froward in their paths:
2:16 To deliver thee from the strange woman, even from the stranger which flattereth with her words;
2:17 Which forsaketh the guide of her youth, and forgetteth the covenant of her God.
2:18 For her house inclineth unto death, and her paths unto the dead.
2:19 None that go unto her return again, neither take they hold of the paths of life.
2:20 That thou mayest walk in the way of good men, and keep the paths of the righteous.
2:21 For the upright shall dwell in the land, and the perfect shall remain in it.
2:22 But the wicked shall be cut off from the earth, and the transgressors shall be rooted out of it.
Proverbs 3:1–12 KJV · In this guide
Context: A sequence of parental appeals joins faithful instruction, trust, reverence, material honor, and acceptance of the LORD’s correction.
3:1 My son, forget not my law; but let thine heart keep my commandments:
3:2 For length of days, and long life, and peace, shall they add to thee.
3:3 Let not mercy and truth forsake thee: bind them about thy neck; write them upon the table of thine heart:
3:4 So shalt thou find favour and good understanding in the sight of God and man.
3:5 Trust in the LORD with all thine heart; and lean not unto thine own understanding.
3:6 In all thy ways acknowledge him, and he shall direct thy paths.
3:7 Be not wise in thine own eyes: fear the LORD, and depart from evil.
3:8 It shall be health to thy navel, and marrow to thy bones.
3:9 Honour the LORD with thy substance, and with the firstfruits of all thine increase:
3:10 So shall thy barns be filled with plenty, and thy presses shall burst out with new wine.
3:11 My son, despise not the chastening of the LORD; neither be weary of his correction:
3:12 For whom the LORD loveth he correcteth; even as a father the son in whom he delighteth.
Proverbs 4:1–27 KJV · In this guide
Context: A father recalls received instruction, commends wisdom’s path, contrasts the wicked way, and applies guarded understanding to the heart, mouth, eyes, and feet.
4:1 Hear, ye children, the instruction of a father, and attend to know understanding.
4:2 For I give you good doctrine, forsake ye not my law.
4:3 For I was my father’s son, tender and only beloved in the sight of my mother.
4:4 He taught me also, and said unto me, Let thine heart retain my words: keep my commandments, and live.
4:5 Get wisdom, get understanding: forget it not; neither decline from the words of my mouth.
4:6 Forsake her not, and she shall preserve thee: love her, and she shall keep thee.
4:7 Wisdom is the principal thing; therefore get wisdom: and with all thy getting get understanding.
4:8 Exalt her, and she shall promote thee: she shall bring thee to honour, when thou dost embrace her.
4:9 She shall give to thine head an ornament of grace: a crown of glory shall she deliver to thee.
4:10 Hear, O my son, and receive my sayings; and the years of thy life shall be many.
4:11 I have taught thee in the way of wisdom; I have led thee in right paths.
4:12 When thou goest, thy steps shall not be straitened; and when thou runnest, thou shalt not stumble.
4:13 Take fast hold of instruction; let her not go: keep her; for she is thy life.
4:14 Enter not into the path of the wicked, and go not in the way of evil men.
4:15 Avoid it, pass not by it, turn from it, and pass away.
4:16 For they sleep not, except they have done mischief; and their sleep is taken away, unless they cause some to fall.
4:17 For they eat the bread of wickedness, and drink the wine of violence.
4:18 But the path of the just is as the shining light, that shineth more and more unto the perfect day.
4:19 The way of the wicked is as darkness: they know not at what they stumble.
4:20 My son, attend to my words; incline thine ear unto my sayings.
4:21 Let them not depart from thine eyes; keep them in the midst of thine heart.
4:22 For they are life unto those that find them, and health to all their flesh.
4:23 Keep thy heart with all diligence; for out of it are the issues of life.
4:24 Put away from thee a froward mouth, and perverse lips put far from thee.
4:25 Let thine eyes look right on, and let thine eyelids look straight before thee.
4:26 Ponder the path of thy feet, and let all thy ways be established.
4:27 Turn not to the right hand nor to the left: remove thy foot from evil.
Ecclesiastes 11:1–6 KJV · In this guide
Context: The full counsel about giving or ventures, uncertain events, weather, and sowing commends action within limited knowledge. The contested imagery in verses 1–2 is not made a financial rule.
11:1 Cast thy bread upon the waters: for thou shalt find it after many days.
11:2 Give a portion to seven, and also to eight; for thou knowest not what evil shall be upon the earth.
11:3 If the clouds be full of rain, they empty themselves upon the earth: and if the tree fall toward the south, or toward the north, in the place where the tree falleth, there it shall be.
11:4 He that observeth the wind shall not sow; and he that regardeth the clouds shall not reap.
11:5 As thou knowest not what is the way of the spirit, nor how the bones do grow in the womb of her that is with child: even so thou knowest not the works of God who maketh all.
11:6 In the morning sow thy seed, and in the evening withhold not thine hand: for thou knowest not whether shall prosper, either this or that, or whether they both shall be alike good.
Wisdom poetry and instruction 1 selections
Proverbs 9:1–18 KJV · In this guide
Context: The invitations of personified Wisdom and Folly frame the central sayings about response to correction and fear of the LORD.
9:1 Wisdom hath builded her house, she hath hewn out her seven pillars:
9:2 She hath killed her beasts; she hath mingled her wine; she hath also furnished her table.
9:3 She hath sent forth her maidens: she crieth upon the highest places of the city,
9:4 Whoso is simple, let him turn in hither: as for him that wanteth understanding, she saith to him,
9:5 Come, eat of my bread, and drink of the wine which I have mingled.
9:6 Forsake the foolish, and live; and go in the way of understanding.
9:7 He that reproveth a scorner getteth to himself shame: and he that rebuketh a wicked man getteth himself a blot.
9:8 Reprove not a scorner, lest he hate thee: rebuke a wise man, and he will love thee.
9:9 Give instruction to a wise man, and he will be yet wiser: teach a just man, and he will increase in learning.
9:10 The fear of the LORD is the beginning of wisdom: and the knowledge of the holy is understanding.
9:11 For by me thy days shall be multiplied, and the years of thy life shall be increased.
9:12 If thou be wise, thou shalt be wise for thyself: but if thou scornest, thou alone shalt bear it.
9:13 A foolish woman is clamorous: she is simple, and knoweth nothing.
9:14 For she sitteth at the door of her house, on a seat in the high places of the city,
9:15 To call passengers who go right on their ways:
9:16 Whoso is simple, let him turn in hither: and as for him that wanteth understanding, she saith to him,
9:17 Stolen waters are sweet, and bread eaten in secret is pleasant.
9:18 But he knoweth not that the dead are there; and that her guests are in the depths of hell.
Wisdom sayings 6 selections
Proverbs 12:15–23 KJV · In this guide
Context: Complete sayings in an anthology connect counsel, restraint, truthful and healing speech, righteousness, and prudent use of knowledge. They are not presented as a single narrative.
12:15 The way of a fool is right in his own eyes: but he that hearkeneth unto counsel is wise.
12:16 A fool’s wrath is presently known: but a prudent man covereth shame.
12:17 He that speaketh truth sheweth forth righteousness: but a false witness deceit.
12:18 There is that speaketh like the piercings of a sword: but the tongue of the wise is health.
12:19 The lip of truth shall be established for ever: but a lying tongue is but for a moment.
12:20 Deceit is in the heart of them that imagine evil: but to the counsellors of peace is joy.
12:21 There shall no evil happen to the just: but the wicked shall be filled with mischief.
12:22 Lying lips are abomination to the LORD: but they that deal truly are his delight.
12:23 A prudent man concealeth knowledge: but the heart of fools proclaimeth foolishness.
Proverbs 13:18–20 KJV · In this guide
Context: Three complete neighboring sayings concern instruction, desire, departure from evil, and the effect of companions.
13:18 Poverty and shame shall be to him that refuseth instruction: but he that regardeth reproof shall be honoured.
13:19 The desire accomplished is sweet to the soul: but it is abomination to fools to depart from evil.
13:20 He that walketh with wise men shall be wise: but a companion of fools shall be destroyed.
Proverbs 14:8–18 KJV · In this guide
Context: Complete sayings contrast understanding one’s way with deceptive confidence, gullibility, and impulsive anger.
14:8 The wisdom of the prudent is to understand his way: but the folly of fools is deceit.
14:9 Fools make a mock at sin: but among the righteous there is favour.
14:10 The heart knoweth his own bitterness; and a stranger doth not intermeddle with his joy.
14:11 The house of the wicked shall be overthrown: but the tabernacle of the upright shall flourish.
14:12 There is a way which seemeth right unto a man, but the end thereof are the ways of death.
14:13 Even in laughter the heart is sorrowful; and the end of that mirth is heaviness.
14:14 The backslider in heart shall be filled with his own ways: and a good man shall be satisfied from himself.
14:15 The simple believeth every word: but the prudent man looketh well to his going.
14:16 A wise man feareth, and departeth from evil: but the fool rageth, and is confident.
14:17 He that is soon angry dealeth foolishly: and a man of wicked devices is hated.
14:18 The simple inherit folly: but the prudent are crowned with knowledge.
Proverbs 15:22–33 KJV · In this guide
Context: The chapter’s closing sayings include counsel, timely words, thoughtful answers, prayer, reproof, and humility before honor.
15:22 Without counsel purposes are disappointed: but in the multitude of counsellors they are established.
15:23 A man hath joy by the answer of his mouth: and a word spoken in due season, how good is it!
15:24 The way of life is above to the wise, that he may depart from hell beneath.
15:25 The LORD will destroy the house of the proud: but he will establish the border of the widow.
15:26 The thoughts of the wicked are an abomination to the LORD: but the words of the pure are pleasant words.
15:27 He that is greedy of gain troubleth his own house; but he that hateth gifts shall live.
15:28 The heart of the righteous studieth to answer: but the mouth of the wicked poureth out evil things.
15:29 The LORD is far from the wicked: but he heareth the prayer of the righteous.
15:30 The light of the eyes rejoiceth the heart: and a good report maketh the bones fat.
15:31 The ear that heareth the reproof of life abideth among the wise.
15:32 He that refuseth instruction despiseth his own soul: but he that heareth reproof getteth understanding.
15:33 The fear of the LORD is the instruction of wisdom; and before honour is humility.
Proverbs 18:13–17 KJV · In this guide
Context: Complete adjacent sayings include hearing before answering, seeking knowledge, and examination of an initially persuasive case. The intervening sayings retain their own subjects.
18:13 He that answereth a matter before he heareth it, it is folly and shame unto him.
18:14 The spirit of a man will sustain his infirmity; but a wounded spirit who can bear?
18:15 The heart of the prudent getteth knowledge; and the ear of the wise seeketh knowledge.
18:16 A man’s gift maketh room for him, and bringeth him before great men.
18:17 He that is first in his own cause seemeth just; but his neighbour cometh and searcheth him.
Proverbs 26:1–12 KJV · In this guide
Context: A collected treatment of folly includes the juxtaposed commands in verses 4–5 and closes with the danger of being wise in one’s own eyes.
26:1 As snow in summer, and as rain in harvest, so honour is not seemly for a fool.
26:2 As the bird by wandering, as the swallow by flying, so the curse causeless shall not come.
26:3 A whip for the horse, a bridle for the ass, and a rod for the fool’s back.
26:4 Answer not a fool according to his folly, lest thou also be like unto him.
26:5 Answer a fool according to his folly, lest he be wise in his own conceit.
26:6 He that sendeth a message by the hand of a fool cutteth off the feet, and drinketh damage.
26:7 The legs of the lame are not equal: so is a parable in the mouth of fools.
26:8 As he that bindeth a stone in a sling, so is he that giveth honour to a fool.
26:9 As a thorn goeth up into the hand of a drunkard, so is a parable in the mouth of fools.
26:10 The great God that formed all things both rewardeth the fool, and rewardeth transgressors.
26:11 As a dog returneth to his vomit, so a fool returneth to his folly.
26:12 Seest thou a man wise in his own conceit? there is more hope of a fool than of him.
Wisdom reflection and example 1 selections
Ecclesiastes 9:11–18 KJV · In this guide
Context: Reflections on unpredictable outcomes lead into the account of a poor wise deliverer whose wisdom is neglected.
9:11 I returned, and saw under the sun, that the race is not to the swift, nor the battle to the strong, neither yet bread to the wise, nor yet riches to men of understanding, nor yet favour to men of skill; but time and chance happeneth to them all.
9:12 For man also knoweth not his time: as the fishes that are taken in an evil net, and as the birds that are caught in the snare; so are the sons of men snared in an evil time, when it falleth suddenly upon them.
9:13 This wisdom have I seen also under the sun, and it seemed great unto me:
9:14 There was a little city, and few men within it; and there came a great king against it, and besieged it, and built great bulwarks against it:
9:15 Now there was found in it a poor wise man, and he by his wisdom delivered the city; yet no man remembered that same poor man.
9:16 Then said I, Wisdom is better than strength: nevertheless the poor man’s wisdom is despised, and his words are not heard.
9:17 The words of wise men are heard in quiet more than the cry of him that ruleth among fools.
9:18 Wisdom is better than weapons of war: but one sinner destroyeth much good.
Prophetic instruction and judgment 1 selections
Jeremiah 9:23–26 KJV · In this guide
Context: The oracle on boasting in knowledge of the LORD is followed by judgment exposing circumcision without a faithful heart.
9:23 Thus saith the LORD, Let not the wise man glory in his wisdom, neither let the mighty man glory in his might, let not the rich man glory in his riches:
9:24 But let him that glorieth glory in this, that he understandeth and knoweth me, that I am the LORD which exercise lovingkindness, judgment, and righteousness, in the earth: for in these things I delight, saith the LORD.
9:25 Behold, the days come, saith the LORD, that I will punish all them which are circumcised with the uncircumcised;
9:26 Egypt, and Judah, and Edom, and the children of Ammon, and Moab, and all that are in the utmost corners, that dwell in the wilderness: for all these nations are uncircumcised, and all the house of Israel are uncircumcised in the heart.
Teaching and parabolic comparison 1 selections
Matthew 7:15–29 KJV · In this guide
Context: The close of the Sermon on the Mount moves from false prophets and fruit to final accountability, hearing and doing, and the crowd’s response to Jesus’ authority.
7:15 Beware of false prophets, which come to you in sheep’s clothing, but inwardly they are ravening wolves.
7:16 Ye shall know them by their fruits. Do men gather grapes of thorns, or figs of thistles?
7:17 Even so every good tree bringeth forth good fruit; but a corrupt tree bringeth forth evil fruit.
7:18 A good tree cannot bring forth evil fruit, neither can a corrupt tree bring forth good fruit.
7:19 Every tree that bringeth not forth good fruit is hewn down, and cast into the fire.
7:20 Wherefore by their fruits ye shall know them.
7:21 Not every one that saith unto me, Lord, Lord, shall enter into the kingdom of heaven; but he that doeth the will of my Father which is in heaven.
7:22 Many will say to me in that day, Lord, Lord, have we not prophesied in thy name? and in thy name have cast out devils? and in thy name done many wonderful works?
7:23 And then will I profess unto them, I never knew you: depart from me, ye that work iniquity.
7:24 Therefore whosoever heareth these sayings of mine, and doeth them, I will liken him unto a wise man, which built his house upon a rock:
7:25 And the rain descended, and the floods came, and the winds blew, and beat upon that house; and it fell not: for it was founded upon a rock.
7:26 And every one that heareth these sayings of mine, and doeth them not, shall be likened unto a foolish man, which built his house upon the sand:
7:27 And the rain descended, and the floods came, and the winds blew, and beat upon that house; and it fell: and great was the fall of it.
7:28 And it came to pass, when Jesus had ended these sayings, the people were astonished at his doctrine:
7:29 For he taught them as one having authority, and not as the scribes.
Jesus’ prayer and invitation 1 selections
Matthew 11:25–30 KJV · In this guide
Context: Jesus’ thanksgiving for the Father’s revelation and declaration of the Son’s knowledge precede his invitation to come, take his yoke, and learn.
11:25 At that time Jesus answered and said, I thank thee, O Father, Lord of heaven and earth, because thou hast hid these things from the wise and prudent, and hast revealed them unto babes.
11:26 Even so, Father: for so it seemed good in thy sight.
11:27 All things are delivered unto me of my Father: and no man knoweth the Son, but the Father; neither knoweth any man the Father, save the Son, and he to whomsoever the Son will reveal him.
11:28 Come unto me, all ye that labour and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest.
11:29 Take my yoke upon you, and learn of me; for I am meek and lowly in heart: and ye shall find rest unto your souls.
11:30 For my yoke is easy, and my burden is light.
Mission narrative 2 selections
Acts 17:1–15 KJV · In this guide
Context: Paul’s scriptural argument in Thessalonica introduces the message examined at Berea; belief and renewed opposition lead to his departure.
17:1 Now when they had passed through Amphipolis and Apollonia, they came to Thessalonica, where was a synagogue of the Jews:
17:2 And Paul, as his manner was, went in unto them, and three sabbath days reasoned with them out of the scriptures,
17:3 Opening and alleging, that Christ must needs have suffered, and risen again from the dead; and that this Jesus, whom I preach unto you, is Christ.
17:4 And some of them believed, and consorted with Paul and Silas; and of the devout Greeks a great multitude, and of the chief women not a few.
17:5 But the Jews which believed not, moved with envy, took unto them certain lewd fellows of the baser sort, and gathered a company, and set all the city on an uproar, and assaulted the house of Jason, and sought to bring them out to the people.
17:6 And when they found them not, they drew Jason and certain brethren unto the rulers of the city, crying, These that have turned the world upside down are come hither also;
17:7 Whom Jason hath received: and these all do contrary to the decrees of Cæsar, saying that there is another king, one Jesus.
17:8 And they troubled the people and the rulers of the city, when they heard these things.
17:9 And when they had taken security of Jason, and of the other, they let them go.
17:10 And the brethren immediately sent away Paul and Silas by night unto Berea: who coming thither went into the synagogue of the Jews.
17:11 These were more noble than those in Thessalonica, in that they received the word with all readiness of mind, and searched the scriptures daily, whether those things were so.
17:12 Therefore many of them believed; also of honourable women which were Greeks, and of men, not a few.
17:13 But when the Jews of Thessalonica had knowledge that the word of God was preached of Paul at Berea, they came thither also, and stirred up the people.
17:14 And then immediately the brethren sent away Paul to go as it were to the sea: but Silas and Timotheus abode there still.
17:15 And they that conducted Paul brought him unto Athens: and receiving a commandment unto Silas and Timotheus for to come to him with all speed, they departed.
Acts 18:24–28 KJV · In this guide
Context: The complete Apollos episode records his strengths, the limitation concerning John’s baptism, fuller instruction, and fruitful ministry in Achaia.
18:24 And a certain Jew named Apollos, born at Alexandria, an eloquent man, and mighty in the scriptures, came to Ephesus.
18:25 This man was instructed in the way of the Lord; and being fervent in the spirit, he spake and taught diligently the things of the Lord, knowing only the baptism of John.
18:26 And he began to speak boldly in the synagogue: whom when Aquila and Priscilla had heard, they took him unto them, and expounded unto him the way of God more perfectly.
18:27 And when he was disposed to pass into Achaia, the brethren wrote, exhorting the disciples to receive him: who, when he was come, helped them much which had believed through grace:
18:28 For he mightily convinced the Jews, and that publickly, shewing by the scriptures that Jesus was Christ.
Shared Christian instruction 10 selections
Romans 12:1–8 KJV · In this guide
Context: Paul appeals on the basis of God’s mercies, calls for embodied worship and a renewed mind, and immediately explains humble service within one body.
12:1 I beseech you therefore, brethren, by the mercies of God, that ye present your bodies a living sacrifice, holy, acceptable unto God, which is your reasonable service.
12:2 And be not conformed to this world: but be ye transformed by the renewing of your mind, that ye may prove what is that good, and acceptable, and perfect, will of God.
12:3 For I say, through the grace given unto me, to every man that is among you, not to think of himself more highly than he ought to think; but to think soberly, according as God hath dealt to every man the measure of faith.
12:4 For as we have many members in one body, and all members have not the same office:
12:5 So we, being many, are one body in Christ, and every one members one of another.
12:6 Having then gifts differing according to the grace that is given to us, whether prophecy, let us prophesy according to the proportion of faith;
12:7 Or ministry, let us wait on our ministering: or he that teacheth, on teaching;
12:8 Or he that exhorteth, on exhortation: he that giveth, let him do it with simplicity; he that ruleth, with diligence; he that sheweth mercy, with cheerfulness.
1 Thessalonians 5:12–24 KJV · In this guide
Context: Closing communal instructions join respect, patience, goodness, prayer, prophecy-testing, and God’s sanctifying faithfulness.
5:12 And we beseech you, brethren, to know them which labour among you, and are over you in the Lord, and admonish you;
5:13 And to esteem them very highly in love for their work’s sake. And be at peace among yourselves.
5:14 Now we exhort you, brethren, warn them that are unruly, comfort the feebleminded, support the weak, be patient toward all men.
5:15 See that none render evil for evil unto any man; but ever follow that which is good, both among yourselves, and to all men.
5:16 Rejoice evermore.
5:17 Pray without ceasing.
5:18 In every thing give thanks: for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus concerning you.
5:19 Quench not the Spirit.
5:20 Despise not prophesyings.
5:21 Prove all things; hold fast that which is good.
5:22 Abstain from all appearance of evil.
5:23 And the very God of peace sanctify you wholly; and I pray God your whole spirit and soul and body be preserved blameless unto the coming of our Lord Jesus Christ.
5:24 Faithful is he that calleth you, who also will do it.
James 1:1–18 KJV · In this guide
Context: The greeting and opening instruction move through trials, endurance, wisdom, faith, poverty and wealth, temptation, and God’s good giving.
1:1 James, a servant of God and of the Lord Jesus Christ, to the twelve tribes which are scattered abroad, greeting.
1:2 My brethren, count it all joy when ye fall into divers temptations;
1:3 Knowing this, that the trying of your faith worketh patience.
1:4 But let patience have her perfect work, that ye may be perfect and entire, wanting nothing.
1:5 If any of you lack wisdom, let him ask of God, that giveth to all men liberally, and upbraideth not; and it shall be given him.
1:6 But let him ask in faith, nothing wavering. For he that wavereth is like a wave of the sea driven with the wind and tossed.
1:7 For let not that man think that he shall receive any thing of the Lord.
1:8 A double minded man is unstable in all his ways.
1:9 Let the brother of low degree rejoice in that he is exalted:
1:10 But the rich, in that he is made low: because as the flower of the grass he shall pass away.
1:11 For the sun is no sooner risen with a burning heat, but it withereth the grass, and the flower thereof falleth, and the grace of the fashion of it perisheth: so also shall the rich man fade away in his ways.
1:12 Blessed is the man that endureth temptation: for when he is tried, he shall receive the crown of life, which the Lord hath promised to them that love him.
1:13 Let no man say when he is tempted, I am tempted of God: for God cannot be tempted with evil, neither tempteth he any man:
1:14 But every man is tempted, when he is drawn away of his own lust, and enticed.
1:15 Then when lust hath conceived, it bringeth forth sin: and sin, when it is finished, bringeth forth death.
1:16 Do not err, my beloved brethren.
1:17 Every good gift and every perfect gift is from above, and cometh down from the Father of lights, with whom is no variableness, neither shadow of turning.
1:18 Of his own will begat he us with the word of truth, that we should be a kind of firstfruits of his creatures.
James 1:19–27 KJV · In this guide
Context: Reception of the implanted word leads to the mirror comparison and concrete expressions of faithful religion.
1:19 Wherefore, my beloved brethren, let every man be swift to hear, slow to speak, slow to wrath:
1:20 For the wrath of man worketh not the righteousness of God.
1:21 Wherefore lay apart all filthiness and superfluity of naughtiness, and receive with meekness the engrafted word, which is able to save your souls.
1:22 But be ye doers of the word, and not hearers only, deceiving your own selves.
1:23 For if any be a hearer of the word, and not a doer, he is like unto a man beholding his natural face in a glass:
1:24 For he beholdeth himself, and goeth his way, and straightway forgetteth what manner of man he was.
1:25 But whoso looketh into the perfect law of liberty, and continueth therein, he being not a forgetful hearer, but a doer of the work, this man shall be blessed in his deed.
1:26 If any man among you seem to be religious, and bridleth not his tongue, but deceiveth his own heart, this man’s religion is vain.
1:27 Pure religion and undefiled before God and the Father is this, To visit the fatherless and widows in their affliction, and to keep himself unspotted from the world.
James 3:1–18 KJV · In this guide
Context: Accountable teaching and the tongue precede the question of who is wise and the contrast between rivalrous and heavenly wisdom.
3:1 My brethren, be not many masters, knowing that we shall receive the greater condemnation.
3:2 For in many things we offend all. If any man offend not in word, the same is a perfect man, and able also to bridle the whole body.
3:3 Behold, we put bits in the horses’ mouths, that they may obey us; and we turn about their whole body.
3:4 Behold also the ships, which though they be so great, and are driven of fierce winds, yet are they turned about with a very small helm, whithersoever the governor listeth.
3:5 Even so the tongue is a little member, and boasteth great things. Behold, how great a matter a little fire kindleth!
3:6 And the tongue is a fire, a world of iniquity: so is the tongue among our members, that it defileth the whole body, and setteth on fire the course of nature; and it is set on fire of hell.
3:7 For every kind of beasts, and of birds, and of serpents, and of things in the sea, is tamed, and hath been tamed of mankind:
3:8 But the tongue can no man tame; it is an unruly evil, full of deadly poison.
3:9 Therewith bless we God, even the Father; and therewith curse we men, which are made after the similitude of God.
3:10 Out of the same mouth proceedeth blessing and cursing. My brethren, these things ought not so to be.
3:11 Doth a fountain send forth at the same place sweet water and bitter?
3:12 Can the fig tree, my brethren, bear olive berries? either a vine, figs? so can no fountain both yield salt water and fresh.
3:13 Who is a wise man and endued with knowledge among you? let him shew out of a good conversation his works with meekness of wisdom.
3:14 But if ye have bitter envying and strife in your hearts, glory not, and lie not against the truth.
3:15 This wisdom descendeth not from above, but is earthly, sensual, devilish.
3:16 For where envying and strife is, there is confusion and every evil work.
3:17 But the wisdom that is from above is first pure, then peaceable, gentle, and easy to be intreated, full of mercy and good fruits, without partiality, and without hypocrisy.
3:18 And the fruit of righteousness is sown in peace of them that make peace.
James 4:1–10 KJV · In this guide
Context: James traces quarrels to desires, diagnoses disloyalty, and calls the community to receive grace through submission, repentance, and humility.
4:1 From whence come wars and fightings among you? come they not hence, even of your lusts that war in your members?
4:2 Ye lust, and have not: ye kill, and desire to have, and cannot obtain: ye fight and war, yet ye have not, because ye ask not.
4:3 Ye ask, and receive not, because ye ask amiss, that ye may consume it upon your lusts.
4:4 Ye adulterers and adulteresses, know ye not that the friendship of the world is enmity with God? whosoever therefore will be a friend of the world is the enemy of God.
4:5 Do ye think that the scripture saith in vain, The spirit that dwelleth in us lusteth to envy?
4:6 But he giveth more grace. Wherefore he saith, God resisteth the proud, but giveth grace unto the humble.
4:7 Submit yourselves therefore to God. Resist the devil, and he will flee from you.
4:8 Draw nigh to God, and he will draw nigh to you. Cleanse your hands, ye sinners; and purify your hearts, ye double minded.
4:9 Be afflicted, and mourn, and weep: let your laughter be turned to mourning, and your joy to heaviness.
4:10 Humble yourselves in the sight of the Lord, and he shall lift you up.
James 4:13–17 KJV · In this guide
Context: The complete address to confident planners contrasts presumptuous gain with dependence on God and responsibility for known good.
4:13 Go to now, ye that say, To day or to morrow we will go into such a city, and continue there a year, and buy and sell, and get gain:
4:14 Whereas ye know not what shall be on the morrow. For what is your life? It is even a vapour, that appeareth for a little time, and then vanisheth away.
4:15 For that ye ought to say, If the Lord will, we shall live, and do this, or that.
4:16 But now ye rejoice in your boastings: all such rejoicing is evil.
4:17 Therefore to him that knoweth to do good, and doeth it not, to him it is sin.
2 Peter 1:3–11 KJV · In this guide
Context: God’s provision and promises ground the call for diligent growth in a connected set of qualities, fruitful knowledge of Christ, and a firm calling.
1:3 According as his divine power hath given unto us all things that pertain unto life and godliness, through the knowledge of him that hath called us to glory and virtue:
1:4 Whereby are given unto us exceeding great and precious promises: that by these ye might be partakers of the divine nature, having escaped the corruption that is in the world through lust.
1:5 And beside this, giving all diligence, add to your faith virtue; and to virtue knowledge;
1:6 And to knowledge temperance; and to temperance patience; and to patience godliness;
1:7 And to godliness brotherly kindness; and to brotherly kindness charity.
1:8 For if these things be in you, and abound, they make you that ye shall neither be barren nor unfruitful in the knowledge of our Lord Jesus Christ.
1:9 But he that lacketh these things is blind, and cannot see afar off, and hath forgotten that he was purged from his old sins.
1:10 Wherefore the rather, brethren, give diligence to make your calling and election sure: for if ye do these things, ye shall never fall:
1:11 For so an entrance shall be ministered unto you abundantly into the everlasting kingdom of our Lord and Saviour Jesus Christ.
1 John 4:1–6 KJV · In this guide
Context: The complete paragraph about false prophets tests spiritual claims by the confession of the incarnate Christ and reception of the declared truth.
4:1 Beloved, believe not every spirit, but try the spirits whether they are of God: because many false prophets are gone out into the world.
4:2 Hereby know ye the Spirit of God: Every spirit that confesseth that Jesus Christ is come in the flesh is of God:
4:3 And every spirit that confesseth not that Jesus Christ is come in the flesh is not of God: and this is that spirit of antichrist, whereof ye have heard that it should come; and even now already is it in the world.
4:4 Ye are of God, little children, and have overcome them: because greater is he that is in you, than he that is in the world.
4:5 They are of the world: therefore speak they of the world, and the world heareth them.
4:6 We are of God: he that knoweth God heareth us; he that is not of God heareth not us. Hereby know we the spirit of truth, and the spirit of error.
Apostolic argument 2 selections
1 Corinthians 1:10–31 KJV · In this guide
Context: Paul first names factions and the danger of emptying the cross through vaunted speech, then unfolds the saving wisdom of Christ crucified and the church’s calling.
1:10 Now I beseech you, brethren, by the name of our Lord Jesus Christ, that ye all speak the same thing, and that there be no divisions among you; but that ye be perfectly joined together in the same mind and in the same judgment.
1:11 For it hath been declared unto me of you, my brethren, by them which are of the house of Chloe, that there are contentions among you.
1:12 Now this I say, that every one of you saith, I am of Paul; and I of Apollos; and I of Cephas; and I of Christ.
1:13 Is Christ divided? was Paul crucified for you? or were ye baptized in the name of Paul?
1:14 I thank God that I baptized none of you, but Crispus and Gaius;
1:15 Lest any should say that I had baptized in mine own name.
1:16 And I baptized also the household of Stephanas: besides, I know not whether I baptized any other.
1:17 For Christ sent me not to baptize, but to preach the gospel: not with wisdom of words, lest the cross of Christ should be made of none effect.
1:18 For the preaching of the cross is to them that perish foolishness; but unto us which are saved it is the power of God.
1:19 For it is written, I will destroy the wisdom of the wise, and will bring to nothing the understanding of the prudent.
1:20 Where is the wise? where is the scribe? where is the disputer of this world? hath not God made foolish the wisdom of this world?
1:21 For after that in the wisdom of God the world by wisdom knew not God, it pleased God by the foolishness of preaching to save them that believe.
1:22 For the Jews require a sign, and the Greeks seek after wisdom:
1:23 But we preach Christ crucified, unto the Jews a stumblingblock, and unto the Greeks foolishness;
1:24 But unto them which are called, both Jews and Greeks, Christ the power of God, and the wisdom of God.
1:25 Because the foolishness of God is wiser than men; and the weakness of God is stronger than men.
1:26 For ye see your calling, brethren, how that not many wise men after the flesh, not many mighty, not many noble, are called:
1:27 But God hath chosen the foolish things of the world to confound the wise; and God hath chosen the weak things of the world to confound the things which are mighty;
1:28 And base things of the world, and things which are despised, hath God chosen, yea, and things which are not, to bring to nought things that are:
1:29 That no flesh should glory in his presence.
1:30 But of him are ye in Christ Jesus, who of God is made unto us wisdom, and righteousness, and sanctification, and redemption:
1:31 That, according as it is written, He that glorieth, let him glory in the Lord.
Colossians 2:1–15 KJV · In this guide
Context: Paul’s concern for encouraged, united believers leads to wisdom in Christ, rooted faith, rejection of deceptive teaching, and Christ’s fullness and saving work.
2:1 For I would that ye knew what great conflict I have for you, and for them at Laodicea, and for as many as have not seen my face in the flesh;
2:2 That their hearts might be comforted, being knit together in love, and unto all riches of the full assurance of understanding, to the acknowledgement of the mystery of God, and of the Father, and of Christ;
2:3 In whom are hid all the treasures of wisdom and knowledge.
2:4 And this I say, lest any man should beguile you with enticing words.
2:5 For though I be absent in the flesh, yet am I with you in the spirit, joying and beholding your order, and the stedfastness of your faith in Christ.
2:6 As ye have therefore received Christ Jesus the Lord, so walk ye in him:
2:7 Rooted and built up in him, and stablished in the faith, as ye have been taught, abounding therein with thanksgiving.
2:8 Beware lest any man spoil you through philosophy and vain deceit, after the tradition of men, after the rudiments of the world, and not after Christ.
2:9 For in him dwelleth all the fulness of the Godhead bodily.
2:10 And ye are complete in him, which is the head of all principality and power:
2:11 In whom also ye are circumcised with the circumcision made without hands, in putting off the body of the sins of the flesh by the circumcision of Christ:
2:12 Buried with him in baptism, wherein also ye are risen with him through the faith of the operation of God, who hath raised him from the dead.
2:13 And you, being dead in your sins and the uncircumcision of your flesh, hath he quickened together with him, having forgiven you all trespasses;
2:14 Blotting out the handwriting of ordinances that was against us, which was contrary to us, and took it out of the way, nailing it to his cross;
2:15 And having spoiled principalities and powers, he made a shew of them openly, triumphing over them in it.
Apostolic argument and correction 1 selections
1 Corinthians 2:1–3:9 KJV · In this guide
Context: Paul recalls his preaching, describes God’s wisdom revealed through the Spirit, and then rebukes the recipients’ envy and factions while identifying ministers as fellow servants.
2:1 And I, brethren, when I came to you, came not with excellency of speech or of wisdom, declaring unto you the testimony of God.
2:2 For I determined not to know any thing among you, save Jesus Christ, and him crucified.
2:3 And I was with you in weakness, and in fear, and in much trembling.
2:4 And my speech and my preaching was not with enticing words of man’s wisdom, but in demonstration of the Spirit and of power:
2:5 That your faith should not stand in the wisdom of men, but in the power of God.
2:6 Howbeit we speak wisdom among them that are perfect: yet not the wisdom of this world, nor of the princes of this world, that come to nought:
2:7 But we speak the wisdom of God in a mystery, even the hidden wisdom, which God ordained before the world unto our glory:
2:8 Which none of the princes of this world knew: for had they known it, they would not have crucified the Lord of glory.
2:9 But as it is written, Eye hath not seen, nor ear heard, neither have entered into the heart of man, the things which God hath prepared for them that love him.
2:10 But God hath revealed them unto us by his Spirit: for the Spirit searcheth all things, yea, the deep things of God.
2:11 For what man knoweth the things of a man, save the spirit of man which is in him? even so the things of God knoweth no man, but the Spirit of God.
2:12 Now we have received, not the spirit of the world, but the spirit which is of God; that we might know the things that are freely given to us of God.
2:13 Which things also we speak, not in the words which man’s wisdom teacheth, but which the Holy Ghost teacheth; comparing spiritual things with spiritual.
2:14 But the natural man receiveth not the things of the Spirit of God: for they are foolishness unto him: neither can he know them, because they are spiritually discerned.
2:15 But he that is spiritual judgeth all things, yet he himself is judged of no man.
2:16 For who hath known the mind of the Lord, that he may instruct him? But we have the mind of Christ.
3:1 And I, brethren, could not speak unto you as unto spiritual, but as unto carnal, even as unto babes in Christ.
3:2 I have fed you with milk, and not with meat: for hitherto ye were not able to bear it, neither yet now are ye able.
3:3 For ye are yet carnal: for whereas there is among you envying, and strife, and divisions, are ye not carnal, and walk as men?
3:4 For while one saith, I am of Paul; and another, I am of Apollos; are ye not carnal?
3:5 Who then is Paul, and who is Apollos, but ministers by whom ye believed, even as the Lord gave to every man?
3:6 I have planted, Apollos watered; but God gave the increase.
3:7 So then neither is he that planteth any thing, neither he that watereth; but God that giveth the increase.
3:8 Now he that planteth and he that watereth are one: and every man shall receive his own reward according to his own labour.
3:9 For we are labourers together with God: ye are God’s husbandry, ye are God’s building.
Apostolic instruction about worship and freedom 1 selections
1 Corinthians 10:14–11:1 KJV · In this guide
Context: The prohibition of idol worship precedes permission concerning market and household food, concern for another’s conscience, God’s glory, and imitation of Paul as he follows Christ.
10:14 Wherefore, my dearly beloved, flee from idolatry.
10:15 I speak as to wise men; judge ye what I say.
10:16 The cup of blessing which we bless, is it not the communion of the blood of Christ? The bread which we break, is it not the communion of the body of Christ?
10:17 For we being many are one bread, and one body: for we are all partakers of that one bread.
10:18 Behold Israel after the flesh: are not they which eat of the sacrifices partakers of the altar?
10:19 What say I then? that the idol is any thing, or that which is offered in sacrifice to idols is any thing?
10:20 But I say, that the things which the Gentiles sacrifice, they sacrifice to devils, and not to God: and I would not that ye should have fellowship with devils.
10:21 Ye cannot drink the cup of the Lord, and the cup of devils: ye cannot be partakers of the Lord’s table, and of the table of devils.
10:22 Do we provoke the Lord to jealousy? are we stronger than he?
10:23 All things are lawful for me, but all things are not expedient: all things are lawful for me, but all things edify not.
10:24 Let no man seek his own, but every man another’s wealth.
10:25 Whatsoever is sold in the shambles, that eat, asking no question for conscience sake:
10:26 For the earth is the Lord’s, and the fulness thereof.
10:27 If any of them that believe not bid you to a feast, and ye be disposed to go; whatsoever is set before you, eat, asking no question for conscience sake.
10:28 But if any man say unto you, This is offered in sacrifice unto idols, eat not for his sake that shewed it, and for conscience sake: for the earth is the Lord’s, and the fulness thereof:
10:29 Conscience, I say, not thine own, but of the other: for why is my liberty judged of another man’s conscience?
10:30 For if I by grace be a partaker, why am I evil spoken of for that for which I give thanks?
10:31 Whether therefore ye eat, or drink, or whatsoever ye do, do all to the glory of God.
10:32 Give none offence, neither to the Jews, nor to the Gentiles, nor to the church of God:
10:33 Even as I please all men in all things, not seeking mine own profit, but the profit of many, that they may be saved.
11:1 Be ye followers of me, even as I also am of Christ.
Apostolic thanksgiving and prayer 1 selections
Philippians 1:3–11 KJV · In this guide
Context: Thanksgiving for gospel fellowship leads into Paul’s prayer for informed, discerning love, righteousness through Christ, and readiness for his day.
1:3 I thank my God upon every remembrance of you,
1:4 Always in every prayer of mine for you all making request with joy,
1:5 For your fellowship in the gospel from the first day until now;
1:6 Being confident of this very thing, that he which hath begun a good work in you will perform it until the day of Jesus Christ:
1:7 Even as it is meet for me to think this of you all, because I have you in my heart; inasmuch as both in my bonds, and in the defence and confirmation of the gospel, ye all are partakers of my grace.
1:8 For God is my record, how greatly I long after you all in the bowels of Jesus Christ.
1:9 And this I pray, that your love may abound yet more and more in knowledge and in all judgment;
1:10 That ye may approve things that are excellent; that ye may be sincere and without offence till the day of Christ;
1:11 Being filled with the fruits of righteousness, which are by Jesus Christ, unto the glory and praise of God.
Apostolic prayer 1 selections
Colossians 1:9–14 KJV · In this guide
Context: Paul’s prayer for spiritual understanding states its intended conduct and gives thanks for the Father’s deliverance and the Son’s redemption.
1:9 For this cause we also, since the day we heard it, do not cease to pray for you, and to desire that ye might be filled with the knowledge of his will in all wisdom and spiritual understanding;
1:10 That ye might walk worthy of the Lord unto all pleasing, being fruitful in every good work, and increasing in the knowledge of God;
1:11 Strengthened with all might, according to his glorious power, unto all patience and longsuffering with joyfulness;
1:12 Giving thanks unto the Father, which hath made us meet to be partakers of the inheritance of the saints in light:
1:13 Who hath delivered us from the power of darkness, and hath translated us into the kingdom of his dear Son:
1:14 In whom we have redemption through his blood, even the forgiveness of sins:
Instruction to Timothy 1 selections
2 Timothy 3:10–17 KJV · In this guide
Context: Paul’s conduct and suffering frame his charge that Timothy continue in received teaching and the Scriptures that make wise for salvation and equip for good works.
3:10 But thou hast fully known my doctrine, manner of life, purpose, faith, longsuffering, charity, patience,
3:11 Persecutions, afflictions, which came unto me at Antioch, at Iconium, at Lystra; what persecutions I endured: but out of them all the Lord delivered me.
3:12 Yea, and all that will live godly in Christ Jesus shall suffer persecution.
3:13 But evil men and seducers shall wax worse and worse, deceiving, and being deceived.
3:14 But continue thou in the things which thou hast learned and hast been assured of, knowing of whom thou hast learned them;
3:15 And that from a child thou hast known the holy scriptures, which are able to make thee wise unto salvation through faith which is in Christ Jesus.
3:16 All scripture is given by inspiration of God, and is profitable for doctrine, for reproof, for correction, for instruction in righteousness:
3:17 That the man of God may be perfect, throughly furnished unto all good works.
Theological argument and exhortation 1 selections
Hebrews 5:1–14 KJV · In this guide
Context: The discussion of priesthood and Christ leads into the hearers’ difficulty receiving further instruction, the milk/solid-food comparison, and trained discernment.
5:1 For every high priest taken from among men is ordained for men in things pertaining to God, that he may offer both gifts and sacrifices for sins:
5:2 Who can have compassion on the ignorant, and on them that are out of the way; for that he himself also is compassed with infirmity.
5:3 And by reason hereof he ought, as for the people, so also for himself, to offer for sins.
5:4 And no man taketh this honour unto himself, but he that is called of God, as was Aaron.
5:5 So also Christ glorified not himself to be made an high priest; but he that said unto him, Thou art my Son, to day have I begotten thee.
5:6 As he saith also in another place, Thou art a priest for ever after the order of Melchisedec.
5:7 Who in the days of his flesh, when he had offered up prayers and supplications with strong crying and tears unto him that was able to save him from death, and was heard in that he feared;
5:8 Though he were a Son, yet learned he obedience by the things which he suffered;
5:9 And being made perfect, he became the author of eternal salvation unto all them that obey him;
5:10 Called of God an high priest after the order of Melchisedec.
5:11 Of whom we have many things to say, and hard to be uttered, seeing ye are dull of hearing.
5:12 For when for the time ye ought to be teachers, ye have need that one teach you again which be the first principles of the oracles of God; and are become such as have need of milk, and not of strong meat.
5:13 For every one that useth milk is unskilful in the word of righteousness: for he is a babe.
5:14 But strong meat belongeth to them that are of full age, even those who by reason of use have their senses exercised to discern both good and evil.
Apostolic testimony 1 selections
1 John 1:1–4 KJV · In this guide
Context: The letter’s opening declares what its witnesses have heard, seen, and handled concerning the manifested life, with fellowship and joy as its purpose.
1:1 That which was from the beginning, which we have heard, which we have seen with our eyes, which we have looked upon, and our hands have handled, of the Word of life;
1:2 (For the life was manifested, and we have seen it, and bear witness, and shew unto you that eternal life, which was with the Father, and was manifested unto us;)
1:3 That which we have seen and heard declare we unto you, that ye also may have fellowship with us: and truly our fellowship is with the Father, and with his Son Jesus Christ.
1:4 And these things write we unto you, that your joy may be full.
Go deeper
Sources & interpretation
The teaching starts with the cited Scripture. These consulted works inform wording, context, and interpretive questions. No qualified human review has been recorded for this guide.
What does the beginning of wisdom mean?
Proverbs 1:7 uses knowledge, 9:10 uses wisdom, and 15:33 connects fear of the LORD with instruction and humility. Job 28:28 identifies reverence and departure from evil with human wisdom.
- An initial step by which wisdom is acquired; the NET prefers this emphasis in Proverbs 1:7.
- An enduring governing foundation; Blocher argues that “principle” conveys this priority.
- The chief part or essence of wisdom, a proposed rendering Blocher evaluates more cautiously.
STRONG: Begin with reverence and continue in it. The acquisition emphasis and the broader continuing relationship can be affirmed together without replacing the displayed KJV. The article does not claim that every occurrence of fear has an identical emotional sense.
Further study: Henri Blocher · Biblical Studies Press
Further examination: How do Proverbs 1:5–7, 9:8–10, and 15:31–33 connect initial learning, further growth, and reverence? What would be lost if fear were treated as a stage one could leave behind?
What kind of wavering does James address?
James 1:6 calls for faith, and verses 7–8 describe instability. James 4:4–8 again addresses divided hearts while calling for renewed loyalty to God.
- The emphasis falls on doubt that God will give the requested wisdom.
- The emphasis falls on a divided commitment that asks God while remaining directed elsewhere.
- The immediate trust and wider loyalty concerns belong together.
PROBABLE: The third reading best retains both contexts. The article gives the positive charge to trust God and receive his direction. Neither every unresolved question nor every involuntary feeling is identified with the whole pattern James describes.
Further study: Biblical Studies Press
Further examination: How do the generous giver in James 1:5, the unstable person in 1:6–8, and the call to draw near in 4:6–10 explain the response James seeks?
How should the two answers to a fool be read together?
Proverbs 26:4–5 repeats the response language but supplies two different reasons: becoming like the fool, or leaving him wise in his own estimation.
- Different occasions call for speaking or refraining, according to the stated dangers.
- One may address a foolish claim while refusing its foolish manner or assumptions.
- Different classes of subject are intended; the NET reports a secular/sacred distinction but does not regard it as a complete solution.
PROBABLE: The first two explanations can illuminate the pair together. The stated reasons are firmer evidence than an unstated fixed classification of subjects. The main paragraph therefore teaches judgment about a truthful, fitting response.
Further study: Biblical Studies Press · Biblical Studies Press
Further examination: What does each verse seek to prevent, and how can both purposes guide an answer without treating either proverb as an unconditional rule for every encounter?
What confidence does God’s direction give?
Proverbs 3:5–10 confidently commends trust and speaks of divine direction and blessing; verses 11–12 include loving correction. Ecclesiastes 9:11–18 preserves wisdom’s value amid unpredictable outcomes and neglect.
- The promises guarantee an immediately smooth and visibly prosperous course for every faithful person.
- They commend God’s reliable care and wisdom’s life-giving direction in proverbial form, without specifying every event.
- Direction means receiving a private indication for each individual decision.
STRONG: The second reading fits the selected contexts. The first overlooks correction and the wider witness; the third adds a method the unit does not state. NET note 3’s success language is preserved as its argument, not silently expanded or erased.
Further study: Biblical Studies Press
Further examination: How do the correction of Proverbs 3:11–12 and the faithful affliction of Psalm 119:105–112 shape the confidence a reader should draw from Proverbs 3:5–6?
How do spiritual understanding and accountable testing belong together?
First Corinthians 2:10–16 concerns receiving what God reveals through the Spirit. Paul immediately corrects the recipients in 3:1–9. Other selected instructions call churches to examine teaching and develop practiced discernment.
- A spiritual person’s judgments in every matter are exempt from correction.
- The Spirit enables reception and assessment of God’s revealed wisdom; personal judgments remain accountable to that truth.
- The passage is only about intellectual ability unrelated to faith and conduct.
STRONG: The second reading follows Paul’s argument and subsequent correction. That context is sufficient to reject a claim of private infallibility without settling the precise translation of 2:13 or distinctions among spiritual gifts. The guide does not resolve a gifts debate. Hebrews 5 connects maturity with learning about Christ and practiced moral discernment.
Further study: J. R. Daniel Kirk · Biblical Studies Press
Further examination: What is being revealed and understood in 1 Corinthians 2:6–16, and what does Paul’s correction in 3:1–9 show about the difference between receiving God’s Spirit and always judging wisely?
- The Fear of the Lord as the “Principle” of Wisdom
Henri Blocher · Tyndale Bulletin 28/1, pp. 3–28; DOI 10.53751/001c.30613 · 1977
Argues for reverent dependence on God as wisdom’s continuing foundation, evaluating “beginning” against “chief part” and “essence.”
What was reviewed
PDF printed pp. 7–9 and 13–17; p. 18 opening three paragraphs; introductory pp. 3–6. Bibliographic details checked on journal landing page. Accessed 2026-09-25 · Read in part.
Partial article inspection. Lexicons and scholars quoted in it were not independently read; proposed historical reconstructions are not premises of this guide.
- NET Bible: Proverbs 1:7, notes 1–7
Biblical Studies Press · NET Bible
Explains reverence and moral knowledge; prefers “beginning” in light of the acquisition of wisdom in verses 2–6.
What was reviewed
Verse page and all seven numbered translator/study notes. Accessed 2026-09-25 · Read in part.
The lexical works cited by the notes were not separately inspected. The guide compares this preference with Blocher without claiming consensus.
- Commentary on Proverbs 1:1–7; 3:1–8
Kathryn M. Schifferdecker · Working Preacher / Luther Seminary · 2015-07-12
Emphasizes character formation, ordinary conduct, and reverence before the Creator.
What was reviewed
Opening orientation and the entire Week 1 section, through its final paragraph on fear of the LORD; later weeks not treated as consulted evidence. Accessed 2026-09-25 · Read in part.
Her experience/revelation contrast is qualified by Proverbs 2:6 and Deuteronomy 4:5–8. The literary illustration and cited books are not adopted as evidence.
- Commentary on 1 Corinthians 1:18–31
J. R. Daniel Kirk · Working Preacher / Luther Seminary · 2011-01-30
Relates the cross and God’s calling of the community to Paul’s correction of boasting and division.
What was reviewed
Complete commentary body: The Economy of the Cross; The Revelation of Israel’s God; Wisdom, Power, and the Cross; Fools Made Wise. Accessed 2026-09-25.
His proposed alignment of wisdom/power with particular Corinthian factions is qualified in the source and is not adopted here.
- NET Bible: James 1:8, note 1
Biblical Studies Press · NET Bible
Understands double-mindedness as divided devotion; this was tested against James 1:6–8 and 4:4–8.
What was reviewed
Verse page, complete numbered note 1, including its study-note continuation. James 1:5–6 translation pages were also inspected; they contained no numbered notes. Accessed 2026-09-25 · Read in part.
This contextual explanation does not remove the direct call to faith in 1:6. BDAG was not independently read.
- NET Bible: 1 Thessalonians 5:22, translation comparison
Biblical Studies Press · NET Bible
Checks “appearance” against the rendering “form” in the command to abstain from evil.
What was reviewed
NET and displayed comparison translations; the page’s notes field was empty. Accessed 2026-09-25 · Read in part.
Translation comparison only, not a newly inspected lexicon or argument about every possible sense.
- NET Bible: Proverbs 26:4, notes 1–2
Biblical Studies Press · NET Bible
Explains the danger of adopting a fool’s manner of reasoning.
What was reviewed
Verse page and both study notes. Accessed 2026-09-25 · Read in part.
Greenstone is cited through the notes and was not independently consulted.
- NET Bible: Proverbs 26:5, notes 1–2
Biblical Studies Press · NET Bible
Presents the pair as complementary truths requiring judgment about response.
What was reviewed
Verse page and complete notes, including competing ways of relating verses 4–5. Accessed 2026-09-25 · Read in part.
Its secular/sacred distinction and “lesser of two evils” formulation are examined but not made the article’s rule. Plaut and rabbinic sources were not independently read.
- NET Bible: Philippians 1:10, translation comparison
Biblical Studies Press · NET Bible
Checks the sense of approving what is excellent as discriminating judgment.
What was reviewed
NET rendering, displayed translation comparisons, and note field; no numbered explanatory notes were present. Accessed 2026-09-25 · Read in part.
Translation comparison only; no commentary or lexical study is claimed.
- Commentary on James 3:13–4:3, 7–8a
Margaret Aymer · Working Preacher / Luther Seminary · 2018-09-23
Connects wisdom, communal conduct, conflict, and renewed loyalty to God.
What was reviewed
Complete commentary body, including the argument for reading the omitted 4:4 and the conclusion on repentance. Accessed 2026-09-25.
The guide does not adopt her tentative pagan-world reconstruction or the broader creation-restoration inference. Her leadership emphasis is not used to restrict duties addressed to the community.
- NET Bible: James 3:17, notes 1–3
Biblical Studies Press · NET Bible
Clarifies the KJV’s “easy to be intreated” as openness to persuasion.
What was reviewed
Verse page and all three translator notes, especially note 1. Accessed 2026-09-25 · Read in part.
A brief translator note; purity and the surrounding argument govern application.
- NET Bible: Hebrews 5:14, translation comparison
Biblical Studies Press · NET Bible
Checks the mature/solid-food/practice language against older KJV wording.
What was reviewed
NET and displayed comparison translations; the page’s notes field was empty. Accessed 2026-09-25 · Read in part.
Translation comparison only. The doctrine/conduct relationship is reasoned from Hebrews 5 itself.
- NET Bible: Proverbs 3:6, notes 1–3
Biblical Studies Press · NET Bible
Explains acknowledgment as trusting obedience and the path image as God making the way straight.
What was reviewed
Verse page and all three translator notes. Accessed 2026-09-25 · Read in part.
Its success/obstacle language is read with Proverbs 3:11–12 and Ecclesiastes 9:11–18; the guide does not turn the image into guaranteed ease.