Proverbs 5
BSB1 My son, pay attention to my wisdom; incline your ear to my insight, 2 that you may maintain discretion and your lips may preserve knowledge. 3 Though the lips of the forbidden woman drip honey and her speech is smoother than oil, 4 in the end she is bitter as wormwood, sharp as a double-edged sword. 5 Her feet go down to death; her steps lead straight to Sheol. 6 She does not consider the path of life; she does not know that her ways are unstable. 7 So now, my sons, listen to me, and do not turn aside from the words of my mouth. 8 Keep your path far from her; do not go near the door of her house, 9 lest you concede your vigor to others, and your years to one who is cruel; 10 lest strangers feast on your wealth, and your labors enrich the house of a foreigner. 11 At the end of your life you will groan when your flesh and your body are spent, 12 and you will say, “How I hated discipline, and my heart despised reproof! 13 I did not listen to the voice of my teachers or incline my ear to my mentors. 14 I am on the brink of utter ruin in the midst of the whole assembly." 15 Drink water from your own cistern, and running water from your own well. 16 Why should your springs flow in the streets, your streams of water in the public squares? 17 Let them be yours alone, never to be shared with strangers. 18 May your fountain be blessed, and may you rejoice in the wife of your youth: 19 A loving doe, a graceful fawn— may her breasts satisfy you always; may you be captivated by her love forever. 20 Why be captivated, my son, by an adulteress, or embrace the bosom of a stranger? 21 For a man’s ways are before the eyes of the LORD, and the LORD examines all his paths. 22 The iniquities of a wicked man entrap him; the cords of his sin entangle him. 23 He dies for lack of discipline, led astray by his own great folly.
Study Notes — Proverbs 5
- Chapter Summary
- Context for the Chapter
- Heart Application
- What Does This Chapter Mean?
- Voices from the Church
- Outline for Preaching
- Core Doctrines
- Lessons from Proverbs 5
- Themes from Proverbs 5
- Questions for Meditation
- Detailed Chapter Outline
- Frequently Asked Questions
- Top Cross References
- Sermons on Proverbs 5
- Matthew Henry Commentary
- What Do You Notice?
Chapter Summary
Proverbs 5 begins with a warning against the dangers of adultery, describing the devastating consequences of giving in to temptation (Proverbs 5:1-14). The chapter then contrasts the fleeting pleasures of sin with the lasting joys of a virtuous and faithful marriage (Proverbs 5:15-20). The wise father urges his son to avoid the snares of the adulteress and to find delight in his own wife, emphasizing the importance of self-control and integrity (Proverbs 5:21-23). The chapter concludes with a warning against the dangers of foolishness and a call to heed wise counsel (Proverbs 5:21-23).
Context for the Chapter
Proverbs 5 is part of a larger collection of wisdom sayings and teachings in the book of Proverbs. It is addressed to a young man, urging him to heed wise counsel and avoid the temptations of sin. The chapter is set in the context of ancient Israelite society, where adultery and foolishness were seen as serious threats to the well-being of individuals and communities. The chapter's teachings are timeless, however, and remain relevant for Christians today.
Heart Application
As we reflect on Proverbs 5, we are called to examine our own lives and relationships. We are urged to prioritize wisdom, self-control, and integrity, and to seek to honor God in all that we do. We are reminded that our actions have consequences, and that God is always watching. May we seek to live a life of virtue and faithfulness, knowing that our ways are always before the eyes of the Lord.
What Does This Chapter Mean?
Proverbs 5 warns against the dangers of adultery and foolishness, and urges us to prioritize wisdom, self-control, and integrity in our relationships. It reminds us that our actions have consequences, and that God is always watching. As Christians, we are called to live a life of virtue and faithfulness, knowing that our bodies are temples of the Holy Spirit. In Proverbs 5:21, we see a glimpse of God's omniscience and care for us, which is fully revealed in Jesus Christ.
Voices from the Church
“The way of sin is a way of darkness, but the way of wisdom is a way of light. Let us seek to walk in the light of God's word, and to avoid the snares of sin.”
— Charles Spurgeon
“The fear of God is the beginning of wisdom. Let us seek to cultivate a deep reverence for God, and to live a life of integrity and virtue.”
— John Calvin
Outline for Preaching
- Warning Against Adultery (Proverbs 5:1-6) — The chapter begins with a warning against the dangers of adultery, describing the devastating consequences of giving in to temptation.
- The Dangers of the Adulteress (Proverbs 5:7-14) — The chapter contrasts the fleeting pleasures of sin with the lasting joys of a virtuous and faithful marriage.
- The Value of a Virtuous Marriage (Proverbs 5:15-20) — The wise father urges his son to avoid the snares of the adulteress and to find delight in his own wife, emphasizing the importance of self-control and integrity.
- The Importance of Wisdom and Self-Control (Proverbs 5:21-23) — The chapter concludes with a warning against the dangers of foolishness and a call to heed wise counsel, emphasizing the importance of living a life of integrity and virtue.
- Conclusion (Proverbs 5:21-23) — The chapter reminds us that our actions have consequences, and that God is always watching. May we seek to live a life of virtue and faithfulness, knowing that our ways are always before the eyes of the Lord.
Core Doctrines
- The Importance of Wisdom
- Proverbs 5 emphasizes the importance of wisdom in avoiding the snares of sin and living a life of virtue and happiness. Wisdom involves heeding wise counsel and avoiding the temptations of sin.
- The Dangers of Adultery
- The chapter warns against the devastating consequences of adultery, including the loss of reputation, health, and relationships. It emphasizes the importance of faithfulness and integrity in relationships.
- The Value of Self-Control
- Self-control is emphasized as essential for resisting the temptations of sin and living a life of integrity. It involves being mindful of our thoughts, words, and actions, and seeking to honor God in all that we do.
- The Omniscience of God
- Proverbs 5:21 reminds us that our actions have consequences, and that God is always watching. May we seek to live a life of virtue and faithfulness, knowing that our ways are always before the eyes of the Lord.
Lessons from Proverbs 5
- The Importance of Wisdom — Proverbs 5 emphasizes the importance of wisdom in avoiding the snares of sin and living a life of virtue and happiness. May we seek to prioritize wisdom in our relationships and decisions.
- The Dangers of Adultery — The chapter warns against the devastating consequences of adultery, including the loss of reputation, health, and relationships. May we prioritize faithfulness and integrity in our relationships.
- The Value of Self-Control — Self-control is emphasized as essential for resisting the temptations of sin and living a life of integrity. May we seek to cultivate self-control in our thoughts, words, and actions.
- The Omniscience of God — Proverbs 5:21 reminds us that our actions have consequences, and that God is always watching. May we seek to live a life of virtue and faithfulness, knowing that our ways are always before the eyes of the Lord.
- The Importance of Reverence for God — The chapter emphasizes the importance of cultivating a deep reverence for God, and living a life of integrity and virtue. May we seek to honor God in all that we do.
Themes from Proverbs 5
- Wisdom and Foolishness — Proverbs 5 contrasts the wisdom of living a life of virtue and integrity with the foolishness of giving in to sin and temptation.
- Adultery and Faithfulness — The chapter warns against the dangers of adultery, and emphasizes the importance of faithfulness and integrity in relationships.
- Self-Control and Integrity — Self-control is emphasized as essential for resisting the temptations of sin and living a life of integrity. May we seek to cultivate self-control in our thoughts, words, and actions.
- The Omniscience of God — Proverbs 5:21 reminds us that our actions have consequences, and that God is always watching. May we seek to live a life of virtue and faithfulness, knowing that our ways are always before the eyes of the Lord.
- The Importance of Reverence for God — The chapter emphasizes the importance of cultivating a deep reverence for God, and living a life of integrity and virtue. May we seek to honor God in all that we do.
Questions for Meditation
- What are some common temptations that can lead us into sin, and how can we avoid them?
- What are some practical ways that we can prioritize wisdom and self-control in our relationships?
- How can we cultivate a deep reverence for God, and live a life of integrity and virtue?
- What are some consequences of adultery, and how can we prioritize faithfulness and integrity in our relationships?
- How can we seek to honor God in all that we do, and live a life that is pleasing to Him?
Detailed Chapter Outline
1. Warning Against Adultery (Proverbs 5:1-6)
| Proverbs 5:1 | The chapter begins with a warning against the dangers of adultery, describing the devastating consequences of giving in to temptation. |
| Proverbs 5:2 | The wise father urges his son to heed his words, and to avoid the snares of the adulteress. |
| Proverbs 5:3 | The chapter contrasts the fleeting pleasures of sin with the lasting joys of a virtuous and faithful marriage. |
| Proverbs 5:4 | The adulteress is described as a woman who is bitter and cruel, and who brings only sorrow and regret to those who give in to her temptations. |
| Proverbs 5:5 | The wise father warns his son against the dangers of the adulteress, and urges him to prioritize wisdom and self-control in his relationships. |
| Proverbs 5:6 | The chapter reminds us that our actions have consequences, and that God is always watching. May we seek to live a life of virtue and faithfulness, knowing that our ways are always before the eyes of the Lord. |
2. The Dangers of the Adulteress (Proverbs 5:7-14)
| Proverbs 5:7 | The wise father urges his son to avoid the snares of the adulteress, and to prioritize wisdom and self-control in his relationships. |
| Proverbs 5:8 | The adulteress is described as a woman who is cunning and deceitful, and who seeks to destroy the reputations and relationships of those who give in to her temptations. |
| Proverbs 5:9 | The chapter warns against the dangers of giving in to temptation, and urges us to prioritize faithfulness and integrity in our relationships. |
| Proverbs 5:10 | The wise father reminds his son that our actions have consequences, and that God is always watching. May we seek to live a life of virtue and faithfulness, knowing that our ways are always before the eyes of the Lord. |
| Proverbs 5:11 | The chapter contrasts the fleeting pleasures of sin with the lasting joys of a virtuous and faithful marriage. |
| Proverbs 5:12 | The wise father urges his son to learn from his mistakes, and to prioritize wisdom and self-control in his relationships. |
| Proverbs 5:13 | The chapter reminds us that our actions have consequences, and that God is always watching. May we seek to live a life of virtue and faithfulness, knowing that our ways are always before the eyes of the Lord. |
| Proverbs 5:14 | The wise father warns his son against the dangers of the adulteress, and urges him to prioritize faithfulness and integrity in his relationships. |
3. The Value of a Virtuous Marriage (Proverbs 5:15-20)
| Proverbs 5:15 | The wise father urges his son to drink from his own cistern, and to find delight in his own wife. |
| Proverbs 5:16 | The chapter contrasts the fleeting pleasures of sin with the lasting joys of a virtuous and faithful marriage. |
| Proverbs 5:17 | The wise father reminds his son that our actions have consequences, and that God is always watching. May we seek to live a life of virtue and faithfulness, knowing that our ways are always before the eyes of the Lord. |
| Proverbs 5:18 | The chapter urges us to rejoice in our spouses, and to find delight in our marriages. |
| Proverbs 5:19 | The wise father reminds his son that our actions have consequences, and that God is always watching. May we seek to live a life of virtue and faithfulness, knowing that our ways are always before the eyes of the Lord. |
| Proverbs 5:20 | The chapter warns against the dangers of giving in to temptation, and urges us to prioritize faithfulness and integrity in our relationships. |
4. The Importance of Wisdom and Self-Control (Proverbs 5:21-23)
| Proverbs 5:21 | The wise father reminds his son that our actions have consequences, and that God is always watching. May we seek to live a life of virtue and faithfulness, knowing that our ways are always before the eyes of the Lord. |
| Proverbs 5:22 | The chapter warns against the dangers of giving in to temptation, and urges us to prioritize faithfulness and integrity in our relationships. |
| Proverbs 5:23 | The wise father reminds his son that our actions have consequences, and that God is always watching. May we seek to live a life of virtue and faithfulness, knowing that our ways are always before the eyes of the Lord. |
Frequently Asked Questions
What are some common temptations that can lead us into sin?
Some common temptations that can lead us into sin include the temptation to commit adultery, to prioritize wealth and material possessions over relationships and integrity, and to give in to our own selfish desires. May we seek to prioritize wisdom and self-control in our relationships and decisions, and to avoid the snares of sin.
How can we cultivate a deep reverence for God, and live a life of integrity and virtue?
We can cultivate a deep reverence for God by prioritizing wisdom and self-control in our relationships and decisions, and by seeking to honor God in all that we do. May we seek to live a life of virtue and faithfulness, knowing that our ways are always before the eyes of the Lord.
What are some consequences of adultery, and how can we prioritize faithfulness and integrity in our relationships?
Some consequences of adultery include the loss of reputation, health, and relationships. May we prioritize faithfulness and integrity in our relationships, and seek to avoid the snares of sin.
Top Cross References
| Reference | Connection | |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | Proverbs 5:1 → Matthew 5:27-28 | Jesus teaches that looking at a woman with lust is equivalent to committing adultery in the heart. May we seek to prioritize faithfulness and integrity in our relationships, and to avoid the snares of sin. |
| 2 | Proverbs 5:3 → 1 Corinthians 6:18-20 | The apostle Paul warns against the dangers of immorality, and urges us to flee from sexual immorality. May we prioritize faithfulness and integrity in our relationships, and seek to honor God in all that we do. |
| 3 | Proverbs 5:7 → Galatians 5:19-21 | The apostle Paul lists adultery as one of the works of the flesh, and urges us to live by the Spirit. May we seek to prioritize wisdom and self-control in our relationships and decisions, and to avoid the snares of sin. |
| 4 | Proverbs 5:15 → Ephesians 5:25-33 | The apostle Paul urges husbands to love their wives as Christ loved the church, and to prioritize faithfulness and integrity in their relationships. May we seek to live a life of virtue and faithfulness, knowing that our ways are always before the eyes of the Lord. |
| 5 | Proverbs 5:21 → Psalm 139:1-6 | The psalmist reminds us that God is always watching, and that our actions have consequences. May we seek to live a life of virtue and faithfulness, knowing that our ways are always before the eyes of the Lord. |
| 6 | Proverbs 5:22 → Romans 6:1-14 | The apostle Paul urges us to consider ourselves dead to sin, and to live a life of obedience to God. May we prioritize faithfulness and integrity in our relationships, and seek to honor God in all that we do. |
| 7 | Proverbs 5:23 → 1 Thessalonians 4:1-8 | The apostle Paul urges us to live a life of holiness and purity, and to prioritize faithfulness and integrity in our relationships. May we seek to live a life of virtue and faithfulness, knowing that our ways are always before the eyes of the Lord. |
| 8 | Proverbs 5:1-6 → Job 31:1-12 | Job makes a covenant with his eyes not to look at a woman with lust, and prioritizes faithfulness and integrity in his relationships. May we seek to live a life of virtue and faithfulness, knowing that our ways are always before the eyes of the Lord. |
| 9 | Proverbs 5:7-14 → Matthew 19:1-12 | Jesus teaches that marriage is a sacred institution, and that we should prioritize faithfulness and integrity in our relationships. May we seek to live a life of virtue and faithfulness, knowing that our ways are always before the eyes of the Lord. |
| 10 | Proverbs 5:15-20 → Genesis 2:18-25 | The institution of marriage is established by God, and we are urged to prioritize faithfulness and integrity in our relationships. May we seek to live a life of virtue and faithfulness, knowing that our ways are always before the eyes of the Lord. |
Sermons on Proverbs 5
| Sermon | Description | |
|---|---|---|
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How to Bring Your Children to Christ by Ray Comfort | In this sermon, the speaker shares personal experiences and observations about the transformative power of God's word. He emphasizes the importance of having a fear of God and reco |
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(Godly Home) Part 25 - Joining the Next Generation by Denny Kenaston | In this sermon, Brother Denny discusses the power of emotions and the importance of directing them towards the right person. He emphasizes the need for parents to be involved in th |
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The Candlestick - Sardis (The Congregation of the Dead) by Carter Conlon | In this sermon, the preacher emphasizes the importance of meeting with God in the appointed place. He encourages the congregation to surrender everything they have and are to God, |
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How Well Do You Take Correction by Carter Conlon | This sermon emphasizes the importance of being open to correction and guidance from God. It highlights the need to have a tender heart, to be willing to change course, and to align |
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Run for Your Life by Carter Conlon | This sermon is a passionate call to the church to run for their lives from false teachings, prosperity-driven messages, and immoral practices. The speaker urges believers to dig th |
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Righteousness Imputed and Imparted by Bill McLeod | In this sermon, the speaker shares a personal story about a woman who felt restless and missed her husband when he was gone. She couldn't sleep and in her desperation, she knelt by |
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Led by the Spirit of God - Part 5 by Milton Green | In this sermon, the preacher emphasizes the importance of turning to discipline and reproof. He highlights the need for believers to allow the Spirit of God to control their lives |
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Steak and Snake by Carter Conlon | The sermon from Malachi chapter 3 emphasizes the importance of having oil in our lamps, symbolizing the need for spiritual readiness in a darkening world. It warns against the sedu |
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Fiery Darts of Immorality by George Verwer | In this sermon, the speaker addresses the issue of using sex to communicate the gospel. He mentions a group that taught girls how to use sex to evangelize and shares examples of gi |
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The Revolution of the Love / Die Revolution Der Liebe - Part 4 by George Verwer | In this sermon, the speaker shares two stories from their ministry experiences. The first story is about two women who found it difficult to receive encouragement because the speak |
Summary of Matthew Henry Commentary on Proverbs 5
In Proverbs 5, we see a solemn warning against the dangers of adultery and the importance of faithfulness and integrity in relationships. The wise father urges his son to avoid the snares of the adulteress, and to prioritize wisdom and self-control in his relationships. We are reminded that our actions have consequences, and that God is always watching. May we seek to live a life of virtue and faithfulness, knowing that our ways are always before the eyes of the Lord. As Matthew Henry notes, 'the way of sin is a way of darkness, but the way of wisdom is a way of light.' May we seek to walk in the light of God's word, and to avoid the snares of sin. Read the full unabridged Matthew Henry Commentary →
What Do You Notice?
The Dangers of Adultery
The chapter warns against the devastating consequences of adultery, including the loss of reputation, health, and relationships. It emphasizes the importance of faithfulness and integrity in relationships.
The Importance of Wisdom
Wisdom is presented as the key to avoiding the snares of sin and living a life of virtue and happiness. It involves heeding wise counsel and avoiding the temptations of sin.
The Value of Self-Control
Self-control is emphasized as essential for resisting the temptations of sin and living a life of integrity. It involves being mindful of our thoughts, words, and actions, and seeking to honor God in all that we do.