Proverbs 1:7
Verse
Context
Sermons







Summary
Commentary
- Jamieson-Fausset-Brown
- John Gill
- Matthew Henry
- Tyndale
Jamieson-Fausset-Brown Bible Commentary
The fear of the Lord--the principle of true piety (compare Pro 2:5; Pro 14:26-27; Job 28:28; Psa 34:11; Psa 111:10; Act 9:31). beginning--first part, foundation. fools--the stupid and indifferent to God's character and government; hence the wicked.
John Gill Bible Commentary
The fear of the Lord is the beginning of knowledge,.... Here properly the book begins, and this is the first of the proverbs, and an excellent one; it is such an one as is not to be found in all the writings of the Heathens. By "the fear of the Lord" is not meant a servile fear, a fear of punishment, of hell, wrath, and damnation, which is the effect of the first work of the law upon the conscience; but a filial fear, and supposes knowledge of God as a father, of his love and grace in Christ, particularly of his forgiving love, from whence it arises, Psa 130:4; it is a holy, humble, fiducial fear of God; a reverential affection for him, and devotion to him; it includes the whole of religious worship, both internal and external; all that is contained in the first table of the law, and the manner of performing it, and principle of acting: this is the first of all sciences to be learned, and it is the principal one; it is the basis and foundation of all the rest, on which they depend; and it is the head, the fountain, the root an source, from whence they spring; and unless a man knows God, knows God in Christ, and worships him in his fear, in spirit and in truth, according to his revealed will, he knows nothing as he ought to know; and all his knowledge will be of no avail and profit to him; this is the first and chief thing in spiritual and evangelical knowledge, and without which all natural knowledge will signify nothing; see Job 28:28; but fools despise wisdom and instruction; the same with "knowledge" before; they do not desire the knowledge of God, and of his ways and worship, but despise it, make no account of it, but treat it with contempt; especially the knowledge of God in Christ, in which lies the highest wisdom, for this is "life eternal", Joh 17:3; they despise Christ "the Wisdom of God", and the Gospel, and the truths of it, which are "the hidden wisdom" of God; and all "instruction" into it, and the means of it; they despise the Scriptures, which are able to make a man "wise unto salvation"; and the ministry of the word, and the ministers of it: such sort of "discipline" (n) was this, as the word signifies, they dislike and abhor; and especially "correction" or "chastisement" (o), which is also the sense of it; suffering reproach and affliction for the sake of wisdom, a profession of Christ and his Gospel; and they are fools with a witness that despise all this; such fools are atheists, deists, and all profane and wicked men. The Septuagint render it, "the ungodly"; and such sort of men are all along meant by "fools" in this book. (n) "disciplinam", Tigurine version, Piscator, Cocceius, Schultens, (o) "Castigationem, correctionem", Vatablus.
Matthew Henry Bible Commentary
Solomon, having undertaken to teach a young man knowledge and discretion, here lays down two general rules to be observed in order thereunto, and those are, to fear God and honour his parents, which two fundamental laws of morality Pythagoras begins his golden verses with, but the former of them in a wretchedly corrupted state. Primum, deos immortales cole, parentesque honora - First worship the immortal gods, and honour your parents. To make young people such as they should be, I. Let them have regard to God as their supreme. 1. He lays down this truth, that the fear of the Lord is the beginning of knowledge (Pro 1:7); it is the principal part of knowledge (so the margin); it is the head of knowledge; that is, (1.) Of all things that are to be known this is most evident, that God is to be feared, to be reverenced, served, and worshipped; this is so the beginning of knowledge that those know nothing who do not know this. (2.) In order to the attaining of all useful knowledge this is most necessary, that we fear God; we are not qualified to profit by the instructions that are given us unless our minds be possessed with a holy reverence of God, and every thought within us be brought into obedience to him. If any man will do his will, he shall know of his doctrine, Joh 7:17. (3.) As all our knowledge must take rise from the fear of God, so it must tend to it as its perfection and centre. Those know enough who know how to fear God, who are careful in every thing to please him and fearful of offending him in any thing; this is the Alpha and Omega of knowledge. 2. To confirm this truth, that an eye to God must both direct and quicken all our pursuits of knowledge, he observes, Fools (atheists, who have no regard to God) despise wisdom and instruction; having no dread at all of God's wrath, nor any desire of his favour, they will not give you thanks for telling them what they may do to escape his wrath and obtain his favour. Those who say to the Almighty, Depart from us, who are so far from fearing him that they set him at defiance, can excite no surprise if they desire not the knowledge of his ways, but despise that instruction. Note, Those are fools who do not fear God and value the scriptures; and though they may pretend to be admirers of wit they are really strangers and enemies to wisdom. II. Let them have regard to their parents as their superiors (Pro 1:8, Pro 1:9): My son, hear the instruction of thy father. He means, not only that he would have his own children to be observant of him, and of what he said to them, nor only that he would have his pupils, and those who came to him to be taught, to look upon him as their father and attend to his precepts with the disposition of children, but that he would have all children to be dutiful and respectful to their parents, and to conform to the virtuous and religious education which they give them, according to the law of the fifth commandment. 1. He takes it for granted that parents will, with all the wisdom they have, instruct their children, and, with all the authority they have, give law to them for their good. They are reasonable creatures, and therefore we must not give them law without instruction; we must draw them with the cords of a man, and when we tell them what they must do we must tell them why. But they are corrupt and wilful, and therefore with the instruction there is need of a law. Abraham will not only catechize, but command, his household. Both the father and the mother must do all they can for the good education of their children, and all little enough. 2. He charges children both to receive and to retain the good lessons and laws their parents give them. (1.) To receive them with readiness: "Hear the instruction of thy father; hear it and heed it; hear it and bid it welcome, and be thankful for it, and subscribe to it." (2.) To retain them with resolution: "Forsake not their law; think not that when thou art grown up, and no longer under tutors and governors, thou mayest live at large; no, the law of thy mother was according to the law of thy God, and therefore it must never be forsaken; thou wast trained up in the way in which thou shouldst go, and therefore, when thou art old, thou must not depart from it." Some observe that whereas the Gentile ethics, and the laws of the Persians and Romans, provided only that children should pay respect to their father, the divine law secures the honour of the mother also. 3. He recommends this as that which is very graceful and will put an honour upon us: "The instructions and laws of thy parents, carefully observed and lived up to, shall be an ornament of grace unto thy head (Pro 1:9), such an ornament as is, in the sight of God, of great price, and shall make thee look as great as those that wear gold chains about their necks." Let divine truths and commands be to us a coronet, or a collar of SS, which are badges of first-rate honours; let us value them, and be ambitious of them, and then they shall be so to us. Those are truly valuable, and shall be valued, who value themselves more by their virtue and piety than by their worldly wealth and dignity.
Tyndale Open Study Notes
1:7 Fear of the Lord recognizes total dependence on God for everything, including knowledge and wisdom (9:10). It is not just a mental attitude but involves service, love, and obeying God’s laws (see Deut 10:12-13). Fear of the Lord is the basis of all knowledge. How can we understand life without knowing the most fundamental truth about it—that it is God’s creation?
Proverbs 1:7
The Beginning of Knowledge
6by understanding the proverbs and parables, the sayings and riddles of the wise. 7The fear of the LORD is the beginning of knowledge, but fools despise wisdom and discipline.
- Scripture
- Sermons
- Commentary
Continue in Sin
By David Wilkerson17K1:06:53Continuing In SinPSA 25:14PSA 89:29PSA 111:10PRO 1:7PRO 9:10MAT 6:33ROM 6:1In this sermon, the preacher emphasizes the importance of addressing hidden sins and lust in the hearts and minds of believers. He explains that God considers these hidden sins to be more wicked and dangerous than open sins committed by the wicked. The preacher urges the congregation to examine their hearts and minds, acknowledging that God sees what is inside and knows the true nature of their thoughts. He shares personal experiences of being convicted by the Holy Spirit and emphasizes the need for repentance and surrender to God's will.
2 Corinthians Teaching - God Who Raises the Dead
By K.P. Yohannan5.0K00:00Christian MinistryFear Of GodPSA 139:23PRO 1:7ECC 12:13MAT 10:28ROM 14:122CO 5:112CO 5:14HEB 4:131PE 1:171JN 4:18K.P. Yohannan discusses the profound motivations behind Christian ministry as illustrated in 2 Corinthians, emphasizing the duality of the fear of the Lord and the love of Christ. He highlights how Paul was driven by a reverent fear of God, which instilled a sense of responsibility and accountability in his ministry. Yohannan contrasts this with the contemporary view of God as merely a friend, urging believers to recognize the seriousness of their relationship with the Almighty. He shares a personal story about his son to illustrate the weight of disappointment and the importance of honoring God. Ultimately, he calls on ministers and believers alike to live with a deep reverence for God, understanding the gravity of their actions and the impact on their relationship with Him.
Forsaking God
By B.H. Clendennen4.4K48:57RebellionEXO 20:3PSA 119:11PRO 1:7HOS 4:6MAT 6:331CO 1:18JUD 1:3In this sermon, the preacher emphasizes the importance of having knowledge and understanding of God's Word. He quotes Hosea 4:6, which states that God's people are disturbed for lack of knowledge. The preacher warns against rejecting knowledge and forgetting the law of God, as it can lead to negative consequences, even affecting future generations. He shares a personal experience of being convicted by the Holy Spirit for watching inappropriate content and emphasizes the need for sensitivity to God's voice and the importance of allowing Him to probe deep into our spirits.
(Basics) 23. Another Reason for Failure
By Zac Poonen4.0K13:09GEN 2:16PRO 1:7MAT 6:33MAT 27:46ROM 6:1ROM 6:14In this sermon, the speaker emphasizes the seriousness of sin and the need for believers to recognize its gravity. He uses the example of Adam and Eve, who were given only one commandment but still disobeyed, resulting in their expulsion from God's presence. The speaker also highlights the significance of Jesus' sacrifice on the cross, stating that even if only one person had committed one sin, Jesus would still have come to die for that sin. The sermon concludes by emphasizing the importance of taking sin seriously and having faith in the Word of God.
Five Rules for Christian Living - Part 2
By A.W. Tozer3.2K30:35Christian LivingPSA 111:10PRO 1:7PRO 9:10MAT 6:33ROM 3:18HEB 12:28REV 1:17In this sermon, the preacher emphasizes the importance of having a holy fear and reverence for God. He explains that this kind of fear cannot be induced by external factors like fancy clothing, music, or rituals. Instead, it is a deep awe and respect that comes from recognizing God's power and glory. The preacher also discusses the concept of holy living and the rules that Christians have historically followed to guide their behavior. He highlights the need to honor all of God's creation and to recognize the divine image in every person.
(Guidelines) Is the Bible Important
By J. Vernon McGee3.2K29:59GEN 1:1PRO 1:7ISA 40:8MAT 6:33ROM 12:2The sermon transcript describes the goal of the through the Bible ministry, which is to give the entire Bible, the word of God, to men as they are. The speaker shares stories of how this ministry has impacted individuals, such as a mother in Alaska and a Navajo mother in Arizona. The speaker emphasizes the importance of discipline in studying the word of God and encourages listeners to read the Bible daily. The sermon concludes with an invitation to join the Bible bus and ride along on the safari through scripture, with the promise to stop at any corner and welcome new listeners.
Fear of the Lord
By Winkie Pratney2.4K1:08:57Fear Of The LordReverence for GodEXO 15:11DEU 10:12PSA 86:11PRO 1:7PRO 28:14MAL 1:6MRK 4:36JHN 3:162TI 1:71JN 4:18Winkie Pratney emphasizes that the fear of the Lord is the foremost requirement from God, as stated in Deuteronomy 10:12. He explains that while love, service, and obedience are important, they stem from a proper understanding of God's greatness and holiness. Pratney explores the dual nature of fear in the Bible, contrasting the fear of the Lord with the fear that God does not give us, and highlights that true reverence for God leads to wisdom and understanding. He encourages believers to seek a deeper revelation of God's beauty and majesty, which will transform their lives and lead to genuine worship and obedience.
We Have Been Taught Not to Discern - Part 3
By Andrew Strom2.3K09:59PRO 1:7JER 5:14AMO 8:11MAT 4:4MAT 6:19LUK 9:23ROM 1:18HEB 4:12This sermon emphasizes the scarcity of true spiritual nourishment in a time of crisis, pointing out the absence of the word of the Lord amidst church growth strategies and motivational talks. It calls for a return to preaching on sin, righteousness, and judgment, highlighting the need for a fear of God and understanding of being saved from His wrath. The sermon challenges the materialistic mindset prevalent in society, urging a shift towards spiritual grounding in God's truth rather than superficial 'frothiness.'
(Genesis) 13 - the Reign of the Grim Reaper and the Rapture of Enoch
By S. Lewis Johnson1.8K50:45EnochGEN 4:25GEN 5:24PRO 1:7MAT 6:33ROM 5:21ROM 6:23In this sermon, the speaker discusses the importance of living a life that is pleasing to God. He emphasizes the significance of knowing and following God's will, using examples from biblical figures such as Enoch and Peter. The speaker also highlights the value of individuals in human history, particularly those who have remained faithful to God. Additionally, the sermon touches on the concept of death and its presence in the book of Genesis.
Leonard Ravenhill 85yrs Old Rebukes Pastors!!
By Compilations1.7K02:05LEV 10:1PSA 111:10PRO 1:7ECC 12:13ISA 6:1HEB 12:28This sermon emphasizes the seriousness of reverence for God and the importance of being attentive and respectful in His presence. It calls for a deep reflection on one's attitude towards God and His holiness, highlighting the consequences of disrespect and lack of reverence. The speaker shares a powerful message about the significance of approaching God with humility and awe, drawing from the story of Uzziah's tragic end when he dared to enter the holy place. The urgency of the message is underscored by the speaker's unwavering commitment to delivering God's truth, regardless of the audience's response or reception.
Guidelines for Growth - Part 1
By J. Vernon McGee1.4K1:12:48PRO 1:7MAT 6:33ROM 12:2HEB 1:1In this sermon, the preacher discusses four important aspects of the Bible: revelation, inspiration, illumination, and interpretation. He emphasizes that God has spoken and communicated to mankind through the Bible, and that the inspiration of the Holy Spirit guarantees the truth of the Bible. The preacher also highlights the role of the Holy Spirit in illuminating the meaning of the Bible to believers. He concludes by describing the Bible as containing the mind of God, the way of salvation, and the glory of God, and encourages listeners to read it, believe it, and practice its teachings.
What Is the Secret of Your Strength - Part 2 (Alternative)
By Leonard Ravenhill1.4K50:55RevivalJDG 16:19PRO 1:7DAN 11:32MAT 7:21ACT 2:222TI 2:15HEB 4:12In this sermon, the preacher emphasizes the importance of studying and preaching the word of God. He shares various anecdotes and examples to illustrate his points. He encourages young students to study and show themselves approved to God, rather than seeking approval from others. The preacher also highlights the need for a new depth and anointing from God, urging pastors to seek a genuine revival and to let go of formalities.
Sins Coming Onto Our Children
By Milton Green1.3K04:27PRO 1:7MAT 4:1MAT 6:24LUK 4:14EPH 6:10JAS 5:16In this sermon, the preacher emphasizes the importance of following the word of God without changing it to fit personal preferences or traditions. He highlights Jesus as the ultimate example of purity and holiness, who only received the power of God after proving his heart was holy. The preacher urges the audience to possess the land by repenting from the sinful nature and character of Satan, and purifying their hearts. He warns against the temptations of the powers of darkness, which try to lead believers astray from God's law through anger, unforgiveness, pride, and selfishness. The sermon encourages listeners to let the word of God lead them out of spiritual darkness and to love the Lord with all their heart and their neighbor as themselves.
Eight Ways of Deceiving Ourselves - Part 3
By Zac Poonen1.2K10:48PRO 1:7MAT 7:21ROM 6:231CO 6:7GAL 6:7JAS 1:221JN 1:8This sermon emphasizes the importance of humility in seeking wisdom from God's Word, highlighting the need to acknowledge our limitations in understanding spiritual truths. It also warns against self-deception, particularly in areas such as legal disputes among believers and living in sin while claiming to be a follower of Christ. The message stresses the seriousness of living a righteous life and the danger of being deceived into thinking that one can continue in sin without consequences.
Evangelizing the Western Mindset - Part 12
By Winkie Pratney1.1K58:38PRO 1:7MAL 3:16EPH 3:10COL 3:16HEB 13:7This sermon delves into the unique characteristics of different decades, drawing parallels between historical events and the current generation. It emphasizes the importance of understanding the new consciousness and major mission fields in today's world. The sermon highlights the need for a sense of destiny, a deep reverence for God, and a connection to the rich history of the church to effectively minister to the challenges and opportunities of the 80s.
Revival - America's Only Hope
By Robert Vradenburgh1.0K36:09JDG 10:13PSA 85:1PRO 1:7PRO 1:24ROM 1:18In this sermon, the preacher focuses on the need for revival in America. He starts by referencing Romans chapter one, emphasizing the lost state of the Gentile heathen and the importance of sharing the gospel with them. The preacher then shifts the focus to "heathen America," highlighting the suppression of truth and the worship of created things instead of the Creator. He emphasizes the moral and spiritual decay in the country, accompanied by a paradoxical high level of church attendance. The sermon concludes with a call for revival and a reminder of the consequences of forsaking God.
The Revolution of the Love / Die Revolution Der Liebe - Part 4
By George Verwer1.0K28:43JOB 1:21PRO 1:7PRO 3:5PRO 5:18PRO 6:16PRO 30:5ACT 13:2In 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 speaker reminded them of Adolf Hitler. The second story is about an older man who was impatient during a long sermon and started waving his watch. The speaker used this moment to emphasize the importance of giving for world missions. The sermon also touches on topics such as the ministry of encouragement, the need for prayer and giving, the example of Paul and Barnabas in Acts 13, and the importance of developing biblical wisdom and faith. The speaker also shares their personal struggles with discouragement and the need to rely on God's grace and the Word of God. The sermon concludes with a call to make a commitment to live in the highway of grace, develop biblical relationships, and have a biblical theology of suffering.
Holl-05 Absolute Overgave 2 of 2 (Absolute Surrender 2 of 2)
By Art Katz9201:18:15HollandPRO 1:7MAT 16:17MAT 16:22JHN 3:2JHN 11:35In this sermon, the speaker emphasizes the importance of understanding the spiritual significance of Jesus' words and actions. He shares a personal experience of reading a secular article that highlighted the interconnectedness of global events and how they impact everything. The speaker then refers to the story of Nicodemus meeting Jesus at night, highlighting Jesus' unexpected response about the need for spiritual rebirth to see the kingdom of God. The sermon concludes with a caution against initiating our own activities without seeking God's intricate and intertwined purpose for our lives.
Promises Regarding Revival - Part 2
By Bill McLeod89937:04RevivalPSA 37:5PRO 1:7PRO 3:5JER 33:3ZEC 7:13MAT 7:21GAL 6:7In this sermon, the speaker discusses the miracle of a million shoes that occurred when the Israelites were in the wilderness for 40 years. Despite the harsh conditions and lack of resources, their shoes never wore out and there was not one feeble person among them. The speaker emphasizes that if God could take care of the Israelites in such a challenging environment, there is no problem He cannot handle. The sermon also highlights the power of commitment and trusting in God's provision, sharing personal experiences of running Bible camps and witnessing God's faithfulness in providing for their needs. The speaker encourages the audience to cut the ropes of doubt and fully commit to God, knowing that He will take care of them.
10 - Education and Its Purpose
By Ben Torrey87306:52EducationDEU 4:30PSA 78:1PRO 1:7PRO 9:10PRO 22:6MAT 6:33JHN 8:31In this sermon, Ben Torrey discusses the topic of education and its significance in Korean society. He highlights the strong emphasis on education in Korea, which stems from the Confucian foundations of the culture. However, Torrey expresses concern that education has become almost like a god for many people, with status and connections being prioritized over real learning. He argues that this perspective is not aligned with a biblical perspective on education. Torrey references Psalm 78:1-7, which emphasizes the importance of passing on the praises of the Lord and His wondrous works to future generations.
The Character of Hell
By Rolfe Barnard8421:12:47PSA 34:18PSA 126:5PRO 1:7MAT 6:33LUK 16:19LUK 16:23In this sermon, the preacher begins by referencing Luke's Gospel, chapter 16, and focuses on the character of Hell. He shares a personal anecdote about a friend who became an evangelist and had a luxurious experience before entering Hell. The preacher describes the loneliness and separation from God in Hell, emphasizing the torment and longing for the glory of God. He concludes by stating that Heaven is prepared for those who are prepared for it, and Hell is the best that God could do for those who reject Him.
Often Reproved
By Rolfe Barnard80056:03GEN 6:13EST 9:10PRO 1:7MAT 7:24ROM 10:17HEB 11:7JAS 1:22In this sermon, the preacher talks about a series of events that occurred over three days. He mentions that there was a great fear that came upon the community and that the spirit of God began to work. He also talks about a man who resisted the calling of God and was eventually stopped by a dear wife and a young girl. The preacher warns that God will not always keep digging around the same tree and that those who resist the Holy Ghost will face destruction. The sermon ends with a reference to a preacher named El Mude who gave his last message in Kansas City, Missouri.
True Happiness
By Walter Chantry68432:18PSA 1:1PRO 1:7PRO 1:33MAT 6:33JHN 14:27In this sermon, the preacher focuses on Psalm 1, which is a well-known and beloved psalm. The psalm begins by describing the blessedness of the person who does not follow the advice of the wicked, associate with sinners, or mockers. Instead, their delight is in the law of the Lord, and they meditate on it day and night. The psalm compares this person to a tree planted by streams of water, which bears fruit and does not wither. In contrast, the wicked are like chaff that the wind blows away, and their way will ultimately lead to destruction. The preacher emphasizes that true happiness and blessing come from following God's law and living a righteous life.
Ignorance Keeps People From Becoming Christians
By Tim Conway56006:28PRO 1:7HOS 4:6JHN 3:16ACT 17:30ROM 10:17EPH 4:18COL 1:91TI 1:132TI 2:15This sermon delves into the theme of ignorance as a hindrance to embracing Christianity, using the example of Paul's past actions and rejection of Christ due to ignorance. It emphasizes how ignorance prevents individuals from recognizing the need for salvation and the consequences of rejecting Christ, highlighting the importance of seeking knowledge and understanding to overcome ignorance and accept the truth of the Gospel.
Righteous Behavior
By Robert B. Thompson53653:10PSA 1:1PSA 119:97PRO 1:7MAT 5:44MAT 6:33MAT 22:37ROM 12:18In this sermon, the speaker emphasizes the importance of water baptism as a symbol of laying one's life down at the cross of Christ and starting a new life in God. He explains that baptism signifies a change in behavior and a supernatural transformation that can only be achieved through belief in Christ and obedience to God's commandments. The speaker also warns that failure to keep God's commandments will result in severe punishment for the nation. He urges the American church to repent and live according to God's standards, abandoning sinful behaviors such as lying, anger, gossiping, and sexual perversions.
- Jamieson-Fausset-Brown
- John Gill
- Matthew Henry
- Tyndale
Jamieson-Fausset-Brown Bible Commentary
The fear of the Lord--the principle of true piety (compare Pro 2:5; Pro 14:26-27; Job 28:28; Psa 34:11; Psa 111:10; Act 9:31). beginning--first part, foundation. fools--the stupid and indifferent to God's character and government; hence the wicked.
John Gill Bible Commentary
The fear of the Lord is the beginning of knowledge,.... Here properly the book begins, and this is the first of the proverbs, and an excellent one; it is such an one as is not to be found in all the writings of the Heathens. By "the fear of the Lord" is not meant a servile fear, a fear of punishment, of hell, wrath, and damnation, which is the effect of the first work of the law upon the conscience; but a filial fear, and supposes knowledge of God as a father, of his love and grace in Christ, particularly of his forgiving love, from whence it arises, Psa 130:4; it is a holy, humble, fiducial fear of God; a reverential affection for him, and devotion to him; it includes the whole of religious worship, both internal and external; all that is contained in the first table of the law, and the manner of performing it, and principle of acting: this is the first of all sciences to be learned, and it is the principal one; it is the basis and foundation of all the rest, on which they depend; and it is the head, the fountain, the root an source, from whence they spring; and unless a man knows God, knows God in Christ, and worships him in his fear, in spirit and in truth, according to his revealed will, he knows nothing as he ought to know; and all his knowledge will be of no avail and profit to him; this is the first and chief thing in spiritual and evangelical knowledge, and without which all natural knowledge will signify nothing; see Job 28:28; but fools despise wisdom and instruction; the same with "knowledge" before; they do not desire the knowledge of God, and of his ways and worship, but despise it, make no account of it, but treat it with contempt; especially the knowledge of God in Christ, in which lies the highest wisdom, for this is "life eternal", Joh 17:3; they despise Christ "the Wisdom of God", and the Gospel, and the truths of it, which are "the hidden wisdom" of God; and all "instruction" into it, and the means of it; they despise the Scriptures, which are able to make a man "wise unto salvation"; and the ministry of the word, and the ministers of it: such sort of "discipline" (n) was this, as the word signifies, they dislike and abhor; and especially "correction" or "chastisement" (o), which is also the sense of it; suffering reproach and affliction for the sake of wisdom, a profession of Christ and his Gospel; and they are fools with a witness that despise all this; such fools are atheists, deists, and all profane and wicked men. The Septuagint render it, "the ungodly"; and such sort of men are all along meant by "fools" in this book. (n) "disciplinam", Tigurine version, Piscator, Cocceius, Schultens, (o) "Castigationem, correctionem", Vatablus.
Matthew Henry Bible Commentary
Solomon, having undertaken to teach a young man knowledge and discretion, here lays down two general rules to be observed in order thereunto, and those are, to fear God and honour his parents, which two fundamental laws of morality Pythagoras begins his golden verses with, but the former of them in a wretchedly corrupted state. Primum, deos immortales cole, parentesque honora - First worship the immortal gods, and honour your parents. To make young people such as they should be, I. Let them have regard to God as their supreme. 1. He lays down this truth, that the fear of the Lord is the beginning of knowledge (Pro 1:7); it is the principal part of knowledge (so the margin); it is the head of knowledge; that is, (1.) Of all things that are to be known this is most evident, that God is to be feared, to be reverenced, served, and worshipped; this is so the beginning of knowledge that those know nothing who do not know this. (2.) In order to the attaining of all useful knowledge this is most necessary, that we fear God; we are not qualified to profit by the instructions that are given us unless our minds be possessed with a holy reverence of God, and every thought within us be brought into obedience to him. If any man will do his will, he shall know of his doctrine, Joh 7:17. (3.) As all our knowledge must take rise from the fear of God, so it must tend to it as its perfection and centre. Those know enough who know how to fear God, who are careful in every thing to please him and fearful of offending him in any thing; this is the Alpha and Omega of knowledge. 2. To confirm this truth, that an eye to God must both direct and quicken all our pursuits of knowledge, he observes, Fools (atheists, who have no regard to God) despise wisdom and instruction; having no dread at all of God's wrath, nor any desire of his favour, they will not give you thanks for telling them what they may do to escape his wrath and obtain his favour. Those who say to the Almighty, Depart from us, who are so far from fearing him that they set him at defiance, can excite no surprise if they desire not the knowledge of his ways, but despise that instruction. Note, Those are fools who do not fear God and value the scriptures; and though they may pretend to be admirers of wit they are really strangers and enemies to wisdom. II. Let them have regard to their parents as their superiors (Pro 1:8, Pro 1:9): My son, hear the instruction of thy father. He means, not only that he would have his own children to be observant of him, and of what he said to them, nor only that he would have his pupils, and those who came to him to be taught, to look upon him as their father and attend to his precepts with the disposition of children, but that he would have all children to be dutiful and respectful to their parents, and to conform to the virtuous and religious education which they give them, according to the law of the fifth commandment. 1. He takes it for granted that parents will, with all the wisdom they have, instruct their children, and, with all the authority they have, give law to them for their good. They are reasonable creatures, and therefore we must not give them law without instruction; we must draw them with the cords of a man, and when we tell them what they must do we must tell them why. But they are corrupt and wilful, and therefore with the instruction there is need of a law. Abraham will not only catechize, but command, his household. Both the father and the mother must do all they can for the good education of their children, and all little enough. 2. He charges children both to receive and to retain the good lessons and laws their parents give them. (1.) To receive them with readiness: "Hear the instruction of thy father; hear it and heed it; hear it and bid it welcome, and be thankful for it, and subscribe to it." (2.) To retain them with resolution: "Forsake not their law; think not that when thou art grown up, and no longer under tutors and governors, thou mayest live at large; no, the law of thy mother was according to the law of thy God, and therefore it must never be forsaken; thou wast trained up in the way in which thou shouldst go, and therefore, when thou art old, thou must not depart from it." Some observe that whereas the Gentile ethics, and the laws of the Persians and Romans, provided only that children should pay respect to their father, the divine law secures the honour of the mother also. 3. He recommends this as that which is very graceful and will put an honour upon us: "The instructions and laws of thy parents, carefully observed and lived up to, shall be an ornament of grace unto thy head (Pro 1:9), such an ornament as is, in the sight of God, of great price, and shall make thee look as great as those that wear gold chains about their necks." Let divine truths and commands be to us a coronet, or a collar of SS, which are badges of first-rate honours; let us value them, and be ambitious of them, and then they shall be so to us. Those are truly valuable, and shall be valued, who value themselves more by their virtue and piety than by their worldly wealth and dignity.
Tyndale Open Study Notes
1:7 Fear of the Lord recognizes total dependence on God for everything, including knowledge and wisdom (9:10). It is not just a mental attitude but involves service, love, and obeying God’s laws (see Deut 10:12-13). Fear of the Lord is the basis of all knowledge. How can we understand life without knowing the most fundamental truth about it—that it is God’s creation?