- Home
- Bible
- Proverbs
- Chapter 10
- Verse 10
Proverbs 10:9
Verse
Context
Sermons





Summary
Commentary
- Keil-Delitzsch
- Jamieson-Fausset-Brown
- John Gill
- Matthew Henry
- Tyndale
Carl Friedrich Keil and Franz Delitzsch Old Testament Commentary
The form of this verse is like the eighth, word for word: He that walketh in innocence walketh securely; But he that goeth in secret ways is known. The full form of בּתּום does not, as Hitzig supposes, stand in causal connection with the Dech, for the consonant text lying before us is at least 500 years older than the accentuation. For הלך תּם at Pro 2:7, there is here הלך בּתּום = הלך בּדרך תום; so מעקּשׁ דּרכיו denotes, after Pro 2:15, such an one אשׁר דּרכיו עקּשׁים. Expressed in the language of the N.T., תום is the property of the ἁπλοῦς or ἀκέραιος, for the fundamental idea of fulness is here referred to full submission, full integrity. Such an one goes בּטח (Aquila, ἀμερίμνως), for there is nothing designedly concealed by him, of which he has reason to fear that it will come to the light; whoever, on the contrary, makes his ways crooked, i.e., turns into crooked ways, is perceived, or, as we might also explain it (vid., under Gen 4:15): if one (qui = si quis) makes his ways crooked, then it is known - nothing, however, stands opposed to the reference of יוּדע to the person: he is finally known, i.e., unmasked (lxx Jerome, γνωσθήσεται, manifestus fiet). Usually it is explained: he is knowing, clever, with the remark that נודע is here the passive of הודיע (Gesen., Ewald, Hitzig); Hiph. to give to feel; Niph. to become to feel, properly to be made to know (Luth.: made wise); but the passive of the Hiph. is the Hoph. Such a Niph. in which the causative (not simply transitive) signification of the Hiph. would be applied passively is without example (vid., Ewald, 133a); the meaning of Jer 31:19 also is: after I have become known, i.e., been made manifest, uncovered, drawn into the light.
Jamieson-Fausset-Brown Bible Commentary
perverteth his ways--acts deceitfully. known--discovered and punished.
John Gill Bible Commentary
He that walketh uprightly walketh surely,.... Or, "that walketh in perfection" (c) as the Targum. Not that walks without sin, no man does that; but that walks in the sincerity, integrity, and uprightness of his heart, both before God and men; who worships God in spirit and in truth, and speaks the truth in his heart to his neighbour; who is an Israelite indeed, in whom is no guile; who walks uprightly according to the truth of the Gospel; who makes the word of God the rule of his life and actions; who walks by faith on Christ, using him as the way to the Father; believing in him for salvation; walking on in him as he has received him, and especially dealing with his uprightness or righteousness for his justification before God; who walks, as Christ did, in imitation of him; who walks in love, as he did, and in all humility, meekness, patience, and self-denial; who walks in and after the Spirit of Christ; and in the truths of the Gospel, and in all the ordinances thereof; and in all holy conversation and godliness, studying to exercise a conscience void of offence towards God and men. Such a man "walks surely", or securely, safely, confidently, as the Septuagint, Vulgate Latin, and all the Oriental versions, interpret the word. Such an one has nothing to fear in his walk; he walks on "terra firma", on good ground, in a good way, which leads to life eternal: he has a good guide, the Spirit of God, which goes before him, and will be his guide even unto death, and lead him in the way everlasting, unto the land of uprightness; he has a good guard about him, not only the angels of God that encamp around him, but God himself is a wall of fire to him, and his power surrounds and protects him; he has many precious promises to support him; not only that the Lord will be a buckler to him, but will withhold no good thing from him, Pro 2:7; he has the gracious and supporting presence of God, when he passes through the fire and water of afflictions, and even through the valley of the shadow of death, so that he has nothing to fear; and has moreover the testimony of a good conscience; and having a good hope through grace, he "walks in hope", as the Targum is; yea, rejoices in hope of the glory of God, and holds fast that rejoicing to the end; but he that perverteth his ways shall be known; who does not walk in a plain, direct, and even path, according to the rule of the word, as the upright man; but winds about here and there, goes into crooked paths, walks in craftiness as deceitful workers, whose folly shall be made manifest; though they think to hide it, and deceive men, they and their wickedness shall be exposed, their tricks and artful methods shall be laid open, and they be known to be what they are; if not in this life, yet at the last judgment, Ti1 5:24. Jarchi and Aben Ezra observe another sense of the word, "he shall be broken", and compare with it Jdg 8:16. (c) "qui ambulat perfecte", Pagninus, Mercerus, Gejerus.
Matthew Henry Bible Commentary
We are here told, and we may depend upon it, 1. That men's integrity will be their security: He that walks uprightly towards God and man, that is faithful to both, that designs as he ought and means as he says, walks surely; he is safe under a divine protection and easy in a holy security. He goes on his way with a humble boldness, being well armed against the temptations of Satan, the troubles of the world, and the reproaches of men. he knows what ground he stands on, what guide he follows, what guard he is surrounded with, and what glory he is going to, and therefore proceeds with assurance and great peace, Isa 32:17; Isa 33:15, Isa 33:16. Some understand it as part of the character of an upright man, that he walks surely, in opposition to walking at all adventures. He will not dare to do that which he is not fully satisfied in his own conscience concerning the lawfulness of, but will see his way clear in every thing. 2. That men's dishonesty will be their shame: He that perverts his way, that turns aside into crooked paths, that dissembles with God and man, looks one way and rows another, though he may for a time disguise himself, and pass current, shall be known to be what he is. It is a thousand to one but some time or other he betrays himself; at least, God will discover him in the great day. He that perverts his ways documento erit - shall be made an example of, for warning to others; so some.
Tyndale Open Study Notes
10:9 Paths are a metaphor for life (see 1:15).
Proverbs 10:9
Solomon’s Proverbs: The Wise Son
8A wise heart will receive commandments, but foolish lips will come to ruin. 9He who walks in integrity walks securely, but he who perverts his ways will be found out.
- Scripture
- Sermons
- Commentary
(Saved Through the Fire) 15 - the Escaped Remnant
By Milton Green2.8K28:22PRO 6:23PRO 7:1PRO 9:1PRO 9:9PRO 10:9HOS 4:6HEB 8:6In this sermon, the speaker emphasizes the importance of personal growth and spiritual transformation. He shares his own experiences of being separated from friends and going through a process of stripping away negative influences in his life. The speaker encourages listeners to follow the path of righteousness and avoid the ways of evil men. He warns against the allure of worldly pleasures and highlights the consequences of indulging in sinful behavior. The sermon concludes with a reminder to seek wisdom from God and to be cautious of deceptive influences.
Introduction to Finance Seminar
By George Verwer1.3K57:51FinancesPRO 10:9PRO 22:7MAT 6:33ACT 20:272CO 10:41TI 6:101TI 6:17The sermon transcript discusses the importance of meeting people where they are, including businessmen who may be busy. The speaker emphasizes the need for honesty and open communication when it comes to financial support in ministry. They also highlight the importance of prayer and action, urging for tangible steps to be taken rather than just talk. The transcript mentions the need to mobilize laypeople and not solely rely on full-time workers for fundraising efforts.
The Secret of Strength
By David Wilkerson0Strength in FaithRighteousnessJOB 17:9PSA 1:1PRO 10:9David Wilkerson emphasizes the importance of maintaining righteousness and integrity in a world filled with mockery and corruption. He highlights that while the wicked may seem to thrive, it is the righteous who will grow stronger through their commitment to God and their clean hands. Wilkerson calls for the innocent to rise against hypocrisy and to hold fast to their faith, reminding them that true strength comes from a life aligned with God's ways. The sermon serves as a call to action for believers to stand firm in their convictions amidst societal decay.
A High Sense of Honor
By J.R. Miller0IntegrityHonorPSA 15:1PRO 10:9PRO 11:3PRO 22:1MAT 5:37LUK 16:10EPH 4:29PHP 4:8COL 3:231PE 2:12J.R. Miller emphasizes the importance of cultivating a high sense of honor among young people, asserting that character is built during youth and that small actions contribute significantly to one's moral standing. He warns against the dangers of leniency and self-indulgence, advocating for a rigorous self-discipline to maintain a lofty standard of conduct. Miller illustrates how honor applies to various aspects of life, including friendships, financial dealings, and the treatment of others' confidences. He encourages individuals to uphold integrity in all situations, reflecting God's truth in their actions. Ultimately, a life of honor not only glorifies God but also earns respect and admiration from others.
Manly Men
By J.R. Miller0IntegrityChristian ManhoodJOS 1:9PRO 10:91CO 16:13EPH 6:10J.R. Miller emphasizes that true Christian manhood encompasses more than just gentleness and kindness; it requires strength, courage, and integrity. He critiques men who, despite possessing passive virtues, lack the active qualities that inspire and lead, rendering them ineffective in combating evil. Miller highlights the importance of truthfulness and conscientiousness, arguing that even minor faults can tarnish a man's character and diminish his influence. He presents Jesus as the ultimate model of manliness, combining tenderness with unwavering strength and moral fortitude. Ultimately, a true man of God must embody both gentleness and the courage to act decisively for righteousness.
A Different Man in the Pulpit
By A.W. Tozer0IntegrityAuthenticity in MinistryPRO 10:9MAT 5:162CO 8:21EPH 4:1PHP 2:15COL 3:231TH 2:101TI 3:2JAS 1:221PE 5:2A.W. Tozer emphasizes the importance of integrity in the life of a pastor, arguing that a true servant of God should not change his character or demeanor when entering the pulpit. He warns against the hypocrisy of being a different person in ministry than in everyday life, advocating for a consistent spirit of reverence and authenticity. Tozer calls for pastors to embody the same values and behaviors in all aspects of their lives, ensuring that their public ministry reflects their private character.
Behold, There Is in This City a Man of God
By F.B. Meyer0Impact of HolinessGodlinessPSA 37:23PRO 10:9MAT 5:162CO 2:15GAL 5:22EPH 5:8COL 3:121TH 5:22HEB 12:141PE 2:9F.B. Meyer emphasizes the profound impact of a godly life on the community, reflecting on the legacy of holiness that can transform neighborhoods, as exemplified by the life of Samuel. He encourages believers to strive for a character that embodies trustworthiness and godliness, which in turn inspires confidence and respect from others. Meyer calls for Christians to cultivate a deep relationship with God, allowing His beauty and truth to shine through their lives, thus becoming 'men and women of God' who leave a lasting fragrance of holiness wherever they go.
Thank Him; Dwell Acceptably
By C.H. Spurgeon0RighteousnessThankfulnessPSA 16:11PSA 23:6PSA 37:18PSA 100:4PSA 140:13PRO 10:9ROM 12:11TH 5:18HEB 4:16JAS 1:12C.H. Spurgeon emphasizes the importance of giving thanks to God and maintaining an upright heart, expressing a deep desire to dwell in God's presence. He acknowledges that while the righteous may face trials, their integrity will ultimately lead to blessings and gratitude towards God. Spurgeon highlights the privilege of being accepted by God, enjoying His presence, and receiving His favor. He fervently prays for the strength to remain upright, so he can continually thank the Lord for His goodness. The sermon encourages believers to trust in God's righteousness and the promise of His presence.
Homily 15 on Ephesians
By St. John Chrysostom0PRO 10:9MAT 7:2ACT 2:461CO 3:18EPH 4:31John Chrysostom preaches on Ephesians 4:31, emphasizing the importance of putting away bitterness, wrath, anger, clamor, railing, and malice from our hearts. He compares the Holy Spirit to bees that will not settle in an unclean vessel, highlighting the need for cleansing our souls to receive spiritual gifts. Chrysostom warns against the destructive nature of bitterness, anger, and malice, urging believers to rid themselves of these harmful traits to avoid grieving the Holy Spirit and experiencing misfortunes.
The Safety of Religion.
By Edward Payson0PRO 10:9MAT 7:13JHN 3:16JHN 14:6ACT 4:12ROM 3:23EPH 2:82TI 3:161JN 1:9Edward Payson preaches about the importance of walking uprightly, emphasizing that those who pursue a course of uprightness and integrity walk safely and are assured of eternal salvation. He delves into the significance of believing in key doctrines such as the Scriptures being a revelation from God, the immortality of the soul, human sinfulness, the necessity of a moral renewal, the divinity of Jesus Christ, and justification by faith in Christ. Payson highlights the dangers of disbelief in these doctrines and the importance of embracing them for spiritual safety and salvation.
True Integrity
By Frederick W. Robertson0PSA 26:11PRO 10:9PRO 11:3MAT 6:22LUK 16:10Frederick W. Robertson emphasizes the importance of integrity, defining it as entireness, wholeness, and soundness of character. He highlights that integrity is tested in small matters more than in great ones, revealing the true allegiance of the soul to truth. Robertson challenges the notion that integrity is merely about sincerity or honesty, pointing out that true integrity involves hating untruth for what it is, regardless of the harm it may or may not cause.
- Keil-Delitzsch
- Jamieson-Fausset-Brown
- John Gill
- Matthew Henry
- Tyndale
Carl Friedrich Keil and Franz Delitzsch Old Testament Commentary
The form of this verse is like the eighth, word for word: He that walketh in innocence walketh securely; But he that goeth in secret ways is known. The full form of בּתּום does not, as Hitzig supposes, stand in causal connection with the Dech, for the consonant text lying before us is at least 500 years older than the accentuation. For הלך תּם at Pro 2:7, there is here הלך בּתּום = הלך בּדרך תום; so מעקּשׁ דּרכיו denotes, after Pro 2:15, such an one אשׁר דּרכיו עקּשׁים. Expressed in the language of the N.T., תום is the property of the ἁπλοῦς or ἀκέραιος, for the fundamental idea of fulness is here referred to full submission, full integrity. Such an one goes בּטח (Aquila, ἀμερίμνως), for there is nothing designedly concealed by him, of which he has reason to fear that it will come to the light; whoever, on the contrary, makes his ways crooked, i.e., turns into crooked ways, is perceived, or, as we might also explain it (vid., under Gen 4:15): if one (qui = si quis) makes his ways crooked, then it is known - nothing, however, stands opposed to the reference of יוּדע to the person: he is finally known, i.e., unmasked (lxx Jerome, γνωσθήσεται, manifestus fiet). Usually it is explained: he is knowing, clever, with the remark that נודע is here the passive of הודיע (Gesen., Ewald, Hitzig); Hiph. to give to feel; Niph. to become to feel, properly to be made to know (Luth.: made wise); but the passive of the Hiph. is the Hoph. Such a Niph. in which the causative (not simply transitive) signification of the Hiph. would be applied passively is without example (vid., Ewald, 133a); the meaning of Jer 31:19 also is: after I have become known, i.e., been made manifest, uncovered, drawn into the light.
Jamieson-Fausset-Brown Bible Commentary
perverteth his ways--acts deceitfully. known--discovered and punished.
John Gill Bible Commentary
He that walketh uprightly walketh surely,.... Or, "that walketh in perfection" (c) as the Targum. Not that walks without sin, no man does that; but that walks in the sincerity, integrity, and uprightness of his heart, both before God and men; who worships God in spirit and in truth, and speaks the truth in his heart to his neighbour; who is an Israelite indeed, in whom is no guile; who walks uprightly according to the truth of the Gospel; who makes the word of God the rule of his life and actions; who walks by faith on Christ, using him as the way to the Father; believing in him for salvation; walking on in him as he has received him, and especially dealing with his uprightness or righteousness for his justification before God; who walks, as Christ did, in imitation of him; who walks in love, as he did, and in all humility, meekness, patience, and self-denial; who walks in and after the Spirit of Christ; and in the truths of the Gospel, and in all the ordinances thereof; and in all holy conversation and godliness, studying to exercise a conscience void of offence towards God and men. Such a man "walks surely", or securely, safely, confidently, as the Septuagint, Vulgate Latin, and all the Oriental versions, interpret the word. Such an one has nothing to fear in his walk; he walks on "terra firma", on good ground, in a good way, which leads to life eternal: he has a good guide, the Spirit of God, which goes before him, and will be his guide even unto death, and lead him in the way everlasting, unto the land of uprightness; he has a good guard about him, not only the angels of God that encamp around him, but God himself is a wall of fire to him, and his power surrounds and protects him; he has many precious promises to support him; not only that the Lord will be a buckler to him, but will withhold no good thing from him, Pro 2:7; he has the gracious and supporting presence of God, when he passes through the fire and water of afflictions, and even through the valley of the shadow of death, so that he has nothing to fear; and has moreover the testimony of a good conscience; and having a good hope through grace, he "walks in hope", as the Targum is; yea, rejoices in hope of the glory of God, and holds fast that rejoicing to the end; but he that perverteth his ways shall be known; who does not walk in a plain, direct, and even path, according to the rule of the word, as the upright man; but winds about here and there, goes into crooked paths, walks in craftiness as deceitful workers, whose folly shall be made manifest; though they think to hide it, and deceive men, they and their wickedness shall be exposed, their tricks and artful methods shall be laid open, and they be known to be what they are; if not in this life, yet at the last judgment, Ti1 5:24. Jarchi and Aben Ezra observe another sense of the word, "he shall be broken", and compare with it Jdg 8:16. (c) "qui ambulat perfecte", Pagninus, Mercerus, Gejerus.
Matthew Henry Bible Commentary
We are here told, and we may depend upon it, 1. That men's integrity will be their security: He that walks uprightly towards God and man, that is faithful to both, that designs as he ought and means as he says, walks surely; he is safe under a divine protection and easy in a holy security. He goes on his way with a humble boldness, being well armed against the temptations of Satan, the troubles of the world, and the reproaches of men. he knows what ground he stands on, what guide he follows, what guard he is surrounded with, and what glory he is going to, and therefore proceeds with assurance and great peace, Isa 32:17; Isa 33:15, Isa 33:16. Some understand it as part of the character of an upright man, that he walks surely, in opposition to walking at all adventures. He will not dare to do that which he is not fully satisfied in his own conscience concerning the lawfulness of, but will see his way clear in every thing. 2. That men's dishonesty will be their shame: He that perverts his way, that turns aside into crooked paths, that dissembles with God and man, looks one way and rows another, though he may for a time disguise himself, and pass current, shall be known to be what he is. It is a thousand to one but some time or other he betrays himself; at least, God will discover him in the great day. He that perverts his ways documento erit - shall be made an example of, for warning to others; so some.
Tyndale Open Study Notes
10:9 Paths are a metaphor for life (see 1:15).