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Proverbs 11:14
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- Keil-Delitzsch
- Jamieson-Fausset-Brown
- John Gill
- Matthew Henry
- Tyndale
Carl Friedrich Keil and Franz Delitzsch Old Testament Commentary
14 Where there is no direction a people fall But where there is no want of counsellors there is safety. Regarding תּחבּות, vid., at Pro 1:5. There it means rules of self-government; here, rules for the government of the people, or, since the pluralet. denotes a multiplicity in unity, circumspect κυβέρνησις. With 14b, Pro 24:6 (where direction in war, as here in peace, is spoken of, and the meaning of the word specializes itself accordingly) agrees; cf. also Pro 15:22. Hitzig criticises the proverb, remarking, "we who have the longest resorted to many counsellors, as a consequence of the superabundance have learned to say, 'Too many cooks spoil the broth,' and, 'He who asks long, errs.'" But the truth of the clause 14b is in modern times more fully illustrated in the region of ecclesiastical and political affairs; and in general it is found to be true that it is better with a people when they are governed according to the laws and conclusions which have resulted from the careful deliberation of many competent and authorized men, than when their fate is entrusted unconditionally to one or to a few. The proverb, it must be acknowledge, refers not to counsellors such as in Isa 3:3, but as in Isa 1:26.
Jamieson-Fausset-Brown Bible Commentary
counsel--the art of governing (Pro 1:5). counsellors--literally, "one giving counsel"; the participle used as a collective.
John Gill Bible Commentary
Where no counsel is, the people fall,.... Where there is no wise and prudent, sound and good counsel, as the word signifies; where that is not, there had as good be none, or better; a people, a kingdom, a commonwealth, nation, or city, fall into ruin and destruction, or into schemes which bring them to it; they are like a ship without a pilot, or without a helm, or one to steer it: the Targum, Syriac, and Vulgate Latin versions, render it, "where there is no governor;'' and the Arabic version, "they that have no providence (or forecast) fall as a leaf falls;'' and so the Septuagint version, "they that have no government fall as leaves,'' as leaves fall in autumn; and the word signifies the helm of government (o), in allusion to a ship; but in the multitude of counsellors there is safety; because what one may miss another may hit upon; and, if they agree in their advice, it may be the more depended upon; and, if not, yet their different sentiments being compared together, and the reasons of them, a person may the better judge which is best to follow, and what is fit to be done: it may be rendered, "in the greatness" or "largeness of a counsellor" (p), for the word is in the singular number; that is, in the large capacity or endowments of a counsellor; in one that is abundantly qualified for a counsellor; whose abilities are not to be questioned; in the advice of such an one a man may safely confide; and who that answers to this character as Jesus Christ, the wonderful Counsellor? in whose counsel we may rest with the greatest safety; and which may be found in his word, in the Scriptures, which David says should be the men of his counsel, Psa 119:24; see Isa 9:6. (o) "gubernationes", Schultens. (p) "in amplitudine consiliarii", Junius & Tremellius.
Matthew Henry Bible Commentary
Here is, 1. The bad omen of a kingdom's ruin: Where no counsel is, no consultation at all, but every thing done rashly, or no prudent consultation for the common good, but only caballing for parties and divided interests, the people fall, crumble into factions, fall to pieces, fall together by the ears, and fall an easy prey to their common enemies. Councils of war are necessary to the operations of war; two eyes see more than one; and mutual advice is in order to mutual assistance. 2. The good presage of a kingdom's prosperity: In the multitude of counsellors, that see their need one of another, and act in concert and with concern for the public welfare, there is safety; for what prudent methods one discerns not another may. In our private affairs we shall often find it to our advantage to advise with many; if they agree in their advice, our way will be the more clear; if they differ, we shall hear what is to be said on all sides, and be the better able to determine.
Tyndale Open Study Notes
11:14 The future of an entire nation depends on wisdom.
Proverbs 11:14
Dishonest Scales
13A gossip reveals a secret, but a trustworthy person keeps a confidence. 14For lack of guidance, a nation falls, but with many counselors comes deliverance.
- Scripture
- Sermons
- Commentary
A Young Man's Attitude Towards Women
By Paul Washer6.0K1:11:06Young MenPRO 11:14PRO 31:11PRO 31:14PRO 31:16PRO 31:20PRO 31:23PRO 31:26MAT 7:21In this sermon, the speaker addresses the loss of innocence and beauty in our culture. He laments how the simple act of touching hands can no longer evoke a sense of awe and excitement due to our immoral and desensitized society. The speaker emphasizes the importance of restoring beauty in our lives and in our relationships, particularly in the context of marriage. He encourages men to take responsibility for cultivating beauty and respect in their relationships with women. The speaker also shares a personal anecdote about encountering young girls who lacked a father figure and how it affected them. He concludes by highlighting the significance of the virtuous woman described in Proverbs 31, who not only clothes her family with scarlet but also creates beauty out of what she has.
Turning the Tide - Part 1
By Charles Stanley3.6K09:30PRO 11:14PRO 14:34PRO 22:7PRO 22:16PRO 22:28PRO 23:4PRO 24:21PRO 29:2PRO 29:4PRO 29:14This sermon emphasizes the importance of heeding God's warnings throughout history to avoid the consequences of disobedience. It reflects on the story of Adam and Eve in the Garden of Eden as a cautionary tale of not listening to God's instructions. The sermon highlights the current state of the nation, warning about the dangers of ignoring biblical principles and the impact of poor leadership. It also addresses the financial crisis and the shift towards socialism, urging listeners to consider the implications for future generations.
(Basics) 70. Proving God's Perfect Will(3)
By Zac Poonen2.4K13:05PRO 11:14MAT 6:33ROM 12:2ROM 14:131CO 8:91JN 2:171JN 2:28In this sermon, the speaker discusses how to find the perfect will of God for our lives. They emphasize that in the new covenant age, God primarily speaks to us through our renewed mind and the Holy Spirit. The speaker provides twelve questions that we can ask ourselves to determine if a course of action aligns with God's will. These questions include considering if it is in line with the teachings of Jesus and the apostles, if it can be done with a clear conscience, if it brings glory to God, and if it can be done in fellowship with Jesus. The speaker also highlights the importance of seeking guidance from wiser and more mature believers.
Blowing Up Your House
By Jim Cymbala1.9K41:11Christian LifePRO 11:14PRO 12:15PRO 15:22MAT 7:24MAT 19:301CO 6:182TI 3:16In this sermon, the speaker discusses the importance of analyzing and learning from the stories in the Bible, even those with unhappy endings. He emphasizes the need to seek truth and not just reinforce our existing beliefs. The sermon focuses on the story of a king who made destructive choices and lost a significant portion of his kingdom. The speaker encourages listeners to learn from negative lessons and to be open to correction and guidance from the Holy Spirit.
What Is the True Nature of the Local Church
By Ralph Sutera1.1K1:10:20Local ChurchPRO 11:14MAT 18:20ACT 2:421CO 14:26EPH 4:121TI 4:13JAS 5:16The video discusses the topic of world evangelism and the three ways to witness to the world: love, unity, and joy. The speaker emphasizes that these are the only three ways God has outlined for us to share the message of the Gospel. The video also mentions a study manual that includes a worksheet for groups to use in applying these principles to their own lives. Additionally, the video touches on the importance of revival preceding evangelism and the role of the congregation in shaping the church's direction and ministry.
The Lord Has Need of Them
By Erlo Stegen1.0K46:44God's Plan2KI 22:1PRO 11:14MAT 7:13MAT 21:1JHN 2:1HEB 12:2REV 1:18In this sermon, the preacher reflects on the life and testimony of a woman who lived a good life and passed away. He emphasizes the importance of following in the footsteps of Christian parents and serving the Lord. The preacher also shares a story about a father who asks his son to stab him because he feels hurt by the son's actions. The sermon then focuses on the biblical story of Jesus riding a donkey into Jerusalem, highlighting the significance of the Lord's need for the donkey and how it fulfilled prophecy. The preacher encourages the audience to remember that the Lord has the keys to death and Hades, and to trust in His plans even when they may not understand them.
Peacemakers
By George Verwer1.0K35:48PeacemakersPRO 11:14MAT 5:9JHN 4:23ROM 12:18EPH 4:15PHP 2:31TH 5:11In this sermon, the speaker emphasizes the importance of tailoring the message of the word of God to different cultures. He mentions the Prosperity Code and extremism in America, contrasting it with the mentality in India where the focus is on accomplishing the work without seeking credit. The speaker also discusses the tension between Mr. Hard Work and Mr. Work is Hard, highlighting the need for teamwork and allowing others to share in speaking. Lastly, he mentions the importance of consolidation and prioritizing goals in order to avoid unnecessary stress and tension.
Spiritual Leadership of Anointed Men
By A.W. Tozer0Church GovernanceSpiritual LeadershipPRO 11:14MAT 20:26ACT 20:28EPH 4:111TH 5:121TI 3:12TI 2:2HEB 13:17JAS 3:11PE 5:2A.W. Tozer emphasizes the critical role of spiritual leadership in the church, arguing that the vitality of the Christian community relies on anointed men led by the Holy Spirit. He warns against excessive democracy within church governance, suggesting that true growth and maturity require strong, spiritual leaders. Tozer acknowledges the discomfort some may feel with this perspective, particularly those from a Baptist background, but insists that effective leadership is essential for the church's success. He concludes with a prayer for leaders to be faithful and for the church to embrace godly leadership.
The First Delegated General Conference of 1812
By Nathan Bangs0PRO 11:141CO 12:12EPH 4:161TI 5:17HEB 13:171PE 5:21PE 5:5In a detailed account of the General Conference discussions on the appointment of presiding elders in the Methodist Episcopal Church, the arguments for and against the proposed change are presented. Those in favor of the change emphasized the need for a voice in the election of presiding elders, concerns over unchecked episcopal power, and the importance of local knowledge in stationing preachers. On the other hand, opponents argued that the episcopacy needed control over appointments for efficient administration, the necessity of maintaining responsibility within the episcopacy, and the practical challenges of implementing a stationing committee. Ultimately, after a series of debates and compromises, the resolutions to change the appointment process were suspended and later rescinded, leading to a period of unity and cooperation within the Church.
2 Corinthians 8:16
By St. John Chrysostom0EXO 18:14PRO 11:14PRO 15:22ACT 1:15ACT 6:2ROM 12:41CO 1:101CO 12:12EPH 4:16PHP 2:2John Chrysostom emphasizes the importance of unity and cooperation within the Church, highlighting the need for mutual respect and consideration among all members, regardless of status or position. He encourages the laity to actively participate in decision-making processes, illustrating how even the Apostles involved the people in their choices. Chrysostom stresses the significance of working together as one body, sharing responsibilities, and valuing diverse perspectives for the growth and well-being of the Church. He urges humility, openness to counsel from others, and a collective effort to seek what is best for the community, ultimately aiming for a harmonious and fruitful Church life.
Prudence in Action
By Thomas a Kempis0PRO 11:14PRO 12:15PRO 18:13PRO 19:20JAS 3:5Thomas a Kempis emphasizes the importance of not yielding to every impulse and suggestion, but rather carefully considering things in the light of God's will. He warns against speaking evil of others and encourages perfect men to be discerning and not readily believe gossip. Kempis advises against acting rashly, clinging obstinately to opinions, and spreading gossip, highlighting the wisdom in seeking counsel from wise individuals and being humble and subject to God for true wisdom and peace.
To Us, Therefore, It Seems Expedient
By St. Benedict of Nursia0PRO 11:14PRO 16:18GAL 6:31TI 5:19HEB 13:17JAS 4:61PE 5:5St. Benedict of Nursia emphasizes the importance of the Abbot having full administration of the monastery for the preservation of peace and charity. He suggests that the affairs of the monastery be administered by deans under the Abbot's guidance to prevent pride. If necessary, the Abbot can appoint a Prior with the counsel of God-fearing brethren, who must respectfully carry out his duties and adhere to the Rule. The Prior should be corrected and replaced if found to have serious faults, pride, or disregard for the Rule, with the Abbot being accountable to God for his judgments to avoid envy or jealousy.
Whenever Any Important Business Has to Be Done
By St. Benedict of Nursia0PRO 11:14PRO 15:22EPH 5:21PHP 2:3St. Benedict of Nursia emphasizes the importance of seeking counsel and guidance from the community before making important decisions. He advises the Abbot to gather the whole community, listen to their advice with humility, and then make a decision based on what is most beneficial. St. Benedict highlights the value of humility, obedience, and trusting in the Abbot's judgment for the welfare of all.
The Abbess Should Always Remember What She Is
By St. Benedict of Nursia0PRO 11:14LUK 12:48GAL 6:21TH 5:141PE 5:2St. Benedict of Nursia emphasizes the importance for an abbess to remember her calling and the responsibility that comes with it, as those entrusted with more are required to do more. He highlights the challenging task of ruling souls and the need to adapt to different personalities, using various approaches such as coaxing, scolding, or persuading based on individual characteristics. The abbess is urged to adjust and relate to each person in a way that not only maintains the flock but also leads to its growth and flourishing.
July 31. 1678. the Seven Counsellors.
By Jane Lead0PSA 25:14PRO 11:141CO 2:101CO 2:14HEB 4:12HEB 12:291PE 1:7REV 3:18REV 4:5REV 5:6Jane Lead preaches about the importance of seeking counsel and guidance from the seven Principal Counsellors in the invisible realm to bring down the Kingdom of God on earth. She emphasizes the need for our Eternal Spirits to be used as agents in this divine matter and encourages private consultation with these wise Counsellors who have insight into the invisible world. Jane Lead also discusses the refining process required to be admitted into God's secret Council, where righteous judgment and decrees are established by the Holy Trinity. She highlights the significance of being refined to stand in the divine Cabala, to receive hidden knowledge and commands for the administration of God's Kingdom.
Mark 9:38-42. Christ Directs His Disciples Not to Forbid the Man Who Cast Out Devils in His Name.
By Favell Lee Mortimer0PRO 11:14MAT 7:7MAT 12:30MRK 9:38JAS 4:6Favell Lee Mortimer preaches about the importance of humility and honesty in seeking counsel from God, using the example of John expressing his doubts to Jesus. The sermon highlights the dangers of presumption and false notions, as seen in the disciples forbidding a man from casting out demons. Jesus emphasizes the significance of taking a stand for or against Him, stating that neutrality in religion is not an option. Those who boldly acknowledge and serve Christ, like the man who cast out demons in Jesus' name, are blessed and should be supported and encouraged by fellow believers.
The Grace to Be Wrong
By Jack Hayford0PRO 11:14ACT 15:281CO 7:6EPH 4:2PHP 2:32PE 3:15Jack Hayford emphasizes the importance of believers having grace towards one another, allowing room for imperfections and the willingness to be wrong in perspective while being right in purpose. He shares instances where this grace was needed in ministry consultations, interviews, and counseling sessions. Hayford highlights the early Church's approach of seeking wisdom and consensus before making decisions, showing a non-authoritarian and humble attitude. He encourages a teachable spirit, acknowledging the value of receiving wisdom from others and being open to modifying personal inclinations within the community of believers.
Prayer for Rulers.
By Edward Payson0PSA 72:1PRO 11:14PRO 16:12PRO 21:1ECC 8:2ROM 13:1COL 4:21TI 2:1JAS 1:51PE 2:17Edward Payson preaches on the importance of praying for those in authority, emphasizing the need to intercede for rulers and leaders as they face unique challenges and temptations in fulfilling their duties. He highlights the responsibility and accountability that come with positions of authority, stressing the impact of their actions on the nation and the importance of seeking wisdom and grace through prayer. Payson urges the congregation to pray fervently for leaders to govern with integrity, justice, and God's guidance, recognizing the significant role rulers play in shaping the moral and spiritual fabric of society.
Preface
By H. Elvet Lewis0PRO 11:14ACT 2:171CO 12:4PHP 2:31TH 5:21H. Elvet Lewis presents a devotional account of the Welsh Revival, focusing on personal impressions and incidents rather than a historical narrative. He emphasizes the need for balance in reflecting on the revival, cautioning against both overly optimistic views and overly critical perspectives. The preacher acknowledges the diverse sources contributing to the volume, including personal observations and narratives from friends and other publications. Lewis highlights the democratic nature of the movement, where the entire community served as instruments of the Spirit, with a particular emphasis on the miners due to their significant influence in the nation.
Changing the Politicians Themselves
By Robert P. Jr Dugan0PRO 11:14PRO 14:34PRO 21:1PRO 29:2ROM 13:11TI 2:11PE 2:13Robert P. Jr Dugan preaches about the importance of political involvement and the impact of volunteers in shaping history through elections. He emphasizes the power of citizens to influence politicians through grassroots efforts and elections, highlighting the significance of being actively engaged in the political process to bring about change. Dugan uses examples from past presidential, senate, and house elections to illustrate how narrow victories and close margins can determine the course of history, stressing the need for citizens, including evangelicals, to participate in campaigns and support candidates aligned with their values.
Two Worlds
By Herbert Henry Farmer0PRO 11:14PRO 16:9MAT 20:221CO 13:2PHP 2:3Herbert Henry Farmer delves into the complexities of leadership, emphasizing the challenging dynamic between a leader and their followers. He highlights the delicate balance leaders must maintain - being ahead yet not too far ahead, speaking two languages simultaneously, and seeing truths that followers may not yet grasp. Farmer underscores the essential quality of a leader's ability to understand and empathize with their disciples' perspectives, even when those perspectives differ from their own, as crucial for effective leadership.
To Young Preachers
By Barton W. Stone0PRO 11:14MAT 25:211CO 1:171TI 6:62TI 2:231PE 4:11Barton W. Stone advises young preachers to seek counsel from older, experienced individuals and to avoid engaging in debates that lead to strife and division, emphasizing the importance of preaching the Gospel with boldness and humility. He encourages preachers to deliver the Word in the spirit, living a holy life both in and out of the pulpit, and to focus on saving souls rather than seeking worldly approval. Stone also warns against covetousness and urges preachers to fight the good fight of faith, following after righteousness and godliness.
Courtship #3
By Denny Kenaston0PSA 127:3PRO 11:14PRO 15:221CO 1:41CO 7:1EPH 5:22PHP 4:8COL 3:121TH 5:211PE 3:7Denny Kenaston preaches about the importance of godly courtship, emphasizing the need for young people to seek spiritual fellowship centered around Jesus Christ, to involve loving and watchful authority in their courtship, and to keep their emotions in check by following biblical guidelines. He encourages young couples to seek the blessing of their parents and church authority, to maintain purity and accountability, and to approach courtship with wisdom and maturity, ultimately aiming for a marriage that glorifies God and brings forth beautiful fruit.
- Keil-Delitzsch
- Jamieson-Fausset-Brown
- John Gill
- Matthew Henry
- Tyndale
Carl Friedrich Keil and Franz Delitzsch Old Testament Commentary
14 Where there is no direction a people fall But where there is no want of counsellors there is safety. Regarding תּחבּות, vid., at Pro 1:5. There it means rules of self-government; here, rules for the government of the people, or, since the pluralet. denotes a multiplicity in unity, circumspect κυβέρνησις. With 14b, Pro 24:6 (where direction in war, as here in peace, is spoken of, and the meaning of the word specializes itself accordingly) agrees; cf. also Pro 15:22. Hitzig criticises the proverb, remarking, "we who have the longest resorted to many counsellors, as a consequence of the superabundance have learned to say, 'Too many cooks spoil the broth,' and, 'He who asks long, errs.'" But the truth of the clause 14b is in modern times more fully illustrated in the region of ecclesiastical and political affairs; and in general it is found to be true that it is better with a people when they are governed according to the laws and conclusions which have resulted from the careful deliberation of many competent and authorized men, than when their fate is entrusted unconditionally to one or to a few. The proverb, it must be acknowledge, refers not to counsellors such as in Isa 3:3, but as in Isa 1:26.
Jamieson-Fausset-Brown Bible Commentary
counsel--the art of governing (Pro 1:5). counsellors--literally, "one giving counsel"; the participle used as a collective.
John Gill Bible Commentary
Where no counsel is, the people fall,.... Where there is no wise and prudent, sound and good counsel, as the word signifies; where that is not, there had as good be none, or better; a people, a kingdom, a commonwealth, nation, or city, fall into ruin and destruction, or into schemes which bring them to it; they are like a ship without a pilot, or without a helm, or one to steer it: the Targum, Syriac, and Vulgate Latin versions, render it, "where there is no governor;'' and the Arabic version, "they that have no providence (or forecast) fall as a leaf falls;'' and so the Septuagint version, "they that have no government fall as leaves,'' as leaves fall in autumn; and the word signifies the helm of government (o), in allusion to a ship; but in the multitude of counsellors there is safety; because what one may miss another may hit upon; and, if they agree in their advice, it may be the more depended upon; and, if not, yet their different sentiments being compared together, and the reasons of them, a person may the better judge which is best to follow, and what is fit to be done: it may be rendered, "in the greatness" or "largeness of a counsellor" (p), for the word is in the singular number; that is, in the large capacity or endowments of a counsellor; in one that is abundantly qualified for a counsellor; whose abilities are not to be questioned; in the advice of such an one a man may safely confide; and who that answers to this character as Jesus Christ, the wonderful Counsellor? in whose counsel we may rest with the greatest safety; and which may be found in his word, in the Scriptures, which David says should be the men of his counsel, Psa 119:24; see Isa 9:6. (o) "gubernationes", Schultens. (p) "in amplitudine consiliarii", Junius & Tremellius.
Matthew Henry Bible Commentary
Here is, 1. The bad omen of a kingdom's ruin: Where no counsel is, no consultation at all, but every thing done rashly, or no prudent consultation for the common good, but only caballing for parties and divided interests, the people fall, crumble into factions, fall to pieces, fall together by the ears, and fall an easy prey to their common enemies. Councils of war are necessary to the operations of war; two eyes see more than one; and mutual advice is in order to mutual assistance. 2. The good presage of a kingdom's prosperity: In the multitude of counsellors, that see their need one of another, and act in concert and with concern for the public welfare, there is safety; for what prudent methods one discerns not another may. In our private affairs we shall often find it to our advantage to advise with many; if they agree in their advice, our way will be the more clear; if they differ, we shall hear what is to be said on all sides, and be the better able to determine.
Tyndale Open Study Notes
11:14 The future of an entire nation depends on wisdom.