- Home
- Bible
- Proverbs
- Chapter 14
- Verse 14
Proverbs 14:12
Verse
Context
Sermons






Summary
Commentary
- Keil-Delitzsch
- Jamieson-Fausset-Brown
- John Gill
- Matthew Henry
- Tyndale
Carl Friedrich Keil and Franz Delitzsch Old Testament Commentary
12 There is a way that seemeth right to one, But the end thereof are the ways of death. This is literally repeated in Pro 16:25. The rightness is present only as a phantom, for it arises wholly from a terrible self-deception; the man judges falsely and goes astray when, without regard to God and His word, he follows only his own opinions. It is the way of estrangement from God, of fleshly security; the way of vice, in which the blinded thinks to spend his life, to set himself to fulfil his purposes; but the end thereof (אחריתהּ with neut. fem.: the end of this intention, that in which it issues) are the ways of death. He who thus deceives himself regarding his course of life, sees himself at last arrived at a point from which every way which now further remains to him leads only down to death. The self-delusion of one ends in death by the sentence of the judge, that of another in self-murder; of one in loathsome disease, of another in a slow decay under the agony of conscience, or in sorrow over a henceforth dishonoured and distracted life.
Jamieson-Fausset-Brown Bible Commentary
end thereof--or, "reward," what results (compare Pro 5:4). ways of death--leading to it.
John Gill Bible Commentary
There is a way which seemeth right unto a man,.... As the way of sin and wickedness does, it promising much carnal pleasure and mirth; there is a great deal of company in it, it is a broad road, and is pleasant, and seems right, but it leads to destruction; so the way of the hypocrite and Pharisee that trusts to his own righteousness, and despises others, and even the righteousness of Christ; or however does not submit to it, but tramples upon him, and counts the blood of the covenant an unholy thing, and so is deserving of sorer punishment than the profane sinner; yet on account of his good works, as he calls them, fancies himself to be in a fair way for heaven and happiness; so Popery, through the pomp and grandeur and gaudiness of worship, through the lying miracles of the priests, and the air of devotion that appears in them, seems to be a right way; but the end thereof are the ways of death; which lead unto eternal death; for that is the wages of sin, let it appear in what shape it will.
Matthew Henry Bible Commentary
We have here an account of the way and end of a great many self-deluded souls. 1. Their way is seemingly fair: It seems right to themselves; they please themselves with a fancy that they are as they should be, that their opinions and practices are good, and such as will bear them out. The way of ignorance and carelessness, the way of worldliness and earthly-mindedness, the way of sensuality and flesh-pleasing, seem right to those that walk in them, much more the way of hypocrisy in religion, external performances, partial reformations, and blind zeal; this they imagine will bring them to heaven; they flatter themselves in their own eyes that all will be well at last. 2. Their end is really fearful, and the more so for their mistake: It is the ways of death, eternal death; their iniquity will certainly be their ruin, and they will perish with a lie in their right hand. Self-deceivers will prove in the end self-destroyers.
Tyndale Open Study Notes
14:12 // 16:25 The right choice is not always the one that seems right on the surface (see Matt 7:13-14).
Proverbs 14:12
The Wise Woman
11The house of the wicked will be destroyed, but the tent of the upright will flourish. 12There is a way that seems right to a man, but its end is the way of death.
- Scripture
- Sermons
- Commentary
A World of Idols
By Tim Keller13K45:58GospelPRO 14:12JHN 14:6ACT 17:16ROM 1:161CO 9:192CO 5:141TI 2:4In this sermon, the speaker emphasizes that religion is often seen as a superficial and temporary experience. However, the speaker argues that true faith in Christianity is meant to permeate every aspect of a person's life, including work, relationships, and cultural engagement. The speaker uses the example of the Athenians, who were caught up in the latest fads and ideas, to highlight the need for a deeper and more substantial faith. The sermon encourages listeners to understand that Christianity is not just about personal transformation, but also about transforming one's relationship with the world.
Choices, Deeds & Consequences
By A.W. Tozer5.5K42:40ConsequencesDEU 30:19PRO 14:12MAT 7:13JHN 14:6ACT 2:38ROM 6:231JN 5:12In this sermon, the preacher tells the story of a man who was focused on his own wealth and success. Despite his plans for remodeling and his abundance of grain, the man suddenly falls ill and dies. The preacher emphasizes the importance of considering one's choices and their consequences, both in the past and for the future. He urges the audience to prioritize moral considerations and to listen to the voice of God, who calls us to examine our ways.
(Genesis) Genesis 33:13-17
By J. Vernon McGee4.6K04:58GenesisGEN 33:13GEN 33:17GEN 35:1GEN 35:29PRO 14:12In this sermon on Genesis 33:13, the preacher discusses the encounter between Jacob and his brother Esau. Jacob expresses concern about the safety of his family and livestock, as they are vulnerable and unable to travel quickly. Esau offers to leave some of his men to assist Jacob, showing a reconciled relationship between the brothers. Jacob then settles in the land of Sucketh, where he builds houses and shelters for his cattle. The preacher emphasizes Jacob's growth in faith as he identifies himself with the name of God, El Elohi Israel, signifying his spiritual journey towards Bethel.
Heaven and Hell
By C.H. Spurgeon4.1K53:39NUM 21:8PRO 14:12MAT 7:13MAT 8:11MRK 16:16LUK 13:3ACT 2:38In this sermon, the preacher emphasizes the urgency of repentance and putting one's trust in Jesus. He warns that there is no security in earthly things and that everyone, regardless of age, is susceptible to death. The preacher shares a personal experience of witnessing the sudden death of a seemingly healthy man, highlighting the unpredictability of life. He vividly describes the consequences of rejecting God's mercy and the torment of hell. The sermon concludes with an exhortation to weigh the truth of God's word and to seek the road to heaven.
There Were Two Trees in the Garden - Part 1
By Art Katz3.9K59:21Garden Of EdenPRO 14:12LUK 24:45ROM 5:121CO 2:102CO 4:4EPH 1:92TI 3:16In this sermon, the speaker emphasizes the compactness and significance of the scripture, particularly in relation to the failure of Adam and its implications for humanity. The failure of Adam and Eve to heed the word of God resulted in the good becoming evil. The speaker highlights the need for radical separation from distractions and things that contend against God's word, and the importance of imposing limitations. The sermon calls for a deeper understanding and recognition of the Adamic failure and its impact on humanity, and a restoration of the true proclamation of the gospel for genuine conversion.
His Immensity - Part 1
By A.W. Tozer3.5K17:32ImmensityPRO 14:12MAT 7:13MAT 16:25MRK 8:36JHN 14:6PHP 3:8COL 3:3In this video, the speaker discusses the concept of God's imminence and how we don't have to go far to find God because He is present in everything. The speaker mentions a formula that emphasizes the idea that God is right here with us. They also read a couple of Bible verses that highlight the importance of losing our lives for Christ in order to find true life. The speaker references a book called "The Revelation of Divine Love" written by Julian 600 years ago, where she describes a vision of a small object representing all of creation. The speaker concludes by mentioning their intention to occasionally quote from old books throughout the series.
What Do You Do With Your Future
By J. Vernon McGee3.5K36:52FuturePRO 14:12PRO 27:1ISA 53:6ISA 56:12LUK 12:16JHN 14:6JAS 4:13In this sermon, the preacher uses various metaphors to describe the fleeting nature of life. He compares life to a mess on a hillside, grass in a valley, the flight of a bird, and the passage of a ship in the night. The preacher emphasizes that because life is unpredictable, we should not boast about our plans for the future. He references James 4:14, which reminds us that we do not know what tomorrow will bring, and encourages the audience to reflect on the brevity and uncertainty of life.
When Mercy Kills an Outstretched Hand
By Carter Conlon3.1K1:01:48Presence of God2SA 6:11CH 13:4PRO 14:12JHN 10:121CO 15:33GAL 6:7In this sermon, the speaker discusses the danger of hirelings in the pulpit who avoid addressing sin in the lives of their congregation. He emphasizes that when God is not present, people are left to rely on their own efforts to make things happen. The speaker shares a personal example of how his perspective changed when he realized the importance of being there for his neighbor in times of need. He warns against being deceived into thinking that we can have the life of Christ while treating Him casually when He speaks to our hearts. The speaker also highlights the negative impact of relying on our own abilities instead of trusting in God's provision.
Almost Persuaded
By Jim Cymbala2.9K37:23Christian LifeGEN 6:5EXO 20:31KI 15:26PRO 14:12ISA 59:2MAT 22:39ACT 16:31In this sermon, the speaker emphasizes the importance of setting good examples in life. He shares a personal experience of witnessing three young men being arrested and reflects on how their lives took a wrong turn due to following the wrong examples. The speaker also highlights the mercy of God and how he becomes angry when people waste their lives. He mentions the story of God's people in the Bible and how they faced consequences for their actions. The sermon concludes with a reminder of Jesus' sacrifice and the opportunity for redemption and eternal life through faith in Him.
Ten Shekels and a Shirt - Part 1
By Paris Reidhead2.4K09:57JDG 17:6PRO 14:12MAT 6:24JAS 4:41JN 2:15This sermon delves into the story of Micah in Judges 17, exploring the consequences of mixing worldly practices with worship of God, the dangers of compromising one's faith for personal gain, and the importance of seeking God's will rather than doing what seems right in our own eyes. It highlights the need for true devotion and obedience to God, even in the midst of societal pressures and temptations.
Abide in God's Shade, Warmth and Light
By Erlo Stegen2.2K49:45AbidingEXO 13:21PSA 37:23PSA 119:105PRO 14:12MAT 6:33JHN 14:6HEB 12:2In this sermon, the speaker emphasizes the importance of delighting in God's way and following His footsteps. He uses Psalm 37:23 as a reference to highlight how God establishes the steps of those who delight in Him. The speaker urges the audience to keep their eyes fixed on God, represented by the cloud and fire, and to not move without His guidance. He emphasizes that walking in God's way is essential for a fulfilling and heavenly life, and encourages repentance and a desire for God's presence.
A Christian Manifesto - Part 1
By Francis Schaeffer2.2K14:34PSA 33:12PRO 14:12ISA 5:20MAT 5:13ACT 5:29ROM 12:2GAL 6:7EPH 6:122TI 4:31PE 5:8Dr. Francis Schaeffer, a missionary to American intellectuals, founded L'Abri Fellowship in Switzerland to address life's philosophical questions. He emphasized the importance of historic Christianity in solving modern dilemmas, highlighting the shift from a Christian to a humanistic worldview as the root cause of societal issues. Schaeffer warned about the consequences of a materialistic, humanistic worldview on morality, law, and freedom, particularly in the context of public institutions like schools and courts.
Sin Is Little Thought About!
By Erwin Lutzer2.2K08:06PSA 51:5PRO 14:12ISA 59:2ROM 3:23ROM 6:23EPH 2:1JAS 4:171JN 1:8This sermon delves into the diminishing acknowledgment of sin in today's society, emphasizing the critical impact of having a correct understanding of sin on our identity and perception of God's grace. It contrasts the world's trivialization of sin with the Bible's depiction of human nature as spiritually dead without Christ, highlighting the need for a proper diagnosis of sin to receive God's deliverance and grace.
The Flow of Materialism
By Francis Schaeffer1.8K00:00MaterialismRelativismPSA 119:105PRO 14:12ECC 1:2ISA 40:8JHN 14:6ROM 1:251CO 15:32COL 2:82TI 3:16JAS 1:5Francis Schaeffer addresses the pervasive influence of materialism and relativism in both Western and Eastern thought, arguing that these worldviews lead to a lack of meaning and moral clarity. He highlights the tension faced by those who reject a Christian perspective, as they grapple with the absurdity of existence while still seeking purpose and significance. Schaeffer critiques the reliance on experience over reason in modern society, suggesting that this shift has resulted in a moral vacuum where absolutes are abandoned. He warns that without a foundation in truth, humanity is left with a chaotic and meaningless existence, ultimately calling for a return to the Christian worldview for true answers to life's dilemmas.
Two Gates
By J. Glyn Owen1.8K46:50Narrow WayPSA 119:105PRO 14:12MAT 6:33MAT 7:13JHN 10:9JHN 14:6ACT 4:12In this sermon on the Sermon on the Mount, the speaker emphasizes the importance and relevance of Jesus' teachings. The authority of Jesus as the incarnate Lord is highlighted, making his words profoundly challenging. As the sermon concludes, Jesus urges his listeners to respond to his teachings and enter through the narrow gate that leads to life. He warns that the wide gate and broad road lead to destruction, and only a few find the narrow road to life. The speaker urges the audience to heed the urgency and call of Jesus' words and enter into the desired destination of life.
The Wicked Man's Life, Funeral & Epitaph
By C.H. Spurgeon1.8K47:08PSA 51:17PRO 14:12ISA 55:6MAT 7:21ROM 2:4HEB 4:12JAS 4:14In this sermon, the preacher reflects on the power of the word of God and the lack of response from some individuals. He describes witnessing people being moved by the sermon, shedding tears and showing emotion, but ultimately failing to be truly transformed. The preacher laments the hardness of heart and resistance to salvation, comparing it to a deaf adder that cannot be charmed. He concludes by emphasizing the futility of a wicked person's life and the hopelessness of their legacy, contrasting it with the promise of resurrection for the righteous.
(1 Samuel) Bottomed Out and Starting to Rise
By David Guzik1.6K36:131SA 30:6PSA 27:14PRO 14:12JER 6:16LAM 3:22MAT 6:33ROM 8:28In this sermon, the speaker focuses on the story of David and his men returning to their city, Ziklag, only to find it burned and their families taken captive. The speaker emphasizes the importance of recognizing and acknowledging our own spiritual decline and the consequences that come with ignoring warning signs from God. David and his men cried and mourned over their loss, realizing that it was their own fault. The speaker suggests that David could have found strength in the Lord by remembering God's love and seeking His guidance in restoring what was lost.
Pilgrim's Progress - Part 2
By Alfred P. Gibbs1.5K1:00:52Pilgrim's ProgressPRO 14:12MAT 6:33ROM 3:10ROM 3:20ROM 3:23ROM 3:28EPH 2:8In this sermon, the preacher tells the story of a man named Graceless who is burdened by his sins and desperately seeks salvation. Graceless reads the Bible and realizes the gravity of his guilt and the impending judgment. He encounters a man named Evangelist who guides him towards salvation through faith in Jesus Christ. The preacher emphasizes the importance of salvation from sin's penalty and power, highlighting the sacrifice of Jesus on the cross and the need to love God and others according to God's commandments.
Importance of the Assembly
By William MacDonald1.4K33:34AssemblyPSA 126:5PRO 14:12MAT 16:18ACT 2:421CO 3:9COL 1:25In this sermon, the speaker emphasizes the importance of not changing the message of the Gospel, but being open to changing the methods of delivering it. He uses the example of cereal companies improving their packaging to boost sales without changing the product itself. The purpose of life is seen as serving the Lord within the context of the local church, and the speaker encourages aspiring leaders to step up and serve. The speaker also highlights the significance of the church in the New Testament and the enthusiasm with which the apostles spoke about it.
Joshua Miktarian Funeral - Part 2
By Jason Robinson1.4K05:02EXO 20:1PSA 119:105PRO 14:12PRO 29:18ECC 7:2MAT 7:21ROM 14:12GAL 6:7HEB 9:271JN 3:4This sermon emphasizes the importance of reflecting on the state of our souls and the need to prioritize our relationship with God. It addresses the societal shift away from acknowledging God's laws and the consequences of lawlessness. The speaker highlights the significance of upholding moral values, such as the Ten Commandments, in shaping a just and orderly society. The sermon also delves into the spiritual realm, discussing accountability before a holy God and the consequences of disobeying His laws despite the freedom of choice given to humanity.
Led by the Spirit of God - Part 4
By Milton Green1.4K17:04PRO 9:10PRO 12:1PRO 14:12PRO 21:2In this sermon, the preacher emphasizes the importance of following God's commandments and avoiding sinful behavior. He warns against being lovers of self and money, and highlights the consequences of disobedience to parents and other actions that break God's love. The preacher urges the congregation to recognize their need for instruction and discipline, and to avoid being deceived by pastors who entertain and seek idolatry. He references various passages from the Bible, including Proverbs, Galatians, Matthew, and Deuteronomy, to support his teachings on wisdom, the law of God, and the commandment to love one's neighbor.
Pride and Strife
By Chuck Smith1.4K25:04PrideGEN 3:4PRO 13:7PRO 14:10PRO 14:12PRO 14:20EPH 3:18In this sermon, Pastor Chuck Smith discusses the importance of understanding and experiencing the love of Christ. He emphasizes the need to share this love with others as witnesses to the world. Pastor Chuck also highlights the consequences of refusing instruction and the honor that comes from accepting reproof. He shares a personal anecdote about building a playhouse for his granddaughter and the joy that comes from accomplishing a desired goal. Additionally, he warns about the dangers of pride, strife, and the consequences of sinful actions.
The Rich and the Poor Part 1
By Chuck Smith1.3K25:05Poor1SA 15:22PRO 3:5PRO 14:12PRO 16:2PRO 17:9PRO 21:1MAT 6:33The video is a sermon by Pastor Chuck Smith on the book of Proverbs, specifically focusing on Proverbs 21:1. Pastor Chuck explains that the purpose of Proverbs is to impart wisdom and instruction. He emphasizes that God is sovereign and in control, even over the hearts of kings. He encourages listeners to live in a way that honors God, knowing that He sees everything we do. The video also mentions a DVD called "The Power of Forgiveness" which tells the story of Charles Tex Watson and his search for fulfillment, ultimately leading him to Charles Manson.
When God Becomes Friend - Assurance
By Dennis Kinlaw1.3K33:40AssuranceGEN 3:6PRO 14:12ISA 55:8MAT 6:33JHN 14:6ROM 1:21ROM 3:23In this sermon, the speaker emphasizes that Christianity is not a simple or easy doctrine, but rather a complex and demanding one. He highlights the lack of knowledge about the teachings of the Church in society, even in a Christian country. The speaker shares his experience of ministering to an upper-class congregation and the challenges he faced in presenting the message of Jesus Christ to educated individuals. The sermon also touches on the universal sense of wrongness and anger that arises when death affects loved ones, and the need to impart values and improve moral character in education.
Mixture
By Milton Green1.2K04:31PRO 14:12ISA 5:20MAT 7:15JHN 10:10ROM 12:22CO 6:142TI 4:3In this sermon, the preacher emphasizes the deceptive nature of Satan and how he manifests in the world through selfishness and worldly desires. He warns against allowing worldly intellect and academics to infiltrate religious settings without true repentance. The preacher highlights the danger of having tunnel vision and only seeing what fits within one's own traditions and doctrines, leading to deception and ultimately, hell. He also cautions against the destructive influence of mixture, where truth is mixed with falsehood, leading to a loss of conviction and a false sense of security. The sermon emphasizes the need for true repentance, holiness, and righteousness as revealed in the Bible.
- Keil-Delitzsch
- Jamieson-Fausset-Brown
- John Gill
- Matthew Henry
- Tyndale
Carl Friedrich Keil and Franz Delitzsch Old Testament Commentary
12 There is a way that seemeth right to one, But the end thereof are the ways of death. This is literally repeated in Pro 16:25. The rightness is present only as a phantom, for it arises wholly from a terrible self-deception; the man judges falsely and goes astray when, without regard to God and His word, he follows only his own opinions. It is the way of estrangement from God, of fleshly security; the way of vice, in which the blinded thinks to spend his life, to set himself to fulfil his purposes; but the end thereof (אחריתהּ with neut. fem.: the end of this intention, that in which it issues) are the ways of death. He who thus deceives himself regarding his course of life, sees himself at last arrived at a point from which every way which now further remains to him leads only down to death. The self-delusion of one ends in death by the sentence of the judge, that of another in self-murder; of one in loathsome disease, of another in a slow decay under the agony of conscience, or in sorrow over a henceforth dishonoured and distracted life.
Jamieson-Fausset-Brown Bible Commentary
end thereof--or, "reward," what results (compare Pro 5:4). ways of death--leading to it.
John Gill Bible Commentary
There is a way which seemeth right unto a man,.... As the way of sin and wickedness does, it promising much carnal pleasure and mirth; there is a great deal of company in it, it is a broad road, and is pleasant, and seems right, but it leads to destruction; so the way of the hypocrite and Pharisee that trusts to his own righteousness, and despises others, and even the righteousness of Christ; or however does not submit to it, but tramples upon him, and counts the blood of the covenant an unholy thing, and so is deserving of sorer punishment than the profane sinner; yet on account of his good works, as he calls them, fancies himself to be in a fair way for heaven and happiness; so Popery, through the pomp and grandeur and gaudiness of worship, through the lying miracles of the priests, and the air of devotion that appears in them, seems to be a right way; but the end thereof are the ways of death; which lead unto eternal death; for that is the wages of sin, let it appear in what shape it will.
Matthew Henry Bible Commentary
We have here an account of the way and end of a great many self-deluded souls. 1. Their way is seemingly fair: It seems right to themselves; they please themselves with a fancy that they are as they should be, that their opinions and practices are good, and such as will bear them out. The way of ignorance and carelessness, the way of worldliness and earthly-mindedness, the way of sensuality and flesh-pleasing, seem right to those that walk in them, much more the way of hypocrisy in religion, external performances, partial reformations, and blind zeal; this they imagine will bring them to heaven; they flatter themselves in their own eyes that all will be well at last. 2. Their end is really fearful, and the more so for their mistake: It is the ways of death, eternal death; their iniquity will certainly be their ruin, and they will perish with a lie in their right hand. Self-deceivers will prove in the end self-destroyers.
Tyndale Open Study Notes
14:12 // 16:25 The right choice is not always the one that seems right on the surface (see Matt 7:13-14).