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Proverbs 18:15
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Summary
Commentary
- Jamieson-Fausset-Brown
- John Gill
- Matthew Henry
John Gill Bible Commentary
The heart of the prudent getteth knowledge,.... More knowledge; for he must have some, and a considerable share, to be denominated "prudent", whether in things natural, civil, or spiritual: and such will be heartily desirous of more, and make use of all means to attain it, by which they do come at a large share of it; and the ear of the wise seeketh knowledge; a wise man seeks to get it by hearing; he listens to what others say, and especially such that are wiser and more knowing than himself: so such as are wise to salvation, as they desire to know more of Christ and of divine things, and make use of all means for that purpose; among the rest, hearken to what Christians, of a superior class to themselves, drop in private conversation; and particularly they constantly attend to the ministry of the word; and thus seeking it, they find an increase of it.
Matthew Henry Bible Commentary
Note, 1. Those that are prudent will seek knowledge, and apply their ear and heart to the pursuit of it, their ear to attend to the means of knowledge and their heart to mix faith with what they hear and make a good improvement of it. Those that are prudent do not think they have prudence enough, but still see they have need of more; and the more prudent a man is the more inquisitive will he be after knowledge, the knowledge of God and his duty, and the way to heaven, for that is the best knowledge. 2. Those that prudently seek knowledge shall certainly get knowledge, for God never said to such, Seek in vain, but, Seek and you shall find. If the ear seeks it, the heart gets it, and keeps it, and is enriched by it. We must get knowledge, not only into our heads, but into our hearts, get the savour and relish of it, apply what we know to ourselves and experience the power and influence of it.
Proverbs 18:15
The Selfishness of the Unfriendly
14The spirit of a man can endure his sickness, but who can survive a broken spirit? 15The heart of the discerning acquires knowledge, and the ear of the wise seeks it out.
- Scripture
- Sermons
- Commentary
Locks & Keys
By Dr. A.E. Wilder-Smith1.6K1:05:44SciencePRO 16:31PRO 18:15PRO 25:2ECC 7:24ECC 8:1DAN 12:4JHN 1:1In this sermon, the speaker discusses the concept of the Logos in biology and how it relates to the teaching of biology in schools. He encourages the audience, particularly those involved in teaching biology, to recognize the evidence that supports the presence of the Logos in biology. The speaker provides examples and suggests that the audience refer to books at the back of the room for more detailed information on the chemistry and information theory behind his claims. He also briefly mentions the connection between cells in the body and the church as the body of Christ, emphasizing the importance of collaboration and dedication to the greater whole.
Read or Get Out of the Ministry
By A.W. Tozer1Continuous LearningPreparation for MinistryPRO 1:5PRO 18:15ECC 7:12COL 3:232TI 2:15A.W. Tozer emphasizes the necessity of continuous learning for ministers, drawing on wisdom from figures like Joseph H. Smith and John Wesley, who advocated for reading widely to enhance one's understanding and effectiveness in ministry. He likens the pursuit of knowledge to sharpening an axe, suggesting that a well-prepared mind makes the work of ministry easier and more fruitful. Tozer encourages ministers to prioritize their intellectual growth, as it honors God and equips them for their calling.
Be Widely Read
By A.W. Tozer0Humility in MinistryKnowledgePSA 119:105PRO 1:5PRO 18:15ECC 12:12ROM 12:2COL 3:162TI 2:152TI 3:16JAS 1:51PE 3:15A.W. Tozer emphasizes the importance of being widely read for Christians, particularly ministers, to effectively teach and guide their congregations. He warns against the dangers of ignorance coupled with arrogance, which can lead to ineffective ministry and spiritual harm to the listeners. Tozer advocates for humility and a commitment to learning, recognizing that a deep relationship with God is paramount. He acknowledges the challenge of keeping up with diverse knowledge but seeks to be well-read and authoritative in his understanding of God. The sermon calls for diligence in studying the Word and being prepared to share it wisely.
Reading That Incites Thinking
By A.W. Tozer0Self-EducationCritical ThinkingPRO 1:5PRO 18:15COL 3:162TI 2:15JAS 1:5A.W. Tozer emphasizes the importance of critical thinking and self-education in his sermon 'Reading That Incites Thinking.' He recounts a conversation between Dr. Samuel Johnson and a king, highlighting that reading should stimulate deeper thought rather than just be a passive activity. Tozer argues that while reading is valuable, true understanding and wisdom come from within, and that ministers should be well-read to effectively teach their congregations. He warns against arrogance in ignorance, suggesting that humility and a willingness to learn are essential for spiritual leaders. Ultimately, Tozer encourages Christians to engage with their faith actively and thoughtfully.
Some New Mystery Bagged
By A.W. Tozer0Avoiding False TeachingsFaithfulness to ScripturePSA 119:105PRO 18:15ACT 17:211CO 3:11COL 2:81TI 6:202TI 4:3HEB 13:9JAS 1:52PE 3:16A.W. Tozer addresses the tendency of some Christians to seek out new and obscure teachings instead of focusing on the foundational truths of the faith. He warns against the allure of chasing after mysteries that are not rooted in Scripture, which can lead to confusion and distraction from the core tenets of Christianity. Tozer emphasizes the importance of remaining faithful to God's Word and understanding its profound truths without succumbing to the temptation of novelty for the sake of reputation. He encourages believers to seek wisdom and understanding while avoiding the pitfalls of dogmatism based on uncertain interpretations.
On Mr. Rudyard Kipling and Making the World Small
By Gilbert K. Chesterton0PRO 18:15PRO 22:29ECC 3:1ROM 12:41CO 10:311CO 12:121CO 12:141CO 12:27EPH 4:16COL 3:23Gilbert K. Chesterton delivers a sermon on the importance of being interested in all subjects, emphasizing that the lack of interest, not the subject itself, makes something uninteresting. He defends the value of 'bores' who possess higher qualities like enthusiasm and happiness, contrasting them with the 'bored' who lack these qualities. Chesterton highlights the poetical nature of all things, challenging individuals to find something that is not a matter of poetry, and explores the significance of names and common things being poetical. He discusses Rudyard Kipling's focus on militarism, pointing out that true courage and discipline are essential in all aspects of life, not just in war.
On Composing Papers
By Art Katz0Discipline in FaithPersonal GrowthPRO 18:15COL 3:232TI 2:15Art Katz emphasizes the importance of believers actively engaging in the process of composing papers and articles that reflect their understanding of God. He encourages a creative and diligent approach to gathering and synthesizing information, akin to an artist working on multiple canvases. Katz highlights the necessity of wrestling with biblical texts directly, rather than relying on commentaries too soon, to deepen one's understanding and credibility in faith. He warns against laziness and urges believers to be accountable for how they spend their time, advocating for a disciplined pursuit of knowledge and personal expression of faith.
Learning From the "Masters"
By A.W. Tozer0Learning from OthersCommunicationPRO 1:5PRO 18:15ECC 12:12COL 3:16JAS 1:19A.W. Tozer emphasizes the importance of learning from literary 'masters' to enhance our speaking and writing skills. He explains that effective communication involves elements like pitch, tempo, and tone, which can be absorbed through attentive listening and reading. Tozer recommends various authors, including John Bunyan and Charles Dickens, whose works exemplify clarity, elegance, and artistry. He encourages readers to engage with these texts to develop their own verbal skills and appreciate the beauty of language. Ultimately, Tozer highlights that reading is a form of listening that enriches our understanding and expression.
- Jamieson-Fausset-Brown
- John Gill
- Matthew Henry
John Gill Bible Commentary
The heart of the prudent getteth knowledge,.... More knowledge; for he must have some, and a considerable share, to be denominated "prudent", whether in things natural, civil, or spiritual: and such will be heartily desirous of more, and make use of all means to attain it, by which they do come at a large share of it; and the ear of the wise seeketh knowledge; a wise man seeks to get it by hearing; he listens to what others say, and especially such that are wiser and more knowing than himself: so such as are wise to salvation, as they desire to know more of Christ and of divine things, and make use of all means for that purpose; among the rest, hearken to what Christians, of a superior class to themselves, drop in private conversation; and particularly they constantly attend to the ministry of the word; and thus seeking it, they find an increase of it.
Matthew Henry Bible Commentary
Note, 1. Those that are prudent will seek knowledge, and apply their ear and heart to the pursuit of it, their ear to attend to the means of knowledge and their heart to mix faith with what they hear and make a good improvement of it. Those that are prudent do not think they have prudence enough, but still see they have need of more; and the more prudent a man is the more inquisitive will he be after knowledge, the knowledge of God and his duty, and the way to heaven, for that is the best knowledge. 2. Those that prudently seek knowledge shall certainly get knowledge, for God never said to such, Seek in vain, but, Seek and you shall find. If the ear seeks it, the heart gets it, and keeps it, and is enriched by it. We must get knowledge, not only into our heads, but into our hearts, get the savour and relish of it, apply what we know to ourselves and experience the power and influence of it.