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Proverbs 18:19
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Summary
Commentary
- Jamieson-Fausset-Brown
- John Gill
- Matthew Henry
Jamieson-Fausset-Brown Bible Commentary
No feuds so difficult of adjustment as those of relatives; hence great care should be used to avoid them.
John Gill Bible Commentary
A brother offended is harder to be won than a strong city,.... A fortified city may sooner be taken by an enemy, than one brother offended can be reconciled to another; their resentments against each other are keener than against another person that has offended them; and their love being turned into hatred, it is more bitter; and it is more difficult to compose differences between brethren than between enemies; wherefore such should take care that they fall not out by the way: this is true of brethren in a natural sense; as the cases of Abel and Cain, Jacob and Esau, Joseph and his brethren, Amnon and Absalom, and others, show; and of brethren in a spiritual sense, as Paul and Barnabas, Luther and Calvin, and others; and their contentions are like the bars of a castle: which cannot be easily broken or cut asunder: so contentions, especially those among brethren, are with great difficulty made to cease, and their differences composed; they will stand it out against one another as long as a strong city, or a barred castle, against an enemy.
Matthew Henry Bible Commentary
Note, 1. Great care must be taken to prevent quarrels among relations, and those that are under special obligation to each other, not only because they are most unnatural and unbecoming, but because between such things are commonly taken most unkindly, and resentments are apt to be carried too far. Wisdom and grace would indeed make it most easy to us to forgive our relations and friends if they offend us, but corruption makes it most difficult to forgive them; let us therefore take heed of disobliging a brother, or one that has been as a brother; ingratitude is very provoking. 2. Great pains must be taken to compromise matters in variance between relations, with all speed, because it is a work of so much difficulty, and consequently the more honourable if it be done. Esau was a brother offended, and seemed harder to be won than a strong city, yet by a work of God upon his heart, in answer to Jacob's prayer, he was won.
Proverbs 18:19
The Selfishness of the Unfriendly
18Casting the lot ends quarrels and separates strong opponents. 19An offended brother is harder to win than a fortified city, and disputes are like the bars of a castle.
- Scripture
- Sermons
- Commentary
Separated From Our Loved Ones
By Keith Daniel7771:27:04PSA 27:10PRO 18:19PRO 18:24ISA 49:15ISA 58:7MAT 5:10MAT 10:21EPH 6:42TH 1:81TI 4:1HEB 13:5This sermon delves into the fearful possibility of separation from loved ones, both in this life and for eternity, emphasizing the consequences of rejecting God and the need for sincere repentance and reconciliation. It warns against doctrinal differences, exclusivity in religion, and the tragic outcomes of pride, folly, and un-Christlike behavior that can lead to alienation from family members. The urgency of seeking God's salvation and living in righteousness is highlighted to avoid eternal separation and to mend broken relationships on Earth.
Relationships: Communication, Expectations, and Healing Wounds
By Mike Bickle2147:15Communication in RelationshipsHealing WoundsPSA 16:3PRO 18:19PRO 21:19MAT 6:14MAT 11:28MRK 11:25EPH 4:29COL 3:13JAS 1:201PE 3:7Mike Bickle emphasizes the importance of love and communication in relationships, reflecting on the legacy of Bob Jones, who was asked by the Lord if he learned to love. He discusses the need to be proactive in addressing wounded relationships before they become irreparable, highlighting the signs of injury in relationships and the significance of open communication. Bickle stresses that expectations must be clearly defined to avoid misunderstandings and conflicts, and he encourages couples to create agreements that foster understanding and respect. He also underscores the necessity of forgiveness and the role of gracious speech in healing relationships, reminding us that our words can either build up or tear down.
Relationships: Forgive, Bless, and More (Mt. 6:12-14)
By Mike Bickle201:00:08Relationship RestorationForgivenessPRO 12:18PRO 15:1PRO 18:19PRO 18:21MAT 5:44MAT 6:12MAT 7:7GAL 6:1EPH 4:29JAS 5:16Mike Bickle emphasizes the critical role of forgiveness in relationships, particularly as taught in Matthew 6:12-14. He explains that true forgiveness goes beyond merely avoiding negative thoughts about those who have wronged us; it requires actively blessing and doing good to them. Bickle highlights the importance of addressing anger, pursuing reconciliation, and maintaining a positive communication style to restore and strengthen relationships. He encourages believers to be proactive in healing wounded relationships, especially within close personal connections, and to cultivate a culture of grace and affirmation in their interactions.
How to Restore a Wounded Relationship, Part. 2
By Mike Bickle1343:19RestorationHealthy RelationshipsPRO 18:19MAT 5:9JHN 13:34ROM 12:182CO 5:19GAL 6:1EPH 4:29JAS 5:16Mike Bickle emphasizes the importance of restoring wounded relationships, drawing parallels between the dynamics of the Trinity and our relationships within the body of Christ. He highlights that healing relationships is a priority for God, as it reflects His love and joy. Bickle encourages believers to actively pursue reconciliation, whether they are the offended or the offender, and to communicate with grace and humility. He stresses the significance of Ephesians 4:29, urging individuals to avoid corrupt speech and instead impart grace through their words. Ultimately, Bickle calls for a commitment to excel in love and maintain healthy relationships, reflecting the unity and joy found in the Godhead.
Homily 3 on the Acts of the Apostles
By St. John Chrysostom0PSA 38:10PRO 18:19EZK 34:2MAT 13:47LUK 22:32ACT 1:152CO 13:7PHP 2:2John Chrysostom preaches on the selection of Matthias as an Apostle to replace Judas, emphasizing the importance of prayer, unity, and seeking God's guidance in making decisions. He highlights the challenges and responsibilities of being a bishop, urging humility and selflessness in aspiring to leadership roles within the Church. Chrysostom warns against seeking positions of authority for personal gain or prestige, stressing the need for genuine care and concern for the spiritual well-being of others. He illustrates the demanding nature of the episcopate, where bishops face constant scrutiny, criticism, and the weight of immense responsibilities, calling for a deep sense of dedication and sacrifice in serving the Church.
Job's Trials and Mercies
By William Plumer0JOB 1:20JOB 13:15JOB 19:25JOB 29:8JOB 29:21JOB 29:25JOB 42:10PRO 18:19ISA 41:10MAT 16:23William Plumer preaches on the profound story of Job, highlighting his unwavering faith and patience amidst extreme suffering and loss. Job, a man of great piety and wealth, faced unimaginable afflictions, losing his possessions, children, and enduring painful physical ailments. Despite the misguided accusations of his friends and the lack of sensible religious comfort, Job remained steadfast in his trust in God, setting a remarkable example of patience and submission. Ultimately, after fervent prayer for his friends, God restored Job's fortunes twofold, blessing him with even greater prosperity and a long, good life.
Hebrews 12:11-15
By St. John Chrysostom0PRO 18:191CO 6:9GAL 6:21TH 5:111TI 4:14HEB 12:11HEB 12:14John Chrysostom preaches about the importance of enduring chastisement and trials, comparing it to bitter medicine that yields the fruit of righteousness in the end. He encourages believers to lift up their hands and make straight paths, emphasizing the need to endure patiently and have faith in the good outcome of their struggles. Chrysostom urges the congregation to follow peace with all men, live in holiness, and support each other in their spiritual journey, highlighting the significance of mutual encouragement and accountability. He stresses the importance of reproving and exhorting one another with gentleness and love, reminding them that by bearing each other's burdens, they fulfill the law of Christ and contribute to each other's edification.
When Brothers Quarrel
By Timothy Tow0PRO 18:19MAT 6:14MAT 18:21ACT 15:39EPH 4:30Timothy Tow preaches on the difficulty of reconciling with offended brothers, using examples from court cases and biblical figures like Paul and Barnabas. He emphasizes the importance of letting time and the Holy Spirit work for reconciliation, urging believers to follow the Word of God in resolving conflicts. Tow highlights the need for forgiveness, drawing from the teachings of Jesus and Paul, stressing that unconditional forgiveness is essential for receiving God's forgiveness.
- Jamieson-Fausset-Brown
- John Gill
- Matthew Henry
Jamieson-Fausset-Brown Bible Commentary
No feuds so difficult of adjustment as those of relatives; hence great care should be used to avoid them.
John Gill Bible Commentary
A brother offended is harder to be won than a strong city,.... A fortified city may sooner be taken by an enemy, than one brother offended can be reconciled to another; their resentments against each other are keener than against another person that has offended them; and their love being turned into hatred, it is more bitter; and it is more difficult to compose differences between brethren than between enemies; wherefore such should take care that they fall not out by the way: this is true of brethren in a natural sense; as the cases of Abel and Cain, Jacob and Esau, Joseph and his brethren, Amnon and Absalom, and others, show; and of brethren in a spiritual sense, as Paul and Barnabas, Luther and Calvin, and others; and their contentions are like the bars of a castle: which cannot be easily broken or cut asunder: so contentions, especially those among brethren, are with great difficulty made to cease, and their differences composed; they will stand it out against one another as long as a strong city, or a barred castle, against an enemy.
Matthew Henry Bible Commentary
Note, 1. Great care must be taken to prevent quarrels among relations, and those that are under special obligation to each other, not only because they are most unnatural and unbecoming, but because between such things are commonly taken most unkindly, and resentments are apt to be carried too far. Wisdom and grace would indeed make it most easy to us to forgive our relations and friends if they offend us, but corruption makes it most difficult to forgive them; let us therefore take heed of disobliging a brother, or one that has been as a brother; ingratitude is very provoking. 2. Great pains must be taken to compromise matters in variance between relations, with all speed, because it is a work of so much difficulty, and consequently the more honourable if it be done. Esau was a brother offended, and seemed harder to be won than a strong city, yet by a work of God upon his heart, in answer to Jacob's prayer, he was won.