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Proverbs 22:1
Verse
Context
A Good Name
1A good name is more desirable than great riches; favor is better than silver and gold.
Sermons






Summary
Commentary
- Keil-Delitzsch
- Tyndale
Carl Friedrich Keil and Franz Delitzsch Old Testament Commentary
Pro 21:1 1 A good name has the preference above great riches; For more than silver and gold is grace. The proverb is constructed chiastically; the commencing word נבחר (cf. Pro 21:3), and the concluding word טוב, are the parallel predicates; rightly, none of the old translators have been misled to take together חן טוב, after the analogy of שׂכל טוב, Pro 3:14; Pro 13:15. שׁם also does not need טוב for nearer determination; the more modern idiom uses שׁם טוב, (Note: e.g., Aboth iv. 17: there are three crowns: the crown of the Tra, the crown of the priesthood, and the crown of royalty; but כתר שׁם טוב, the crown of a good name, excels them all.) the more ancient uses שׁם alone (e.g., Ecc 7:1), in the sense of ὄνομα καλόν (thus here lxx); for being well known (renowned) is equivalent to a name, and the contrary to being nameless (Job 30:8); to make oneself a name, is equivalent to build a monument in honour of oneself; possibly the derivation of the word from שׁמה, to be high, prominent, known, may have contributed to this meaning of the word sensu eximio, for שׁם has the same root word as שׁמים. Luther translates שׁם by Das Gercht [rumour, fame], in the same pregnant sense; even to the present day, renom, recomme, riputazione, and the like, are thus used. The parallel חן signifies grace and favour (being beloved); grace, which brings favour (Pro 11:16); and favour, which is the consequence of a graceful appearance, courtesy, and demeanour (e.g., Est 2:15). Pro 22:2 2 The rich and the poor meet together; The creator of them all is Jahve. From this, that God made them all, i.e., rich and poor in the totality of their individuals, it follows that the meeting together is His will and His ordinance; they shall in life push one against another, and for what other purpose than that this relationship of mutual intercourse should be a school of virtue: the poor shall not envy the rich (Pro 3:31), and the rich shall not despise the poor, who has the same God and Father as himself (Pro 14:31; Pro 17:5; Pro 31:15); they shall remain conscious of this, that the intermingling of the diversities of station is for this end, that the lowly should serve the exalted, and the exalted should serve the lowly. Pro 29:13 is a variation; there also for both, but particularly for the rich, lies in the proverb a solemn warning.
Tyndale Open Study Notes
22:1 A wise person will never compromise his reputation in pursuit of money.
Proverbs 22:1
A Good Name
1A good name is more desirable than great riches; favor is better than silver and gold.
- Scripture
- Sermons
- Commentary
(Montana) Daniel
By Keith Daniel4.5K53:35DanielGEN 39:3PRO 22:1DAN 1:8DAN 6:10MAT 6:33PHP 2:151PE 3:16In this sermon, the speaker emphasizes the importance of prayer and thanksgiving in the life of a believer. He highlights the example of Daniel, who prayed and gave thanks to God three times a day, even in the midst of a crooked and perverse nation. The speaker challenges the audience to examine their own commitment to God and asks if the world knows that they are faithful followers of Jesus. He encourages them to be blameless and shine as lights in the world, holding forth the word of life. The speaker concludes by urging the audience to start applying the teachings they have heard and to choose God's best for their lives.
Cmml Missionary Conference 1995-07 Daniel 3
By William MacDonald1.2K42:56ConferencePRO 22:1MAT 6:33ROM 12:2JAS 1:121PE 3:15In this sermon, the speaker discusses the presence and power of Jesus in the trials of life. He emphasizes that we come to know Jesus more intimately through difficult circumstances rather than in times of ease. The speaker uses the example of Daniel and his friends in the fiery furnace to illustrate the importance of standing for God in a hostile society. He highlights the supernatural wisdom and knowledge that God bestowed upon Daniel as a result of his faithfulness. The sermon concludes with the reminder that God's grace is available to believers in times of trial, providing them with the strength to endure.
God Protects Us Against Our Enemies
By Zac Poonen5801:03:181SA 2:30EST 4:14PRO 22:1MAT 10:25ACT 7:60This sermon emphasizes the importance of standing firm in faith and integrity, even in the face of opposition and challenges. Drawing insights from the story of Esther in the Bible, it highlights the need to trust in God's timing and providence, showing how God can turn situations around for those who honor Him. The message encourages believers to be willing to endure hardships, persecution, and even loss for the sake of their faith, knowing that God ultimately honors those who stand for Him.
Preface to the Antiquities of the Jews
By Flavius Josephus0DEU 4:9PSA 111:10PRO 3:5PRO 22:1ECC 12:13Flavius Josephus explains the diverse reasons why historians write, including to showcase their skills, gratify those involved, or preserve facts for posterity. He shares that his own motivation to write 'Antiquities of the Jews' was to correct the misrepresentation of Jewish history by others and to reveal the truth about the war with the Romans. Josephus acknowledges the encouragement of Epaphroditus, a lover of learning, and the importance of sharing historical knowledge. He emphasizes the significance of understanding God's nature and following His laws, as well as the wisdom of Moses in teaching virtue through contemplation of the Divine.
A Good Name Is to Be Chosen Rather Than Great Riches
By Bishop M.A. Lalachan0PRO 11:30PRO 22:1ECC 7:1ISA 64:8MAT 6:19MAT 25:211CO 13:13PHP 2:32TI 2:211PE 4:8Bishop M.A. Lalachan preaches on the importance of choosing a good name over great riches, emphasizing the eternal value of loving favor over material wealth. He highlights the brevity of life and the inevitable transition to either heaven or hell, stressing the significance of allowing God to transform us into vessels of honor. The sermon underscores the ultimate importance of fulfilling God's purpose, leaving a legacy of love and kindness that will be remembered long after worldly possessions fade away. Bishop M.A. Lalachan encourages believers to prioritize their relationship with God and others, knowing that true fulfillment comes from being a person of Godly character.
The Voice of the Dead
By John Henry Jowett0PRO 22:1ECC 7:1MAT 26:14ACT 9:36HEB 11:4John Henry Jowett emphasizes the lasting impact of our lives even after we are gone, highlighting how our actions, whether good or evil, continue to speak and influence others. He delves into the concept that our faith, avarice, pride, and overall character persist beyond our physical existence, shaping the lives of those around us. Jowett challenges the audience to consider what part of them will remain alive and what forces they will leave behind for future generations.
From the Close of the General Conference of 1828 to the Beginning of the General Conference of 1832
By Nathan Bangs0PSA 133:1PRO 22:11CO 1:101PE 3:16Nathan Bangs preaches about the controversies and challenges faced by the Methodist Episcopal Church in 1828, including the radical controversy, the formation of the Oneida conference, advancements in education, missionary work, and the establishment of the Publishing Fund. The Church faced opposition and misrepresentations regarding the character of prominent figures like Dr. Adam Clarke and John Wesley, as well as accusations about the Church's property ownership and government structure. Controversies also arose around the American Home Missionary Society and its claim to be a national institution, leading to concerns about the influence of denominations in American society.
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.
Stealing the Shower
By Ed Wrather0PRO 10:2PRO 22:1EPH 4:28PHP 4:191TH 4:11Ed Wrather preaches about the importance of ceasing from stealing and instead working with one's hands to provide for oneself and others in need. He emphasizes that stealing goes against Christian values of giving, servanthood, kindness, and goodness, diminishing self-worth and devaluing others. Wrather acknowledges the challenges some face in finding legitimate employment but encourages faith in God's provision and guidance to transition away from dishonest means of living. He shares personal experiences of trusting in God's faithfulness when faced with uncertainty, highlighting the need to believe in God's promises and rely on His sufficiency.
From the Finishing of the Temple by Herod to the Death of Alexander and Aristobulus
By Flavius Josephus0PSA 146:3PRO 15:33PRO 16:18PRO 22:1MAT 23:12ROM 12:18GAL 6:7PHP 2:3JAS 3:161PE 5:5Flavius Josephus preaches about King Herod's zealous administration, enactment of severe laws, and controversial punishments, leading to hatred and accusations within his family. Despite his magnificence in building cities, temples, and sponsoring grand festivals, Herod's harshness towards his sons and subjects reveals a complex nature driven by ambition and a desire for honor. The sermon also highlights the embassages sent to Caesar concerning the mistreatment of Jews in Asia and Libya by the Greeks, showcasing the struggles faced by the Jewish community in foreign lands.
Honour All Men
By George Fox0GEN 1:27PRO 22:1MAT 25:40ROM 12:101JN 4:20George Fox preaches about the importance of honoring all men by recognizing the divine spark within each person, as this ultimately leads to seeking the honor of God. Those who are connected to God's Spirit are able to honor all men because they see the image of God in everyone. Conversely, those who are not in tune with God's Spirit dishonor the Son and mislabel individuals, elevating falsehood over truth.
Name and Fame
By J.C. Philpot02SA 18:18PRO 22:1ECC 6:4ECC 12:13MAT 16:26J.C. Philpot delves into the human desire for name and fame, highlighting the ambitious heart's yearning for earthly immortality and recognition among fellow men. He contrasts the fleeting nature of worldly recognition with the eternal significance of a life lived for God, emphasizing that true immortality is found in the heavenly bliss of eternity. Philpot warns against seeking fame at the expense of one's soul, pointing out that many renowned figures in history were not led by the Spirit of God and ultimately found their earthly accolades to be in vain.
Hallowed Be Thy Name
By Derek Melton0EXO 20:7PSA 111:9PSA 145:21PRO 22:1ECC 7:1ISA 59:14MAT 6:9PHP 2:9HEB 10:29Derek Melton passionately preaches about the reverence and honor due to the holy name of God, reflecting on the history of how our forefathers risked everything to worship God freely. He laments the decline of reverence for God's name in society, citing examples of court rulings that go against the beliefs of the majority of the nation. Urging Christians to speak out against injustices and corruption in the judicial system, he calls for deep intercession and active involvement to bring about change and restore the hallowed name of God in government, courts, and schools.
Character of Daniel.
By Edward Payson0PSA 119:9PRO 22:1DAN 10:11PHP 4:61TH 5:17HEB 11:6JAS 1:27JAS 4:61PE 5:6Edward Payson preaches about the exemplary life of Daniel, a man greatly beloved by God, emphasizing the importance of early piety, caution against worldly influences, fervent prayer life, strong faith, profound humility, and consistent devotion as key traits that made Daniel highly favored by God. Payson challenges the audience to reflect on whether their character resembles Daniel's and urges them to imitate his conduct to experience the honor and happiness of being greatly beloved by God.
Your Name
By Ed Wrather0PSA 147:4PRO 22:1ISA 43:11PE 4:16REV 2:17Ed Wrather reflects on the uniqueness of names and shares humorous encounters of meeting individuals with the same name as him. He draws a parallel to the name 'Christian' and encourages believers to embrace and glorify God in carrying this name with honor, as a good name is more desirable than riches. The sermon emphasizes the importance of understanding the significance of our names and the higher name we receive when accepting Christ.
Pythagorus Three Classes of Humanity
By A.W. Tozer0Pursuit of KnowledgeMotivation in LifePRO 1:7PRO 22:1ECC 1:18MAT 6:1LUK 12:15PHP 3:19COL 3:21TI 6:10JAS 4:31JN 2:15A.W. Tozer explores Pythagoras' classification of humanity into three groups: seekers after knowledge, honor, and gain. He critiques modern society, noting that seekers of knowledge have become scholars and scientists obsessed with accumulating information, while seekers of honor are likened to politicians who crave public recognition and manipulate public sentiment for votes. Lastly, he addresses seekers of gain, contrasting honest businessmen with those who engage in illegal activities, highlighting a moral equivalence between them despite their social differences. Tozer's sermon challenges listeners to reflect on their own pursuits and the motivations behind them.
Diary - Back at Home - 1723
By Jonathan Edwards0PSA 119:20PSA 139:23PRO 22:1ROM 8:26EPH 6:6PHP 4:61TH 5:16JAS 1:2JAS 3:21PE 2:18Jonathan Edwards preaches about the journey of self-reflection, repentance, and striving for holiness in various states of life. He emphasizes the importance of withdrawing worldly desires and fixing one's focus on heavenly joy and love. Edwards reflects on his struggles with temperament, conversation, and the need for vital Christianity to transform his flaws. He encourages continuous self-examination, prayer, and seeking God's mercy and guidance in all aspects of life.
The Greatness of Man
By Blaise Pascal01SA 16:7PSA 8:4PRO 22:1MAT 23:12ROM 12:3Blaise Pascal delves into the paradoxical nature of human existence, highlighting the dualities of greatness and misery within each individual. He emphasizes that despite the inherent miseries and pursuit of glory, humans ultimately seek esteem and recognition from others as the source of true happiness. Pascal argues that the pursuit of human reason and the desire for admiration are deeply ingrained qualities that define the essence of man, surpassing material possessions and comfort. Even those who degrade humanity still yearn for admiration, showcasing the internal conflict between self-perception and societal validation.
From the Banishment of Archelaus to the Departure of the Jews From Babylon
By Flavius Josephus0PRO 17:17PRO 18:16PRO 19:6PRO 22:1PRO 22:7PRO 27:10Flavius Josephus recounts the tumultuous life of King Agrippa, detailing his financial troubles, debts, and his escape from Rome to Judea. Agrippa's friendship with Tiberius Caesar and his grandson Caius is highlighted, along with his interactions with Antonia, who played a crucial role in his life. The story also includes Agrippa's imprisonment due to a debt, his wife Cypros' efforts to help him, and his eventual freedom through Antonia's intervention.
Psalm 15
By Henry Law0PSA 15:1PSA 24:3PSA 112:6PRO 11:3PRO 22:1Henry Law preaches on the requirements for abiding in God's presence and dwelling in His holy hill, emphasizing the importance of true righteousness as the evidence of being Christ's. He highlights that holiness is not a title but a character trait, pointing to Christ as the only justifier and cleanser of sins. Law urges believers to walk uprightly, speak truth, refrain from gossip and evil deeds, honor those who fear the Lord, and uphold integrity in all financial dealings, assuring that those who do these things shall never be moved.
- Keil-Delitzsch
- Tyndale
Carl Friedrich Keil and Franz Delitzsch Old Testament Commentary
Pro 21:1 1 A good name has the preference above great riches; For more than silver and gold is grace. The proverb is constructed chiastically; the commencing word נבחר (cf. Pro 21:3), and the concluding word טוב, are the parallel predicates; rightly, none of the old translators have been misled to take together חן טוב, after the analogy of שׂכל טוב, Pro 3:14; Pro 13:15. שׁם also does not need טוב for nearer determination; the more modern idiom uses שׁם טוב, (Note: e.g., Aboth iv. 17: there are three crowns: the crown of the Tra, the crown of the priesthood, and the crown of royalty; but כתר שׁם טוב, the crown of a good name, excels them all.) the more ancient uses שׁם alone (e.g., Ecc 7:1), in the sense of ὄνομα καλόν (thus here lxx); for being well known (renowned) is equivalent to a name, and the contrary to being nameless (Job 30:8); to make oneself a name, is equivalent to build a monument in honour of oneself; possibly the derivation of the word from שׁמה, to be high, prominent, known, may have contributed to this meaning of the word sensu eximio, for שׁם has the same root word as שׁמים. Luther translates שׁם by Das Gercht [rumour, fame], in the same pregnant sense; even to the present day, renom, recomme, riputazione, and the like, are thus used. The parallel חן signifies grace and favour (being beloved); grace, which brings favour (Pro 11:16); and favour, which is the consequence of a graceful appearance, courtesy, and demeanour (e.g., Est 2:15). Pro 22:2 2 The rich and the poor meet together; The creator of them all is Jahve. From this, that God made them all, i.e., rich and poor in the totality of their individuals, it follows that the meeting together is His will and His ordinance; they shall in life push one against another, and for what other purpose than that this relationship of mutual intercourse should be a school of virtue: the poor shall not envy the rich (Pro 3:31), and the rich shall not despise the poor, who has the same God and Father as himself (Pro 14:31; Pro 17:5; Pro 31:15); they shall remain conscious of this, that the intermingling of the diversities of station is for this end, that the lowly should serve the exalted, and the exalted should serve the lowly. Pro 29:13 is a variation; there also for both, but particularly for the rich, lies in the proverb a solemn warning.
Tyndale Open Study Notes
22:1 A wise person will never compromise his reputation in pursuit of money.