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Proverbs 22:29
Verse
Context
Sermons
William MacDonald
Joshua Daniel
George Verwer
Gilbert K. Chesterton
J.R. Miller
James Blaine ChapmanSummary
Commentary
- Keil-Delitzsch
- Jamieson-Fausset-Brown
- John Gill
- Matthew Henry
- Tyndale
Carl Friedrich Keil and Franz Delitzsch Old Testament Commentary
After these four proverbs beginning with אל, a new series begins with the following tristich: 29 Seest thou a man who is expert in his calling - Before kings may he stand; Not stand before obscure men; i.e., he can enter into the service of kings, and needs not to enter into the service of mean men = he is entitled to claim the highest official post. חזית, in Pro 26:12 = Pro 29:20, interchanging with ראית, is perf. hypotheticum (cf. Pro 24:10; Pro 25:16): si videris; the conclusion which might begin with דּע כּי expresses further what he who sees will have occasion to observe. Rightly Luther: Sihestu einen Man endelich (vid., at Pro 21:5) in seinem geschefft, u.s.w. = seest thou a man expert in his business, etc.. מהיר denotes in all the three chief dialects one who is skilful in a manner not merely by virtue of external artistic ability, but also by means of intellectual mastery of it. התיצּב לפני, to enter on the situation of a servant before any one; cf. Job 1:6; Job 2:1. עמד לפני, Sa1 16:21; Kg1 10:8. Along with the pausal form יתיצּב, there is also found in Codd. the form יתיצּב (the ground-form to יתיצּב, whence that pausal form is lengthened), which Ben-Bileam defends, for he reckons this word among "the pathachized pausal forms." חשׁכּים, in contrast to מלכים, are the obscuri = ignobiles. The Targ. translate the Heb. דּל and אביון by חשׁיך and חשׁוך. Kimchi compares Jer 39:10, where העם הדּלּים is translated by חשׁיכיּא (cf. Kg2 24:14; Kg2 25:12). חלכּה (חלכּה) is the old Heb. synonym in Ps 10. The poet seems here to transfer the Aram. usus loq. into the Heb.
Jamieson-Fausset-Brown Bible Commentary
Success rewards diligence (Pro 10:4; Pro 21:5). Next: Proverbs Chapter 23
John Gill Bible Commentary
Seest thou a man diligent in his business?.... In the business of his calling, be it what it will, whether for himself or his master; constant in it, swift, ready, and expeditious at it; who industriously pursues it, cheerfully attends it, makes quick dispatch of it; does it off of hand, at once, and is not slothful in it, nor weary of it; when you have observed and taken notice of such a man, which is not very common, you may, without a spirit of prophecy, foresee that such a man will rise in the world; he shall stand before kings; he shall not stand before mean men, or "obscure persons" (o); he shall not continue in the service of ignoble persons, or keep company with them; but he shall be taken into the service of princes and noble men, and be admitted into their presence, and receive favours from them; as Joseph, who was industrious and diligent in his business in Potiphar's house, was in process of time advanced, and stood before Pharaoh king of Egypt, Gen 39:4. This may be spiritually applied. Every good man has a work or business to do in a religious way; some in a higher sphere, as officers of churches, ministers and deacons; the work of the one lies in reading, study, meditation, and prayer, in the ministration of the word and ordinances, and other duties of their once; and the business of the others in taking care of the poor, and the secular affairs of the churches; others in a lower way, and common to all Christians, which lies in the exercise of grace, and performance of all good works, relative to themselves, their families, and the church of God. Now ministers that are diligent in teaching and ruling; and deacons that do their office well; and private Christians, who are steadfast and immovable, always abounding in the work of the Lord; are ready to every good work, heartily engaged in it, and constantly at it; shall not be company for the sons of darkness, unregenerate men, who are in the dark, and darkness itself; what communion has light with darkness, with works of darkness, they should be not workers of? or have any fellowship with the prince of darkness, from whose power they are delivered; but shall have society with the saints, who are made kings and priests unto God; shall be admitted into the presence of the King of kings now, and have communion with him; and shall stand before him at the great day with confidence, and not be ashamed; shall stand at his right hand, and shall be for ever with him. So the Jews (p) interpret this place, "he shall not stand before dark ones", in hell; "he shall stand before kings", in the garden of Eden, in paradise; that is, in heaven. (o) "ante obscuros", Mercerus, Junius & Tremellius, Piscator; "coram obscuris", Cocceius, Gejerus, Michaelis; "in conspectu obscurorum", Schultens. (p) Gloss. in T. Bab. Sanhedrin, fol. 104. 2. Next: Proverbs Chapter 23
Matthew Henry Bible Commentary
Here is, 1. A plain intimation what a hard thing it is to find a truly ingenious industrious man: "Seest thou a man diligent in his business? Thou wilt not see many such, so epidemical are dulness and slothfulness." He is here commended who lays out himself to get business, though it be but in a very low and narrow sphere, and is not easy when he is out of business, who loves business, is quick and active in it, and goes through it, not only with constancy and resolution, but with dexterity and expedition, a man of despatch, who knows how to bring a deal of business into a little compass. 2. A moral prognostication of the preferment of such a man; though now he stands before mean men, is employed by them and attends upon them, yet he will rise, and is likely enough to stand before kings, as an ambassador to foreign kings or prime-minister of state to his own. Seest thou a man diligent in the business of religion? He is likely to excel in virtue, and shall stand before the King of kings.
Tyndale Open Study Notes
22:29 Saying 5: Those who hone their skills and work hard will have the best jobs and work for the best people.
Proverbs 22:29
Saying 6
28Do not move an ancient boundary stone which your fathers have placed. 29Do you see a man skilled in his work? He will be stationed in the presence of kings; he will not stand before obscure men.
- Scripture
- Sermons
- Commentary
Lessons From Daniel
By William MacDonald1.5K42:14DanielPSA 34:8PRO 21:1PRO 22:29DAN 1:8MAT 6:33ROM 8:281CO 10:13In this sermon, the speaker discusses the dark days in Israel described in the first two verses of the Bible. The people of God are in captivity in Babylon under the rule of Nebuchadnezzar. Despite their circumstances, the young Hebrews remain calm and composed. They refuse to eat the king's food and instead opt for a simple diet of vegetables and water. God is shown to be in control throughout the story. The speaker emphasizes the importance of standing for God and living a life separate from the world's ways. He compares the Hebrews' situation to the challenges faced by Christians today, such as standing for the truth of God in the school system. The speaker concludes by reminding the audience that life is a training ground for reigning with God, and one day believers will stand in the presence of the King.
The Sin of Covetousness
By Joshua Daniel1.0K25:17PRO 22:29MAT 6:24ROM 10:17EPH 5:3PHP 2:31TI 6:102TI 3:16HEB 13:5JAS 4:81JN 1:9
This sermon emphasizes the dangers of convenient, non-scriptural religion, highlighting the importance of living a holy life free from sins like fornication, uncleanness, and covetousness. It discusses the transformative power of God's Word on those who were previously unaware of biblical truths, leading to conviction and spiritual growth. The sermon also addresses the impact of revival on individuals and societies, showcasing how genuine faith can bring material prosperity and a strong work ethic. It challenges listeners to prioritize spiritual growth over worldly desires, especially in times of financial challenges and societal debts, urging them to embody the love and service of Jesus Christ.
Ict Meeting on Logos 20.9.83
By George Verwer48045:08MissionsPRO 22:29MAT 6:33ROM 12:11EPH 4:29COL 3:232TI 2:2JAS 1:5In this sermon, the speaker discusses the challenges and unpredictability of doing God's work in Brahman. They mention the lack of funds and the need to be flexible in their transportation arrangements. The speaker emphasizes the importance of training and preparation for the individuals involved in the work, as they will be the ones representing God to others. They also highlight the pressures and opportunities for growth that come with working in a busy and observed environment.
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.
From the Death of Alexander the Great to the Death of Judas Maccabeus
By Flavius Josephus0PRO 13:16PRO 22:29PRO 24:3PRO 27:12ECC 9:10Flavius Josephus preaches about the wise and courageous actions of Joseph, a man who cleverly managed the farming of taxes in Syria, gained the favor of King Ptolemy, and secured his family's prosperity through shrewd decisions. Joseph's son, Hyrcanus, also displayed remarkable intelligence and resourcefulness at a young age, earning admiration and envy from his siblings. Through their actions, they exemplify the importance of prudence, wisdom, and boldness in navigating challenges and securing success.
That Will Do!
By J.R. Miller0Personal GrowthExcellencePRO 22:29ECC 9:10MAT 5:48ROM 12:111CO 10:31GAL 6:9EPH 2:10PHP 1:10COL 3:232TI 2:15J.R. Miller emphasizes the detrimental impact of the phrase 'That will do!' which signifies settling for mediocrity instead of striving for excellence. He argues that this mindset leads to a life of slothfulness and unworthiness, where individuals fail to reach their full potential in various aspects of life, including work and personal conduct. Miller encourages young people to cultivate a habit of aiming for their best in all endeavors, as striving for perfection not only enhances their work but also contributes to their moral and spiritual growth. He warns that careless work can have lasting negative effects on one's character, urging listeners to reject complacency and pursue high standards. Ultimately, the sermon calls for a commitment to excellence in every task, reflecting a dedication to God and personal integrity.
The Law of Life
By James Blaine Chapman0EST 4:14PRO 22:291CO 16:13EPH 5:152TI 2:15James Blaine Chapman preaches about the significance of the present time and the unique challenges and opportunities it presents. He emphasizes that each generation faces its own difficulties and must rise to the occasion, just as historical figures like Alexander, Napoleon, Washington, and Lincoln did in their time. Chapman highlights the need for men and women of character, integrity, and courage to navigate the complexities of modern society, including in areas of material success, domestic life, and social interactions. He stresses the importance of strong moral and religious foundations in a time marked by skepticism and indifference, urging individuals to embrace their role in making a positive impact in the world.
- Keil-Delitzsch
- Jamieson-Fausset-Brown
- John Gill
- Matthew Henry
- Tyndale
Carl Friedrich Keil and Franz Delitzsch Old Testament Commentary
After these four proverbs beginning with אל, a new series begins with the following tristich: 29 Seest thou a man who is expert in his calling - Before kings may he stand; Not stand before obscure men; i.e., he can enter into the service of kings, and needs not to enter into the service of mean men = he is entitled to claim the highest official post. חזית, in Pro 26:12 = Pro 29:20, interchanging with ראית, is perf. hypotheticum (cf. Pro 24:10; Pro 25:16): si videris; the conclusion which might begin with דּע כּי expresses further what he who sees will have occasion to observe. Rightly Luther: Sihestu einen Man endelich (vid., at Pro 21:5) in seinem geschefft, u.s.w. = seest thou a man expert in his business, etc.. מהיר denotes in all the three chief dialects one who is skilful in a manner not merely by virtue of external artistic ability, but also by means of intellectual mastery of it. התיצּב לפני, to enter on the situation of a servant before any one; cf. Job 1:6; Job 2:1. עמד לפני, Sa1 16:21; Kg1 10:8. Along with the pausal form יתיצּב, there is also found in Codd. the form יתיצּב (the ground-form to יתיצּב, whence that pausal form is lengthened), which Ben-Bileam defends, for he reckons this word among "the pathachized pausal forms." חשׁכּים, in contrast to מלכים, are the obscuri = ignobiles. The Targ. translate the Heb. דּל and אביון by חשׁיך and חשׁוך. Kimchi compares Jer 39:10, where העם הדּלּים is translated by חשׁיכיּא (cf. Kg2 24:14; Kg2 25:12). חלכּה (חלכּה) is the old Heb. synonym in Ps 10. The poet seems here to transfer the Aram. usus loq. into the Heb.
Jamieson-Fausset-Brown Bible Commentary
Success rewards diligence (Pro 10:4; Pro 21:5). Next: Proverbs Chapter 23
John Gill Bible Commentary
Seest thou a man diligent in his business?.... In the business of his calling, be it what it will, whether for himself or his master; constant in it, swift, ready, and expeditious at it; who industriously pursues it, cheerfully attends it, makes quick dispatch of it; does it off of hand, at once, and is not slothful in it, nor weary of it; when you have observed and taken notice of such a man, which is not very common, you may, without a spirit of prophecy, foresee that such a man will rise in the world; he shall stand before kings; he shall not stand before mean men, or "obscure persons" (o); he shall not continue in the service of ignoble persons, or keep company with them; but he shall be taken into the service of princes and noble men, and be admitted into their presence, and receive favours from them; as Joseph, who was industrious and diligent in his business in Potiphar's house, was in process of time advanced, and stood before Pharaoh king of Egypt, Gen 39:4. This may be spiritually applied. Every good man has a work or business to do in a religious way; some in a higher sphere, as officers of churches, ministers and deacons; the work of the one lies in reading, study, meditation, and prayer, in the ministration of the word and ordinances, and other duties of their once; and the business of the others in taking care of the poor, and the secular affairs of the churches; others in a lower way, and common to all Christians, which lies in the exercise of grace, and performance of all good works, relative to themselves, their families, and the church of God. Now ministers that are diligent in teaching and ruling; and deacons that do their office well; and private Christians, who are steadfast and immovable, always abounding in the work of the Lord; are ready to every good work, heartily engaged in it, and constantly at it; shall not be company for the sons of darkness, unregenerate men, who are in the dark, and darkness itself; what communion has light with darkness, with works of darkness, they should be not workers of? or have any fellowship with the prince of darkness, from whose power they are delivered; but shall have society with the saints, who are made kings and priests unto God; shall be admitted into the presence of the King of kings now, and have communion with him; and shall stand before him at the great day with confidence, and not be ashamed; shall stand at his right hand, and shall be for ever with him. So the Jews (p) interpret this place, "he shall not stand before dark ones", in hell; "he shall stand before kings", in the garden of Eden, in paradise; that is, in heaven. (o) "ante obscuros", Mercerus, Junius & Tremellius, Piscator; "coram obscuris", Cocceius, Gejerus, Michaelis; "in conspectu obscurorum", Schultens. (p) Gloss. in T. Bab. Sanhedrin, fol. 104. 2. Next: Proverbs Chapter 23
Matthew Henry Bible Commentary
Here is, 1. A plain intimation what a hard thing it is to find a truly ingenious industrious man: "Seest thou a man diligent in his business? Thou wilt not see many such, so epidemical are dulness and slothfulness." He is here commended who lays out himself to get business, though it be but in a very low and narrow sphere, and is not easy when he is out of business, who loves business, is quick and active in it, and goes through it, not only with constancy and resolution, but with dexterity and expedition, a man of despatch, who knows how to bring a deal of business into a little compass. 2. A moral prognostication of the preferment of such a man; though now he stands before mean men, is employed by them and attends upon them, yet he will rise, and is likely enough to stand before kings, as an ambassador to foreign kings or prime-minister of state to his own. Seest thou a man diligent in the business of religion? He is likely to excel in virtue, and shall stand before the King of kings.
Tyndale Open Study Notes
22:29 Saying 5: Those who hone their skills and work hard will have the best jobs and work for the best people.