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Proverbs 22:7
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Summary
Commentary
- Keil-Delitzsch
- Jamieson-Fausset-Brown
- John Gill
- Matthew Henry
- Tyndale
Carl Friedrich Keil and Franz Delitzsch Old Testament Commentary
7 A rich man will rule over the poor, And the borrower is subject to the man who lends. "This is the course of the world. As regards the sing. and plur. in 7a, there are many poor for one rich; and in the Orient the rule is generally in the hands of one" (Hitzig). The fut. denotes how it will and must happen, and the substantival clause 7b, which as such is an expression of continuance (Arab. thabât, i.e., of the remaining and continuing), denotes that contracting of debt brings naturally with it a slavish relation of dependence. לוה, properly he who binds himself to one se ei obligat, and מלוה, as Pro 19:17 (vid., l.c.), qui alterum (mutui datione) obligat, from לוה, Arab. lwy, to wind, turn, twist round (cog. root laff), whence with Fleischer is also to be derived the Aram. לות, "into connection;" so אל, properly "pushing against," refers to the radically related אלה (= ולה), contiguum esse. אישׁ מלוה is one who puts himself in the way of lending, although not directly in a professional manner. The pred. precedes its subject according to rule. Luther rightly translates: and he who borrows is the lender's servant, whence the pun on the proper names: "Borghart [= the borrower] is Lehnhart's [= lender's] servant."
Jamieson-Fausset-Brown Bible Commentary
The influence of wealth sets aside moral distinctions is implied, and, of course, disapproved (compare Pro 19:6; Pro 21:14, &c.).
John Gill Bible Commentary
The rich ruleth over the poor,.... Usurps a dominion over them, and exercises it in a rigorous, oppressive, and tyrannical manner; otherwise they are generally the rich that rule, and if they rule well, in a lawful, gentle, and righteous manner, it is commendable; and the borrower is servant to the lender; being under obligation to him, he is forced to be subject to him, and comply with his humours, and do and say as he would have him; it was a happiness promised to the Israelites, that they should lend to many nations, but not borrow, Deu 15:6; compare with this Neh 5:4.
Matthew Henry Bible Commentary
He had said (Pro 22:2.), Rich and poor meet together; but here he finds, here he shows, that, as to the things of this life, there is a great difference; for, 1. Those that have little will be in subjection to those that have much, because they have dependence upon them, they have received, and expect to receive, support from them: The rich rule over the poor, and too often more than becomes them, with pride and rigour, unlike to God, who, though he be great, yet despises not any. It is part of the affliction of the poor that they must expect to be trampled upon, and part of their duty to be serviceable, as far as they can, to those that are kind to them, and study to be grateful. 2. Those that are but going behindhand find themselves to lie much at the mercy of those that are before hand: The borrower is servant to the lender, is obliged to him, and must sometimes beg, Have patience with me. Therefore it is part of Israel's promised happiness that they should lend and borrow, Deu 28:12. And it should be our endeavour to keep as much as may be out of debt. Some sell their liberty to gratify their luxury.
Tyndale Open Study Notes
22:7 This is a warning against being a borrower; other proverbs warn against guaranteeing others’ debts (6:1-2; 20:16).
Proverbs 22:7
A Good Name
6Train up a child in the way he should go, and when he is old he will not depart from it. 7The rich rule over the poor, and the borrower is slave to the lender.
- Scripture
- Sermons
- Commentary
Turning the Tide - Part 1
By Charles Stanley3.6K09:30PRO 11:14PRO 14:34PRO 22:7PRO 22:16PRO 22:28PRO 23:4PRO 24:21PRO 29:2PRO 29:4PRO 29:14This sermon emphasizes the importance of heeding God's warnings throughout history to avoid the consequences of disobedience. It reflects on the story of Adam and Eve in the Garden of Eden as a cautionary tale of not listening to God's instructions. The sermon highlights the current state of the nation, warning about the dangers of ignoring biblical principles and the impact of poor leadership. It also addresses the financial crisis and the shift towards socialism, urging listeners to consider the implications for future generations.
(Basics) 45. God and Money Are Opposites
By Zac Poonen3.4K13:01PRO 22:7ECC 5:10MAT 6:24MAT 23:3LUK 16:131TI 6:10HEB 13:5In this sermon, the speaker emphasizes the importance of making a choice between serving God or serving money. He compares money to fire, stating that while it can be a useful servant, it can also be a destructive master if not handled carefully. The speaker encourages listeners to be cautious and responsible in their handling of money, as it can have a significant impact on their lives. He uses Jesus as an example, highlighting that Jesus worked as a carpenter and earned a living, but was not attached to material possessions.
Our Response to the Current Economic Crisis?
By Alan Cairns2.7K04:34PRO 6:6PRO 22:7This sermon addresses the response of Christians to the economic meltdown happening globally. It emphasizes the importance of not panicking but instead trusting in God's promises and grace. The message urges Christians to avoid living in debt, to prepare for hard times, and to be in a position to help others in need, especially fellow believers. It also highlights the opportunity to refocus on the Bible, find contentment in Christ, and prioritize godliness.
Jesus' Attitude to Material Thing's
By Zac Poonen2.0K58:36MaterialismPRO 22:7MAT 4:4MAT 6:33MRK 16:15ACT 2:38PHP 2:5In this sermon, the speaker emphasizes the importance of using our lives and passions to please God and serve others. He highlights the example of faithful servants like Watchman Nee and encourages listeners to make the most of their time on earth. The speaker warns against being half-hearted in our commitment to God and references the story of John Mark as an example. He also cautions against getting caught up in worldly entertainment and emphasizes the need to keep our lives balanced and focused on pleasing God.
Introduction to Finance Seminar
By George Verwer1.3K57:51FinancesPRO 10:9PRO 22:7MAT 6:33ACT 20:272CO 10:41TI 6:101TI 6:17The sermon transcript discusses the importance of meeting people where they are, including businessmen who may be busy. The speaker emphasizes the need for honesty and open communication when it comes to financial support in ministry. They also highlight the importance of prayer and action, urging for tangible steps to be taken rather than just talk. The transcript mentions the need to mobilize laypeople and not solely rely on full-time workers for fundraising efforts.
Spiritual Insights 03 Rom 13:8
By William MacDonald1.2K45:21Spiritual Insights2KI 4:8PRO 22:7MAT 5:16MAT 22:37JHN 3:20ACT 4:29ROM 13:8In this sermon, the preacher emphasizes the importance of wisdom and obedience to God's word. He contrasts the actions of wise individuals who seek to please the Lord with the foolishness of those who only seek to please themselves. The preacher also highlights the need for Christians to be realistic while still maintaining their idealism for perfection. He uses various examples, such as the imperfections in the world and the flaws in every person, to illustrate this point. Additionally, the preacher draws inspiration from the early Christians who did not wait for circumstances to change before serving God, but instead chose to glorify Him in their present circumstances.
How to Grow Spiritually - Part 2
By Roy Daniel8681:02:36PRO 22:7MAT 6:33GAL 4:27In this sermon, the speaker shares a personal story of struggling with a lie from the devil for seven years. The lie prevented him from pursuing marriage and having a family, causing him great sorrow. However, he was eventually encouraged by fellow Christians who told him that it was not God's will for him to believe this lie. The speaker emphasizes the importance of obedience to God's commandments and the need for discipline and submission to authority. He also highlights the rewards of obeying God, such as experiencing His presence, receiving His love, and having answered prayers. The sermon concludes with a reference to the story of the fall of Jericho, illustrating the power of obedience.
Undisciplined Lifestyles (Part 2)
By Mose Stoltzfus6041:11:58PRO 11:24PRO 22:7MAT 6:33LUK 12:151CO 9:241TI 6:10JAS 5:5In this sermon, the preacher emphasizes the importance of discipline and self-control in the Christian life. He compares the Christian's journey to a race, where one must keep their body under control in order to win the prize. The preacher also highlights the dangers of living in a prosperous and peaceful society, as it can lead to complacency and a lack of appreciation for the sacrifices of others. He uses the example of John Wesley, who lived a simple and modest lifestyle despite his success, as a role model for Christians to follow. The sermon encourages believers to prioritize the needs of others and to resist the temptations of luxury and self-indulgence.
The Manifestation of the Glory of God
By T. Austin-Sparks0PRO 22:7MAT 4:9JHN 5:402CO 5:15EPH 1:3T. Austin-Sparks delves into the eternal purpose of God revealed through the Apostle Paul's ever-growing knowledge of Christ. He explains how Christ, as the central figure in God's eternal counsels, bridges the gap caused by man's failure and sin, leading to the redemptive plan introduced after the fall. The sermon emphasizes the importance of understanding and conforming to Christ's moral and spiritual essence, highlighting the ultimate goal of a created corporate race expressing God's thoughts, desires, and will. It concludes with the significance of dwelling in Christ to find hope, assurance, and the way out of despair in a world filled with chaos and uncertainty.
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.
Owe No Man Anything
By William MacDonald0Christian LoveFinancial ResponsibilityPRO 22:7MAT 6:24LUK 14:28ROM 1:14ROM 13:82CO 9:7PHP 4:191TI 6:10HEB 13:51JN 3:16William MacDonald emphasizes the importance of financial responsibility in his sermon 'Owe No Man Anything,' interpreting Romans 13:8 to mean that while some debts are unavoidable, Christians must avoid unnecessary debt and live within their means. He warns against the dangers of overspending, borrowing for depreciating assets, and the consequences of financial irresponsibility, which can harm one's testimony as a Christian. MacDonald highlights that the only debt Christians should maintain is the obligation to love one another, which fulfills the law and strengthens community bonds.
Proposals for Reform Iii
By Martin Luther0PRO 1:7PRO 22:7ROM 12:21CO 6:192TI 3:161PE 5:2Martin Luther preaches about the urgent need for reform in universities, criticizing the dominance of Aristotle's teachings over Christian faith and the lack of focus on Holy Scriptures. He calls for the abandonment of Aristotle's works and a thorough reformation in universities to prioritize the study of languages, mathematics, history, and most importantly, the Bible. Luther also addresses the abuse of power by the papacy in bestowing the Roman Empire on the Germans, highlighting the need for wise and God-fearing rulers to govern justly. He further critiques the clergy and temporal estate for various failings, including extravagance in dress, spice trade, annuities, abuse of eating and drinking, and the existence of houses of prostitution, urging for societal reforms and a return to Christian values.
Being in Debt
By Charles Finney0DebtFinancial ResponsibilityPSA 37:21PRO 3:27PRO 22:7ECC 5:5MAT 5:37MAT 6:24LUK 16:10ROM 13:8GAL 6:71TI 6:10Charles Finney addresses the issue of debt, emphasizing that being in debt is a sin against God and a violation of His commands. He explains that the only obligation we should owe to others is love, and that failing to pay debts is unjust and dishonest. Finney urges those in debt to make sacrifices to fulfill their obligations and warns against the dangers of the credit system, which can lead to moral compromise. He calls for a reformation within the Church regarding financial responsibilities, asserting that true religion must influence our business practices.
- Keil-Delitzsch
- Jamieson-Fausset-Brown
- John Gill
- Matthew Henry
- Tyndale
Carl Friedrich Keil and Franz Delitzsch Old Testament Commentary
7 A rich man will rule over the poor, And the borrower is subject to the man who lends. "This is the course of the world. As regards the sing. and plur. in 7a, there are many poor for one rich; and in the Orient the rule is generally in the hands of one" (Hitzig). The fut. denotes how it will and must happen, and the substantival clause 7b, which as such is an expression of continuance (Arab. thabât, i.e., of the remaining and continuing), denotes that contracting of debt brings naturally with it a slavish relation of dependence. לוה, properly he who binds himself to one se ei obligat, and מלוה, as Pro 19:17 (vid., l.c.), qui alterum (mutui datione) obligat, from לוה, Arab. lwy, to wind, turn, twist round (cog. root laff), whence with Fleischer is also to be derived the Aram. לות, "into connection;" so אל, properly "pushing against," refers to the radically related אלה (= ולה), contiguum esse. אישׁ מלוה is one who puts himself in the way of lending, although not directly in a professional manner. The pred. precedes its subject according to rule. Luther rightly translates: and he who borrows is the lender's servant, whence the pun on the proper names: "Borghart [= the borrower] is Lehnhart's [= lender's] servant."
Jamieson-Fausset-Brown Bible Commentary
The influence of wealth sets aside moral distinctions is implied, and, of course, disapproved (compare Pro 19:6; Pro 21:14, &c.).
John Gill Bible Commentary
The rich ruleth over the poor,.... Usurps a dominion over them, and exercises it in a rigorous, oppressive, and tyrannical manner; otherwise they are generally the rich that rule, and if they rule well, in a lawful, gentle, and righteous manner, it is commendable; and the borrower is servant to the lender; being under obligation to him, he is forced to be subject to him, and comply with his humours, and do and say as he would have him; it was a happiness promised to the Israelites, that they should lend to many nations, but not borrow, Deu 15:6; compare with this Neh 5:4.
Matthew Henry Bible Commentary
He had said (Pro 22:2.), Rich and poor meet together; but here he finds, here he shows, that, as to the things of this life, there is a great difference; for, 1. Those that have little will be in subjection to those that have much, because they have dependence upon them, they have received, and expect to receive, support from them: The rich rule over the poor, and too often more than becomes them, with pride and rigour, unlike to God, who, though he be great, yet despises not any. It is part of the affliction of the poor that they must expect to be trampled upon, and part of their duty to be serviceable, as far as they can, to those that are kind to them, and study to be grateful. 2. Those that are but going behindhand find themselves to lie much at the mercy of those that are before hand: The borrower is servant to the lender, is obliged to him, and must sometimes beg, Have patience with me. Therefore it is part of Israel's promised happiness that they should lend and borrow, Deu 28:12. And it should be our endeavour to keep as much as may be out of debt. Some sell their liberty to gratify their luxury.
Tyndale Open Study Notes
22:7 This is a warning against being a borrower; other proverbs warn against guaranteeing others’ debts (6:1-2; 20:16).