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Proverbs 23:23
Verse
Context
Sermons






Summary
Commentary
- Jamieson-Fausset-Brown
- John Gill
Jamieson-Fausset-Brown Bible Commentary
Buy--literally, "get" (Pro 4:5). truth--generally and specially as opposed to errors of all kinds.
John Gill Bible Commentary
Buy the truth, and sell it not,.... Evangelical truth, the word of truth, the Gospel of salvation, which comes from the God of truth; has Christ, who is the truth, for the stem and substance of it; men are directed and led into it by the Spirit of truth; the whole matter of it is truth; truth, in opposition to the law, that was typical and shadowy; to the errors of false teachers, to everything that is fictitious, or another Gospel; and to that which is a lie, for no lie is of the truth: there are several particular doctrines of the Gospel which are so called; those which respect the knowledge of one God, and three Persons in the Godhead; the deity and sonship of Christ, his incarnation and Messiahship, salvation alone by him, a sinner's justification by his righteousness, and the resurrection of the dead; the whole of which is truth, and is an answer to Pilate's question, Joh 18:38; and this men should "buy", not books only, as Aben Ezra interprets it, such as explain and confirm truth, though these should be bought; and especially the Bible, the Scriptures of truth; yet this does not reach the sense of the text: nor is it merely to be understood of persons supporting the Gospel ministry with their purses, by which means truth is preserved, propagated, and continued: no price is set upon it, as being above all; it should be bought or had at any rate, let the expense be what it will: "buying" it supposes a person to have some knowledge of it, of the excellency, usefulness, and importance of it; and shows that he sets a value upon it, and has a high esteem for it: it is to be understood of his using all means and taking great pains to acquire it; such as reading the word, meditating upon it, attending on the public ministry, and fervent and frequent prayer for it, and a greater degree of knowledge of it; yea, it signifies a person's parting with everything for it that is required; as with his former errors he has been brought up in, or has imbibed; with his good name and reputation, being willing to be accounted a fool or a madman, and an enthusiast, or anything for the sake of it; and even with life itself, when called for; and such a man will strive and contend for it, stand fast in it, and hold it fast, and not let it go, which is meant by "selling" it; truth is not to be sold upon any account, or for any thing whatever; it is not to be slighted and neglected; it should not be parted with neither for the riches, and honours, and pleasures of this life, nor for the sake of a good name among men, nor for the sake of peace, nor for the avoiding of persecution; it should he abode by, and not departed from, though the greater number is against it, and they the riots, the wise, and learned; and though it may be traduced as novel, irrational, and licentious, and be attended with affliction; also wisdom, and instruction, and understanding; that is, buy these also, and sell them no; "wisdom" is to be prized above everything; it is the principal thing, and should be got; all means should he used to obtain it; it may be bought without money; it should be asked of God, who gives it liberally, and, being had, should be held fast: the "instruction" the Scriptures give, the instruction of the Gospel, the instruction of Wisdom, should be valued above gold and silver, and diligently sought after; should be laid fast hold on and not parted with: "understanding" of divine and spiritual things is to be gotten; happy is the man that gets it; and above all gettings this should be got, and all means made rise of to improve and increase it. The Targum, Syriac, and Vulgate Latin versions, connect these with the word sell only, thus, "buy the truth, and sell not wisdom, and instruction, and understanding"; but as buying and selling both refer to truth, so likewise to these also. The whole verse is wanting in the Septuagint and Arabic versions.
Proverbs 23:23
Saying 17
22Listen to your father who gave you life, and do not despise your mother when she is old. 23Invest in truth and never sell it— in wisdom and instruction and understanding. 24The father of a righteous man will greatly rejoice, and he who fathers a wise son will delight in him.
- Scripture
- Sermons
- Commentary
Many Will Soon Be Buying Pure Gold
By Carter Conlon1.2K38:45PRO 23:23PHP 2:15HEB 11:11PE 1:3REV 3:18This sermon from 1 Peter chapter 1 emphasizes the importance of faith and trust in God, likening it to pure gold that endures trials and remains valuable. The speaker encourages believers to focus on eternal treasures and the promises of God, rather than worldly securities. Through various biblical examples, the message highlights the significance of faith, endurance, and vision in the midst of challenging times, urging listeners to invest in the unchanging currency of faith in God.
Initiation Into Revival
By Joshua Daniel71748:27PSA 119:105PRO 4:7PRO 23:23ISA 40:31MAT 11:301CO 15:582CO 9:8GAL 6:9HEB 11:6This sermon emphasizes the importance of not growing weary in well-doing, highlighting the need for perseverance, faith, and obedience to God's word. It encourages believers to trust in God's provision, to prioritize prayer and depth in their relationship with God, and to stand firm in the truth without compromise, even in challenging times.
Gb Buy Truth & Do Not Sell It
By George Verwer48444:50MissionsPRO 23:23ROM 1:21In the video, the speaker discusses various books and resources available for those seeking spiritual guidance. They mention a book called "No Turning Back" which had a profound impact on someone who recommitted their life after reading it. The speaker also mentions a book on bullying and offers free literature on their ministry's activities. They briefly mention a missions conference and share a pricing system for their books. The speaker also references a story shared by Chuck Colson and discusses the importance of wisdom and truth.
Buy the Truth and Sell It Not - Exhortations to Husbands and Wives
By Phil Beach Jr.2630:29MarriageTruth in RelationshipsOvercoming Pride and ManipulationPSA 119:11PRO 23:7PRO 23:23MAT 7:3JHN 8:322CO 11:3EPH 5:25PHP 4:81PE 3:7REV 3:17Phil Beach Jr. emphasizes the importance of truth in relationships, particularly between husbands and wives, highlighting the distinct sins that can arise in both genders: manipulation in women and pride in men. He encourages couples to communicate openly, acknowledging their faults and seeking forgiveness, as this fosters unity and harmony in the home. The sermon stresses the necessity of filling our hearts and minds with truth to combat the lies that can lead to destructive behaviors. Beach reminds the congregation that true freedom comes from embracing God's truth and that our thoughts ultimately shape our actions and destinies. He concludes with a call to seek God's guidance in overcoming pride and manipulation, urging everyone to 'buy the truth and sell it not.'
A Discriminating Ministry
By J.C. Philpot02SA 6:22JOB 40:4PSA 119:37PRO 23:23JER 15:19JHN 8:32JHN 14:62TI 2:211PE 1:72PE 2:22J.C. Philpot preaches about the prophet Jeremiah's rough path and rebellious nature, highlighting the distinction between precious and vile elements in God's sight. He emphasizes the importance of discerning and separating the precious from the vile in characters, doctrines, experiences, and practices. Philpot explains how precious characters, doctrines, experiences, and practices are valued by God, while vile ones are rejected. He urges the congregation to return to God and truth, emphasizing the need to stand firm in faithfulness and not compromise for the sake of pleasing others.
Homily 4
By Clement of Rome0PSA 25:5PRO 23:23JHN 8:32JHN 14:6JHN 16:13EPH 6:142TI 2:151PE 5:8Clement of Rome preaches about the encounter with Simon the magician, who spreads lies and mischief, challenging the authority of Peter. Bernice shares disturbing details about Simon's deceptive practices, causing concern for the salvation of many souls. Despite the fear and danger posed by Simon's powers, Clement emphasizes the need to seek truth and discernment, highlighting the contrast between the teachings of the Greeks with their immoral gods and the pious doctrine of the Jews centered on repentance and judgment.
Before Pilate
By C.I. Scofield0PSA 119:30PSA 119:105PRO 23:23MAT 27:17JHN 3:19JHN 14:6JHN 18:37JHN 18:40C.I. Scofield delves into the profound lessons from the interaction between Jesus and Pilate, highlighting the nature of Christ's kingdom, the importance of truth, and the concept of substitution through Christ and Barabbas. The core of the lesson lies in understanding why Pilate, a man of great power, succumbed to fear and chose expediency over truth, reflecting the inner struggles of humanity in accepting and following Christ. Pilate symbolizes those who have given up on seeking truth, prioritize popularity over righteousness, and let unbelief extinguish their spiritual discernment, emphasizing the ongoing trial of Jesus in the hearts of individuals.
Profiting From the Word 8. the Scriptures and the Promises
By A.W. Pink0Faith and AssuranceGod's PromisesPSA 139:17PRO 23:23ROM 5:21ROM 9:82CO 1:20EPH 2:12PHP 4:19HEB 11:13HEB 13:52PE 1:4A.W. Pink emphasizes the significance of God's promises in the Scriptures, illustrating how they reveal God's love and grace towards His people. He explains that these promises are not only assurances of blessings but also require believers to actively engage with them, recognizing their conditions and appropriating them in faith. Pink warns against the misuse of promises by those outside of Christ and encourages believers to patiently await their fulfillment while living in accordance with God's will. Ultimately, he highlights that the promises serve as a foundation for faith and a source of comfort in both spiritual and daily life.
Sell Their Souls to Satan
By Thomas Brooks0Value of the SoulTemptationPRO 23:23ECC 2:11MAT 10:28MAT 16:26MRK 8:36LUK 12:201TI 6:9JAS 1:121PE 1:18REV 20:15Thomas Brooks emphasizes the grave danger of trading one's soul for temporary pleasures, likening it to children who exchange valuable jewels for trivial items. He warns that many people, in their pursuit of fleeting desires, are foolishly selling their immortal souls to Satan. The sermon challenges listeners to recognize the true worth of their souls and to avoid the trivial pursuits that lead to spiritual ruin. Brooks calls for a deeper understanding of the eternal consequences of our choices and the importance of valuing our souls above all else.
Following the Truth
By A.W. Tozer0Obedience to GodTruthPSA 119:160PRO 23:23ISA 45:19JHN 8:32JHN 14:6ROM 1:18EPH 4:15PHP 4:82TI 2:151JN 1:8A.W. Tozer emphasizes that knowing the truth is the greatest privilege one can have, as it is the richest treasure that brings lasting value to life. He stresses the importance of responding to truth with eagerness and obedience, warning against treating it lightly. While living in accordance with truth leads to a peaceful end, Tozer acknowledges the heartaches and sorrows that come with such devotion in a world that often penalizes truth-seekers. Ultimately, he portrays truth as a glorious yet demanding master that requires unwavering commitment.
Shaping of Character by Truth
By Phillips Brooks0PSA 51:6PRO 12:22PRO 23:23JHN 8:32JHN 14:6JHN 16:13EPH 4:15COL 3:9JAS 1:221JN 3:18Phillips Brooks preaches about the importance of seeking truth in the inward parts to shape our character throughout life. This process begins from the earliest moments of conscious existence and continues to evolve as we grow. In the early stages of life, truth enters through obedient trust, while later it comes through individual conviction. Brooks emphasizes the need to honor both channels of truth in order to maintain the symmetry and unity of life, cautioning against disregarding either half or clinging to traditional ideas without personal conviction.
Epistle 307
By George Fox0PRO 23:23George Fox preaches about the importance of standing firm in the power of God, emphasizing the need to hold onto the truth and righteousness even in the face of persecution and trials. He encourages believers to keep their faith in Christ's power, which is above all powers, and to endure suffering for His name, knowing that salvation is found only in Jesus. Fox reminds the congregation of the faithfulness of the martyrs, apostles, and prophets who endured trials and persecutions, urging them to remain steadfast in their heavenly inheritance and not to trade it for temporary worldly gains.
Follow the Lamb! (Selections)
By Horatius Bonar0Following ChristSpiritual GrowthLEV 11:45PSA 52:2PRO 23:23JHN 10:27ROM 15:3GAL 5:241TI 6:102PE 1:91JN 4:1REV 3:4Horatius Bonar emphasizes the continuous journey of following Christ, urging believers to keep their focus on Jesus and His cross for spiritual health and growth. He warns against distractions from the world and the dangers of complacency in prayer and spiritual practices. Bonar encourages Christians to live a life of integrity, humility, and discernment, avoiding the pitfalls of self-indulgence and covetousness. He reminds the faithful that their lives are a book being written for eternity, and they must strive for holiness and righteousness in all aspects. Ultimately, Bonar calls for a deep, intimate relationship with God, urging believers to act in love and service, reflecting Christ's character in their daily lives.
Epistle 255
By George Fox0RepentanceHolinessDEU 27:18PRO 23:23ROM 2:231PE 2:9George Fox addresses the importance of remaining steadfast in God's truth, urging those who have strayed into worldly behaviors such as drunkenness and dishonesty to return to the light that initially convinced them. He emphasizes the need for repentance and accountability, encouraging individuals to publicly acknowledge their transgressions and seek to honor God and His truth. Fox calls for a holy generation to rise up against the unholiness prevalent in society, reinforcing the necessity of living a life that reflects God's righteousness.
Epistle 380
By George Fox0PRO 23:23ZEC 8:16MAT 5:33LUK 16:10ROM 4:211CO 6:20EPH 4:15PHP 4:8HEB 12:22JAS 5:12George Fox emphasizes the importance of being truthful and faithful in all aspects of life, urging believers to let their 'yea be yea, and nay, nay' as taught by Christ and the apostles, avoiding rash promises and covenant breaking. He highlights the need for Christians to speak the truth in love, work righteousness, and walk uprightly, reflecting God's faithfulness and truthfulness. Fox stresses the significance of being faithful in both small and large matters, as it reflects one's faithfulness to God and opens the way for heavenly riches.
Epistle 400
By George Fox0GEN 3:15PRO 23:23ISA 32:18JER 9:3JHN 8:321CO 13:72TI 2:24JAS 3:171PE 1:231JN 4:16REV 3:10REV 17:14George Fox preaches about the importance of dwelling in God's love, patience, and truth, emphasizing the eternal nature of God's Word and the need to abide in it. He encourages living in heavenly wisdom, maintaining a gentle and lamb-like nature, and valiantly upholding God's truth without compromise. Fox reminds believers that the truth sets them free and leads to a peaceable habitation, ultimately bringing glory to God in all aspects of their lives.
- Jamieson-Fausset-Brown
- John Gill
Jamieson-Fausset-Brown Bible Commentary
Buy--literally, "get" (Pro 4:5). truth--generally and specially as opposed to errors of all kinds.
John Gill Bible Commentary
Buy the truth, and sell it not,.... Evangelical truth, the word of truth, the Gospel of salvation, which comes from the God of truth; has Christ, who is the truth, for the stem and substance of it; men are directed and led into it by the Spirit of truth; the whole matter of it is truth; truth, in opposition to the law, that was typical and shadowy; to the errors of false teachers, to everything that is fictitious, or another Gospel; and to that which is a lie, for no lie is of the truth: there are several particular doctrines of the Gospel which are so called; those which respect the knowledge of one God, and three Persons in the Godhead; the deity and sonship of Christ, his incarnation and Messiahship, salvation alone by him, a sinner's justification by his righteousness, and the resurrection of the dead; the whole of which is truth, and is an answer to Pilate's question, Joh 18:38; and this men should "buy", not books only, as Aben Ezra interprets it, such as explain and confirm truth, though these should be bought; and especially the Bible, the Scriptures of truth; yet this does not reach the sense of the text: nor is it merely to be understood of persons supporting the Gospel ministry with their purses, by which means truth is preserved, propagated, and continued: no price is set upon it, as being above all; it should be bought or had at any rate, let the expense be what it will: "buying" it supposes a person to have some knowledge of it, of the excellency, usefulness, and importance of it; and shows that he sets a value upon it, and has a high esteem for it: it is to be understood of his using all means and taking great pains to acquire it; such as reading the word, meditating upon it, attending on the public ministry, and fervent and frequent prayer for it, and a greater degree of knowledge of it; yea, it signifies a person's parting with everything for it that is required; as with his former errors he has been brought up in, or has imbibed; with his good name and reputation, being willing to be accounted a fool or a madman, and an enthusiast, or anything for the sake of it; and even with life itself, when called for; and such a man will strive and contend for it, stand fast in it, and hold it fast, and not let it go, which is meant by "selling" it; truth is not to be sold upon any account, or for any thing whatever; it is not to be slighted and neglected; it should not be parted with neither for the riches, and honours, and pleasures of this life, nor for the sake of a good name among men, nor for the sake of peace, nor for the avoiding of persecution; it should he abode by, and not departed from, though the greater number is against it, and they the riots, the wise, and learned; and though it may be traduced as novel, irrational, and licentious, and be attended with affliction; also wisdom, and instruction, and understanding; that is, buy these also, and sell them no; "wisdom" is to be prized above everything; it is the principal thing, and should be got; all means should he used to obtain it; it may be bought without money; it should be asked of God, who gives it liberally, and, being had, should be held fast: the "instruction" the Scriptures give, the instruction of the Gospel, the instruction of Wisdom, should be valued above gold and silver, and diligently sought after; should be laid fast hold on and not parted with: "understanding" of divine and spiritual things is to be gotten; happy is the man that gets it; and above all gettings this should be got, and all means made rise of to improve and increase it. The Targum, Syriac, and Vulgate Latin versions, connect these with the word sell only, thus, "buy the truth, and sell not wisdom, and instruction, and understanding"; but as buying and selling both refer to truth, so likewise to these also. The whole verse is wanting in the Septuagint and Arabic versions.