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Proverbs 28:1
Verse
Context
The Boldness of the Righteous
1The wicked flee when no one pursues, but the righteous are as bold as a lion.
Sermons







Summary
Commentary
- Keil-Delitzsch
- Matthew Henry
- Tyndale
Carl Friedrich Keil and Franz Delitzsch Old Testament Commentary
1 The godless flee without any one pursuing them; But the righteous are bold like a lion. We would misinterpret the sequence of the accents if we supposed that it denoted רשׁע as obj.; it by no means takes ואין־רדף as a parenthesis. רשׁע belongs thus to נסוּ as collective sing. (cf. e.g., Isa 16:4); (Note: The Targum of Pro 28:1 is, in Bereschith rabba, c. 84, ערק רשּׁיעא ולא רריפין להּ; that lying before us is formed after the Peshito.) in 1b, יבטח, as comprehensive or distributive (individualizing) singular, follows the plur. subject. One cannot, because the word is vocalized כּכפיר and not כּכּפיר, regard יבטח as an attributive clause thereto (Ewald, like Jerome, quasi leo confidens); but the article, denoting the idea of kind, does not certainly always follow כ. We say, indifferently, כּארי or כּארי, כּלּביא or כּלביא, and always כּאריה, not כּאריה. In itself, indeed, יבטח may be used absolutely: he is confident, undismayed, of the lion as well as of the leviathan, Job 40:23. But it is suitable thus without any addition for the righteous, and נסו and יבטח correspond to each other as predicates, in accordance with the parallelism; the accentuation is also here correct. The perf. נסו denotes that which is uncaused, and yet follows: the godless flee, pursued by the terrible images that arise in their own wicked consciences, even when no external danger threatens. The fut. יבטח denotes that which continually happens: the righteous remains, even where external danger really threatens, bold and courageous, after the manner of a young, vigorous lion, because feeling himself strong in God, and assured of his safety through Him.
Matthew Henry Bible Commentary
See here, 1. What continual frights those are subject to that go on in wicked ways. Guilt in the conscience makes men a terror to themselves, so that they are ready to flee when none pursues; like one that absconds for debt, who thinks every one he meets a bailiff. Though they pretend to be easy, there are secret fears which haunt them wherever they go, so that they fear where no present or imminent danger is, Psa 53:5. Those that have made God their enemy, and know it, cannot but see the whole creation at war with them, and therefore can have no true enjoyment of themselves, no confidence, no courage, but a fearful looking for of judgment. Sin makes men cowards. Degeneres animos timor arguit - Fear argues a degenerate soul. - Virgil Quos diri conscia facti mens habet attonitos - The consciousness of atrocious crimes astonishes and confounds. - Juvenal If they flee when none pursues, what will they do when they shall see God himself pursuing them with his armies? Job 20:24; Job 15:24. See Deu 28:25; Lev 26:36. 2. What a holy security and serenity of mind those enjoy who keep conscience void of offence and so keep themselves in the love of God: The righteous are bold as a lion, as a young lion; in the greatest dangers they have a God of almighty power to trust to. Therefore will not we fear though the earth be removed. Whatever difficulties they meet with in the way of their duty, they are not daunted by them. None of those things move me. Hie murus aheneus esto, nil conscire sibi - Be this thy brazen bulwark of defence, Still to preserve thy conscious innocence. - Hon.
Tyndale Open Study Notes
28:1 The wicked experience God’s curse for breaking his covenant (see Lev 26:14-17, 36-37).
Proverbs 28:1
The Boldness of the Righteous
1The wicked flee when no one pursues, but the righteous are as bold as a lion.
- Scripture
- Sermons
- Commentary
Worship - Then Prayer - Part 1
By Leonard Ravenhill2.2K1:02:08WorshipPRO 28:1MAT 6:33ACT 26:18EPH 4:112TI 3:16HEB 12:14JAS 5:14In this sermon, the preacher emphasizes the importance of prophets as God's gift to humanity, especially in times of crisis. He highlights that the world is currently in a crisis and the only way out is through a divine invasion. The preacher also discusses the need for evangelism, stating that there are billions of people who have never heard the name of Jesus. He shares the story of a man who received a divine commission to preach and heal, despite facing setbacks and opposition. The sermon concludes with a reminder of the importance of holiness and the need to walk in sanctification.
Stop Running From Your Fears
By Carter Conlon1.3K44:25FearPSA 56:13PRO 28:1In this sermon, the speaker reflects on his own struggles with fully committing to God's calling. He recalls a moment when he was preaching about giving one's all for God's glory, but felt like a hypocrite because he wasn't fully willing to do it himself. The speaker then shares a story from the book of Daniel, where the king of Babylon, who had disregarded God's commands, was overcome with fear when a hand appeared and wrote on the wall. The speaker emphasizes the importance of choosing faith and the call of God over worldly concerns, and warns against giving in to fear like the Israelites did before they were delivered from Egypt.
John 3:16
By Neil Fraser1.1K38:14PRO 28:1ROM 8:28ROM 8:31ROM 8:35ROM 8:37In this sermon, the speaker discusses three key things that made a difference in the lives of certain individuals, particularly the apostle Paul. Firstly, Paul had grasped the purpose of God, understanding that all things work together for good for those who love God and are called according to His purpose. Secondly, Paul understood the provision of God, recognizing that God freely gives all things to those who believe in Him, as demonstrated through the sacrifice of His own Son. Lastly, Paul embraced the power of God, knowing that through Christ, believers are more than conquerors and can overcome any obstacle. The speaker encourages the audience to also grasp these three things and find assurance in their faith.
The Shield of Faith
By Erlo Stegen77648:25PRO 28:1MAT 10:26ROM 13:12EPH 6:10EPH 6:16HEB 4:2HEB 4:11The sermon transcript discusses the importance of having faith as a shield against the attacks of the evil one. It explains that Satan's tactics are like fiery arrows, and faith is the shield that can extinguish them. The sermon emphasizes the need for Christians to be strong in the Lord and to have a faith that is active and obedient. It also highlights the importance of living a life of righteousness and truth, as God sees and knows everything and will eventually expose all secrets.
These Men Have Been With Jesus (Transcript)
By David Wilkerson0Intimacy With GodBoldness in FaithPRO 28:1MAT 5:6ACT 4:1EPH 4:13HEB 5:12David Wilkerson emphasizes the transformative power of spending time with Jesus, as illustrated in Acts 4:1-13, where Peter and John, despite being uneducated, boldly proclaim the name of Jesus after healing a lame man. He highlights that true discipleship is marked by a hunger for more of Christ, a holy boldness, and visible evidence of God's presence in one's life. Wilkerson urges believers to prioritize their relationship with Jesus, as it equips them to face life's challenges and to be effective witnesses in a world that needs hope. He calls for a deeper commitment to prayer and intimacy with God, asserting that those who have been with Jesus will be recognized by their distinctiveness and authority.
God's D. D.
By C.T. Studd0IntegrityCourageJOS 1:9PSA 27:1PRO 28:1DAN 6:10MAT 10:32ACT 4:19ROM 1:16EPH 6:102TI 1:71PE 3:14C.T. Studd passionately preaches about the boldness and integrity of Daniel, urging believers to emulate his fearless faith and unwavering commitment to God. He emphasizes that true courage involves confronting sin directly and standing firm in one's convictions, regardless of societal pressures or threats. Studd encourages Christians to be 'Dreadnoughts'—those who dare to speak the truth, live simply, and trust in God without compromise. He calls for a rejection of complacency and a commitment to a life of purpose and bold confession.
Epistle 24
By George Fox0Spiritual IntegrityTruthHumilityPSA 21:2PSA 34:10PRO 28:1ISA 61:3MAT 11:29EPH 6:11COL 3:91TI 5:141JN 2:17JUD 1:6George Fox emphasizes the importance of dwelling in truth and walking in love, patience, and humility, urging Friends to maintain their spiritual integrity and resist the adversary through righteous living. He highlights the need for unity in Christ, warning against the dangers of pride and worldly distractions that can lead to spiritual decay. Fox encourages believers to grow in wisdom and understanding, focusing on eternal values rather than temporary worldly gains, and to remain steadfast in their faith against the wiles of the devil. He reassures that those who abide in God's will will find true joy and peace, while those who rely on earthly foundations will ultimately face judgment. The sermon calls for a deep, genuine relationship with God, rooted in the fear of the Lord and the power of truth.
Having a Good Conscience
By Charles Finney0ConscienceMoral IntegrityPRO 28:1ACT 24:16ROM 2:152CO 1:121TI 1:51TI 3:92TI 1:3HEB 13:181PE 2:191PE 3:16Charles Finney emphasizes the significance of maintaining a good conscience, explaining that it involves moral awareness, enlightenment, and obedience to its dictates. He outlines the conditions necessary for a good conscience, including the need for divine light and the importance of indulging and obeying one's conscience. Finney argues that a good conscience is essential for self-respect, peace of mind, and usefulness in society, while also being indispensable for salvation. He warns that those who neglect their conscience become a nuisance to society and are ultimately odious to God and others. The sermon concludes with a call to heed the conscience, as it is vital for spiritual well-being and moral integrity.
The Boldness of a Lion
By David Wilkerson0Boldness in ChristRighteousnessPRO 28:1JHN 15:5ROM 5:1ROM 8:12CO 5:21GAL 2:20EPH 2:8PHP 3:9HEB 10:191JN 2:1David Wilkerson emphasizes the boldness that comes from claiming the perfect righteousness of Jesus Christ as our inheritance. He explains that this righteousness, credited to us by faith, liberates us from fear and feelings of unworthiness, allowing us to stand confidently before God. Wilkerson reassures believers that while they may feel inadequate, they can rely on Christ as their Advocate, and that true holiness and good works stem from a heart of love rather than fear. He encourages Christians to embrace their identity in Christ, which empowers them to live righteously and serve God joyfully. Ultimately, the sermon calls for a life transformed by the understanding of Christ's righteousness and the freedom it brings.
The Lion
By Harriet N. Cook0JDG 14:142SA 1:23PSA 7:2PRO 28:1PRO 30:30ISA 31:41PE 5:8REV 5:5Harriet N. Cook delves into the symbolism of the lion in the Bible, highlighting its strength, boldness, and predatory nature as described in various verses. The lion is portrayed as a powerful and fearless creature, often used to represent wickedness and danger, such as in the comparison to Satan as a roaring lion seeking to devour. However, Christ is also referred to as 'the Lion of the tribe of Judah,' signifying both his gentleness towards believers and the impending judgment for those who reject him.
God's Promises
By K.P. Yohannan0Encouragement in TrialsGod's PromisesDEU 33:25PSA 23:1PSA 27:1PSA 68:19PRO 28:1ISA 53:5ISA 54:17JOL 3:10JHN 17:23ROM 8:152CO 5:172CO 12:10PHP 4:13PHP 4:19HEB 13:5JAS 4:7REV 5:9K.P. Yohannan encourages believers to turn to the Lord during times of discouragement, using every challenge as an opportunity to seek Him. He emphasizes the importance of remembering and boldly confessing God's promises found in the Bible, which affirm His goodness, love, and provision. By declaring these truths, believers can find strength and encouragement, knowing that they are redeemed, supported, and never forsaken by God. Yohannan reassures that God's faithfulness and mercies are renewed each day, providing hope and restoration for the weary soul.
His Heart Is Fixed
By Thomas Watson02SA 22:31PSA 9:10PSA 13:5PSA 32:2PSA 37:7PSA 46:11PSA 62:8PSA 89:33PSA 112:7PRO 18:10PRO 28:1ISA 26:3Thomas Watson preaches about the importance of having a fixed heart in trusting the Lord, highlighting the privileges and blessings of a righteous man who delights in God's commands, including having blessed children, estate, soul, and name. The sermon emphasizes that a righteous man, rooted in faith, will not be afraid of evil tidings, as his heart is steadfast in trusting God's promises. Trusting in God in times of danger involves casting our burdens upon Him, staying ourselves upon Him, and committing our chief treasure to His care.
Rivers of Blessing
By Denis Lyle0PSA 24:3PSA 46:10PRO 28:1ISA 45:15ZEC 4:6ACT 3:19ROM 12:1Denis Lyle preaches about the Rivers of Blessing, recounting a powerful revival on the island of Lewis where believers' fervent prayers led to a town-wide awakening. He emphasizes the importance of personal purity and internal soul-work to make room for God's blessings, drawing from the story in 2 Kings 3 where a crisis led to the need for ditches to be dug for water. Lyle highlights the dilemma faced by the army, the direction they followed by digging ditches as instructed, and the deliverance they found when the country was filled with water, symbolizing victory over their enemies.
Quit You Like Men
By A.B. Simpson0BraveryStanding Firm in FaithGEN 22:12PSA 27:1PRO 28:1ISA 41:10JER 1:8ROM 8:311CO 16:13EPH 6:102TI 1:7HEB 10:23A.B. Simpson emphasizes the importance of bravery in the face of trials, using the examples of Jeremiah, who faced adversity without fear, and Zedekiah, whose cowardice led to his downfall. He encourages believers to stand firm in their convictions, suggesting that true bravery often leads to protection from harm. Simpson highlights that enduring trials can lead to spiritual growth and that fear can invite further attacks from the enemy. He concludes with a call to remain steadfast and true to God, regardless of external pressures or the actions of others.
Practical Wisdom for Calvinists
By Darryl Erkel0PRO 28:1LUK 6:26ROM 14:11CO 4:71CO 13:41CO 15:58EPH 6:10PHP 4:3HEB 6:1JAS 1:19JAS 3:2Darryl Erkel preaches on practical wisdom for Calvinists, emphasizing the need for humility, love, and patience towards those with different theological beliefs. He urges Calvinists to recognize the broader scope of salvation, avoid arrogance, and focus on essential Gospel truths rather than minor theological disputes. Erkel also highlights the importance of listening, learning from diverse theological traditions, and being productive in serving Christ with grace and generosity. He encourages Calvinists to be diligent in studying Scripture, discerning in theological matters, and prayerful in all aspects of life.
John 9:24-34. the Pharisees Cast Out the Man Who Was Born Blind.
By Favell Lee Mortimer0PSA 103:14PRO 28:1MAT 10:32JHN 9:25JHN 9:311CO 1:272TI 1:7HEB 13:6Favell Lee Mortimer preaches on the contrast between the conduct of the Pharisees and the man born blind, highlighting the sincerity of the beggar's faith and the Pharisees' hypocrisy. The poor man's straightforwardness and unwavering belief in Jesus stand out against the Pharisees' attempts to discredit the Savior. Despite persecution and excommunication, the blind man boldly confesses his faith, setting an example of courage and devotion. Mortimer emphasizes the importance of standing firm in faith, even in the face of adversity, and not being ashamed of Jesus, who holds power over life and death.
Homily 8 on the Statues
By St. John Chrysostom0GEN 1:1GEN 3:8PRO 4:23PRO 28:1ISA 30:21MAT 5:341CO 10:13HEB 4:12JAS 5:121PE 3:10John Chrysostom delivers a sermon exhorting virtue, emphasizing the importance of abstaining from oaths. He reflects on the comforting aspects of Scripture, highlighting how God's creation and providence offer lessons for daily life. Chrysostom delves into the story of God walking in Paradise, explaining the deeper spiritual meaning behind Adam's perception. He contrasts the nature of sin, which breeds fear and suspicion, with the boldness and strength of the righteous, exemplified by figures like Elijah and Paul. The preacher urges the congregation to prioritize the health of their souls, emphasizing the ease of spiritual healing compared to physical ailments, and warns against the dangers of neglecting the soul's well-being.
Daring to Stand for Truth
By A.W. Tozer0Courage in FaithStanding for TruthPRO 28:1ISA 59:14MAT 5:10ACT 5:29ROM 12:21GAL 1:10EPH 6:132TI 4:21PE 3:15JUD 1:3A.W. Tozer emphasizes the importance of standing for truth, even when it disrupts our peace. He explains that while the peace found in God's presence is sweet, there are times when Christians must oppose sin and injustice, despite the personal cost. Tozer warns against the temptation to remain silent for the sake of peace, as this can lead to complicity with wrongdoing. He highlights that true spirituality sometimes requires courage to confront evil, even when it is unpopular. Ultimately, the Spirit-filled Christian is called to live in love while also being willing to stand firm against iniquity.
Baptism in the Holy Ghost
By Robert Wurtz II0PRO 28:1ISA 59:19JOL 2:28LUK 3:162TI 3:5JAS 3:81JN 3:3Robert Wurtz II preaches about the significance of Baptism in the Holy Ghost, drawing parallels between the fires of hell and the fire of the Holy Ghost as emphasized by John the Baptist. He highlights the necessity of being filled with the Holy Spirit to effectively spread God's message and destroy the works of the Devil. Wurtz stresses the importance of repentance, surrender, and readiness for a true outpouring of the Holy Ghost, urging believers to seek God wholeheartedly and be willing to let go of sin to receive the baptism in the Holy Ghost.
Holy Boldness and Spiritual Authority
By David Wilkerson0Holy BoldnessSpiritual AuthorityPRO 28:1ACT 4:1David Wilkerson emphasizes that spending time with Jesus transforms believers into His likeness, instilling purity, holiness, and love, which in turn fosters a boldness for God. He illustrates this through the example of Peter and John, who, despite facing intimidation from religious leaders, stood confidently in their faith after healing a crippled beggar. The boldness they exhibited was rooted in their identity in Christ, allowing them to speak fearlessly before their accusers. Wilkerson highlights that true spiritual authority comes from being filled with the Holy Spirit and having a clear conscience in Christ. This boldness is a reflection of the righteousness believers possess through their relationship with Jesus.
- Keil-Delitzsch
- Matthew Henry
- Tyndale
Carl Friedrich Keil and Franz Delitzsch Old Testament Commentary
1 The godless flee without any one pursuing them; But the righteous are bold like a lion. We would misinterpret the sequence of the accents if we supposed that it denoted רשׁע as obj.; it by no means takes ואין־רדף as a parenthesis. רשׁע belongs thus to נסוּ as collective sing. (cf. e.g., Isa 16:4); (Note: The Targum of Pro 28:1 is, in Bereschith rabba, c. 84, ערק רשּׁיעא ולא רריפין להּ; that lying before us is formed after the Peshito.) in 1b, יבטח, as comprehensive or distributive (individualizing) singular, follows the plur. subject. One cannot, because the word is vocalized כּכפיר and not כּכּפיר, regard יבטח as an attributive clause thereto (Ewald, like Jerome, quasi leo confidens); but the article, denoting the idea of kind, does not certainly always follow כ. We say, indifferently, כּארי or כּארי, כּלּביא or כ ּלביא, and always כּאריה, not כּאריה. In itself, indeed, יבטח may be used absolutely: he is confident, undismayed, of the lion as well as of the leviathan, Job 40:23. But it is suitable thus without any addition for the righteous, and נסו and יבטח correspond to each other as predicates, in accordance with the parallelism; the accentuation is also here correct. The perf. נסו denotes that which is uncaused, and yet follows: the godless flee, pursued by the terrible images that arise in their own wicked consciences, even when no external danger threatens. The fut. יבטח denotes that which continually happens: the righteous remains, even where external danger really threatens, bold and courageous, after the manner of a young, vigorous lion, because feeling himself strong in God, and assured of his safety through Him.
Matthew Henry Bible Commentary
See here, 1. What continual frights those are subject to that go on in wicked ways. Guilt in the conscience makes men a terror to themselves, so that they are ready to flee when none pursues; like one that absconds for debt, who thinks every one he meets a bailiff. Though they pretend to be easy, there are secret fears which haunt them wherever they go, so that they fear where no present or imminent danger is, Psa 53:5. Those that have made God their enemy, and know it, cannot but see the whole creation at war with them, and therefore can have no true enjoyment of themselves, no confidence, no courage, but a fearful looking for of judgment. Sin makes men cowards. Degeneres animos timor arguit - Fear argues a degenerate soul. - Virgil Quos diri conscia facti mens habet attonitos - The consciousness of atrocious crimes astonishes and confounds. - Juvenal If they flee when none pursues, what will they do when they shall see God himself pursuing them with his armies? Job 20:24; Job 15:24. See Deu 28:25; Lev 26:36. 2. What a holy security and serenity of mind those enjoy who keep conscience void of offence and so keep themselves in the love of God: The righteous are bold as a lion, as a young lion; in the greatest dangers they have a God of almighty power to trust to. Therefore will not we fear though the earth be removed. Whatever difficulties they meet with in the way of their duty, they are not daunted by them. None of those things move me. Hie murus aheneus esto, nil conscire sibi - Be this thy brazen bulwark of defence, Still to preserve thy conscious innocence. - Hon.
Tyndale Open Study Notes
28:1 The wicked experience God’s curse for breaking his covenant (see Lev 26:14-17, 36-37).