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Proverbs 29:2
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Summary
Commentary
- Keil-Delitzsch
- Jamieson-Fausset-Brown
- John Gill
- Matthew Henry
Carl Friedrich Keil and Franz Delitzsch Old Testament Commentary
The general ethical proverb is here followed by one that is political: 2 When the righteous increase, the people rejoice; And when a godless man ruleth, the people mourn. Regarding 'בּרבות צדּ (Aquila rightly, ἐν τῷ πληθῦναι δικαίους), vid., at Pro 28:28. If the righteous form the majority, or are in such numbers that they are the party that give the tone, that form the predominant power among the people (Fleischer, cum incrementa capiunt justi), then the condition of the people is a happy one, and their voice joyful (Pro 11:10); if, on the contrary, a godless man or (after Pro 28:1) godless men rule, the people are made to sigh (יאנח עם, with the Gaja, according to rule). "There is reason," as Hitzig remarks, "why עם should be placed first with, and then without, the article." In the first case it denotes the people as those among whom there is such an increase of the righteous; in the second case, the article is wanting, because it is not generally used in poetry; and, besides, its absence makes the second line consist of nine syllables, like the first.
Jamieson-Fausset-Brown Bible Commentary
(Compare Pro 11:10; Pro 28:28). in authority--(Compare Margin), increased in power.
John Gill Bible Commentary
When the righteous are in authority,.... Or "are increased" (g); either in number or in riches, or in power and dominion; are set in high places, and have the exercise of civil government and the execution of the laws in their hands; for the protection of good men in their civil and religious privileges, and for the punishment of evil men; for the encouraging of all that is good, and for the discouraging of everything that is bad; the people rejoice; the whole body of the people, because of the public good; a state is happy under such an administration; everyone feels and enjoys the advantage of it; see Kg1 4:20; but when the wicked beareth rule, the people mourn; or "groan" (h), or "will groan", under their tyranny and oppression, and because of the sad state of things; the number of good men is lessened, being cut off, or obliged to flee; wicked men and wickedness are encouraged and promoted; heavy taxes are laid upon them, and exorbitant demands made and cruelty, injustice, and arbitrary power exercised; and no man's person and property safe; see Pro 10:11. (g) "cum augentur", Junius & Tremellius; "cum multiplicati fuerit, vel multiplicantur", Vatablus, Baynus, Cocceius, Michaelis; "in multiplicari justos", Montanus. (h) "gemet", Pagninus, Montanus, V. L. "gemit", Michaelis; "ingemiscit", Schultens; so the Tugurine version, Mercerus; "suspirat", Junius & Tremellius, Piscator, Cocceius.
Matthew Henry Bible Commentary
This is what was said before, Pro 28:12, Pro 28:28. 1. The people will have cause to rejoice or mourn according as their rulers are righteous or wicked; for, if the righteous be in authority, sin will be punished and restrained, religion and virtue will be supported and kept in reputation; but, if the wicked get power in their hands, wickedness will abound, religion and religious people will be persecuted, and so the ends of government will be perverted. 2. The people will actually rejoice or mourn according as their rulers are righteous or wicked. Such a conviction are even the common people under of the excellency of virtue and religion that they will rejoice when they see them preferred and countenanced; and, on the contrary, let men have ever so much honour or power, if they be wicked and vicious, and use it ill, they make themselves contemptible and base before all the people (as those priests, Mal 2:9) and subjects will think themselves miserable under such a government.
Proverbs 29:2
The Flourishing of the Righteous
1A man who remains stiff-necked after much reproof will suddenly be shattered beyond recovery. 2When the righteous flourish, the people rejoice, but when the wicked rule, the people groan.
- 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.
Voices From Hell Speaking to America - Part 1
By Alan Cairns3.4K09:08PSA 33:12PRO 14:34PRO 29:2MIC 6:8MAT 22:21ROM 6:232CO 10:5EPH 5:111TI 2:11PE 5:8This sermon emphasizes the importance of discerning between different sins and understanding that while all sin is damnable, not all sin is equal. It encourages believers to engage in the political process with a discerning eye, recognizing the threats to Christian morality and the right of Christianity to exist in society. The message underscores the need for God's people to stand against anti-Christian ideologies and to make informed decisions based on God's truth.
If My People - Part 1
By Shane Idleman1.0K52:18EXO 18:212CH 7:14NEH 1:6PSA 11:3PSA 82:3PSA 139:13PRO 29:2DAN 9:4JAS 1:22This sermon emphasizes the importance of addressing controversial topics and recapturing the prophetic zeal in churches. It highlights the impact of the Johnson Amendment on churches' freedom to discuss social and political issues. The sermon stresses the need for humility, prayer, seeking God's face, and repentance as the solution to the spiritual and societal challenges faced. It calls for a return to God, acknowledging the foundational principles of the nation, and the significance of prayer in bringing about revival and restoration.
I Was a Slave in Russia - Part 2
By John Noble78125:59RussiaEXO 1:14PSA 146:7PRO 29:2ISA 61:1MAT 6:33JHN 8:321TI 6:10In this sermon, the speaker shares his experience of being in a prisoner camp in the Soviet Union. He describes how prisoners from different backgrounds and professions were brought together and initially hesitant to speak up. However, as they worked together, they began to share their stories and experiences. The speaker highlights the use of slave labor in the Soviet Union and the negative impact it has on the American economy. He also mentions his own journey from being a dedicated communist to realizing the true nature of communism and becoming dedicated to fighting against it. The sermon ends with the speaker recounting the brutal suppression of an uprising in the camps and the execution of those who spoke up.
When the Wicked Man Rules
By Shane Idleman57150:392CH 7:14PSA 12:8PRO 29:2ISA 29:13MAT 23:12JHN 4:23JAS 4:101PE 5:5This sermon emphasizes the importance of the gospel permeating every area of our lives, including political engagement. It highlights the need for the church to address critical issues like abortion, gay marriage, and leadership direction, urging believers to seek God's wisdom and discernment in all aspects of life. The message stresses the significance of humility, boldness, and genuine worship as essential components of a faithful Christian life.
On Eagles' Wings Pt 492
By Don Courville32021:49Radio ShowPRO 29:2MAT 27:50JHN 3:161CO 15:3In this sermon, the speaker discusses the ongoing impeachment process against the president and the phrase "high crimes and misdemeanors" mentioned in the Constitution. The speaker suggests that the country may be facing God's judgment and emphasizes the importance of voting and praying. They also quote the prophet Solomon, who states that when the righteous are in authority, the people rejoice, but when the wicked rule, the people mourn. The speaker urges listeners to seek wisdom in distinguishing between righteousness and unrighteousness and to vote for leaders who align with biblical principles.
(How to Understand the Kjv Bible) 47 Psalm 72
By Keith Simons6524:27KJV BibleJustice and RighteousnessThe Reign of the MessiahPSA 72:1PSA 146:7PRO 29:2ISA 9:6ISA 11:1MIC 4:3MAT 5:5LUK 4:18JHN 10:10REV 21:4Keith Simons explores Psalm 72, which reflects on the rule of King Solomon and foreshadows the reign of the Messiah. He emphasizes that both rulers are characterized by justice, righteousness, and care for the poor, with the Messiah's rule extending far beyond Solomon's. The psalm illustrates a time of peace and prosperity, where even the mountains yield abundance, and all nations honor the king. Simons highlights the eternal nature of the Messiah's reign, contrasting it with Solomon's temporary rule, and concludes with a call to recognize God's wondrous works through the Messiah.
If My People Call to Me
By Shane Idleman1552:18The Role of the Church in SocietyRepentance2CH 7:14PSA 82:3PRO 29:2EPH 6:19Shane Idleman emphasizes the urgent need for the church to reclaim its prophetic voice in society, particularly in light of the Johnson Amendment that restricts pastors from addressing political and social issues. He argues that true change in America can only come through humility, prayer, and repentance, as outlined in 2 Chronicles 7:14. Idleman warns against the dangers of complacency and the need for Christians to actively engage in the moral and spiritual state of the nation, reminding them that silence in the face of injustice is complicity. He calls for a return to God, urging believers to seek His face and turn from their wicked ways to heal the land. The sermon serves as a wake-up call for the church to be bold in proclaiming truth and to take responsibility for the spiritual condition of the nation.
To the Present Distracted and Broken Nation of England
By Edward Burrough02CH 7:14PSA 33:12PSA 37:37PSA 85:10PRO 14:34PRO 16:7PRO 29:2ISA 1:4JER 18:7MIC 6:8Edward Burrough preaches a message of lamentation and mourning over the divisions, distractions, and sins plaguing the nation of England. He highlights the consequences of the nation's sins, the lack of true peace and unity, and the need for repentance and turning back to God. Burrough emphasizes the importance of seeking the Lord's guidance and righteousness in governance, warning against self-seeking and corruption in leadership. He calls for a genuine transformation, urging the nation to forsake iniquities, embrace righteousness, and seek true peace, unity, and justice under God's rule.
The Message of Micah
By G. Campbell Morgan0True LeadershipAuthorityPRO 29:2ISA 9:6MIC 3:11MIC 5:2MIC 5:4MAT 5:14ROM 13:1G. Campbell Morgan delivers a powerful sermon on 'The Message of Micah,' emphasizing the unmasking of false authority among civil, spiritual, and moral rulers who act for personal gain rather than the welfare of the people. He contrasts this with the unveiling of the true Ruler, who comes from Bethlehem and embodies peace and divine strength. Morgan highlights that the test of authority lies in its motive, and true strength is found in recognizing God's sovereignty. He calls for obedience to this true authority and encourages believers to live out and enforce His ideals while awaiting His return to establish perfect governance. The sermon ultimately underscores the importance of aligning with God's will to experience true peace and righteousness.
Abortion: Attitudes for Action
By Melody Green01SA 17:4PRO 11:11PRO 29:2LUK 9:26ROM 14:23EPH 6:101JN 4:4Melody Green preaches about the story of David and Goliath, drawing parallels to the modern-day giant of abortion that has paralyzed the Army of God through fear and intimidation. She emphasizes the importance of faith, love for God, victims, and enemies, and the need for Christians to actively fight against abortion with wisdom, courage, and a strong foundation in Christ. Melody challenges believers to get involved in the battle against abortion, to trust in God's power, and to work towards changing hearts in addition to laws, ultimately aiming to glorify God and bring about a transformation in society.
Christians in Politics?
By David Servant0EXO 1:21PRO 29:2MAT 5:13MAT 6:10LUK 1:52JHN 19:11ACT 4:19ROM 13:11CO 6:3David Servant delves into the moral issues of Christian involvement in politics and government, emphasizing the importance of understanding the role of human government as a secondary means to restrain sin and maintain order. He explores the biblical perspective on submission to governing authorities, highlighting the balance between obeying earthly rulers and obeying God when their commands contradict divine principles. Through a deep dive into Romans 13:1-7, he challenges the notion that Christians should abstain from political involvement, advocating for active participation in government to influence policies that align with moral values and promote righteousness.
Changing the Politicians Themselves
By Robert P. Jr Dugan0PRO 11:14PRO 14:34PRO 21:1PRO 29:2ROM 13:11TI 2:11PE 2:13Robert P. Jr Dugan preaches about the importance of political involvement and the impact of volunteers in shaping history through elections. He emphasizes the power of citizens to influence politicians through grassroots efforts and elections, highlighting the significance of being actively engaged in the political process to bring about change. Dugan uses examples from past presidential, senate, and house elections to illustrate how narrow victories and close margins can determine the course of history, stressing the need for citizens, including evangelicals, to participate in campaigns and support candidates aligned with their values.
People Follow Leaders
By A.W. Tozer0LeadershipInfluencePRO 29:2EZK 34:2MAT 5:14ROM 12:21CO 11:11TI 4:122TI 2:2HEB 13:7JAS 3:11PE 5:2A.W. Tozer emphasizes the profound impact of leadership on the masses, illustrating that people tend to mirror the moral and spiritual state of their leaders. He reflects on biblical examples where the character of kings influenced the worship and behavior of the Israelites, noting that both good and bad leaders shape the direction of their followers. Tozer warns that the current state of Christianity reflects its leaders, urging those in positions of influence to recognize their heavy responsibility and strive for integrity and righteousness. He concludes with a prayer for strength to lead in a way that is worthy of following.
From the Departure of the Jews From Babylon to Fadus the Roman Procurator
By Flavius Josephus0PRO 11:10PRO 21:15PRO 24:24PRO 28:12PRO 29:2PRO 29:27PRO 31:8ECC 3:8ECC 8:11Josephus recounts the tumultuous period following the assassination of Emperor Caius, where the senators deliberated on restoring democracy while the soldiers favored preserving the monarchy. Cherea, a key conspirator, played a crucial role in orchestrating Caius's downfall, leading to the restoration of liberty in Rome. The senators praised Cherea's bravery and honored him for his role in freeing the city from tyranny. Despite some dissent, Cherea ordered the execution of Caius's wife and daughter to prevent any remnants of the tyrant's family from causing further harm to the city.
- Keil-Delitzsch
- Jamieson-Fausset-Brown
- John Gill
- Matthew Henry
Carl Friedrich Keil and Franz Delitzsch Old Testament Commentary
The general ethical proverb is here followed by one that is political: 2 When the righteous increase, the people rejoice; And when a godless man ruleth, the people mourn. Regarding 'בּרבות צדּ (Aquila rightly, ἐν τῷ πληθῦναι δικαίους), vid., at Pro 28:28. If the righteous form the majority, or are in such numbers that they are the party that give the tone, that form the predominant power among the people (Fleischer, cum incrementa capiunt justi), then the condition of the people is a happy one, and their voice joyful (Pro 11:10); if, on the contrary, a godless man or (after Pro 28:1) godless men rule, the people are made to sigh (יאנח עם, with the Gaja, according to rule). "There is reason," as Hitzig remarks, "why עם should be placed first with, and then without, the article." In the first case it denotes the people as those among whom there is such an increase of the righteous; in the second case, the article is wanting, because it is not generally used in poetry; and, besides, its absence makes the second line consist of nine syllables, like the first.
Jamieson-Fausset-Brown Bible Commentary
(Compare Pro 11:10; Pro 28:28). in authority--(Compare Margin), increased in power.
John Gill Bible Commentary
When the righteous are in authority,.... Or "are increased" (g); either in number or in riches, or in power and dominion; are set in high places, and have the exercise of civil government and the execution of the laws in their hands; for the protection of good men in their civil and religious privileges, and for the punishment of evil men; for the encouraging of all that is good, and for the discouraging of everything that is bad; the people rejoice; the whole body of the people, because of the public good; a state is happy under such an administration; everyone feels and enjoys the advantage of it; see Kg1 4:20; but when the wicked beareth rule, the people mourn; or "groan" (h), or "will groan", under their tyranny and oppression, and because of the sad state of things; the number of good men is lessened, being cut off, or obliged to flee; wicked men and wickedness are encouraged and promoted; heavy taxes are laid upon them, and exorbitant demands made and cruelty, injustice, and arbitrary power exercised; and no man's person and property safe; see Pro 10:11. (g) "cum augentur", Junius & Tremellius; "cum multiplicati fuerit, vel multiplicantur", Vatablus, Baynus, Cocceius, Michaelis; "in multiplicari justos", Montanus. (h) "gemet", Pagninus, Montanus, V. L. "gemit", Michaelis; "ingemiscit", Schultens; so the Tugurine version, Mercerus; "suspirat", Junius & Tremellius, Piscator, Cocceius.
Matthew Henry Bible Commentary
This is what was said before, Pro 28:12, Pro 28:28. 1. The people will have cause to rejoice or mourn according as their rulers are righteous or wicked; for, if the righteous be in authority, sin will be punished and restrained, religion and virtue will be supported and kept in reputation; but, if the wicked get power in their hands, wickedness will abound, religion and religious people will be persecuted, and so the ends of government will be perverted. 2. The people will actually rejoice or mourn according as their rulers are righteous or wicked. Such a conviction are even the common people under of the excellency of virtue and religion that they will rejoice when they see them preferred and countenanced; and, on the contrary, let men have ever so much honour or power, if they be wicked and vicious, and use it ill, they make themselves contemptible and base before all the people (as those priests, Mal 2:9) and subjects will think themselves miserable under such a government.