Proverbs 4:7
Verse
Context
Sermons





Summary
Commentary
- Keil-Delitzsch
- Jamieson-Fausset-Brown
- John Gill
- Tyndale
Carl Friedrich Keil and Franz Delitzsch Old Testament Commentary
Referring to Pro 4:5, the father further explains that wisdom begins with the striving after it, and that this striving is itself its fundamental beginning: 7 The beginning of wisdom is "Get wisdom," And with [um, at the price of] all thou hast gotten get understanding, 8 Esteem her, so shall she lift thee up; She will bring thee honour if thou dost embrace her. 9 She will put on thine head a graceful garland, She will bestow upon thee a glorious diadem. In the motto of the book, Pro 1:7, the author would say that the fear of Jahve is that from which all wisdom takes its origin. יראת יהוה (Pro 1:7) is the subject, and as such it stands foremost. Here he means to say what the beginning of wisdom consists in. ראשׁית חכמה is the subject, and stands forth as such. The predicate may also be read קנה־חכמה (= קנות), after Pro 16:16. The beginning of wisdom is (consists in) the getting of wisdom; but the imperative קנה, which also Aq., Sym., Theod. (κτῆσαι), Jerome, Syr., Targ. express (the lxx leaves Pro 4:7 untranslated), is supported by 7b. Hitzig, after Mercier, De Dieu, and Dderlein, translates the verse thus: "the highest thing is wisdom; get wisdom," which Zckler approves of; but the reasons which determine him to this rendering are subtleties: if the author had wished himself to be so understood, he ought at least to have written the words ראשׁית החכמה. But ראשׁית חכמה is a genitive of relation, as is to be expected from the relativity of the idea ראשׁית, and his intention is to say that the beginning of wisdom consists in the proposition קנה חכמה (cf. the similar formula, Ecc 12:13); this proposition is truly the lapis philosophorum, it contains all that is necessary in order to becoming wise. Therefore the Greek σοφία called itself modestly φιλοσοφία; for ἀρχὴ σὐτῆς the Book of Wisdom has, Pro 6:18, ἡ ἀληθεστάτη παιδείας ἐπιθυμία. In 7b the proposition is expressed which contains the specificum helping to wisdom. The בּ denotes price: give all for wisdom (Mat 13:46, Mat 13:44); no price is too high, no sacrifice too great for it.
Jamieson-Fausset-Brown Bible Commentary
(Compare Job 28:28). getting--or possession; a desire for wisdom is wise.
John Gill Bible Commentary
Wisdom is the principal thing,.... Or principal, one; the principal of persons and things; the principal of persons, angels or men: Christ is superior to angels, having a more excellent name and nature than they; he is the God, the Creator, and head of them, and is above them in the human nature; he is superior to men, to the greatest of men, he is King of kings and Lord of lords, and to the best of men the saints. Are they kings? he is their King: are they priests? he is the great High Priest: are any of them prophets, teachers, shepherds? he is the great Prophet in Israel; a Teacher, that never any taught or spoke like him; the chief Shepherd and Bishop of souls: is the church a family? he is the Master of it: is it a body? he is the Head: is it a building? he is the Foundation and Corner Stone; yea, the chief Master Builder. He is the beginning and chief of all God's ways, and the chief in them; in election, in the council of peace, and covenant of grace; in redemption and salvation, in grace and glory; he is all in all. Or the words may be rendered, "Wisdom is the beginning" (q); so Christ is called, Col 1:18; a phrase expressive of his eternity, and of his being the first cause and author of all things, both in the old and new creation. Or thus, that which is "the beginning of wisdom get" (r), &c. which is the fear of the Lord; see Pro 1:7; therefore get wisdom; not an interest in Christ, but a knowledge of it; and make use of all means to obtain a greater knowledge of him, and of interest in him, which is what the apostle calls "winning" Christ; by which he means, not getting an interest in him, that he had already, but gaining a greater degree of knowledge of him, as the context shows, Phi 3:8; or, "buy wisdom" (s); that is, without money and without price; so Christ advises to buy gold and white raiment of him, his grace and righteousness, Rev 3:18; and with all thy getting get understanding; another name for Christ; see Pro 8:14; Or, "along with all thy getting" (t), or "above all"; let not Christ be wanting; he is the one thing needful, the good and better part and portion, which, if missing, all other substance signifies little: or part with all for this pearl of great price, Wisdom, and prefer it to all worldly substance; look upon all but dross in comparison of Christ and the knowledge of him: all other gettings or substance are only for the body, this for the soul, and the eternal welfare of it; they are only for a time, this for eternity; they are not satisfying, but, having this, a soul has enough, has all things; Christ being his, all things are his; he possesses all things, and all other things are not blessings without him. (q) "principium sapientiae", Montanus, Mercerus, Gejerus. (r) "Principium sapientiae est hoc, comparas sapientiam", Michaelis; "quae est caput sapientiae eam acquire", &c. Junius & Tremellius. (s) "eme sapientiam", Pagninus, Cocceius. (t) "in omne possessione tua", V. L. "in omne acquisitione tua", Montanus; "prae universis quae possides", Tigurine version, Vatablus.
Tyndale Open Study Notes
4:7-8 Wisdom often, though not always, brings relational and material prosperity.
Proverbs 4:7
A Father’s Instruction
6Do not forsake wisdom, and she will preserve you; love her, and she will guard you. 7Wisdom is supreme; so acquire wisdom. And whatever you may acquire, gain understanding. 8Prize her, and she will exalt you; if you embrace her, she will honor you.
- Scripture
- Sermons
- Commentary
A Truly Wealthy Man
By Keith Daniel4.1K1:16:29RichesPRO 3:11PRO 4:7PRO 22:6PRO 23:24PRO 23:26PRO 29:17HEB 12:6In this sermon, the preacher emphasizes the importance of discipline and godly parenting. He shares a personal story of witnessing a mother and her joyful son in the congregation, but later noticing the mother's bruised face and tears. The preacher warns against causing harm to one's own household through sinful behavior, as it will lead to poverty and destruction. He also mentions that a man can die with nothing left if he has destroyed everything in his life. The sermon highlights the need for godly discipline and being a positive influence on one's children.
Here I Am, Send Me
By George Verwer2.3K1:07:52PRO 4:7MAT 5:6ACT 2:421CO 13:2PHP 2:3HEB 12:1JAS 4:10This sermon emphasizes the importance of wisdom, humility, and perseverance as believers prepare to leave a spiritual gathering. It highlights the need for biblical balance, the integration of power and wisdom, and the practical application of spiritual experiences in daily life. The speaker urges listeners to embrace diversity, generosity, and a global perspective in their faith journey, while emphasizing the significance of humility and the ongoing marathon of spiritual growth.
Elizabethan Puritans
By J.I. Packer2.1K55:17PSA 119:105PRO 4:7JHN 14:6ACT 17:11ROM 10:17EPH 4:142TI 3:16In this sermon, the preacher discusses the certainty of God's truth, emphasizing that it is confirmed by God's solemn oath. He highlights how the Lord repeatedly commands and persuades the wicked to turn from their sinful ways. The preacher explains that God even reasons with the wicked, asking them why they would choose death over life. Despite all of God's efforts, if the wicked refuse to repent, it is not because of God, but because of their own choice. The sermon encourages listeners to take these teachings seriously and to reflect on them, even suggesting taking notes to remember the key points.
The King's Daughters
By Denny Kenaston1.8K59:19DaughtersJOS 1:8PSA 1:2PSA 119:11PRO 4:7MAT 4:4JHN 8:312TI 3:16In this sermon, Brother Denny emphasizes the importance of learning and knowing the Word of God. He encourages the audience, particularly the sisters, to prioritize the study of the Bible in their lives. He shares his own testimony of conversion and how the Word of God has transformed his life. Brother Denny also highlights the significance of having a personal relationship with God and the preparation needed for marriage and motherhood according to biblical teachings.
K-540 One Church, One Body (1 of 2)
By Art Katz1.4K37:17Body Of ChristPSA 119:105PRO 4:7ECC 12:13JHN 1:1ROM 15:42TI 3:162PE 1:20In this sermon, the speaker emphasizes the importance of listening to the word of God with attentiveness and understanding. He acknowledges that his own statements are often packed with meaning and may require further unpacking. The speaker also highlights the influence of believers who have gone before us and are now in the realm of glory, exerting even greater influence than when they were on earth. He emphasizes that God is the God of the visible and invisible, and calls believers to align their perception with God's perspective. The speaker also criticizes the world's tendency to view the church as a secondary aspect of life, rather than the primary calling to which believers are called.
Anabaptist History (Day 13) the Birth of the Hutterites-Part 1
By Dean Taylor1.4K1:24:18PRO 4:7MAT 18:15ROM 12:181CO 1:101CO 13:4GAL 6:2HEB 13:17JAS 1:191PE 4:12This sermon delves into the history of the Hutterites, tracing their origins from the Moravian Anabaptists and the zeal that characterized their faith. It emphasizes the importance of understanding the context and spirit behind historical events and scriptures, cautioning against misinterpretation from isolated quotes or verses. The narrative includes conflicts over beliefs within the community, showcasing the challenges faced by early leaders like Wilhelm Rublin. Additionally, a poignant story is shared about a leader returning to find his community vanished, highlighting the sacrifices and struggles endured by the Hutterites as depicted in the Chronicles and Martyr's Mirror.
Preserving Ourselves in God's Paths
By Zac Poonen1.4K56:53Christian LifePRO 4:7PRO 4:18MAT 16:24JHN 14:26EPH 6:12JAS 1:22In this sermon, the speaker emphasizes the importance of being a living demonstration of the truth of the Bible and the reality of a risen Christ. He highlights three key qualities that Jesus exemplified: humility, love, and sacrifice. Jesus' obedience to the point of death on the cross is highlighted as the ultimate act of sacrifice. The speaker challenges listeners to examine their own lives and consider if they have made similar sacrifices for the sake of serving others in Christ's name.
Das Problem Deiner Sünde (German)
By Corrie Ten Boom1.2K45:56GermanPRO 3:5PRO 4:7MAT 28:20JHN 20:291CO 2:12EPH 1:182TI 3:16In this sermon, the speaker shares personal experiences and reflections on the power of Jesus and the importance of faith. They mention the devil's attempts to discourage them and the struggle with self-sacrifice. The speaker also talks about a conversation with someone who had lost faith due to personal tragedy and questions why God allowed it to happen. They emphasize the need to give the Holy Spirit room in our lives to experience the richness of being children of God. The sermon ends with a story of a woman who remained strong in her faith despite being imprisoned, highlighting the invisible reality of God's love and the assurance that He never makes mistakes.
Book Review
By George Verwer1.1K1:11:04Book ReviewsPSA 119:105PRO 4:7EPH 4:152TI 3:16HEB 4:12JAS 1:221PE 2:2The video is a summary of a book called "Discipleship" by William McDonald. The book aims to present principles of New Testament discipleship and emphasizes the practicality of these principles in the modern age. McDonald acknowledges the impact of a group of young believers who demonstrated the effectiveness of these principles in their lives. The video also mentions other influential books like "Through Gates of Splendor" and "Grace Awakening" that complement the teachings of "Discipleship." Overall, the video encourages readers to embrace the Savior's terms of discipleship and make the best use of their time in pursuing spiritual maturity.
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.
What Seminary Did Pastor Shane Attend?
By Shane Idleman52010:13PRO 4:7ROM 8:281CO 12:4EPH 4:14COL 2:82TI 2:152TI 3:16JAS 1:51PE 3:15This sermon addresses the question of seminary education and emphasizes the importance of diverse learning sources. It highlights the value of life experience, studying Christian history, and engaging with various theological perspectives to deepen understanding of God's Word. The speaker shares insights on different theological beliefs like Calvinism and Arminianism, advocating for a balanced approach rooted in Scripture and the sovereignty of God.
Improving Preaching (3) (1.9.1983)
By Nigel Lee20838:32PreachingPSA 119:11PRO 4:7COL 3:161TI 4:132TI 2:15JAS 1:221PE 3:15In this sermon, the speaker shares his experience of preaching in a convention in India. He initially prepared four messages but ended up finishing them all in just 25 minutes. He emphasizes the importance of daily studying and meditating on God's word to grow in knowledge and understanding. The speaker also discusses the different types of preaching, including evangelistic, doctrinal, and devotional, and highlights the need for messages to arise from a personal relationship with God.
3 Ways to Make Wise Decisions
By Shane Idleman4531:35Decision MakingWisdomPRO 4:7PHP 4:6JAS 1:5Shane Idleman emphasizes three key ways to make wise decisions amidst the challenges posed by the COVID-19 pandemic. He highlights the importance of recognizing our need for God's wisdom, asking for it in faith, and persevering through trials with patience and humility. Idleman encourages listeners to seek God's guidance rather than relying on worldly advice, reminding them that true wisdom comes from a heart aligned with God's Word. He calls for a collective humility and prayerfulness as a nation, urging everyone to turn to God for direction and support during these turbulent times.
Wise as Serpents, Harmless as Doves
By Thomas Watson1PRO 4:7PRO 19:11MAT 10:16LUK 4:29PHP 4:41TI 6:17JAS 3:171PE 5:5Thomas Watson preaches about the importance of being wise as serpents and harmless as doves, emphasizing the need for Christians to unite prudence and holiness in their lives. He highlights the Apostles' commission, the foretold dangers they faced, and the instructions given by Christ. Watson explains that Christians must be both wise and innocent, showing examples from biblical figures like Moses, Daniel, and Paul who embodied this balance of wisdom and innocence. He urges believers to be prudent in their actions, yet maintain their integrity, avoiding sin while navigating through challenges and dangers.
The Message of Proverbs
By G. Campbell Morgan0Fear Of The LordWisdomPRO 1:7PRO 3:1PRO 4:7PRO 8:32PRO 9:10COL 2:3JAS 1:5G. Campbell Morgan emphasizes the profound wisdom found in the book of Proverbs, asserting that true wisdom begins with the fear of the Lord. He illustrates how this wisdom is applicable in various spheres of life, including the home, friendships, and the broader world, highlighting the importance of parental guidance and the choices made in youth. Morgan argues that the teachings of Proverbs are not merely ancient sayings but hold timeless relevance, providing a systematic approach to understanding life's challenges. He concludes that wisdom is ultimately rooted in a relationship with God, who is the source of all wisdom, and encourages believers to seek divine guidance in their lives.
Prof. Finney's Letters.--No. 34.
By Charles Finney0Natural AbilityMoral CharacterPRO 4:7MAT 22:37ROM 12:21CO 10:31GAL 5:13EPH 5:17PHP 2:13COL 3:23JAS 1:52PE 1:5Charles Finney addresses the concept of natural ability and moral character, arguing against the false distinction between natural and moral ability. He emphasizes that moral inability stems from a lack of sufficient light to recognize the greatest apparent good, which is essential for moral obligation. Finney asserts that true holiness consists in willing as the greatest apparent good is, and that moral character is determined by the ultimate intention of one's will. He urges ministers and Christians to align their definitions of entire sanctification with the doctrine of natural ability to avoid confusion and error. The sermon calls for careful consideration of moral character and the nature of sin in relation to God's law.
The Wisdom of Love
By G.W. North0WisdomLovePRO 3:13PRO 4:71CO 1:301CO 2:61CO 3:191CO 12:71CO 13:1EPH 1:17COL 2:3JAS 1:5G.W. North emphasizes the significance of the Spirit's gift of wisdom, noting that it is the first manifestation of the Spirit within the body of Christ. He reflects on the church at Corinth, which, despite being baptized in the Spirit, had fallen into folly due to a lack of love, which he identifies as a greater sin than the absence of wisdom. North highlights Paul's urgent message to the Corinthians, where he repeatedly addresses the importance of wisdom and love, underscoring that true wisdom is rooted in love. He concludes that while folly is a concern, the absence of love is a grave sin against God. Ultimately, Christ embodies this wisdom, which is paramount for believers.
In Understanding Be Men
By G.W. North0UnderstandingLove in Spiritual GiftsPRO 4:71CO 13:2EPH 3:18G.W. North emphasizes the importance of understanding in the Christian life, presenting it as a vital component alongside wisdom and knowledge. He highlights that these attributes are rooted in love, which is central to God's nature and the manifestation of spiritual gifts. Understanding is portrayed as a product of love that has been tested through experience, leading to true wisdom. North asserts that love's qualities enable believers to grasp the depth of understanding, which in turn enriches their spiritual journey. Ultimately, he calls for Christians to embody understanding as a reflection of God's love and character.
That Ye May Know
By G.W. North0WisdomKnowledgePRO 3:13PRO 4:7JAS 1:5G.W. North emphasizes the vital relationship between wisdom and knowledge, illustrating that true wisdom must lead to correct knowledge and ultimately manifest in righteous actions. He contrasts fleeting beauty with enduring fruitfulness, suggesting that wisdom, like a flower, must bear fruit to fulfill its purpose. North warns against the knowledge gained through sin, which leads to a loss of true wisdom, and asserts that genuine knowledge must stem from understanding and wisdom. He concludes that wisdom is not merely theoretical but must translate into behavior that reflects its power and virtue.
Wisdom Justified of Her Children
By Charles Finney0WisdomSpiritual DiscernmentPRO 3:5PRO 4:7ECC 7:12MAT 11:19LUK 7:35ROM 12:21CO 2:14COL 2:3JAS 1:51JN 5:20Charles Finney explores the concept of wisdom as it relates to the teachings of John the Baptist and Jesus Christ, emphasizing that true wisdom is recognized and justified by those who are spiritually discerning. He contrasts the austere lifestyle of John, which called for repentance, with Christ's example of gospel liberty, which was misunderstood by the self-righteous. Finney argues that wisdom is about promoting the highest good through benevolence and that those who are truly wise will understand and appreciate the truth, while the selfish will stumble over it. He concludes that wisdom is validated by its fruits, as seen in the lives of those who embrace it.
Zeal With Wisdom
By K.P. Yohannan0ZealWisdom in RelationshipsPSA 111:10PRO 4:7PRO 15:1PRO 19:20ECC 3:1ACT 20:24PHP 4:5COL 4:5JAS 1:51PE 3:1K.P. Yohannan emphasizes the importance of balancing zeal with wisdom, drawing parallels from the lives of Paul, Peter, and Jesus, who were passionate in their pursuits yet demonstrated sensitivity and understanding in their interactions. He shares personal anecdotes to illustrate how unchecked zeal can lead to misunderstandings and conflict, particularly in relationships, and stresses the need for gentleness and meekness in our approach to others. Yohannan encourages believers to maintain their enthusiasm for the Gospel while being wise in their actions and words, highlighting that true wisdom comes from a close relationship with the Lord.
The Word of Wisdom
By Chuck Smith0Holy SpiritWisdomEXO 28:3PRO 3:6PRO 4:7DAN 5:11ACT 6:2ACT 15:191CO 12:7COL 2:3JAS 1:5Chuck Smith emphasizes the significance of the Holy Spirit's manifestations in the life of a believer, particularly focusing on the gift of wisdom. He explains the difference between knowledge and wisdom, illustrating that wisdom is the application of knowledge for the benefit of the body of Christ. Smith warns against the misuse of spiritual gifts for personal gain and highlights that true manifestations of the Spirit will always point to Jesus Christ. He encourages believers to seek wisdom from God, as it is essential for making sound decisions and resolving conflicts within the church.
The Choicest, Sweetest, Wisest, Strongest Christian
By Thomas Brooks0MeditationSpiritual GrowthJOS 1:8PSA 1:2PSA 119:15PRO 4:7ROM 12:2PHP 4:8COL 3:162TI 2:15HEB 4:12JAS 1:22Thomas Brooks emphasizes the importance of serious meditation over hasty reading of Scripture, asserting that true spiritual sweetness and profit come from deep contemplation of holy truths. He illustrates this by comparing the process of a bee gathering honey to the necessity of abiding in God's Word to extract its richness. Brooks concludes that it is not the quantity of reading, but the quality of meditation that cultivates the choicest, sweetest, wisest, and strongest Christians.
Below the Ox and the Donkey
By Thomas Brooks0Spiritual AwarenessIgnorance of SinPRO 4:7ISA 1:3HOS 4:6JHN 8:32ROM 6:161CO 15:34EPH 4:18JAS 1:52PE 3:181JN 1:8Thomas Brooks emphasizes the profound consequences of ignorance in his sermon 'Below the Ox and the Donkey,' using Isaiah 1:3 to illustrate that while animals recognize their owners, God's people often fail to understand their relationship with Him. He argues that ignorance is the root of all sin, leading to spiritual enslavement and a lack of awareness of one's need for salvation. Brooks warns that this ignorance not only breeds sin but also prevents individuals from recognizing the beauty of holiness, ultimately locking them in a state of spiritual blindness. He calls for a deeper understanding of sin and holiness to foster true repentance and spiritual awakening.
Meditate, Practice, Pray
By Thomas Brooks0MeditationPrayerPracticePSA 1:2PSA 119:15PRO 4:7MAT 7:7JHN 15:7PHP 4:9COL 3:161TH 5:172TI 3:16JAS 1:22Thomas Brooks emphasizes the importance of meditation, practice, and prayer in the life of a believer. He argues that true enrichment comes not from the quantity of reading or hearing, but from the depth of meditation on divine truths, which leads to a lasting impression on the heart. Brooks warns against the futility of reading without practicing, likening it to hunting without catching, and stresses the necessity of prayer to seek God's blessing on our understanding. He encourages Christians to keep one eye on their reading and the other looking up to heaven, ensuring a holistic approach to spiritual growth.
- Keil-Delitzsch
- Jamieson-Fausset-Brown
- John Gill
- Tyndale
Carl Friedrich Keil and Franz Delitzsch Old Testament Commentary
Referring to Pro 4:5, the father further explains that wisdom begins with the striving after it, and that this striving is itself its fundamental beginning: 7 The beginning of wisdom is "Get wisdom," And with [um, at the price of] all thou hast gotten get understanding, 8 Esteem her, so shall she lift thee up; She will bring thee honour if thou dost embrace her. 9 She will put on thine head a graceful garland, She will bestow upon thee a glorious diadem. In the motto of the book, Pro 1:7, the author would say that the fear of Jahve is that from which all wisdom takes its origin. יראת יהוה (Pro 1:7) is the subject, and as such it stands foremost. Here he means to say what the beginning of wisdom consists in. ראשׁית חכמה is the subject, and stands forth as such. The predicate may also be read קנה־חכמה (= קנות), after Pro 16:16. The beginning of wisdom is (consists in) the getting of wisdom; but the imperative קנה, which also Aq., Sym., Theod. (κτῆσαι), Jerome, Syr., Targ. express (the lxx leaves Pro 4:7 untranslated), is supported by 7b. Hitzig, after Mercier, De Dieu, and Dderlein, translates the verse thus: "the highest thing is wisdom; get wisdom," which Zckler approves of; but the reasons which determine him to this rendering are subtleties: if the author had wished himself to be so understood, he ought at least to have written the words ראשׁית החכמה. But ראשׁית חכמה is a genitive of relation, as is to be expected from the relativity of the idea ראשׁית, and his intention is to say that the beginning of wisdom consists in the proposition קנה חכמה (cf. the similar formula, Ecc 12:13); this proposition is truly the lapis philosophorum, it contains all that is necessary in order to becoming wise. Therefore the Greek σοφία called itself modestly φιλοσοφία; for ἀρχὴ σὐτῆς the Book of Wisdom has, Pro 6:18, ἡ ἀληθεστάτη παιδείας ἐπιθυμία. In 7b the proposition is expressed which contains the specificum helping to wisdom. The בּ denotes price: give all for wisdom (Mat 13:46, Mat 13:44); no price is too high, no sacrifice too great for it.
Jamieson-Fausset-Brown Bible Commentary
(Compare Job 28:28). getting--or possession; a desire for wisdom is wise.
John Gill Bible Commentary
Wisdom is the principal thing,.... Or principal, one; the principal of persons and things; the principal of persons, angels or men: Christ is superior to angels, having a more excellent name and nature than they; he is the God, the Creator, and head of them, and is above them in the human nature; he is superior to men, to the greatest of men, he is King of kings and Lord of lords, and to the best of men the saints. Are they kings? he is their King: are they priests? he is the great High Priest: are any of them prophets, teachers, shepherds? he is the great Prophet in Israel; a Teacher, that never any taught or spoke like him; the chief Shepherd and Bishop of souls: is the church a family? he is the Master of it: is it a body? he is the Head: is it a building? he is the Foundation and Corner Stone; yea, the chief Master Builder. He is the beginning and chief of all God's ways, and the chief in them; in election, in the council of peace, and covenant of grace; in redemption and salvation, in grace and glory; he is all in all. Or the words may be rendered, "Wisdom is the beginning" (q); so Christ is called, Col 1:18; a phrase expressive of his eternity, and of his being the first cause and author of all things, both in the old and new creation. Or thus, that which is "the beginning of wisdom get" (r), &c. which is the fear of the Lord; see Pro 1:7; therefore get wisdom; not an interest in Christ, but a knowledge of it; and make use of all means to obtain a greater knowledge of him, and of interest in him, which is what the apostle calls "winning" Christ; by which he means, not getting an interest in him, that he had already, but gaining a greater degree of knowledge of him, as the context shows, Phi 3:8; or, "buy wisdom" (s); that is, without money and without price; so Christ advises to buy gold and white raiment of him, his grace and righteousness, Rev 3:18; and with all thy getting get understanding; another name for Christ; see Pro 8:14; Or, "along with all thy getting" (t), or "above all"; let not Christ be wanting; he is the one thing needful, the good and better part and portion, which, if missing, all other substance signifies little: or part with all for this pearl of great price, Wisdom, and prefer it to all worldly substance; look upon all but dross in comparison of Christ and the knowledge of him: all other gettings or substance are only for the body, this for the soul, and the eternal welfare of it; they are only for a time, this for eternity; they are not satisfying, but, having this, a soul has enough, has all things; Christ being his, all things are his; he possesses all things, and all other things are not blessings without him. (q) "principium sapientiae", Montanus, Mercerus, Gejerus. (r) "Principium sapientiae est hoc, comparas sapientiam", Michaelis; "quae est caput sapientiae eam acquire", &c. Junius & Tremellius. (s) "eme sapientiam", Pagninus, Cocceius. (t) "in omne possessione tua", V. L. "in omne acquisitione tua", Montanus; "prae universis quae possides", Tigurine version, Vatablus.
Tyndale Open Study Notes
4:7-8 Wisdom often, though not always, brings relational and material prosperity.