Proverbs 25:14

Posted by on August 10, 2018 · Leave a Comment 

Whoso boasteth himself of a false gift is like clouds and wind without rain.
– Proverbs 25:14

The word for false means lie, or deception. The first phrase refers to promising something you cannot deliver. Wisdom denounces a deception to gain place or favor. The comparison is to clouds and wind without rain, the promise of a refreshing rain without the benefit of the actual rain. This imagery is used elsewhere in warnings against false teachers (2 Peter 2:17-19; Jude 1:12). Those teaching error can never deliver on their promises because: “Truth leads to freedom (John 8: 32), and error leads to bondage (2 Tim. 2: 25– 26). Truth saves (2 Thess. 2: 10); error destroys (2 Thess. 2: 11). Truth enlightens (Ps. 43: 3; Eph. 5: 9); error deceives (Prov. 12: 17; 2 Cor. 11: 13). Truth gives life (1 John 5: 20); error brings death (2 Sam. 6: 7).”[ref]Piper, John. A Peculiar Glory: How the Christian Scriptures Reveal Their Complete Truthfulness (Kindle Locations 1697-1699). Crossway. Kindle Edition.[/ref]

Listen to the Proverbs sermon series

Filed under 25, Proverbs, Short Comments · Tagged with , , ,

Proverbs 12:19

Posted by on April 12, 2017 · Leave a Comment 

The lip of truth shall be established for ever: but a lying tongue is but for a moment.
– Proverbs 12:19

The lip of truth and the lying tongue are obviously put for a contrast between true and false words. True words endure, have lasting value. False words are momentary. They are usually spoken for some immediate purpose and not for lasting worth. Even if we think of cultural myths that perpetuate from one generation to the next, they will ultimately fall and truth will always stand (Proverbs 19:5, 9; Revelation 21:8).

Listen to the Proverbs sermon series

Filed under 12, Proverbs, Short Comments · Tagged with , , , ,