Lesson 111: Proverbs 1:7
Proverbs 1:7
The Blueprint — The Verse
The fear of the LORD is the beginning of knowledge, but fools despise wisdom and instruction.
Memorization Practice
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Scripture quotations marked NIV are from THE HOLY BIBLE, NEW INTERNATIONAL VERSION®, NIV® Copyright © 1973, 1978, 1984, 2011 by Biblica, Inc.® Used by permission. All rights reserved worldwide.
The Context — The History
Proverbs opens Israel's wisdom collection attributed largely to Solomon, designed to train youth for leadership and daily life. 'Fear of the LORD' was the foundation of moral insight in contrast to cynical scoffing.
The Narrative — The Lead-Up
Chapter 1 warns against enticement by sinners and calls listeners to heed parental teaching. True knowledge starts with reverent relationship to God; rejecting instruction marks the fool.
The Echo — Follow-on Verses
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Proverbs 1:6
6for understanding proverbs and parables,the sayings and riddles of the wise.
Read the verse immediately before this lesson (Proverbs 1:6) to hear the lead-in to the passage.
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Proverbs 1:8
Prologue: Exhortations to Embrace WisdomWarning Against the Invitation of Sinful Men8Listen, my son, to your father’s instructionand do not forsake your mother’s teaching.
Read the verse immediately after this lesson (Proverbs 1:8) to continue the passage.
Discussion
- How is fear of the LORD the 'beginning' rather than the end?
- What wisdom are you tempted to despise?
- Who speaks instruction into your life?