In counseling us to wisdom, Proverbs paints several character portraits of those who have refused it. They meet us under various names and each of them is a counterpoint to some aspect of sanctified wisdom that God's people are to cultivate.
The Simpleton
This man's main defect is that he is easily led astray, gullible, unlearned, and has difficulty being serious (14:15; 22:3). He is not unable to learn, but unwilling (1:22). The simple will inherit folly.
The Fool
He is more wrong-headed than empty-headed; more obstinate than gullible. His mind knows no discipline (17:24), his mouth knows no restraint (15:2), he cannot imagine himself mistaken (12:15), and he is impatient of all advice (10:8). The root of his trouble is spiritual.
The Scoffer
The scoffer makes it clear that it is attitude and character that classify the man. The scoffer also despises correction (15:13). He is a troublemaker, a critic, and a schemer.
The Sluggard
He deceives himself by the small increments of his procrastination, surrendering one moment at a time, until all is lost (24:30-34). His life becomes spiritually impeded and fundamentally dishonest.
This is a powerfully convicting sermon. Examine yourself honestly as you listen to it. Receive the admonition of God and respond to it faithfully. Hebrews 11 shows us the gallery of the faithful. Grow in knowledge, love, and humility, redeeming the time. |
