INTRODUCTION:

The previous study of introductory matters on Proverbs will not be repeated in the present study.
A.          We earlier noted some positive insights which provide spiritual enrichment.
B. How, we look to negative insights which alert us to danger and warn us against sin.

DISCUSSION:

I. THE DANGER OF EVIL COMPANIONS (1:10-16).

 A. The decision (v. 10).
  1. Entice, verb in Hebrew to open, thus, to persuade, to entice, to seduce.
  2. Consent, Hebrew verb to be willing, inclined, disposed.
 B. The appeal (vv. 11-14).
  1. This can be done without detection.
  2. We can profit by ill gotten gain.
  3. We will all be together.
 C. The admonition (1:15,16).
  1. Do not walk with them.
  2. Their efforts will lead to evil.

II. THE CAUTION AGAINST ILL TREATMENT OF OTHERS (3:27-32).

 A. Generosity and help not to be withheld (v. 27).
 B. Deceptive delay to be refused (v. 28).
 C. Hurtful thoughts not to be allowed (v. 29).
 D. Unnecessary strife to be avoided (v. 30).
 E. Wrong heroes to be rejected (v. 31).
 F. The contrast is clear (v. 32).

III. THE DENIAL OF IMMORAL BEHAVIOR (6:20-35).

 A. The teaching of God is clear (vv. 20-23).
  1. The commandment, in context, is:  “Thou shalt not commit adultery” (Exodus 20:14).
  2. The commandment has been reinforced by instruction and example.
  3. It is applied in life.
 B. The way of deception is clear.
  1. Improper speech (v. 24).
  2. Improper desires (v. 25).
 C. The danger is evident.
  1. The reckoning for such behavior is unavoidable (v. 26).
  2. The danger is plain (vv. 27-29).
  3. The judgment of the community will be plain (vv. 30,31).
  4. The penalty is unavoidable (vv. 32-35).
 D. How relevant to today!

IV. THE DANGER OF STRONG DRINK (23:29-35).
 
 A. The caution is plain (23:20,21).
 B. The penalty of refusal is clear.
  1. Woe and sorrow (vv. 29,30).
 2. The result will not be pleasant (vv. 31,32).
  3. The immoral behavior is there (v. 33).
  4. The loss of control is plain (vv. 34,35).

V. THE FOLLY OF EXTREMES IN LIFE (30:7-9).

 A. The words are from Agur to Ithiel and Ucal; we know nothing  more of who they were.
 B. The counsel is clear.
  1. The refusal of vanity and lies (v. 8).  Useless and false talk will not dominate 
   one’s life.
  2. The extremes to be avoided.
   a. Riches (vv. 8,9).
   b. Poverty (vv. 8,9).
  3. The valuable “mean” is cherished.

CONCLUSION:

The wealth of in sights has barely been touched.
A. Very valuable book to read and meditate upon.
B. Relevant today as well as then.
 

         William Woodson