"Wisdom from the Inside Out"

Wisdom from the Inside Out
The Disciplined Heart and Mind

1. Your Thoughts Govern Your Life.
• They Tell What You Really Are Inside.
Proverbs 12:5 NIV
  The plans of the righteous are just, 
              but the advice of the wicked is deceitful. 

Proverbs 23:7 NIV
          for he is the kind of person 
             who is always thinking about the cost. 
             “Eat and drink,” he says to you, 
             but his heart is not with you. 

Proverbs 12:20 NIV
          Deceit is in the hearts of those who plot evil, 
             but those who promote peace have joy. 

Proverbs 27:19 NIV
           As water reflects the face, 
              so one’s life reflects the heart. 

• They Determine the Direction and Outcome of Your Life.
Proverbs 4:23 NIV
            Above all else, guard your heart, 
               for everything you do flows from it. 

Proverbs 4:26 NIV
            Give careful thought to the paths for your feet 
                and be steadfast in all your ways. 

Proverbs 21:5 NIV
            The plans of the diligent lead to profit 
                 as surely as haste leads to poverty. 

Proverbs 14:22 NIV
             Do not those who plot evil go astray? 
                 But those who plan what is good find love and faithfulness. 


2. God Cares About Your Thoughts.
• He Knows All of Your Thoughts.
Proverbs 15:11 NIV
             Death and Destruction lie open before the LORD— 
                  how much more do human hearts! 

Proverbs 21:2 NIV
            A person may think their own ways are right, 
                but the LORD weighs the heart. 

Proverbs 20:27 NIV
            The human spirit is the lamp of the LORD 
                that sheds light on one’s inmost being. 

• God Hates Evil Thoughts.
Proverbs 6:16 NIV
            There are six things the LORD hates, 
                 seven that are detestable to him: 

Proverbs 6:18 NIV
             a heart that devises wicked schemes, 
                 feet that are quick to rush into evil, 

Proverbs 15:26 NIV
            The LORD detests the thoughts of the wicked, 
                 but gracious words are pure in his sight. 

Proverbs 28:8–9 NIV
             Whoever increases wealth by taking interest or profit from the poor 
                   amasses it for another, who will be kind to the poor. 
                   If anyone turns a deaf ear to my instruction, 
                   even their prayers are detestable. 

• God Sovereignly Overrules Thoughts and Plans.
Proverbs 19:21 NIV
             Many are the plans in a person’s heart, 
                   but it is the LORD’s purpose that prevails. 

Proverbs 16:9 NIV
              In their hearts humans plan their course, 
                   but the LORD establishes their steps. 

Proverbs 21:30 NIV
            There is no wisdom, no insight, no plan 
                 that can succeed against the LORD. 

• God Rewards and Fulfills Righteous Thoughts and Plans.
Proverbs 14:22 NIV
             Do not those who plot evil go astray? 
                  But those who plan what is good find love and faithfulness. 

Proverbs 10:24 NIV
             What the wicked dread will overtake them; 
                   what the righteous desire will be granted. 

3. Submit Your Thoughts to God and His Wisdom.
• Put Away Improper Thoughts.
Proverbs 30:32 NIV
             “If you play the fool and exalt yourself, 
                  or if you plan evil, 
                  clap your hand over your mouth! 

• Seek to Align Your Thoughts with God's Wisdom.
Proverbs 16:1–3 NIV
            To humans belong the plans of the heart, 
                 but from the LORD comes the proper answer of the tongue. 
                All a person’s ways seem pure to them, 
                but motives are weighed by the LORD. 
                Commit to the LORD whatever you do, 
                and he will establish your plans. 

4. The New Testament on Our Thoughts
Luke 6:43–45 NIV
“No good tree bears bad fruit, nor does a bad tree bear good fruit. Each tree is recognized by its own fruit. People do not pick figs from thornbushes, or grapes from briers. A good man brings good things out of the good stored up in his heart, and an evil man brings evil things out of the evil stored up in his heart. For the mouth speaks what the heart is full of. 

Philippians 4:8 NIV
Finally, brothers and sisters, whatever is true, whatever is noble, whatever is right, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is admirable—if anything is excellent or praiseworthy—think about such things. 

Romans 12:3 NIV
For by the grace given me I say to every one of you: Do not think of yourself more highly than you ought, but rather think of yourself with sober judgment, in accordance with the faith God has distributed to each of you. 

2 Peter 3:1–2 NIV
Dear friends, this is now my second letter to you. I have written both of them as reminders to stimulate you to wholesome thinking. I want you to recall the words spoken in the past by the holy prophets and the command given by our Lord and Savior through your apostles. 

Hebrews 4:12–13 NIV
For the word of God is alive and active. Sharper than any double-edged sword, it penetrates even to dividing soul and spirit, joints and marrow; it judges the thoughts and attitudes of the heart. Nothing in all creation is hidden from God’s sight. Everything is uncovered and laid bare before the eyes of him to whom we must give account. 

[Outline adapted from Donald Orthner, Wellsprings of Life: Understanding Proverbs, 71-74.]

"Themes in Proverbs: Friends and Friendship"

Themes in Proverbs: Friends and Friendship

Importance of Friendships

Friendship and good relationships with others were very important to the sages.A good friend is as valuable in tough times as a close relative such as a brother (17:17). 27:9–10 suggests that friends are sometimes more valuable than relatives during hard times, especially if a friend is closer at hand (Tremper Longman III, Proverbs, 555–556). 

Choose Friends Carefully

A friend’s character affects your own:

As iron sharpens iron, so one person sharpens another. (Prov. 27:17, NIV)

Walk with the wise and become wise, for a companion of fools suffers harm. (Prov. 13:20, NIV)

Good friends help you improve:

Perfume and incense bring joy to the heart, and the pleasantness of a friend springs from their heartfelt advice. (Prov. 27:9, NIV)

Better is open rebuke than hidden love. Wounds from a friend can be trusted, but an enemy multiplies kisses. (Prov. 27:5–6, NIV)

Harmful friends drag you down:

Pleasure-seekers

Do not join those who drink too much wine or gorge themselves on meat, for drunkards and gluttons become poor, and drowsiness clothes them in rags. (Prov. 23:20–21, NIV)

A discerning son heeds instruction, but a companion of gluttons disgraces his father. (Prov. 28:7, NIV)

Angry and Rebellious People

Do not make friends with a hot-tempered person, do not associate with one easily angered, or you may learn their ways and get yourself ensnared. (Prov. 22:24–25, NIV)

Fear the LORD and the king, my son, and do not join with rebellious officials, for those two will send sudden destruction on them, and who knows what calamities they can bring? (Prov. 24:21–22, NIV)

Thieves and Fools

The accomplices of thieves are their own enemies; they are put under oath and dare not testify. (Prov. 29:24, NIV)

Stay away from a fool, for you will not find knowledge on their lips. (Prov. 14:7, NIV)

Immoral and Sinful People

A man who loves wisdom brings joy to his father, but a companion of prostitutes squanders his wealth. (Prov. 29:3, NIV)

Do not envy the wicked, do not desire their company; for their hearts plot violence, and their lips talk about making trouble. (Prov. 24:1–2, NIV)

My son, if sinful men entice you, do not give in to them. …my son, do not go along with them, do not set foot on their paths; (Prov. 1:10, 15, NIV)

Be True to Your Friends

Support them in their need:

A friend loves at all times, and a brother is born for a time of adversity. (Prov. 17:17, NIV)

One who has unreliable friends soon comes to ruin, but there is a friend who sticks closer than a brother. (Prov. 18:24, NIV)

Do not forsake your friend or a friend of your family, and do not go to your relative's house when disaster strikes you-- better a neighbor nearby than a relative far away. (Prov. 27:10)

Keep their confidence:

Whoever would foster love covers over an offense, but whoever repeats the matter separates close friends. (Prov. 17:9, NIV)

A perverse person stirs up conflict, and a gossip separates close friends. (Prov. 16:28, NIV)

Show them respect and courtesy:

If anyone loudly blesses their neighbor early in the morning, it will be taken as a curse. (Prov. 27:14, NIV)

Like a maniac shooting flaming arrows of death is one who deceives their neighbor and says, "I was only joking!" (Prov. 26:18–19, NIV)

Beware of Insincere Friends

Many curry favor with a ruler, and everyone is the friend of one who gives gifts. The poor are shunned by all their relatives-- how much more do their friends avoid them! Though the poor pursue them with pleading, they are nowhere to be found. (Prov. 19:6–7, NIV)

Wealth attracts many friends, but even the closest friend of the poor person deserts them. (Prov. 19:4, NIV)

The poor are shunned even by their neighbors, but the rich have many friends. (Prov. 14:20, NIV)

Don’t Guarantee a Friend’s Debts

One who has no sense shakes hands in pledge and puts up security for a neighbor. (Prov. 17:18, NIV)

My son, if you have put up security for your neighbor, if you have shaken hands in pledge for a stranger, you have been trapped by what you said, ensnared by the words of your mouth. So do this, my son, to free yourself, since you have fallen into your neighbor's hands: Go-- to the point of exhaustion-- and give your neighbor no rest! Allow no sleep to your eyes, no slumber to your eyelids. Free yourself, like a gazelle from the hand of the hunter, like a bird from the snare of the fowler. (Prov. 6:1–5)


[Outline adapted from Donald Orthner, Wellsprings of Life: Understanding Proverbs, 130–133]

"Themes in Proverbs: Planning for the Future"

Themes in Proverbs: Planning for the Future
Outline drawn from Tremper Longman III, Proverbs, Baker Commentary on the Old Testament Wisdom and Psalms (Grand Rapids: Baker, 2006), 557–558.

Having a Goal in Mind
Planning requires a goal.A strategy is needed to reach the goal.Planning involves the imagination.To be a successful planner, one must understand what it takes to reach a goal.A good planner must anticipate obstacles on the way and devise alternatives to reach the goal or perhaps even alter the goal.To plan well requires wisdom, a skill of living that knows how to navigate life.

Benefits of Wise Planning
A number of proverbs make it clear that the sages knew the value of planning.Wise planning will be successful and lead to great benefits.“The plans of the diligent lead to profit as surely as haste leads to poverty.” (Prov. 21:5, NIV).Wise planning leads to great confidence in the future (ex: noble woman, 31:25).Those who plan wisely receive “covenant love” and “faithfulness.” 

Wise vs. foolish planning
Wise planning seeks advice from other wise people.Yet the counsel of others is only helpful if the advice is coming from those who are wise.Examples of Bad counselors: Amnon and Jonadab (2 Samuel 13); Rehoboam and his “young” counselors (1 Kings 12).Wise planning also has a virtuous goal and will only utilize strategies that are fair and honest (12:5a). 

God’s Plans and our Plans
The most important aspect of wise planning is awareness that one’s plans are ultimately at the service of God’s superseding purpose. 

To humans belong the plans of the heart, but from the LORD comes the proper answer of the tongue. (Prov. 16:1, NIV)

Commit to the LORD whatever you do, and he will establish your plans. (Prov. 16:3, NIV)

The LORD works out everything to its proper end-- even the wicked for a day of disaster. (Prov. 16:4, NIV)

In their hearts humans plan their course, but the LORD establishes their steps. (Prov. 16:9, NIV)

The lot is cast into the lap, but its every decision is from the LORD. (Prov. 16:33, NIV)

Many are the plans in a person's heart, but it is the LORD's purpose that prevails. (Prov. 19:21, NIV)

A person's steps are directed by the LORD. How then can anyone understand their own way? (Prov. 20:24, NIV)

People cannot be absolutely certain that they know the way the future will pan out. In spite of their planning, they must be ready to implement changes if God so wills. 

Do not boast about tomorrow, for you do not know what a day may bring. (Prov. 27:1, NIV)

Daniel the Wise Planner
A good example of wise planning is Daniel (Ch. 1).Daniel wants to eat differently than the king desires, consuming vegetables and water instead of the rich food and wine of the king. His plans lead him to request the chief official, Ashpenaz, to substitute the former for the latter, but Ashpenaz refuses out of fear of Nebuchadnezzar. Daniel does not panic but rather devises an alternate plan. He privately approaches the unnamed servant who actually brings the food to him and his three friends and asks him to make the substitution. He proposes a ten-day trial period, and if the four Israelites grow weak and tired looking—what Ashpenaz feared—they would go back on the rich-food menu. The underling agrees, and Daniel reaches his desired goal.

Foolish Planning
Proverbs does not talk only about wise planning; it also contrasts it with foolish planning. God condemns foolish plans. 

There are six things the LORD hates, seven that are detestable to him:     …a heart that devises wicked schemes, feet that are quick to rush into evil, (Prov. 6:16, 18, NIV)

The LORD detests the thoughts of the wicked, but gracious words are pure in his sight. (Prov. 15:26, NIV)

They are characterized as fraudulent.

…the advice of the wicked is deceitful. (Prov. 12:5b, NIV)

Deceit is in the hearts of those who plot evil (Prov. 12:20a, NIV)

Those who plan in such a way will not succeed but will wander aimlessly.

Do not those who plot evil go astray? But those who plan what is good find love and faithfulness. (Prov. 14:22, NIV)

"Opening Up Proverbs"

Opening Up Proverbs
A study by Jim Newheiser
 
“The Wise Woman” Chapter 13
  Which women are worthy of honor?
  What kind of woman does God honor? Wisdom in the home There is more to Proverbs 31 than meets the eye
  Search for a woman of excellence (vv. 1-3, 10-12) Listen to your mother (vv. 1-2) The wrong kind of woman will ruin you (v. 3) An excellent wife will contribute to your success (v. 10) She is trustworthy (v. 11a) She is an asset (vv. 11b-12) She enhances your standing in the community (v. 23)
  An excellent wife will help you in many ways (vv. 13-27) She is home-centered (v. 27) She is diligent (vv. 13-14a, 17, 19, 21-22) She brings beauty and quality into her home (vv. 14, 21-22) She is a responsible administrator (vv. 11, 14-16, 21, 25, 27a) She is wise in her speech (v. 26)
  The excellent wife will be richly rewarded (vv. 28-31) Her glory is in the home (vv. 28-29) Her beauty is unfading (v. 30) The secret of her success is that she fears God (v. 30b) God will reward her
 
Conclusion Ladies: aspire to be a woman of excellence Husbands: encourage your excellent wife Single Men: seek a woman of excellence Christ is our virtue

“Wisdom for Leaders” Chapter 12

Opening Up Proverbs
A study by Jim Newheiser
 
“Wisdom for Leaders” Chapter 12
  A manual for leadership
  A wise leader reflects God’s holy character: Righteous Not greedy Not enslaved to substance abuse Not given to sexual immorality or unfaithfulness Has personal integrity Fears God Earnestly seeks wisdom Governs (leads) justly Protects the rights of the righteous and shows compassion to the helpless Has an impact on people
  Act wisely towards those in authority over you
  Jesus Christ is the ideal King.
 

“Wise Child Training” Chapter 11

Opening Up Proverbs
A study by Jim Newheiser
“Wise Child Training” Chapter 11
Discipline Your Children
Why is discipline necessary?God has given the rod of discipline as a tool to remove folly from your child’s heart.Discipline is a test of your love for your child and your trust in God.How to carry out biblical disciplineDon’t misuse discipline.Apply both the rod and reproof.
Impart Wisdom to Your Children
Teach them.Education takes place in the home.The goal of parental instruction is to shape character.Formal and informal instruction
Children Should Honor Their Parents
Embrace discipline and instruction.Honor your parents in their old age.Bring joy to your parents.Honor your parents or else…
Why Are Some Children Wayward?
Does wise parenting guarantee wise kids?Why do kids turn out the way they do?
Conclusion:
Train your children in wisdom.

“Wise Words” Chapter 10

Opening Up Proverbs
A study by Jim Newheiser
“Wise Words” Chapter 10
Wise Words
Words are powerful.Words are limited.Words reveal what is in your heart.Don’t use your speech to destroy.Learn to speak with wisdom.
Destructive Speech
FlatteryLiesGossip and SlanderAngry speechQuarrelsome speechPerverse speechProud speechExcessive speechGod judges foolish speech.
Wise Speech
Exercise self-control.Speak with integrity.Build others up with your words.Develop excellence in your manner of speechGod values and rewards wise speech.
Conclusion
How can you change your speech?Christ speaks to you.

“Financial Wisdom” Chapter 9

Opening Up Proverbs
A study by Jim Newheiser
 
“Financial Wisdom” Chapter 9
 
Financial Wisdom
Ø The theology of money
Ø Are the wise always wealthy?
 
A Balanced View of Money
Ø Money can be good.
Ø Money is dangerous.
Ø Godly wisdom is more important than wealth.
Ø Learn the secret of contentment.
 
Acquiring Money
Ø Work hard.
Ø Don’t compromise your integrity to gain wealth.
Ø Should Christians gamble and play the lottery?
 
Spending Money
Ø Give generously.
Ø Control your expenditures.
Ø Stay out of debt.
Ø Is it ever legitimate to borrow money?
Ø Don’t make yourself liable for the debt ofothers by co-signing.
 
Saving Money
Ø Anticipate future expenses.
Ø Accumulate wealth and invest wisely.
Ø Is it wrong to receive interest from others?
Ø Save so you can leave an inheritance to yourchildren.
 
Conclusion
Ø Make it your goal to be wise, not rich.
Ø You can’t take it with you.
Ø Remember Christ, who paid your debt.
 
Further Reading
Ø The Total Money Makeover: Classic Editionby Dave Ramsey
Ø Money, Possessions, and Eternity by RandyAlcorn
Ø Christians in an Age of Wealth: A BiblicalTheology of Stewardship by Craig Blomberg
Ø Rethinking Retirement by John Piper
Ø Radical by David Platt
 

“Wisdom at Work” Chapter 8

Opening Up Proverbs
A study by Jim Newheiser
 
“Wisdom at Work” Chapter 8
 
The Theology of Work
Ø God works
Ø His image-bearers work
Ø The fall corrupted work and labor
Ø Christ is reversing the effects of the fall
Ø Work is meaningful and significant before God.
 
Don’t Be a Sluggard
Ø Characteristics of a sluggard:
o  The sluggard is lazy
o  The sluggard delights in sleep and recreation
o  The sluggard lacks initiative
o  The sluggard procrastinates
o  The sluggard is self-deceived
o  The sluggard is looking for easy money
o  The sluggard is a destructive force
Ø God has ordained severe consequences forsluggard behavior
Ø Don’t provide material aid to sluggards
 
Be Diligent
Ø Characteristics of the wise worker:
o  He works hard
o  Takes initiative and works well withoutsupervision
o  Prepares for the future
o  Patiently pursues success
o  A good steward of his resources
o  Performs duties with excellence and artistry
Ø God rewards the diligent
o  Will enjoy financial success
o  Enjoy success and fulfillment in his vocation
o  Enjoy the fruit of labor
o  Will be rewarded at the final judgment
Ø Proverbs does not promote communism
Ø Warnings to the diligent:
o  Work is only good when exercised under God’slordship.
o  Don’t make an idol out of work.
 
Exhortations to Various Classes of People
Ø Young people should establish habits of diligencefrom an early age.
Ø Homemakers should remain faithful in their work.
Ø Older people should continue working.
Ø Don’t be a spiritual sluggard.
 
Conclusion
Ø God has given you work to do for his glory.
Ø God gives you rest.
Ø Further reading on work/vocation
o  Work Matters by Tom Nelson
o  Every Good Endeavor by Tim Keller
o  The Gospel at Work by Traeger and Gilbert
o  Business for the Glory of God by WayneGrudem
 

“The Theology of Proverbs” (Chapter 7)

Opening Up Proverbs
A study by Jim Newheiser
“The Theology of Proverbs” (Chapter 7)
The Theology of Proverbs
The biblical proverbs are unique.The attributes of God are revealed in Proverbs.How can you know God?
God’s Omnipotence (Power)
God is the almighty Creator.God controls all things through his providence.Humble yourself before God.
God’s Omniscience (Knowledge)
God is wise.God knows everything.God knows you.Be humble about what you think you know.
God’s Justice
God is just.God’s justice is perfect.Live in light of God’s justice.
God’s Grace
God is holy, and we are not.We all deserve God’s judgment.Proverbs declares that there is hope for sinners.Wisdom calls out to sinners to turn and live.God offers atonement and forgiveness to those who repent.God’s grace is fully revealed in NT.

“The Call of Wisdom and of Christ” ­ Chapter 6

Opening Up Proverbs
A study by Jim Newheiser
“The Call of Wisdom and of Christ” ­ Chapter 6
Who Is Wisdom?
Personified as Lady Wisdom in ProverbsWisdom is an attribute of God that he shares with those who are faithful to his covenant.God’s Wisdom is revealed in Scripture.
Adulteress Lady Wisdom
Calls from the darkness and secret Call is open and public
Sexually loose Holy
Unreliable liar Truthful and Faithful
Gives body but not herself Offers true love
Offers fleeting pleasures Provides everlasting joy
Selfish; giving only to get Delights to give, serve
Leads to a chamber of death Gives everlasting life
Jesus Christ Is Wisdom Incarnate
Isaiah 11:2 says that the Spirit of Wisdom and of Understanding would rest on the Messiah.1 Cor. 1:30 says that Jesus is the Wisdom of God to us.Proverbs, like all Scripture points us to Christ. When Wisdom speaks, Christ speaks.Wisdom and Christ call out to you (8:1-5).Wisdom and Christ should be treasured (8:6-11).Wisdom and Christ teach you to humbly fear God (8:12-13).Wisdom and Christ offer you success (8:14-16).Wisdom and Christ offer you great rewards (8:17-21).Wisdom displays its glory in creation (8:22-31).Wisdom will bless you with life (8:32-36).Wisdom invites you to a feast (9:1-5).
What is Your Reply to the Call?
Don’t be a scoffer.Hunger after God, and he will fill you. Thus says the Lord, ‘Let not a wise man boast of his wisdom, and let not the mighty man boast of his might, let not a rich man boast of his riches; but let him who boasts boast of this, that he understands and knows Me, that I am the Lord who exercises lovingkindness, justice and righteousness on earth; for I delight in these things,’ declares the Lord (Jer. 9:23–24).

“Sexual Wisdom” Chapter 5

Opening Up Proverbs
A study by Jim Newheiser
 
“Sexual Wisdom” Chapter 5
(Proverbs 5:1–23; 6:20–35; 7:1–27)
 
Introduction
Ø  Wisdom in the area of sexual relations is a major theme in Proverbs.
Ø  Ironically, Solomon was ultimately ruined by his many pagan wives.
Ø  This issue is just as relevant today as it was 3,000 years ago.
Ø  Our culture is wholly given over to sexuality. It is the main “god” of our current culture.
Ø  Proverbs speaks of moral purity in both symbolic and literal terms.
 
Sex Education Takes Place in the Home (5:1-4; 6:20-24; 7:1-5)
Ø  These three discourses are addressed from a father to a son.
Ø  Parents need to be the primary teachers on his issue.
Ø  Teach children that sex is a gift from God for joy in marriage and for bringing children into the world.
Ø  Teach children that sex (like all of God’s gifts) can be abused and used for evil.
 
The Adulteress Can Destroy You (7:6–23)
Ø  Proverbs 7 dramatically describes the temptation of a naïve young man.
o  The prey(6-9)
o  The huntress and her tactics (10-20)
ü  She besieges every sense (10-17).
ü  She lures you with the promise of ultimate sensual exhilaration (16, 18).
ü  She overcomes your doubts and fears (19-20).
o  The kill(21-23)
 
Make Wisdom Your First Love (4:5–9;7:4–5)
Ø  Lady Wisdom will deliver you from immorality.
Ø  Lady Wisdom helps you see the true nature of he seductress.
Ø  Lady Wisdom shows you why sexual immorality is wrong.
Ø  Lady Wisdom reminds you of the deadly consequences of immorality (5:4–5, 11–12, 22–23; 6:26–35; 7:22–27).
o  Sexual sin will affect you physically (5:9, 11; 6:34–35).
o  Sexual sin will ruin you financially (5:10; 6:26a, 30–31; 29:3).
o  Sexual sin will destroy your reputation (5:14; 6:33).
o  Sexual sin will break apart your family (5:16–17).
o  Your sin will find you out (6:27–29; Num. 32:23).
Ø  Lady Wisdom trains you to stay far away from sexual temptation.
 
Your Wife Can Also Protect You (5:15–23)
Ø  Your wife can also protect you from sexual immorality.
o  Find sexual happiness with your spouse (5:15–17).
o  Marital sex brings a greater joy (5:18–19).
o  Sexual happiness in marriage serves as a guard against the wiles of the adulteress (5:20–23).
o  Clarifications:
ü  Marital joy assumes a godly marriage.
ü  God and his wisdom must be your first love.
ü  If you are not wise, your wife will not protect you from temptation.
 
Conclusion
Ø  Proverbs 5-7 tells us about three women:
o  The adulteress can destroy you. 
o  Lady Wisdom will save you.
o  Your wife can help you.
Ø  Christ is our ultimate treasure.
o  We have all been unfaithful to God.
o  We all deserve God’s wrath.
o  Jesus Christ cleanses us and makes us wise.
o  Christ purifies and transforms us (1 Cor. 6:9–11; 2 Cor. 5:17).
o  He quenches our spiritual thirst and provides the ultimate satisfaction for our souls (Prov. 14:27; Isa. 12:3; Zech.13:1; John 4:14).
  

“A Crash Course in Success” Chapter 4

Opening Up Proverbs
A study by Jim Newheiser
“A Crash Course in Success” Chapter 4
Pay Attention (1-4)
The father pleads with the son to remember and internalize what he is being taught.The wise father portrays wisdom and lovingkindness as bound around one’s neck or written on the tablet of the heart.The father reminds the son of the great benefits of wisdom (vv. 2, 4).Wisdom will bring you favor and a good reputation before both God and men.
4 Ways to Act Wisely towards God (5-12)
Trust in the Lord (5-6).Trust God entirely.Trust God exclusively.Trust God extensively.Fear the Lord (7-8).Honor the Lord w/ your wealth (9-10).Embrace the Lord’s Discipline (11-12).
3 Ways to Act Wisely towards Men (27-35)
Repay your needy neighbor (27-28).Do not harm your innocent neighbor (29-30).Do not envy your wicked neighbor (31-35).
If You Act Wisely towards God and Men, You will Enjoy Success (2, 4, 13-26, 32-35)
Long, healthy, pleasant life (2, 6, 8, 16a, 17-18)Enjoy the favor of God and men (4, 35a)Enjoy material prosperity (10, 16b)Enriched with spiritual treasures (14-15)Partake of the wisdom of God, which created the world (19-20)Protected from trouble and fear (22-26)Know the counsels of God and have close fellowship with Him (32b)Honored by God (35a)
Does Proverbs Promise Too Much?
Proverbs contains maxims that describe the way life generally works in God’s world. Not necessarily promises to each individual, especially in the short term.God is sovereign and may allow his children to suffer for his glory (Rom 8:28).Proverbs written in the old covenant connected with land and blessing.Proverbs look ahead to eschatological blessings in God’s kingdom.

“The Blessings of Wisdom” Chapter 3

Opening Up Proverbs
A study by Jim Newheiser

“The Blessings of Wisdom” Chapter 3

The Blessings of Wisdom
The book of Proverbs calls upon us to search for wisdom as a hidden treasure.The benefits of wisdom far outweigh what one can receive from earthly riches.True wisdom is not merely intellectual knowledge but a transformation of character.Proverbs 2 tells us how to pursue wisdom (vv. 1–4) and then sets forth the great benefits of wisdom (vv. 5–22).

Earnestly Seek Wisdom (1-4)
Be receptive to wisdom (1-2)Earnestly pursue wisdom (3-4)Cry out to God in prayer for understanding (3).Search, through diligent study, for wisdom as treasure (4).Keep seeking wisdom.Seek wisdom in Christ.

Wisdom Will Bless You in Many Ways (5-22)
You will know God personally (5-8).Wisdom will transform you as a person (9-11).Wisdom will deliver you from dangerous people (12-22).Protect you from evil men (12-15)Deliver you from loose women (16-19)Be aware of her methods (16b)Recognize her true character (16a, 17)Realize where she will lead you (18-19, 22)When you see the adulteress as she really is, she is no longer a threat to you.Wisdom will keep you safe (20-22).

Christ Offers True Joy and Happiness
The key to avoiding sin is not to try to ignore the temptation, but to find a higher and more fulfilling joy.Lady Wisdom, who is a personification of Christ, is more beautiful and sings a sweeter song than Madame Folly.Wisdom is the path to true joy and fulfillment. Seek Christ, in whom are the treasures of wisdom and life.

“Two Invitations with One Moral” Chapter 2

Opening Up Proverbs
A study by Jim Newheiser
“Two Invitations with One Moral” Chapter 2
Wisdom Begins at Home
God’s plan is that parents are to be the primary teachers of wisdom.Deuteronomy 6:6-7A major purpose of Proverbs is to prepare a young man to wisely and effectively assume the responsibilities of life. Children are exhorted to listen and receive wisdom.Parents cannot pass off their responsibility to impart wisdom to the school, church, or other means.Many parents are so busy trying to provide the best material things for their children that they abdicate their responsibility to properly train them in wisdom.
Refuse the appeal of ungodly companions
The enticement of moral misfits.Gullibility and malleability of youthFalse promises of happiness and belongingIf you follow evil companions, you will reap destruction. Foolishness is short-sighted.Foolishness is self-destructive.Choose your companions wisely.
Heed the appeal of Wisdom before it’s too late
Wisdom calls out to you (20-23).Wisdom appeals to four different kinds of fools (v. 22):The naïve: simple and vulnerableThe fool: rejected wisdom and is morally insensitiveThe rebel (1:7): loves folly and despises wisdomThe scoffer: mocks God, sin, judgmentWisdom promises blessings to those who repent (23).If you reject Wisdom’s appeal, you will reap calamity (24-32).Those who seek Wisdom are secure (33).
Conclusion
The voice of wisdom is the voice of God.Jesus is wisdom incarnate.You are the voice of wisdom in a foolish world.Are you wise?Wisdom cries out, pleading with people to turn away from foolishness and enjoy true life.

"Opening Up Proverbs"

Opening Up Proverbs
A study by Jim Newheiser
“Wisdom & the Fear of the Lord” Chapter 1
Proverbs 1:1-7
1 The proverbs of Solomon son of David, king of Israel:  2 for gaining wisdom and instruction; for understanding words of insight;  3 for receiving instruction in prudent behavior, doing what is right and just and fair;  4 for giving prudence to those who are simple, knowledge and discretion to the young-- 5 let the wise listen and add to their learning, and let the discerning get guidance--  6 for understanding proverbs and parables, the sayings and riddles of the wise.  7 The fear of the LORD is the beginning of knowledge, but fools despise wisdom and instruction.
Purpose of the Book of Proverbs (2-6)
Proverbs will train God’s People to live wisely (skillfully) (2a, 3-5).What is wisdom?Wisdom is gained through disciplined instruction.The student benefits from instruction.Wisdom benefits the young and the simple.Those already wise will grow in wisdom.Proverbs will impart mental discernment (2b, 6).You need insight into reality.You need insight into God’s Word.You need to understand the figures of speech in Proverbs.Studying the book of Proverbs will sharpen your mind.
The Credo for the book of Proverbs
The Fear of the LORD is the beginning of wisdom.What does it mean to fear the LORD?Don’t be a fool! Fools despise wisdom and instruction (7b).
Questions
Other than Solomon, what are some other examples of wise men/women in the Bible?Biblical examples of fools?What is a proverb?What is wisdom? How do we impart it to others?How can we demonstrate the fear of God at work and in our homes?

"Opening Up Proverbs"

Opening Up Proverbs
A study by Jim Newheiser
Proverbs and Success
⦁ The book of Proverbs reveals how you can have success in every aspect of your life.
⦁ The Bible sets forth an entirely different measure of success. 
⦁ Success is found in living wisely in the fear of the Lord. To live wisely is to live beautifully—that is, to live a life that counts.
Uniqueness of Biblical Proverbs
⦁ Many cultures and languages have proverbs that express common wisdom.
⦁ Many ancient cultures outside of Israel had collections of Proverbs.
⦁ Biblical proverbs are unique in that they are grounded in a covenant relationship with the LORD God.
⦁ Right relationship with God (fear of the LORD) is the beginning of all wisdom.
Proverbs and the Rest of the OT
⦁ Proverbs are short memorable sayings that impart general truths of wisdom.
⦁ They are a special form of OT wisdom literature.
⦁ The book of Proverbs assumes and builds upon the law and the prophets but goes beyond them in training the reader to live wisely in a very practical ‘how to’ way.
Challenges in Studying Proverbs
⦁ Proverbs does not lend itself to a chapter by chapter, verse by verse study.
⦁ The book of Proverbs does not clearly explain the Gospel.
⦁ The book of Proverbs contains maxims, which are not the same as promises.
⦁ The book of Proverbs is primarily addressed to young men.
Proverbs for Everyone
⦁ Written to prepare a young person who faces the challenges and responsibilities of adulthood.
⦁ Instructs parents in how to train their children.
⦁ Offers the basics of wisdom to those who are young and naïve. 
⦁ Deepens the understanding of those who are already wise.
⦁ Exposes the fool and the result of his or her arrogant rebellion.
Background & Summary
⦁ Proverbs of Solomon (v. 1a)
⦁ a short witty saying that gives you a standard by which you might judge your life; a comparison, an object lesson, a simple illustration, or a parable which exposes a fundamental reality about life
⦁ The objective of the book is to enable us to live successfully in relationship to God in the world he has created.
⦁ Authorship
⦁ Solomon (1:1)
⦁ Sayings of the Wise (22:17; 24:23)
⦁ Agur (30:1)
⦁ Lemuel (31:1)
⦁ Hezekiah’s scribes (25:1)
⦁ Ezra’s scribes
⦁ Setting
⦁ Home
⦁ Father and Mother instructing their son
⦁ Palace
⦁ Young man being prepared for responsibilities of leadership
⦁ Divisions
⦁ Prologue (1:1–7)
⦁ A tenfold call to pursue wisdom (1:8–9:18)
⦁ The proverbs of Solomon (10:1–22:16)
⦁ Sayings of the wise (22:17–24:34)
⦁ More proverbs of Solomon (the Hezekian collection) (25:1–29:27)
⦁ The words of Agur (30:1–33)
⦁ The words of King Lemuel (or rather, of his mother) (31:1–9)
⦁ An acrostic of wifely excellence (31:10–31).

“The God Who Triumphs”

The God Who Is There
Written by D. A. Carson
“The God Who Triumphs” – Chapter Fourteen
What Is Our Treasure?
“For where your treasure is, there will your heart be also.” (Matt 6:21)Is our imagination captured more by the delights of the present world or the new heaven and new earth to come?We need to be reminded about the glorious future that is to come.
Revelation 21:1–8 (NIV)
21 Then I saw “a new heaven and a new earth,” for the first heaven and the first earth had passed away, and there was no longer any sea. 2 I saw the Holy City, the new Jerusalem, coming down out of heaven from God, prepared as a bride beautifully dressed for her husband. 3 And I heard a loud voice from the throne saying, “Look! God’s dwelling place is now among the people, and he will dwell with them. They will be his people, and God himself will be with them and be their God. 4 ‘He will wipe every tear from their eyes. There will be no more death’ or mourning or crying or pain, for the old order of things has passed away.”
     5 He who was seated on the throne said, “I am making everything new!” Then he said, “Write this down, for these words are trustworthy and true.”
     6 He said to me: “It is done. I am the Alpha and the Omega, the Beginning and the End. To the thirsty I will give water without cost from the spring of the water of life. 7 Those who are victorious will inherit all this, and I will be their God and they will be my children. 8 But the cowardly, the unbelieving, the vile, the murderers, the sexually immoral, those who practice magic arts, the idolaters and all liars—they will be consigned to the fiery lake of burning sulfur. This is the second death.”
What is New (Rev 21:1-8)
New heaven and new earthNew JerusalemNew permanent dwelling of God’s presence with his peopleMaking everything new!
Revelation 21:9–21 (NIV)
9 One of the seven angels who had the seven bowls full of the seven last plagues came and said to me, “Come, I will show you the bride, the wife of the Lamb.” 10 And he carried me away in the Spirit to a mountain great and high, and showed me the Holy City, Jerusalem, coming down out of heaven from God. 11 It shone with the glory of God, and its brilliance was like that of a very precious jewel, like a jasper, clear as crystal. 12 It had a great, high wall with twelve gates, and with twelve angels at the gates. On the gates were written the names of the twelve tribes of Israel. 13 There were three gates on the east, three on the north, three on the south and three on the west. 14 The wall of the city had twelve foundations, and on them were the names of the twelve apostles of the Lamb.
     15 The angel who talked with me had a measuring rod of gold to measure the city, its gates and its walls. 16 The city was laid out like a square, as long as it was wide. He measured the city with the rod and found it to be 12,000 stadia in length, and as wide and high as it is long. 17 The angel measured the wall using human measurement, and it was 144 cubits thick. 18 The wall was made of jasper, and the city of pure gold, as pure as glass. 19 The foundations of the city walls were decorated with every kind of precious stone. The first foundation was jasper, the second sapphire, the third agate, the fourth emerald, 20 the fifth onyx, the sixth ruby, the seventh chrysolite, the eighth beryl, the ninth topaz, the tenth turquoise, the eleventh jacinth, and the twelfth amethyst. 21 The twelve gates were twelve pearls, each gate made of a single pearl. The great street of the city was of gold, as pure as transparent glass.
What is Symbolic (21:9-21)
Shining with the glory of GodA perfect cube of 12,000 stadiaWall that is 144 cubits thick12x12=144 – the combined old and new covenant peoples of GodPerfect cube = the Most Holy Place now accessible by all of God’s people
Revelation 21:22–27 (NIV)
22 I did not see a temple in the city, because the Lord God Almighty and the Lamb are its temple. 23 The city does not need the sun or the moon to shine on it, for the glory of God gives it light, and the Lamb is its lamp. 24 The nations will walk by its light, and the kings of the earth will bring their splendor into it. 25 On no day will its gates ever be shut, for there will be no night there. 26 The glory and honor of the nations will be brought into it. 27 Nothing impure will ever enter it, nor will anyone who does what is shameful or deceitful, but only those whose names are written in the Lamb’s book of life.
What is Missing (21:22-27)
SeaTempleSun and MoonImpurity
Revelation 22:1–5 (NIV)
22 Then the angel showed me the river of the water of life, as clear as crystal, flowing from the throne of God and of the Lamb 2 down the middle of the great street of the city. On each side of the river stood the tree of life, bearing twelve crops of fruit, yielding its fruit every month. And the leaves of the tree are for the healing of the nations. 3 No longer will there be any curse. The throne of God and of the Lamb will be in the city, and his servants will serve him. 4 They will see his face, and his name will be on their foreheads. 5 There will be no more night. They will not need the light of a lamp or the light of the sun, for the Lord God will give them light. And they will reign for ever and ever.
What is Central (22:1-5)
Water of life flowing from the throne of God and of the LambThe Vision of GodGod will be so central and glorious that for the first time we will know by experience what it means to love God with all of our heart, soul, mind, and strength.

"The God Who Is Very Angry"

The God Who Is There
by D. A. Carson
"The God Who Is Very Angry" - Chapter Thirteen
Revelation 14:6–20 (NIV)


6 Then I saw another angel flying in midair, and he had the eternal gospel to proclaim to those who live on the earth—to every nation, tribe, language and people. 7 He said in a loud voice, “Fear God and give him glory, because the hour of his judgment has come. Worship him who made the heavens, the earth, the sea and the springs of water.”

8 A second angel followed and said, “ ‘Fallen! Fallen is Babylon the Great,’  which made all the nations drink the maddening wine of her adulteries.”

9 A third angel followed them and said in a loud voice: “If anyone worships the beast and its image and receives its mark on their forehead or on their hand, 10 they, too, will drink the wine of God’s fury, which has been poured full strength into the cup of his wrath. They will be tormented with burning sulfur in the presence of the holy angels and of the Lamb. 11 And the smoke of their torment will rise for ever and ever. There will be no rest day or night for those who worship the beast and its image, or for anyone who receives the mark of its name.” 12 This calls for patient endurance on the part of the people of God who keep his commands and remain faithful to Jesus.

13 Then I heard a voice from heaven say, “Write this: Blessed are the dead who die in the Lord from now on.”

“Yes,” says the Spirit, “they will rest from their labor, for their deeds will follow them.”

14 I looked, and there before me was a white cloud, and seated on the cloud was one like a son of man  with a crown of gold on his head and a sharp sickle in his hand. 15 Then another angel came out of the temple and called in a loud voice to him who was sitting on the cloud, “Take your sickle and reap, because the time to reap has come, for the harvest of the earth is ripe.” 16 So he who was seated on the cloud swung his sickle over the earth, and the earth was harvested.

17 Another angel came out of the temple in heaven, and he too had a sharp sickle. 18 Still another angel, who had charge of the fire, came from the altar and called in a loud voice to him who had the sharp sickle, “Take your sharp sickle and gather the clusters of grapes from the earth’s vine, because its grapes are ripe.” 19 The angel swung his sickle on the earth, gathered its grapes and threw them into the great winepress of God’s wrath. 20 They were trampled in the winepress outside the city, and blood flowed out of the press, rising as high as the horses’ bridles for a distance of 1,600 stadia.
Biblical-Theological Reflections on God's WrathThe person who talks the most about hell in the Bible is Jesus.The Bible teaches that hell is a place of eternal suffering.Those in hell can no longer repent.When we speak of the wrath of God we must speak of it with compassion and sorrow, remembering the grace that we have been shown.

"The God Who Gathers and Transforms His People"

The God Who Is There
Written by D. A. Carson
“The God Who Gathers and Transforms His People” – Chapter Twelve
Introduction
What is of life changing, ultimate importance to you?Everyone will “transcendentalize” someone or something. Is God your Creator of ultimate importance to you?If not, then it is a manmade idol that has captured your worship.
Not about Rules
Christianity is not about making a set of rules or keeping rules.Christianity is about the grace of God that gathers and transforms his people. When God’s grace (not our own efforts) is central, it humbles us and transforms us.
Ephesians 2
We need to be reconciled to God, but we ourselves must be changed.God performs a work of new creation in his people. He transforms them.Good works flow from this grace-granted transformation. They are the outcome not the cause.
Ephesians 2
This transformation is brought about by God’s Spirit. He is already at work within us, changing our hearts and minds.God transforms and gathers his people.God is gathering a community of believers from every race.
Ephesians 2
The gathered church is the place where God meets with his people-it is the temple where God dwells.The church is not a building, but a gathering of transformed believers.The NT knows nothing of unbaptized or unchurched “Christians.”
Ephesians 4:17-5:10
The living out of our Christian faith in our daily lives is not driven by rules, but by the gospel—our faith in and our gratitude for the cross and resurrection of Christ.Our morality is first and foremost a function of gratitude to God for what Christ has already done.
Ephesians 4:17-5:10
The Holy Spirit whom Jesus sent empowers us to live in a way that is different form the way we lived before.Our ethical behavior is driven by our redemption by Christ—we are not our own.
Ephesians 4:17-5:10
The Holy Spirit gives us a desire to please God. We are eager to find out what pleases him.The Holy Spirit has not yet perfected us—We are not yet what we will be, but by the grace of God we are not what we used to be.
Galatians 5:13-26
We are justified by grace through faith in the finished work of Christ.It is not enough for us to stand acquitted before God and be reconciled to him. We must also be transformed.Where there is no transformation, there is no saving faith.
Take Up Your Cross
Being bought with a price and transformed by God means that we come under the lordship of Christ, following him wherever it may lead us and whatever it may cost.It has been granted to us by grace to believe in Christ and to suffer for Christ (Phil 1:29).