What does Proverbs 19:29 mean?

Actions have consequences, both in this life and in eternity. Acting against godly wisdom leads a person into trouble. Here, Solomon summarizes those as "condemnation" and "beating." Whether literal or figurative, those who insist on acting foolishly are inviting disaster (Proverbs 10:13; 18:6). They might suffer legal consequences, social or personal harm, or even death. Worst of all, such attitudes put them at odds with the Lord, who will hold them accountable.

There have always been those who ignore or reject God's rule, unconcerned about the consequences. Someday God's judgment will fall on them unless they turn from their sin and believe on the Savior (John 3:16–18, 36). The apostle Paul warned the Athenians that God "has fixed a day on which he will judge the world in righteousness by a man whom he has appointed; and of this he has given assurance to all by raising him from the dead" (Acts 17:31). Some of the Athenians, like the fools mentioned in Proverbs 19:29, mocked Paul's words, but "some men joined him and believed" (Acts 17:34). The lines are drawn in similar fashion today: some mock the message of the gospel, but some believe. The first group will face eternal punishment (Revelation 20:10–15), but the other group will enjoy eternal life (John 3:16; Romans 6:23; 8:1).