What does Proverbs 7:21 mean?
The foolish young man (Proverbs 7:7) may have had second thoughts about committing adultery. Although he had taken the street that led to the immoral woman's house (Proverbs 7:8–9), he may have hesitated. Despite her surprise, alluring clothes, and attractive offers (Proverbs 7:10–20), he may have experienced a moment of conscience. Therefore, the predatory woman uses even more seductive talk to persuade him to engage in sexual relations with her. She does so as a smooth talker, and finally compels him to commit adultery with her (Proverbs 7:22).The Devil is a master of persuasion. He knew exactly what to say to Eve to entice her into eating the forbidden fruit. He often persuades a believer to believe there is no harm in sinning. "It's just part of human nature to do it," he may say. Or he may whisper, "You can't help it; you were born that way." He may persuade a Christian to sow his or her wild oats by saying, "You have been a Christian since you were a child. You need to find out what life is like on the other side of the fence." As one of the Devil's followers, the woman in Solomon's story knew what to say to spring the trap.
