Proverbs 17:11 - Printer Friendly

ESV: An evil man seeks only rebellion, and a cruel messenger will be sent against him.

NIV: Evildoers foster rebellion against God; the messenger of death will be sent against them.

NASB: A rebellious person seeks only evil, So a cruel messenger will be sent against him.

CSB: An evil person desires only rebellion; a cruel messenger will be sent against him.

NLT: Evil people are eager for rebellion, but they will be severely punished.

KJV: An evil man seeketh only rebellion: therefore a cruel messenger shall be sent against him.

NKJV: An evil man seeks only rebellion; Therefore a cruel messenger will be sent against him.

This verse states that those who insist on rebelling—against truth, sense, wisdom, or legitimate authority—are evil (1 Samuel 15:23). The prior proverb noted the difference between a person who accepts correction, versus the one who makes himself immune to it (Proverbs 17:10). Where the prior verse noted that the foolish person won't accept correction, no matter what they suffer, this one notes that the persistent rebel will eventually face consequences. That might come in the form of legal trouble, or simply as the consequences of sin (Proverbs 9:10–12).

Genesis 37:36 identifies a man named Potiphar as "the captain of the [Egyptian] guard." As Pharaoh's captain, Potiphar was likely the chief executioner. In Genesis 40:22 we read that Pharaoh "hanged the chief baker, as Joseph had interpreted to them." Potiphar was probably the one who carried out the sentence Pharaoh had imposed on the chief baker. This was due to some insult—or perceived error—against the ruler (Genesis 40:1). When the baker ran afoul of authority, he experienced the "cruel messenger" of punishment. Solomon predicts in this verse that a hardened, rebellious person can expect to fall into a similar situation, and experience a related result. Clear evidence exists today of the likely punishment that awaits a rebellious person. The English expression "learn the hard way" describes what happens when foolishness and rebellion finally catch up to someone.

Proverbs 17:7–21 continues Solomon's wise observations. These remarks touch on speech, fools, strife, true friendship, co-signing loans, love of sinning, and what a fool can expect thanks to his foolishness. Numerous comments involve errors that lead to arguments and division. Some observations make a statement and then add to it, others present vivid contrasts.

This portion of Solomon's wise sayings involves several recurring themes. Among these are the importance of controlling one's words: hasty or spiteful language can do great harm. He also notes how wisdom and foolishness tend to be self-perpetuating. Wise people seek wisdom, foolish people seem immune to it. Other important topics are the impact of ungodly children on a family and the value of integrity and common sense.

Proverbs is best understood in context with the books of Ecclesiastes and Job. In Proverbs, “wisdom” is given in short, simple, general terms. Ecclesiastes represents wisdom based on observation and experience. This often shows how the general principles of the book of Proverbs don’t apply in absolutely every circumstance. Job represents wisdom based on the experience of suffering and injustice. All three come to the conclusion that God does indeed know best, and the most sensible course of action is to follow His will.