Proverbs 24:21 - Printer Friendly

ESV: My son, fear the Lord and the king, and do not join with those who do otherwise,

NIV: Fear the Lord and the king, my son, and do not join with rebellious officials,

NASB: My son, fear the Lord and the king; Do not get involved with those of high rank,

CSB: My son, fear the Lord, as well as the king, and don’t associate with rebels,

NLT: My child, fear the Lord and the king. Don’t associate with rebels,

KJV: My son, fear thou the Lord and the king: and meddle not with them that are given to change:

NKJV: My son, fear the Lord and the king; Do not associate with those given to change;

Scripture often uses words translated into English as "fear" which have broader meanings. The cornerstone of the entire book of Proverbs is that understanding truth begins with "fear" of God (Proverbs 1:7). This is not merely respect or reverence. Nor is it panic or fright. To "fear" something or someone, in this sense, means to humbly perceive it from the proper perspective. One must recognize God's authority as Creator, and His power, and resolve to act accordingly.

This verse cites sound advice given to a son, or possibly to a student. Reverence for the Lord and respect for government leaders go hand in hand. A proper relationship with God produces good citizenship. An unruly citizen violates the command to love the Lord with all one's heart, soul, strength, and mind. The apostle Paul writes: "First of all, then, I urge that supplications, prayers, intercessions, and thanksgivings be made for all people, for kings and all who are in high positions, that we may lead a peaceful and quiet life, godly and dignified in every way. This is good, and it is pleasing in the sight of God our Savior, who desires all people to be saved and to come to the knowledge of the truth" (1 Timothy 2:1–4).

Of course, this does not mean believers are bound to obey everything their governments command. When earthly laws direct people to sin, we are morally obligated to disobey (Acts 5:29).

Solomon's counsel about not associating with those who disrespect God and the civil authorities parallels the instruction, "You shall not fall in with the many to do evil" (Exodus 23:2). Several other proverbs warn about close association with ungodly persons (Proverbs 1:14–15; 4:14; 13:20; 22:24; 24:1–2). The following verse notes that consequences for evil can come from both God and men (Proverbs 24:22).

Proverbs 24:13–22 gives practical advice to Solomon's son, or student. This passage includes the last five of thirty wise teachings endorsed by Solomon (Proverbs 22:17–21). Godly wisdom (Proverbs 1:7) is something to be savored and enjoyed. A wise person is not violent nor predatory; he does not gloat over a defeated enemy. The reader is again reminded not to be jealous or fearful of evil people, as they are subject to God's judgment.

Solomon continues to list wise sayings (Proverbs 22:17–21), rounding out his promised list of thirty teachings. These endorse integrity, accepting good advice, reputation, and ethical actions. The lessons also stress godly attitudes about vengeance, bitterness, and companionship. After verse 23 come additional proverbs. These may or may not have been Solomon's own words, but at least some appear to be his thoughts. Key points in these verses are the need for impartiality in judgment, godly reputation, and work ethic.

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.