Proverbs 28:23 - Printer Friendly

ESV: Whoever rebukes a man will afterward find more favor than he who flatters with his tongue.

NIV: Whoever rebukes a person will in the end gain favor rather than one who has a flattering tongue.

NASB: One who rebukes a person will afterward find more favor Than one who flatters with the tongue.

CSB: One who rebukes a person will later find more favor than one who flatters with his tongue.

NLT: In the end, people appreciate honest criticism far more than flattery.

KJV: He that rebuketh a man afterwards shall find more favour than he that flattereth with the tongue.

NKJV: He who rebukes a man will find more favor afterward Than he who flatters with the tongue.

Genuine "love" means caring for another person's well-being. At times, that means speaking uncomfortable truths in direct, loving ways (Ephesians 4:15). A "reproof" or "rebuke" is a strong action: bold words or a direct confrontation. Those who are wise listen to correction and advice (Proverbs 3:11; 10:17; 15:31) and appreciate the guidance given by a true friend (Proverbs 17:10; 27:5, 6, 17). Telling the truth gains one more respect than a reputation for flattery (Proverbs 19:1; 24:26; 26:24, 28). Falsely reassuring a friend who is doing wrong is not loving (Proverbs 13:24; James 5:20).

In his letter to the Galatians, the apostle Paul explains how to restore a brother who is caught in sin and error. He writes: "Brothers, if anyone is caught in any transgression, you who are spiritual should restore him in a spirit of gentleness. Keep watch on yourself, lest you too be tempted" (Galatians 6:1). A major responsibility of a pastor or elder is to reprove and rebuke as necessary (2 Timothy 2:24–26). The church leader whose preaching or counsel is designed simply to make people feel good about themselves is not fulfilling his responsibility. Nor is he truly "loving" others.

Proverbs 28:13–28 features several lessons about generosity and greed. The passage also notes the importance of integrity and honesty. Some proverbs contained here combine these ideas, speaking of work ethic, fairness, care for the poor, and so forth.

This passage features many direct contrasts. The lessons are attributed to Solomon, later compiled into the Book of Proverbs by men under king Hezekiah (Proverbs 25:1). Common themes in this chapter are work ethic, generosity, fairness, and reputation. Comments on rulers or leaders make up many of the teachings recorded in this section.

This continues a list compiled by Hezekiah's men, recording proverbs associated with Solomon (Proverbs 25:1). The collection continues until the end of chapter 29. The lessons in this passage repeat teachings on generosity and the dangers of greed, as well as the damage done by wicked rulers.

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.