What does Proverbs 28:7 mean?
ESV: The one who keeps the law is a son with understanding, but a companion of gluttons shames his father.
NIV: A discerning son heeds instruction, but a companion of gluttons disgraces his father.
NASB: He who keeps the Law is a discerning son, But he who is a companion of gluttons humiliates his father.
CSB: A discerning son keeps the law, but a companion of gluttons humiliates his father.
NLT: Young people who obey the law are wise; those with wild friends bring shame to their parents.
KJV: Whoso keepeth the law is a wise son: but he that is a companion of riotous men shameth his father.
NKJV: Whoever keeps the law is a discerning son, But a companion of gluttons shames his father.
Verse Commentary:
Other proverbs note the importance of following God's wisdom (Proverbs 1:7; 8:33–36). That includes caution about who we allow to influence our lives (Proverbs 13:20). Close association with ungodly people risks trouble (Proverbs 22:24–25) and brings one's reputation into question (Proverbs 3:1–4; 20:19; 24:21). This also leads observers to question the integrity of one's family (Proverbs 29:15). When a son—or student—applies godliness, it reflects well on their parents—or teacher (Proverbs 23:22–25; 27:11).
"Gluttons," in this context, means those who indulge in any desire beyond reasonable limits. In the modern world, this term typically refers to food. However, the general principle can apply to hobbies, vices, or addictions as well. Spending time with people lacking self-control can lead to temptation, or being caught up in someone else's consequences The apostle Paul warned, "Do not be deceived: 'Bad company ruins good morals.'" (1 Corinthians 15:33). He described false teachers as enemies of the cross of Christ (Philippians 3:18), whose "end is destruction" and "their god is their belly" (Philippians 3:19). It is exemplary to feast on God's Word (Psalm 119:103) but sinful to overindulge in food or pleasure.
Verse Context:
Proverbs 28:1–12 uses multiple contrasts. These teach lessons about righteousness and justice, honesty, integrity, reputation, and culture. Many of the proverbs are structured to directly compare two opposite ideas.
Chapter Summary:
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.
Chapter Context:
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.
Book Summary:
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.
Accessed 12/4/2024 4:00:08 AM
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