Proverbs 13:1 - Printer Friendly

ESV: A wise son hears his father’s instruction, but a scoffer does not listen to rebuke.

NIV: A wise son heeds his father's instruction, but a mocker does not respond to rebukes.

NASB: A wise son accepts his father’s discipline, But a scoffer does not listen to rebuke.

CSB: A wise son responds to his father's discipline, but a mocker doesn't listen to rebuke.

NLT: A wise child accepts a parent’s discipline; a mocker refuses to listen to correction.

KJV: A wise son heareth his father's instruction: but a scorner heareth not rebuke.

NKJV: A wise son heeds his father’s instruction, But a scoffer does not listen to rebuke.

A recurring theme in the book of Proverbs is the value of taking good advice (Proverbs 1:7–8; 8:33). The person defined as a "scoffer" is one who sneers or laughs at knowledge instead of learning from it (Proverbs 1:22). Learning from our own mistakes is part of life; choosing to learn from the mistakes of others is especially wise. When a father, or other worthy figure, offers their perspective, it's a good idea to take them seriously (Proverbs 12:1, 15).

Some people carry a superior attitude; they think they know more than the people who try to correct them. If someone goes through life thinking he is beyond reproach, he will face a rude awakening. Pride precedes destruction, according to Proverbs 16:18. In his first letter to Timothy, the apostle Paul tells Timothy a recent convert should not become an overseer because "he may become puffed up with conceit and fall into the condemnation of the devil" (1 Timothy 3:6). Proverbs 29:1 affirms, "He who is often reproved, yet stiffens his neck, will suddenly be broken beyond healing."

Proverbs 13:1–3 once again addresses the subject of speech. Solomon contrasts wise talk with foolish talk. He insists that it is prudent to take good advice but reckless to reject it. Also, it is desirable to be careful about what one says, and foolish to blabber.

This chapter of Proverbs continues Solomon's wise sayings. He counsels his readers to be sensible and hardworking, as well as honest. This allows a person to be content with what they have, to enjoy life, and to bless their descendants. Laziness leads to trouble and ruin, as does a lack of discipline.

Starting in chapter 10, the book of Proverbs records a long series of wise sayings from Solomon. These continue for several chapters. Through chapter 15, a major focus is on issues such as godly living, mostly given in contrast with examples of ungodliness. This chapter emphasizes themes such as work ethic, honesty, and discipline.

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 4/29/2024 9:41:03 AM