Proverbs 28 - Printer Friendly

Chapter 28 continues a long list of sayings credited to king Solomon (Proverbs 25:1). This chapter includes many direct contrasts. It also makes several references to rulers and leaders.

The passage starts with instructions about righteousness, justice, honesty, and reputation. A guilty conscience can lead to guilty actions, while a clear conscience leads to confidence. As stated in other proverbs, moral integrity is worth far more than material wealth. Solomon also warns that those who routinely ignore God actually anger Him when they attempt to pray, as if He is obligated to give them their wishes (Proverbs 28:1–12).

Other lessons mention the impact of ungodly rulers, and the mutual relationship between chaotic leadership and cultural sin. Wicked governments inspire fear and hiding; when those evil people are destroyed, the nation celebrates and goodness begins to grow. Other statements rephrase prior lessons about the dangers of greed and how chasing material wealth usually leads to dire consequences (Proverbs 28:13–28).

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.

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.

Accessed 5/5/2024 5:01:35 AM