Proverbs 29:19 - Printer Friendly

ESV: By mere words a servant is not disciplined, for though he understands, he will not respond.

NIV: Servants cannot be corrected by mere words; though they understand, they will not respond.

NASB: A slave will not be instructed by words alone; For though he understands, there will be no response.

CSB: A servant cannot be disciplined by words; though he understands, he doesn't respond.

NLT: Words alone will not discipline a servant; the words may be understood, but they are not heeded.

KJV: A servant will not be corrected by words: for though he understand he will not answer.

NKJV: A servant will not be corrected by mere words; For though he understands, he will not respond.

As a general-case statement, the lesson here reminds that empty words are not enough to maintain order. For servants—or, in a modern context, employees—a manager needs to be ready to enact consequences. If it becomes clear that the only response to disobedience is a lecture, defiance will only increase. A common English expression is "he's all talk." This refers to someone who uses words, but never backs them up with actions. Scripture doesn't offer exact examples of non-verbal discipline in this situation. Today, those might mean disciplinary meetings, suspensions, loss of promotions, or even loss of one's job.

This parallels the general approach to discipline given elsewhere in the book of Proverbs. A well-meaning, discerning application of discipline is in the best interests of everyone involved (Proverbs 8:32–36; 10:17; 22:15). Appropriate actions in addition to words may persuade a wayward person to do what is right.

Proverbs 29:12–27 completes the collection of Solomon's wise sayings (Proverbs 25:21). This passage discusses various relationships. Common themes are interactions with government leaders, parental discipline, and authority figures. Solomon also makes comments about pride and the inherent conflict between righteousness and evil.

Much of this passage refers to negative consequences of unwise attitudes or behavior: stubbornness leads to brokenness. Lack of self-control brings shame. Ignorant, ungodly rulers spread sin and corruption. Pride leads to humiliation. Most of these statements follow the two-part pattern established elsewhere in the book of Proverbs. The final lesson summarizes the deep difference between those who are godly and those who pursue their own desires.

This concludes the collection of Solomon's proverbs which King Hezekiah's men collected (Proverbs 25:1). Like previous passages, chapter 29 contrasts wisdom and folly, the benefits of heeding God's law and the devastating consequences of disobeying it, and the blessings of righteousness compared to the curses of sin.

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 5/3/2024 9:31:00 AM