Proverbs 23
BSB1 When you sit down to dine with a ruler, consider carefully what is set before you, 2 and put a knife to your throat if you possess a great appetite. 3 Do not crave his delicacies, for that food is deceptive. 4 Do not wear yourself out to get rich; be wise enough to restrain yourself. 5 When you glance at wealth, it disappears, for it makes wings for itself and flies like an eagle to the sky. 6 Do not eat the bread of a stingy man, and do not crave his delicacies; 7 for he is keeping track, inwardly counting the cost. “Eat and drink,” he says to you, but his heart is not with you. 8 You will vomit up what little you have eaten and waste your pleasant words. 9 Do not speak to a fool, for he will despise the wisdom of your words. 10 Do not move an ancient boundary stone or encroach on the fields of the fatherless, 11 for their Redeemer is strong; He will take up their case against you. 12 Apply your heart to instruction and your ears to words of knowledge. 13 Do not withhold discipline from a child; although you strike him with a rod, he will not die. 14 Strike him with a rod, and you will deliver his soul from Sheol. 15 My son, if your heart is wise, my own heart will indeed rejoice. 16 My inmost being will rejoice when your lips speak what is right. 17 Do not let your heart envy sinners, but always continue in the fear of the LORD. 18 For surely there is a future, and your hope will not be cut off. 19 Listen, my son, and be wise, and guide your heart on the right course. 20 Do not join those who drink too much wine or gorge themselves on meat. 21 For the drunkard and the glutton will come to poverty, and drowsiness will clothe them in rags. 22 Listen to your father who gave you life, and do not despise your mother when she is old. 23 Invest in truth and never sell it— in wisdom and instruction and understanding. 24 The father of a righteous man will greatly rejoice, and he who fathers a wise son will delight in him. 25 May your father and mother be glad, and may she who gave you birth rejoice! 26 My son, give me your heart, and let your eyes delight in my ways. 27 For a prostitute is a deep pit, and an adulteress is a narrow well. 28 Like a robber she lies in wait and multiplies the faithless among men. 29 Who has woe? Who has sorrow? Who has contentions? Who has complaints? Who has needless wounds? Who has bloodshot eyes? 30 Those who linger over wine, who go to taste mixed drinks. 31 Do not gaze at wine while it is red, when it sparkles in the cup and goes down smoothly. 32 In the end it bites like a snake and stings like a viper. 33 Your eyes will see strange things, and your mind will utter perversities. 34 You will be like one sleeping on the high seas or lying on the top of a mast: 35 “They struck me, but I feel no pain! They beat me, but I did not know it! When can I wake up to search for another drink?"
Study Notes — Proverbs 23
- Chapter Summary
- Context for the Chapter
- Heart Application
- What Does This Chapter Mean?
- Voices from the Church
- Outline for Preaching
- Core Doctrines
- Lessons from Proverbs 23
- Themes from Proverbs 23
- Questions for Meditation
- Detailed Chapter Outline
- Frequently Asked Questions
- Top Cross References
- Sermons on Proverbs 23
- Matthew Henry Commentary
- What Do You Notice?
Chapter Summary
Proverbs 23 begins by warning against the dangers of dining with rulers, cautioning against excessive eating and drinking. It then turns to the topic of treating the poor with kindness, emphasizing the importance of compassion and generosity. The chapter also warns against the dangers of excessive wine and gluttony, noting that these habits can lead to poverty and shame. Additionally, it emphasizes the importance of self-control, humility, and integrity, noting that these virtues are essential for a wise and successful life. Key verses include Proverbs 23:1-3, Proverbs 23:9, and Proverbs 23:20-21.
Context for the Chapter
Proverbs 23 is part of the larger book of Proverbs, which is a collection of wisdom sayings and teachings. The chapter is situated in the middle of the book, and its themes and topics are consistent with the overall message of Proverbs. The chapter's emphasis on self-control, compassion, and integrity reflects the broader biblical narrative, which emphasizes the importance of living a virtuous and upright life. The chapter is also connected to other biblical books, such as the Gospel of John, which emphasizes the importance of wisdom and instruction.
Heart Application
As we reflect on Proverbs 23, we are encouraged to apply its teachings to our own lives. This means being intentional about seeking wisdom and instruction, and prioritizing the acquisition of knowledge and understanding. It also means cultivating self-control, humility, and integrity, and treating others with kindness and compassion. By applying these principles, we can live a more wise and successful life, and bring glory to God.
What Does This Chapter Mean?
Proverbs 23 teaches us about the importance of self-control, humility, and integrity. It warns against the dangers of excessive wine and gluttony, and encourages us to treat others with kindness and compassion. As seen in Proverbs 23:12, the chapter emphasizes the importance of seeking wisdom and instruction. By applying these principles, we can live a more wise and successful life.
Voices from the Church
“The Proverbs are a mine of wisdom, and this chapter is a particularly rich vein. Let us dig deeply and apply its teachings to our lives.”
— Charles Spurgeon
“The importance of self-control and humility cannot be overstated. Let us strive to cultivate these virtues, and to live a life that is pleasing to God.”
— John Calvin
Outline for Preaching
- Dining with Rulers (Proverbs 23:1-3) — The chapter begins by warning against the dangers of dining with rulers, cautioning against excessive eating and drinking.
- Treating the Poor with Kindness (Proverbs 23:9-11) — The chapter emphasizes the importance of treating the poor with kindness and compassion, highlighting the importance of generosity and charity.
- The Dangers of Excessive Wine and Gluttony (Proverbs 23:20-21) — The chapter warns against the dangers of excessive wine and gluttony, noting that these habits can lead to poverty and shame.
- The Importance of Instruction and Wisdom (Proverbs 23:12) — The chapter emphasizes the importance of seeking wisdom and instruction, encouraging readers to apply their hearts to learning and growth.
- Concluding Thoughts (Proverbs 23:29-35) — The chapter concludes by warning against the dangers of excessive wine and gluttony, and encouraging readers to cultivate self-control, humility, and integrity.
Core Doctrines
- The Importance of Self-Control
- Proverbs 23 teaches that self-control is essential for a wise and successful life, and that it is necessary to cultivate discipline and restraint in all areas of life.
- The Danger of Sin
- The chapter warns against the dangers of excessive wine and gluttony, noting that these habits can lead to poverty and shame, and emphasizing the importance of avoiding sin and its consequences.
- The Importance of Compassion and Kindness
- The chapter emphasizes the importance of treating the poor with kindness and compassion, highlighting the importance of generosity and charity, and reflecting the heart of Christ.
- The Importance of Wisdom and Instruction
- The chapter emphasizes the importance of seeking wisdom and instruction, encouraging readers to apply their hearts to learning and growth, and to prioritize the acquisition of knowledge and understanding.
Lessons from Proverbs 23
- The Importance of Self-Control — Proverbs 23 teaches that self-control is essential for a wise and successful life, and that it is necessary to cultivate discipline and restraint in all areas of life.
- The Danger of Excessive Wine and Gluttony — The chapter warns against the dangers of excessive wine and gluttony, noting that these habits can lead to poverty and shame, and emphasizing the importance of avoiding sin and its consequences.
- The Importance of Compassion and Kindness — The chapter emphasizes the importance of treating the poor with kindness and compassion, highlighting the importance of generosity and charity, and reflecting the heart of Christ.
- The Importance of Wisdom and Instruction — The chapter emphasizes the importance of seeking wisdom and instruction, encouraging readers to apply their hearts to learning and growth, and to prioritize the acquisition of knowledge and understanding.
- The Importance of Humility and Integrity — The chapter teaches that humility and integrity are essential for a wise and successful life, and that it is necessary to cultivate these virtues in all areas of life.
Themes from Proverbs 23
- The Importance of Self-Control — Proverbs 23 teaches that self-control is essential for a wise and successful life, and that it is necessary to cultivate discipline and restraint in all areas of life.
- The Danger of Sin — The chapter warns against the dangers of excessive wine and gluttony, noting that these habits can lead to poverty and shame, and emphasizing the importance of avoiding sin and its consequences.
- The Importance of Compassion and Kindness — The chapter emphasizes the importance of treating the poor with kindness and compassion, highlighting the importance of generosity and charity, and reflecting the heart of Christ.
- The Importance of Wisdom and Instruction — The chapter emphasizes the importance of seeking wisdom and instruction, encouraging readers to apply their hearts to learning and growth, and to prioritize the acquisition of knowledge and understanding.
- The Importance of Humility and Integrity — The chapter teaches that humility and integrity are essential for a wise and successful life, and that it is necessary to cultivate these virtues in all areas of life.
Questions for Meditation
- What are some ways that you can cultivate self-control in your own life, and how can you apply the teachings of Proverbs 23:1-3 to your daily habits?
- How can you treat others with kindness and compassion, and what are some ways that you can demonstrate generosity and charity in your community?
- What are some dangers of excessive wine and gluttony, and how can you avoid these habits in your own life?
- What are some ways that you can seek wisdom and instruction, and how can you prioritize the acquisition of knowledge and understanding in your life?
- How can you apply the teachings of Proverbs 23 to your relationships with others, and what are some ways that you can demonstrate humility and integrity in your interactions with others?
Detailed Chapter Outline
1. Dining with Rulers (Proverbs 23:1-3)
| Proverbs 23:1 | The chapter begins by warning against the dangers of dining with rulers, cautioning against excessive eating and drinking. |
| Proverbs 23:2 | The verse emphasizes the importance of self-control, and warns against the dangers of overindulgence. |
2. Treating the Poor with Kindness (Proverbs 23:9-11)
| Proverbs 23:9 | The chapter emphasizes the importance of treating the poor with kindness and compassion, highlighting the importance of generosity and charity. |
| Proverbs 23:10 | The verse warns against the dangers of oppressing the poor, and emphasizes the importance of treating all people with dignity and respect. |
3. The Dangers of Excessive Wine and Gluttony (Proverbs 23:20-21)
| Proverbs 23:20 | The chapter warns against the dangers of excessive wine and gluttony, noting that these habits can lead to poverty and shame. |
| Proverbs 23:21 | The verse emphasizes the importance of self-control, and warns against the dangers of overindulgence. |
4. The Importance of Instruction and Wisdom (Proverbs 23:12)
| Proverbs 23:12 | The chapter emphasizes the importance of seeking wisdom and instruction, encouraging readers to apply their hearts to learning and growth. |
5. Concluding Thoughts (Proverbs 23:29-35)
| Proverbs 23:29 | The chapter concludes by warning against the dangers of excessive wine and gluttony, and emphasizing the importance of avoiding sin and its consequences. |
| Proverbs 23:30 | The verse warns against the dangers of drunkenness, and emphasizes the importance of self-control. |
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the main theme of Proverbs 23?
The main theme of Proverbs 23 is the importance of self-control, humility, and integrity, and the dangers of excessive wine and gluttony. As seen in Proverbs 23:1-3 and Proverbs 23:20-21, the chapter emphasizes the importance of living a virtuous and upright life.
What are some ways that I can cultivate self-control in my own life?
Some ways that you can cultivate self-control in your own life include setting boundaries, prioritizing discipline and restraint, and seeking accountability from others. As seen in Proverbs 23:12, the chapter emphasizes the importance of applying your heart to instruction and seeking wisdom and knowledge.
How can I treat others with kindness and compassion?
You can treat others with kindness and compassion by being generous and charitable, and by demonstrating empathy and understanding towards those in need. As seen in Proverbs 23:9-11, the chapter emphasizes the importance of treating the poor with kindness and compassion, and reflecting the heart of Christ.
Top Cross References
| Reference | Connection | |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | Proverbs 23:1 → Luke 12:15 | Both Proverbs 23:1 and Luke 12:15 warn against the dangers of excessive wealth and materialism, and emphasize the importance of living a simple and humble life. |
| 2 | Proverbs 23:9 → Matthew 25:31-46 | Both Proverbs 23:9 and Matthew 25:31-46 emphasize the importance of treating the poor with kindness and compassion, and highlighting the importance of generosity and charity. |
| 3 | Proverbs 23:12 → Psalm 119:66 | Both Proverbs 23:12 and Psalm 119:66 emphasize the importance of seeking wisdom and instruction, and encouraging readers to apply their hearts to learning and growth. |
| 4 | Proverbs 23:20 → 1 Corinthians 6:19-20 | Both Proverbs 23:20 and 1 Corinthians 6:19-20 warn against the dangers of excessive wine and gluttony, and emphasize the importance of living a virtuous and upright life. |
| 5 | Proverbs 23:21 → Galatians 5:19-21 | Both Proverbs 23:21 and Galatians 5:19-21 warn against the dangers of sinful habits, and emphasize the importance of living a life that is pleasing to God. |
| 6 | Proverbs 23:29 → Habakkuk 2:15 | Both Proverbs 23:29 and Habakkuk 2:15 warn against the dangers of drunkenness, and emphasize the importance of self-control and restraint. |
| 7 | Proverbs 23:30 → Ephesians 5:18 | Both Proverbs 23:30 and Ephesians 5:18 warn against the dangers of drunkenness, and emphasize the importance of living a life that is filled with the Spirit and pleasing to God. |
| 8 | Proverbs 23:31 → Isaiah 5:11 | Both Proverbs 23:31 and Isaiah 5:11 warn against the dangers of excessive wine and gluttony, and emphasize the importance of living a virtuous and upright life. |
| 9 | Proverbs 23:32 → 1 Peter 4:3 | Both Proverbs 23:32 and 1 Peter 4:3 warn against the dangers of sinful habits, and emphasize the importance of living a life that is pleasing to God. |
| 10 | Proverbs 23:35 → Romans 13:14 | Both Proverbs 23:35 and Romans 13:14 emphasize the importance of living a life that is pleasing to God, and warn against the dangers of sinful habits and excessive indulgence. |
Sermons on Proverbs 23
| Sermon | Description | |
|---|---|---|
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Mental Attitude by Kathryn Kuhlman | In this sermon, the preacher emphasizes the importance of one's attitude in shaping their life. He quotes Proverbs 23:7, which states that as a person thinks in their heart, so the |
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Anti-Booze Efforts by Billy Sunday | Billy Sunday passionately preaches against alcohol, expressing his determination to combat the saloon culture that he believes leads to the destruction of lives and families. He em |
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(Biblical Family) Child Training by Voddie Baucham | In this video, the speaker emphasizes the importance of training and teaching others to preach the word of God effectively. He encourages a hands-on approach, where the speaker act |
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(Om Orientation) Discipline - Part 1 by Jonathan McRostie | In this sermon, the speaker emphasizes the importance of disciplining our thoughts. He highlights that our thoughts play a crucial role in shaping our actions and words. The speake |
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Obedience - the Pathway to Blessing by Paul Washer | In this sermon, the speaker emphasizes the importance of knowing and living by the Word of God. He highlights the need for individuals and families to recognize their own shortcomi |
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Prohibition by Billy Sunday | In this sermon, the preacher discusses the negative effects of alcohol consumption on society. He highlights the new law passed by Congress, which imposes a two-dollar tax on whisk |
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Changing the Heart of a Rebel by S.M. Davis | In this sermon, the speaker emphasizes the importance of parents being committed to long-term change rather than seeking quick fixes when dealing with rebellious children. The spea |
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A Truly Wealthy Man by Keith Daniel | In this sermon, the preacher emphasizes the importance of discipline and godly parenting. He shares a personal story of witnessing a mother and her joyful son in the congregation, |
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Turning the Tide - Part 1 by Charles Stanley | This sermon emphasizes the importance of heeding God's warnings throughout history to avoid the consequences of disobedience. It reflects on the story of Adam and Eve in the Garden |
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(Godly Home) Part 13 - the Training of the Will by Denny Kenaston | In this sermon, the speaker focuses on the importance of training the will as the foundation for a prosperous spiritual life. He emphasizes the significance of parents teaching the |
Summary of Matthew Henry Commentary on Proverbs 23
In his commentary on Proverbs 23, Matthew Henry emphasizes the importance of self-control, humility, and integrity. He notes that the chapter warns against the dangers of excessive wine and gluttony, and emphasizes the importance of treating the poor with kindness and compassion. Henry also highlights the importance of seeking wisdom and instruction, and encourages readers to apply their hearts to learning and growth. As seen in Proverbs 23:12, the chapter emphasizes the importance of applying your heart to instruction and seeking wisdom and knowledge. Overall, Henry's commentary on Proverbs 23 provides a rich and nuanced understanding of the chapter's themes and teachings, and encourages readers to live a life that is pleasing to God. Read the full unabridged Matthew Henry Commentary →
What Do You Notice?
The Importance of Self-Control
The chapter emphasizes the importance of self-control, particularly in regards to eating and drinking. This is seen in Proverbs 23:1-3 and Proverbs 23:20-21.
The Danger of Excessive Wine and Gluttony
The chapter warns against the dangers of excessive wine and gluttony, noting that these habits can lead to poverty and shame. This is seen in Proverbs 23:20-21 and Proverbs 23:29-35.
The Importance of Compassion and Kindness
The chapter emphasizes the importance of treating the poor with kindness and compassion, highlighting the importance of generosity and charity. This is seen in Proverbs 23:9 and Proverbs 23:10-11.