Canonical Reading Plan for Jul 13, Pro 1-3

Today’s readings are Pro 1-3.

Proverbs is a collection of sayings, most of which are popularly attributed to Solomon. However, there are probably multiple authors or editors of the sayings, and there are a variety of ways to view the groupings. 

There is, throughout the book, a strong emphasis on gaining wisdom. It is the predominate theme of the entire book. But there are other themes as well that are frequently stated. Speech is strongly emphasized but in a positive and negative way. Obviously, our wisdom, or lack of it, is connected in many ways to our speech (the things we talk about, the things we focus on). Righteousness is another theme that pops up repeatedly, linking godly wisdom with righteous living. Justice, discipline, diligence, character, and conduct are all prominently mentioned. Clearly, all these attributes are a reflection of godly wisdom, all supposedly coming from the wisest man ever to exist. 

Proverbs should not be read like a list of commandments. The truths proclaimed in this book are neither guarantees nor imperatives such as those found in the Mosaic Law. They are intended to be expressions of practical wisdom for God's people in leading lives life that put God on display. As believers, we are to be set apart. Proverbs help us to understand exactly what that looks like.

Pro 1:1-7 acts as an introduction to the Book of Proverbs. It sets the tone and states the primary message of the book, "The fear fo the Lord is the beginning of knowledge;" The authors will develop this theme throughout the book.