The Words of Agur – Proverbs 30
Three Declarations:
1 God’s Infinite wisdom – 30:2-4
-Our understanding is limited
-God’s wisdom is seen in creation
-What is His son’s name? This is answered in John 3:13
2 God’s perfect Word – 30:5-6 Note Psalm 12:6, Deuteronomy 4:2, Revelation 22:18
3 God’s provision – 30:7-9
-Keep deception and lies from me
-Do not let me be tempted by materialism or poverty
Numerical Proverbs
The folly of arrogance – Four kinds of sin
1 The rebellious man – 30:11 He does not honor his father and mother.
2 The blind man – 30:12 He cannot see his own sin.
3 The proud man – 3:13 He is better than others.
4 The unjust man – 10:14 He takes advantage of others.
Three things…four – This expression is used four times and is probably used for emphasis.
Warning against greediness – 30:15-16
Humility in observing God’s order – 30:18-19
Pictures of arrogant folly – 30:21-23
Four examples of humble creatures – 30:24-28
Pictures of noble behavior – 30:29-31
Agur’s conclusion – Pride and arrogance lead to ruin. Instead, strive for peace and harmony through humility and righteousness.
The Words of Lemuel – Proverbs 31
The Wise King – 31:2-9
King Lemuel – Not a king of Israel. Some think this is a pen name for Solomon but he is probably a Gentile King who is a proselyte to Israel’s faith.
The oracle which his mother taught him – In Jewish legend this is Bathsheba.
What, O my son? – This is an affectionate reproach. She bore him and she also made a vow concerning him.
Three Instructions for a wise king – 31:2-9
Do not be obsessed with women – verse 3
Do not be dependent on wine – verses 4-8
Uphold justice for all – verse 9
The Wise Woman – 31:10-31
This discourse is an acrostic poem. Each of the 22 verses in the Hebrew Bible begins with the succeeding consonant of the Hebrew alphabet.
Lemuel’s mother intended the qualities and characteristics of this woman to be a guide to him as he considered marrying. It is idealistic in that it assumes certain personal abilities and resources that are not available to all. The main idea is that within the sphere of the household, the wife has opportunity for great influence and achievement, not only succeeding herself but enabling her husband to succeed as well.
The Characteristics of the Excellent Wife
She is industrious – verses 13-15
She is thrifty – verses 16-18
She works hard and is generous – verses 19-22
She helps her husband advance – verse 23-24
She is prepared and optimistic about the future – verses 25-27
She is respected by her family – verses 28-29
She is praised because she fears the Lord – 30-31