What role does discernment play in interpreting "the sayings of the wise"? Setting the Scene Proverbs opens with a God-given roadmap for gaining wisdom. Verse 6 highlights one specific goal: “to understand a proverb and a parable, the sayings of the wise, and their riddles” (Proverbs 1:6). The verse sits immediately after the call for the “discerning” to “acquire wise counsel” (v. 5). Discernment, therefore, is presented as the bridge between simply hearing wise sayings and truly grasping their meaning. Catching the Flow in Proverbs 1:5-6 • v. 5: “the discerning acquire wise counsel” • v. 6: the result—“to understand … the sayings of the wise” The sequence is deliberate. Discernment first, understanding next. Without discernment, the wise sayings remain riddles; with it, they become clear instruction. Defining Discernment Scripture consistently treats discernment as Spirit-enabled perception that penetrates beneath the surface. • Hebrews 5:14—“But solid food is for the mature, who by constant use have trained their senses to distinguish good from evil.” • 1 Kings 3:9—Solomon asks for “a discerning heart to govern Your people and to distinguish between good and evil.” Discernment is thus a God-granted ability to distinguish truth from error, wisdom from folly, and right application from mere information. Discernment’s Role in Interpreting the Sayings of the Wise 1. Filters out error • Acts 17:11—The Bereans “examined the Scriptures daily to see if these teachings were true.” Discernment ensures we don’t misread or misapply a proverb. 2. Detects underlying principles • Proverbs 25:2—“It is the glory of God to conceal a matter and the glory of kings to search it out.” Discernment “searches out” the layers within a wise saying. 3. Connects truth to life situations • James 1:22—“Be doers of the word, and not hearers only.” Discernment moves us from abstract understanding to concrete obedience. 4. Guards against partiality • Proverbs 24:23—“These also are sayings of the wise: To show partiality in judgment is not good.” Discernment keeps interpretation fair and balanced. 5. Leads to reverent fear of the Lord • Proverbs 2:3-5—Seeking “discernment” culminates in finding “the knowledge of God.” The process of interpreting wise sayings should always deepen reverence. Practical Steps for Growing Discernment • Pray for it regularly (Philippians 1:9-10) • Saturate the mind with Scripture; the Spirit uses the word He authored (Psalm 119:104) • Seek counsel from mature believers (Proverbs 11:14) • Practice obedience to the truth already known; obedience sharpens perception (John 7:17) • Compare Scripture with Scripture; let clear passages illuminate the difficult (2 Peter 1:20-21) Scripture Cross-References that Reinforce the Point • Psalm 119:130—“The unfolding of Your words gives light; it imparts understanding to the simple.” • Colossians 1:9—Paul prays believers will be “filled with the knowledge of His will in all spiritual wisdom and understanding.” • 1 Corinthians 2:14—“The natural man does not accept the things that come from the Spirit of God… they are spiritually discerned.” Discernment, then, is God’s appointed instrument for unlocking, applying, and living out “the sayings of the wise.” |
    |