How does Luke 23:40 connect with Proverbs 9:10 about the fear of the Lord? The Scene at Calvary • Two criminals hang beside Jesus. • One hurls insults (Luke 23:39); the other speaks up (Luke 23:40). • The second criminal asks, “Do you not even fear God, since you are under the same judgment?”. • His words reveal a sudden, profound awareness of God’s holiness and justice. Proverbs 9:10—Foundation of Wisdom • “The fear of the LORD is the beginning of wisdom, and knowledge of the Holy One is understanding.” • This verse teaches that reverent awe of God is the entry point to true wisdom. Linking the Two Passages 1. Awakening to God’s Reality • Proverbs shows that wisdom starts with fearing the LORD. • The repentant thief demonstrates this fear in real time—he recognizes God’s authority even in his final moments. 2. Recognition of Personal Guilt • Fear of the LORD exposes sin (Proverbs 16:6). • The thief admits, “We are punished justly” (Luke 23:41), displaying Proverbs-style insight into his own wrongdoing. 3. Discernment About Jesus • Proverbs connects fear with “knowledge of the Holy One.” • The thief identifies Jesus as the righteous King: “this Man has done nothing wrong.” (Luke 23:41). 4. Movement Toward Salvation • Genuine fear leads to humble petition: “Jesus, remember me…” (Luke 23:42). • Romans 10:9 affirms that confession and belief bring salvation—wisdom becomes saving faith. Practical Takeaways • A healthy, reverent fear of God cuts through hardness of heart, even at death’s door. • Wisdom is not academic; it is a life-altering response to God’s holiness. • The path from fear to faith is immediate and personal, as the thief’s example shows. Summary Luke 23:40 is a living illustration of Proverbs 9:10. In one brief, desperate moment, the thief embodies the fear of the LORD, enters true wisdom, recognizes the Holy One, and receives eternal life (Luke 23:43). Proverbs supplies the principle; Calvary supplies the portrait. |
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