Connect Luke 7:35 with Proverbs 9:10 on the fear of the Lord. Wisdom Seen in Real Life Luke 7:35 — “But wisdom is vindicated by all her children.” - Jesus has just compared His generation to fickle children (vv. 31-34). - Critics call John too austere and Jesus too friendly, yet both ministries bear unmistakable fruit. - “Children” here are people whose lives confirm the rightness of God’s wisdom—evidence that cannot be dismissed. The Fear-Root of True Wisdom Proverbs 9:10 — “The fear of the LORD is the beginning of wisdom, and knowledge of the Holy One is understanding.” - “Fear” is reverent awe that bows to God’s absolute authority. - It is the starting point (“beginning”) of every truly wise thought, choice, and lifestyle. - Knowing the Lord personally (“knowledge of the Holy One”) deepens and sustains that wisdom. Connecting the Two Passages - Those who fear the Lord (Proverbs 9:10) become “children” who prove wisdom right (Luke 7:35). - Reverence leads to obedience; obedience produces visible fruit; that fruit vindicates God’s ways before a watching world. - Rejecting God’s authority, as many did with John and Jesus, leaves no such vindication—only empty criticism. Supporting Voices from Scripture - Job 28:28 — “Behold, the fear of the Lord, that is wisdom...” - Psalm 111:10 — “The fear of the LORD is the beginning of wisdom; all who practice it have good understanding.” - James 3:17 — “But the wisdom from above is first of all pure, then peace-loving... full of mercy and good fruit...” • The “good fruit” echoes Luke 7:35’s “children.” What Wisdom’s Children Look Like Today - A settled respect for Scripture’s authority—even when culture disagrees. - Quick repentance and eager obedience, confident God’s way is always best. - Words and actions that mirror Jesus’ character: purity, peace, gentleness, mercy (James 3:17). - A testimony that over time silences criticism—not by argument, but by consistent, godly living. Living It Out - Cultivate awe: start each day remembering who God is and who you are. - Choose obedience in small decisions; they accumulate into a life that showcases divine wisdom. - Welcome correction from Scripture and mature believers; it deepens the fear of the Lord. - Let visible fruit—not clever defenses—vindicate your faith before family, friends, and critics alike. |
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