How does Proverbs 13:20 relate to the influence seen in 2 Samuel 13:3? Key Scriptures • Proverbs 13:20 – “He who walks with the wise will become wise, but the companion of fools will be destroyed.” • 2 Samuel 13:3 – “But Amnon had a friend named Jonadab, the son of David’s brother Shimeah. Jonadab was a very shrewd man.” Walking with the Wise: The Principle • God establishes a simple cause-and-effect: our companions shape our character. • “Walks with” points to daily, habitual association. • “Companion of fools” is not neutral; it carries us toward the same foolish outcome—“will be destroyed.” Jonadab: A Toxic Friend • Jonadab’s shrewdness was cunning, not godly wisdom. • He observed Amnon’s lust for Tamar (2 Samuel 13:4) and supplied a deceptive plan (vv. 5–6). • Jonadab’s counsel pushed Amnon to sin he might never have attempted alone. Seeing the Connection • Proverbs 13:20 warns that foolish company leads to ruin; 2 Samuel 13 shows that ruin in vivid narrative form. • Amnon “walked with” Jonadab—accepting, trusting, and acting on his advice. • The result tracked exactly with the proverb: – Moral destruction: Amnon raped Tamar (v. 14). – Relational destruction: Tamar’s life was shattered (v. 19), Absalom’s anger ignited (v. 22). – Physical destruction: Absalom later killed Amnon (2 Samuel 13:28-29). Consequences of Foolish Companionship • Sin multiplies; one bad friendship influenced an entire royal family. • Cunning can masquerade as wisdom—discernment is vital (James 3:13-17). • Bad counsel often appeals to desire, not obedience (James 1:14-15). Reinforcing Scriptures • 1 Corinthians 15:33 – “Do not be deceived: ‘Bad company corrupts good character.’” • Psalm 1:1 – Blessing comes to the one who “does not walk in the counsel of the wicked.” • Proverbs 12:26 – “The righteous choose their friends carefully.” • Proverbs 22:24-25 – Friendship with a hot-tempered person ensnares. Practical Takeaways for Today • Evaluate your inner circle: are they drawing you to Christ or to compromise? • Seek mentors marked by godly wisdom, humility, and proven obedience. • When counsel pushes you to cloak sin, recognize Jonadab’s voice and flee. • Remember that influence is contagious; choose to spread righteousness, not ruin. |
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