How does Proverbs 22:21 connect with Jesus' teachings on truth? Setting the Verse in View Proverbs 22:21: “to show you true and reliable words, that you may give sound answers to those who send you.” True and Reliable Words in Proverbs • “True” (ʾĕmet) points to absolute, unfailing reality • “Reliable” (ḥāq) speaks of stability that does not waver • Together they describe speech that mirrors God’s own unchanging character (cf. Numbers 23:19) Jesus—Truth Personified • John 14:6 — “I am the way and the truth and the life.” • John 1:14 — The Word became flesh, “full of grace and truth.” • John 18:37 — “I was born and came into the world to testify to the truth.” Jesus is not only a teacher of truth; He is Truth itself, making Him the living fulfillment of Proverbs 22:21. Shared Aim: Giving Sound Answers Solomon’s goal: equip listeners with words that stand scrutiny. Jesus’ goal: form disciples whose testimony rests on His truth. • John 8:31-32 — “...you will know the truth, and the truth will set you free.” • Matthew 10:19-20 — the Spirit supplies words when believers must speak. How Proverbs 22:21 Foreshadows Jesus’ Teaching 1. Source of truth – Proverbs: wisdom from the LORD (Proverbs 2:6) – Gospels: wisdom embodied in Christ (Colossians 2:3) 2. Certainty of truth – Proverbs: “reliable words” never collapse – Jesus: “my words will never pass away” (Matthew 24:35) 3. Purpose of truth – Proverbs: provide “sound answers” to senders – Jesus: commission witnesses “to the ends of the earth” (Acts 1:8) Living It Out Today • Immerse in Scripture—God’s written “true and reliable words.” • Anchor assurance in Christ—the incarnate Truth who validates every promise. • Speak with confidence—answer a questioning world out of Scripture’s stability and Jesus’ authority (1 Peter 3:15). |
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