How does Proverbs 28:23 connect with Ephesians 4:15 about speaking truth in love? Putting the Two Verses Side by Side “He who rebukes a man will later find more favor than one who flatters with his tongue.” “Instead, speaking the truth in love, we will in all things grow up into Christ Himself, who is the head.” Shared Wisdom About Truthful Speech • Both passages call for truthful, corrective words rather than empty flattery. • Proverbs stresses long-term “favor”; Ephesians stresses spiritual “growth.” • Each makes clear that God values honesty even when it risks discomfort. Love at the Heart of Correction • Ephesians supplies the motive: every word is to be fused with genuine love. • Proverbs supplies the courage: loving rebuke brings eventual favor, so fear of displeasing others must not silence truth. • Put together, they show that love and correction are not opposites; love guides how we speak, and correction shows why we must speak. Outcomes Promised – Lasting respect – Restored relationships – Corporate maturity in Christ – Personal conformity to the Head Practical Ways to Live It Out 1. Examine motive: Am I driven by the other person’s good (Philippians 2:3-4)? 2. Check attitude: Gentleness and humility must flavor the rebuke (Galatians 6:1). 3. Speak plainly: Flattery clouds truth; clarity blesses (Proverbs 27:6). 4. Affirm worth: Truth is never a license to belittle (Colossians 3:12-14). 5. Trust God with results: Future favor belongs to Him; my role is obedience. Other Scriptures That Echo the Principle • Proverbs 27:5-6 – “Better an open rebuke than hidden love…” • Matthew 18:15 – If a brother sins, “go and show him his fault…” • 2 Timothy 3:16 – Scripture is “profitable for teaching, for reproof…” • James 5:19-20 – Turning a sinner from error “saves a soul from death.” Takeaway Truthful correction, delivered in Christ-like love, honors God, blesses people, and ultimately produces deeper favor and fuller maturity than any amount of flattering speech ever could. |
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