What does it mean to "sell it not" in Proverbs 23:23? The Verse in Focus “Buy the truth and do not sell it—wisdom, instruction and understanding.” (Proverbs 23:23) The Marketplace Picture • Solomon uses the everyday language of commerce • “Buy” points to intentional, sometimes costly acquisition • “Sell” warns against exchanging what is priceless for something of lesser value What “Sell It Not” Means • Never trade away truth—no matter the pressure, price, or convenience • Hold it permanently; treat it as non-negotiable property • Resist compromising Scripture for popularity, profit, or comfort • Refuse to dilute or distort God’s Word to fit cultural trends (Galatians 1:10) Why Truth Is Worth Keeping • Truth sets free (John 8:32) • God’s Word is flawless (Psalm 12:6) • Letting go of truth leads to spiritual poverty (Proverbs 13:18) Common Temptations to “Sell” Truth • Financial gain—sacrificing convictions for a paycheck (1 Timothy 6:10) • Social acceptance—altering doctrine to avoid offense (2 Timothy 4:3-4) • Fear of persecution—denying or hiding belief (Matthew 10:33) The High Cost of Selling Truth • Loss of joy and assurance (Psalm 51:12) • Erosion of witness (Matthew 5:13) • Eternal consequences if truth is abandoned (Hebrews 10:26-27) How to Refuse the Sale • Treasure Scripture daily (Psalm 119:11) • Obey what you know; practice protects possession (James 1:22-25) • Surround yourself with faithful believers who value truth (Hebrews 10:24-25) • Depend on the Spirit for boldness and discernment (John 16:13) Related Biblical Echoes • “Get wisdom, get understanding… Do not forsake her.” (Proverbs 4:5-6) • “Come, buy wine and milk without money and without cost.” (Isaiah 55:1) • “What will it profit a man if he gains the whole world, yet forfeits his soul?” (Matthew 16:26) • “Hold on to what you have, so that no one will take your crown.” (Revelation 3:11) Living It Out Today • Count truth as your greatest asset—guard it like a family heirloom • Choose conviction over compromise in conversations, media, and business decisions • Measure every message, trend, or opportunity against clear Scripture • Remember: when truth is not for sale, its Author stands with you (John 14:23) |
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