What is the meaning of Proverbs 14:6? “A mocker” - “A mocker” describes a person who scoffs at truth, treats holy things lightly, and measures every idea against self-made standards instead of God’s. - This attitude is seen elsewhere: “The proud and arrogant man—‘Mocker’ is his name” (Proverbs 21:24). Compare also Psalm 1:1; Proverbs 9:7-8; 2 Peter 3:3-4. - Mockery springs from pride; pride resists correction, so the heart stays closed (Proverbs 16:18). “seeks wisdom” - The mocker’s search is half-hearted or self-serving. He wants the benefits of insight without bowing to its Source. - Herod “was hoping to see some sign” from Jesus, yet remained unchanged (Luke 23:8-9). - James 1:6-7 warns that a double-minded seeker “should not expect to receive anything from the Lord.” - True wisdom is found when we seek God with all the heart (Jeremiah 29:13). “and finds none” - Wisdom is withheld from the proud: “Then they will call on Me, but I will not answer… because they hated knowledge” (Proverbs 1:28-29). - Pride darkens understanding (Romans 1:21-22). - Isaiah 29:13-14 shows God frustrating the wisdom of those who honor Him only with lips. - The mocker’s failure is not intellectual; it is spiritual. Until the heart turns, the mind remains closed. “but knowledge comes easily” - When the heart is right, understanding flows: “For the LORD gives wisdom; from His mouth come knowledge and understanding” (Proverbs 2:6). - Jesus rejoiced that the Father reveals truth to the humble (Matthew 11:25). - Psalm 119:130 says, “The unfolding of Your words gives light; it gives understanding to the simple.” - “Easily” does not mean effortlessly; it means without the inner resistance pride creates. “to the discerning” - The discerning person is teachable, God-fearing, willing to test all things by Scripture. - “Let the wise listen and gain instruction” (Proverbs 1:5). - Spiritual people “discern all things” because they have the mind of Christ (1 Corinthians 2:14-15). - Hebrews 5:14 links discernment to constant practice in God’s Word, and James 3:17 describes its fruit: “pure, peace-loving, considerate, submissive.” summary Proverbs 14:6 contrasts two heart postures. The mocker, driven by pride, hunts for wisdom yet remains empty-handed because God opposes the proud. The discerning, marked by humility and reverence, finds knowledge opening naturally, for God delights to guide the teachable. The verse invites us to renounce scoffing, cultivate a listening spirit, and trust that the Lord will make His wisdom plain to all who seek Him sincerely. |
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