What is the meaning of Proverbs 15:12? A mocker does not love The verse opens by identifying the heart-problem: the scoffer lacks love. • A mocker (Proverbs 21:24) is driven by pride; he delights in scorning (Proverbs 1:22). • Because love for God’s truth is missing, he reacts with hostility when that truth confronts him (Proverbs 9:7–8). • Psalm 1:1 warns against joining such company; their contempt for righteousness is contagious. • Without love, even the most gracious correction sounds like an attack, so the mocker hardens his heart (Romans 2:5). to be reproved Reproof is God’s chosen tool for growth, yet the scoffer resists it. • Scripture calls reproof “life-giving” (Proverbs 15:31–32). • “Whoever loves discipline loves knowledge, but he who hates correction is stupid” (Proverbs 12:1). • The Lord Himself disciplines those He loves (Hebrews 12:5–6; Revelation 3:19). • Benefits of accepting reproof: – Course-correction before consequences grow (Proverbs 29:1) – Deeper understanding of God’s character (Psalm 119:67) – Protection from self-deception (Jeremiah 17:9) nor will he consult Refusal grows into isolation; the mocker won’t even ask for help. • “A fool takes no pleasure in understanding, but only in expressing his opinion” (Proverbs 18:2). • Pride convinces him he already knows enough (Proverbs 26:12). • God designed counsel as a safeguard—“For lack of guidance a nation falls, but with many counselors there is victory” (Proverbs 11:14). • Obstacles that keep him from seeking counsel: – Fear of exposure (John 3:20) – Desire to appear competent (Proverbs 16:18) – Resentment toward authority (Isaiah 30:1) the wise The very people who could help are the ones he avoids. • “He who walks with the wise will become wise” (Proverbs 13:20). The mocker forfeits this promise. • Wise counselors anchor their advice in God’s Word (Psalm 119:24) and pray for insight (James 1:5). • Listening to them brings: – Stability in decision-making (Proverbs 24:6) – Humility before God (Proverbs 3:7) – Fellowship that sharpens character (Proverbs 27:17) summary Proverbs 15:12 paints a sober picture: the scoffer’s pride blocks both correction and counsel. Rejecting reproof, he rejects love; refusing to consult the wise, he rejects wisdom itself. Scripture’s call is clear—embrace loving rebuke, seek godly counsel, and let the Lord use both to shape a humble, teachable heart. |
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