What is the meaning of Proverbs 15:27? He who is greedy for unjust gain • “He who is greedy for unjust gain…” (Proverbs 15:27a) speaks of a heart that craves profit without regard to righteousness. • Scripture treats greed as idolatry (cf. Colossians 3:5) and warns that “the love of money is a root of all kinds of evil” (1 Timothy 6:10). • Unjust gain covers every shortcut—lying, cheating, exploiting, manipulating—that elevates personal profit over God-honoring conduct (cf. Proverbs 10:2; 28:8). brings trouble on his household • Sin seldom stays private; its ripple effects disturb everyone under the same roof. Achan’s hidden plunder cost his family their lives (Joshua 7:1–26). • When greed drives decisions, resources get squandered, trust erodes, and relational strife multiplies (cf. Proverbs 11:29, “He who troubles his own house will inherit the wind”). • The verse underscores personal responsibility: leading a family means shielding them from the fallout of unrighteous choices, not exposing them to it. but he who hates bribes • The contrast pivots from greedy pursuit to active rejection: “he who hates bribes.” Hatred here implies decisive, consistent refusal (cf. Exodus 18:21, describing leaders who “hate dishonest gain”). • Bribery perverts justice (Deuteronomy 16:19) and silences truth (Isaiah 1:23). To hate it is to love integrity, safeguarding both personal reputation and the community’s well-being. • Joseph fled Potiphar’s wife’s advances, illustrating how shunning an illicit offer can preserve one’s calling and testimony (Genesis 39:7–12). will live • “Will live” means more than survival; it promises flourishing under God’s favor. Righteous living aligns with the Lord’s life-giving order (Proverbs 3:1–2). • Psalm 15 portrays the one who “takes no bribe” as dwelling securely with God. Obedience produces spiritual vitality, freedom from guilt, and often tangible blessing (cf. Proverbs 11:19). • Eternally, rejecting corruption evidences a regenerate heart destined for everlasting life (John 5:24). summary Greed that grabs what is not rightfully earned drags an entire household into chaos, while a heart that loathes corrupt gain rests under God’s life-giving protection. Pursue honesty, refuse every shady shortcut, and enjoy the peace God promises to those who walk in integrity. |
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