What is the meaning of Proverbs 1:15? My son Solomon addresses the listener with warmth and authority: “My son.” • This phrase reminds us that wisdom is passed down in relationship, just as Deuteronomy 6:6-7 calls parents to impress God’s words on their children. • The personal tone underscores accountability; Luke 12:48 teaches that the one who is given much is required to respond. • Because God speaks through inspired Scripture (2 Timothy 3:16), the appeal carries divine weight, not mere parental advice. • The family setting also hints at belonging. As Galatians 3:26 affirms, we are God’s children through faith, so His counsel is for our good, not our restriction. Do not walk the road with them “Do not walk” marks a decisive command. • Walking pictures steady, habitual movement. Psalm 1:1 warns against walking in the counsel of the wicked; Ephesians 5:8-11 urges believers to “walk as children of light.” • “The road” speaks of a chosen direction. Proverbs 4:14-15 repeats this theme: do not enter the path of the wicked; avoid it, turn from it, pass on. • “With them” identifies companions who entice to sin (Proverbs 1:10-14). First Corinthians 15:33 states, “Bad company corrupts good character.” Practical application: – Evaluate the routines you share with others—media, conversations, business dealings. – If a road leads to compromise, step off before momentum builds, just as Joseph fled Potiphar’s house in Genesis 39:12. Or set foot upon their path The second line tightens the restriction: don’t even place a foot on that path. • Sin often begins with a single step; James 1:14-15 traces temptation to conception and birth of sin. • God’s wisdom promotes zero tolerance for dabbling. Romans 13:14 counsels believers to “make no provision for the flesh.” • The path of sinners is progressive; Proverbs 4:18-19 contrasts the righteous path that grows brighter with the wicked path that grows darker. Guardrails to keep feet off the wrong path: – Fill the mind with Scripture (Psalm 119:11). – Seek companions who fear the Lord (Proverbs 13:20). – Keep short accounts with God through immediate confession (1 John 1:9). summary Proverbs 1:15 calls the child of God to deliberate separation from those who entice to evil. The verse moves from affectionate address (“My son”) to a clear prohibition (“do not walk”) and finally to an even stricter caution (“or set foot”). Together, these lines urge us to reject any partnership or first step toward sin, choosing instead the path of wisdom that leads to life and blessing. |