What is the meaning of Proverbs 22:10? Drive out the mocker “Drive out the mocker...” (Proverbs 22:10a) • A “mocker” is someone who scoffs at wisdom, authority, and holiness. Proverbs 21:24 paints him as “Proud, Arrogant, and Insolent.” • God’s Word consistently warns about the corrosive influence of such people—see Proverbs 9:7-8 and 1 Corinthians 15:33, “Bad company corrupts good character.” • Driving out is decisive action, not passive tolerance; it mirrors Jesus’ instruction in Matthew 18:15-17 to remove unrepentant offenders for the good of the body. Conflict will depart “...and conflict will depart;” (Proverbs 22:10b) • The presence of a mocker stirs continual strife. Proverbs 26:20 agrees: “Without wood, a fire goes out; without a gossip, a conflict ceases.” • Removing the agitator allows peace to return. James 3:16 notes, “For where jealousy and selfish ambition exist, there will be disorder,” implying the opposite is true when they are removed. • This is not about silencing honest disagreement but eliminating destructive, contempt-filled attitudes that poison relationships. Even quarreling and insults will cease “...even quarreling and insults will cease.” (Proverbs 22:10c) • The ripple effect is dramatic—arguments and abusive speech dry up because their chief instigator is gone. Compare Titus 3:10, “Reject a divisive person after a first and second admonition,” and 2 Timothy 2:24, which urges God’s servant to “not be quarrelsome.” • Ephesians 4:31 commands, “Let all bitterness and wrath and anger and clamor and slander be removed from you,” echoing the promise that relational health follows decisive discipline. • The verse highlights the protective role of godly leadership: guarding the fellowship by addressing sin preserves unity and joy. summary Proverbs 22:10 teaches that a single unrepentant mocker can fuel widespread turmoil, but firm, loving removal of that influence restores peace, silences strife, and safeguards the community’s harmony. |
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