Proverbs 23:9 says not to speak to a fool; does this conflict with the New Testament’s call to share truth with everyone?

I. Understanding the Question

Proverbs 23:9 states, “Do not speak to a fool, for he will despise the wisdom of your words.” At first glance, this verse might seem to caution believers against sharing wisdom or truth with those who scoff at it. Meanwhile, the New Testament consistently encourages proclaiming truth to all (cf. Matthew 28:19; Mark 16:15; Acts 1:8). This raises the question: Is this proverb in conflict with the New Testament’s call to share the truth of Christ with everyone?

II. The Definition of “Fool” in Proverbs

1. Hebrew Connotations

The Hebrew Bible uses different terms that get translated into English as “fool.” Often, these words carry the connotation of someone persistently set against wisdom, not merely someone ignorant. Throughout the book of Proverbs, the “fool” is one who consistently despises instruction and correction (Proverbs 1:22; 15:5).

2. Moral and Spiritual Dimension

Far from just lacking knowledge, the fool in Proverbs exhibits a moral opposition to godly counsel. According to Proverbs 1:7, “The fear of the LORD is the beginning of knowledge, but fools despise wisdom and discipline.” The fool’s stance is not merely intellectual but also volitional: a refusal to bow to divine instruction.

3. Context from Ancient Manuscripts

Ancient manuscript fragments such as those found among the Dead Sea Scrolls confirm the consistency of the text of Proverbs. These sources reflect the original intent: “fool” is someone committed to scorning godly wisdom. This detail helps readers today understand that Proverbs 23:9 applies to individuals who mock or reject truth outright, rather than anyone who simply lacks understanding.

III. The Literary and Cultural Context of Wisdom Literature

1. Purpose of Proverbs

The book of Proverbs is part of the Wisdom Literature of the Old Testament. It employs short, memorable sayings that guide readers toward righteous conduct. Many of these sayings are practical exhortations about selective speech, diligent work, and moral discernment.

2. Selective Speech

In its cultural setting, a proverb like Proverbs 23:9 warns against repeatedly engaging someone who has demonstrated a hardened, contemptuous attitude. The emphasis is on safeguarding the speaker from fruitless arguments and protecting the sanctity of wisdom.

3. Comparative Parallel: “Do Not Cast Pearls Before Swine”

A similar concept can be found in Matthew 7:6: “Do not give dogs what is holy; do not throw your pearls before swine, lest they trample them under their feet, and then turn and tear you to pieces.” Both passages deal with discernment—recognizing when continued discussion will be unproductive or even harmful.

IV. The New Testament Mandate to Share Truth

1. Universal Commission

Jesus’s Great Commission (Matthew 28:19; Mark 16:15) underscores a universal scope in proclaiming the gospel: all nations, all peoples. Believers are told to “go into all the world and preach the gospel to every creature.” This broad mandate ensures no person or group is excluded from hearing the message initially.

2. Responsibility to Provide an Answer

In 1 Peter 3:15, the church is called to “always be prepared to give a defense to everyone who asks you the reason for the hope that is in you.” This verse emphasizes a readiness and willingness to share truth with all, yet it adds “with gentleness and respect,” hinting at the importance of sensitivity in delivery.

3. When to Withdraw

The New Testament also speaks of moments when continuing to engage in fruitless debates with certain individuals can become counterproductive. Titus 3:10–11 advises believers to “reject a divisive person after a first and second admonition,” indicating that there is a boundary when attempts at correction continually fail.

V. Harmonizing the Two Teachings

1. Initial Offer vs. Prolonged Debate

The Bible encourages sharing truth universally. Proverbs 23:9 does not forbid believers from offering wisdom or the gospel; rather, it warns against continuous debate with those who have established themselves as obstinate mockers. The synergy in Scripture is that believers should indeed share the good news with everyone, but also recognize the point at which continued conversation is futile.

2. Discernment and Stewardship of Time

Believers are called to use time, resources, and words wisely (Ephesians 5:15–16). Proverbs 23:9 fits into this larger biblical theme of discernment. After faithfully presenting truth, if someone steadfastly scorns it, Scripture grants freedom to move on.

3. Respecting Human Freedom

Proverbs 23:9 aligns with the recognition that some individuals freely choose to reject wisdom. The New Testament acknowledges this freedom (John 3:19–20) and advises disciples to “shake the dust off your feet” (Luke 9:5) when people reject the message. Thus, proper respect is given both to God’s truth and to a person’s right to respond.

VI. Practical Application

1. Engage Responsibly

Believers should kindly and clearly present the gospel or biblical wisdom to any willing listener. This includes answering sincere questions and helping those seeking truth.

2. Recognize Resistance

When an individual consistently mocks or ridicules the truth—exhibiting a “foolish” stance in the Proverbs sense—extended debate may not be profitable. Scripture suggests it might be better to invest time elsewhere. This approach does not deny evangelism but refines its execution.

3. Exercise Compassion and Prayer

Even when disengaging from fruitless arguments, prayer remains crucial. Loving intercession for those who have shown contempt can, by God’s grace, soften hearts down the road.

VII. Conclusion

Proverbs 23:9 enjoins discernment in speaking with someone who persistently mocks godly wisdom. Rather than contradicting the New Testament’s call to spread truth, it complements it by counseling believers to recognize when further words may be wasted. The collective testimony of Scripture therefore teaches that the gospel is for all, yet believers are not obligated to continually cast truth before those resolutely committed to scorn. This balance of proclaiming truth and exercising discernment preserves the integrity of the message and respects each person’s responsibility for their response.