Proverbs 3:33 The curse of the LORD is in the house of the wicked: but he blesses the habitation of the just.… I. THE DIFFERENCE OF CHARACTER. The doctrine of the corruption of human nature should always be viewed in connection with the redemption of the world by the sacrifice of the death of Christ. As this redemption extends to all mankind, all are consequently placed in a state of trial. And this leads to the difference of character mentioned in the text. Some receive and improve the grace that is offered to them; others refuse and oppose it. Hence all the inhabitants of the world are divided into two distinct classes of character. By the "wicked" we are to understand all that vast multitude who take this world for their portion. The "house of the wicked" means every family where the love and fear of God are not the ruling principles. The "just" means one who accepts and improves the grace offered him in the gospel; whose religion is seated in the heart and is displayed in the life. A just person is governed by a principle of love to God and of love to man. The "habitation of the just" means a family where religion is the principal thing. The members of such a family act uprightly, according to their different stations. II. THE DIFFERENT STATES OF THOSE TO WHOM THESE CHARACTERS SEVERALLY BELONG. 1. The curse of the wicked. They are not, however, always in an afflicted state. The expression means that, whatever their outward circumstances, God does not look favourably upon them. When God's blessing is withdrawn nothing but curse remains. 2. The blessing of the just. It lies in the continual favour, protection, and presence of God. Not necessarily in outward circumstances. "All things work together for their good."Observe — 1. That the characters and states of mankind have been always the same in every age of the world, and they will continue to be so till time shall cease. 2. That the difference of character necessarily leads to a difference of state. (J. S. Pratt, B. C. L.) Parallel Verses KJV: The curse of the LORD is in the house of the wicked: but he blesseth the habitation of the just.WEB: Yahweh's curse is in the house of the wicked, but he blesses the habitation of the righteous. |
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