A discerning son keeps the law, but a companion of gluttons disgraces his father. A discerning son keeps the law,Wisdom receives God’s instruction as the path of life. Israel’s law, given through Moses, governed worship, justice, family life, and personal conduct within the covenant community. Obedience revealed reverence for the Lord and protected a son from the ruin brought by sin. Proverbs consistently joins wisdom with the fear of the Lord, because sound judgment begins with submission to God’s authority. Jos 1:8 This Book of the Law must not depart from your mouth;… but a companion of gluttons disgraces his father. A son who chooses the fellowship of those ruled by appetite abandons self-control and brings shame upon his household. Proverbs 23:20–21 likewise warns against keeping company with drunkards and gluttonous eaters, whose excess leads to poverty and disgrace. In Israel’s family-centered society, a father’s honor was closely connected to the conduct of his children; Deuteronomy 21:20 names gluttony and drunkenness among the marks of a persistently rebellious son. Companionship shapes character, and those who reject God’s restraint eventually dishonor both their earthly family and the Lord who commands obedience. Pro 23:20-21 Do not join those who drink too much wine… Persons / Places / Events 1. Discerning SonRepresents an individual who is wise and prudent, making choices that align with God's commandments. 2. Companion of Gluttons Symbolizes those who indulge in excess and lack self-control, leading to shame and dishonor. 3. Father In this context, the father represents the family or community that is affected by the actions of the son. Teaching Points The Importance of ObedienceA discerning son keeps the law, demonstrating the value of obedience to God's commandments. This obedience is a reflection of wisdom and understanding. Influence of Companions The company we keep can greatly influence our behavior and reputation. Associating with those who indulge in excess can lead to disgrace and dishonor. Honor and Shame Our actions can bring either honor or shame to our family and community. Living a life that aligns with God's principles brings honor, while a life of excess and disobedience brings shame. Self-Control and Discipline The contrast between the discerning son and the companion of gluttons highlights the importance of self-control and discipline in living a life that pleases God. Impact on Family and Community Our choices not only affect us but also those around us. A life of wisdom and obedience can positively impact our family and community. Bible Study Questions 1. How does the concept of a "discerning son" in Proverbs 28:7 relate to the idea of wisdom in the book of Proverbs as a whole?2. In what ways can the company we keep influence our spiritual walk, and how can we ensure we are surrounding ourselves with wise companions? 3. Reflect on a time when your actions either brought honor or shame to your family or community. What did you learn from that experience? 4. How can we cultivate self-control and discipline in our lives to avoid the pitfalls of excess and indulgence? 5. What practical steps can we take to ensure that our lives reflect obedience to God's commandments and bring honor to our families and communities? Connections to Other Scriptures Proverbs 13:20This verse highlights the importance of choosing wise companions, as walking with the wise leads to wisdom, while associating with fools leads to harm. 1 Corinthians 15:33 Paul warns that bad company corrupts good character, reinforcing the idea that our associations can influence our behavior and reputation. Deuteronomy 21:18-21 This passage discusses the consequences of a rebellious son, emphasizing the importance of obedience and the impact of one's actions on the family.
People SolomonPlaces JerusalemTopics Blush, Bringeth, Cause, Companion, Company, Discerning, Disgraces, Feasters, Friend, Gluttonous, Gluttons, Humiliates, Intelligent, Keepeth, Keeping, Keeps, Law, Observeth, Profligates, Puts, Riotous, Shame, Shames, Shameth, Teaching, Understanding, WiseDictionary of Bible Themes Proverbs 28:7 5668 children, responsibilities to parents Library Two Coverings and Two ConsequencesA Sermon (No. 3500) by C. H. Spurgeon, April 4th, 1875, at the Metropolitan Tabernacle, Newington. Published February 24th, 1916. "He that covereth his sins shall not prosper."--Proverbs 28:13. "Thou Hast covered all their sins."--Psalm 85:2. In these two texts we have man's covering, which is worthless and culpable, and God's covering, which is profitable and worthy of all acceptation. No sooner had man disobeyed his Maker's will in the garden of Eden than he discovered to his surprise and dismay … C.H. Spurgeon—Sermons on Proverbs The Right Kind of Fear He Does Battle for the Faith; He Restores Peace among those who were at Variance; He Takes in Hand to Build a Stone Church. "If we Confess Our Sins, He is Faithful and Just to Forgive us Our Sins", "When Solomon was Old. " Letter xxiv (Circa A. D. 1126) to Oger, Regular Canon Epistle xxv. To Gregoria. "And the Life. " How Christ is the Life. "And There is None that Calleth Upon Thy Name, that Stirreth up Himself to Take Hold on Thee," How to be Admonished are those who Give Away what is their Own, and those who Seize what Belongs to Others. The Authority and Utility of the Scriptures Adoption Proverbs Links Proverbs 28:7 NIVProverbs 28:7 NLT Proverbs 28:7 ESV Proverbs 28:7 NASB Proverbs 28:7 KJV Proverbs 28:7 Commentaries Bible Hub |



