Contempt, in the biblical context, refers to a feeling of disdain or scorn towards God, His commandments, or His people. It is often associated with pride and a rejection of divine authority. The Bible frequently warns against contempt, highlighting its destructive nature and the consequences it brings.

In the Old Testament, contempt is often directed towards God and His laws. In Numbers 15:31 , it is written, "Because he has despised the word of the LORD and broken His commandment, that person must be completely cut off; his guilt remains on him." This passage underscores the seriousness of holding God's word in contempt, equating it with rebellion and disobedience.

The Psalms also address the issue of contempt, particularly in the context of the righteous facing scorn from the wicked. Psalm 123:3-4 pleads, "Have mercy on us, O LORD, have mercy, for we have endured much contempt. We have endured much scorn from the arrogant, much contempt from the proud." Here, the psalmist seeks God's intervention against the contemptuous attitudes of the proud, highlighting the suffering it causes to the faithful.

In the New Testament, contempt is addressed in the teachings of Jesus and the apostles. Jesus warns against contemptuous attitudes in the Sermon on the Mount, where He equates anger and contempt with the sin of murder (Matthew 5:22): "But I tell you that anyone who is angry with his brother will be subject to judgment. Again, anyone who says to his brother, ‘Raca,’ will be subject to the Sanhedrin. But anyone who says, ‘You fool!’ will be subject to the fire of hell."

The apostle Paul also speaks against contempt within the Christian community. In Romans 14:10 , he writes, "Why, then, do you judge your brother? Or why do you belittle your brother? For we will all stand before God’s judgment seat." Paul emphasizes the importance of mutual respect and warns against looking down on fellow believers, as all are accountable to God.

Wisdom

Wisdom, in the biblical sense, is the ability to discern and apply divine truth in daily life. It is highly esteemed in Scripture and is often portrayed as a gift from God that leads to righteous living and a deeper understanding of His will.

The book of Proverbs is a primary source of biblical wisdom literature. Proverbs 9:10 states, "The fear of the LORD is the beginning of wisdom, and knowledge of the Holy One is understanding." This verse highlights the foundational role of reverence for God in acquiring true wisdom. Wisdom is not merely intellectual knowledge but is deeply rooted in a relationship with God and a commitment to His ways.

In the Old Testament, King Solomon is renowned for his wisdom, which he received as a divine gift. In 1 Kings 3:9 , Solomon prays, "Give Your servant, therefore, an understanding heart to judge Your people and to discern between good and evil. For who is able to govern this great people of Yours?" God grants Solomon's request, and his wisdom becomes legendary, attracting leaders from other nations to seek his counsel.

The New Testament continues to emphasize the value of wisdom, particularly in the teachings of Jesus and the apostles. James 1:5 encourages believers to seek wisdom from God: "Now if any of you lacks wisdom, he should ask God, who gives generously to all without finding fault, and it will be given to him." This promise assures believers that God is willing to provide wisdom to those who earnestly seek it.

The apostle Paul also speaks of wisdom in the context of spiritual maturity. In Colossians 1:9 , he writes, "For this reason, since the day we heard about you, we have not stopped praying for you and asking God to fill you with the knowledge of His will in all spiritual wisdom and understanding." Paul prays for the Colossians to be filled with wisdom, recognizing its importance in living a life that pleases God.

In summary, wisdom in the Bible is portrayed as a divine gift that enables believers to live in accordance with God's will. It is closely linked to the fear of the Lord and is essential for spiritual growth and discernment.