The concept of "The Company of the Wise" in the Bible refers to those individuals who possess and exhibit wisdom, a highly esteemed virtue in biblical literature. Wisdom, in the biblical sense, is not merely intellectual knowledge but a deep, spiritual understanding and the ability to live in accordance with God's will. The Company of the Wise is often contrasted with the foolish, who reject divine instruction and live according to their own understanding.

Old Testament Context

In the Old Testament, wisdom is frequently associated with the fear of the Lord. Proverbs 9:10 states, "The fear of the LORD is the beginning of wisdom, and knowledge of the Holy One is understanding." The Company of the Wise, therefore, consists of those who revere God and seek to align their lives with His commandments. The Book of Proverbs is replete with references to wisdom and the wise, offering practical guidance for righteous living. Proverbs 13:20 advises, "Walk with the wise and become wise, for a companion of fools suffers harm."

The wisdom literature, including Proverbs, Ecclesiastes, and Job, often personifies wisdom as a woman calling out to those who will listen (Proverbs 1:20-33). This personification underscores the accessibility of wisdom to those who earnestly seek it. The wise are depicted as those who heed this call and apply its principles to their lives.

New Testament Context

In the New Testament, wisdom continues to be a valued trait, with Jesus Christ Himself being described as the embodiment of divine wisdom. Colossians 2:3 declares, "In whom are hidden all the treasures of wisdom and knowledge." The Company of the Wise, in the New Testament context, includes those who recognize and follow Christ, acknowledging Him as the source of true wisdom.

The Apostle Paul frequently contrasts worldly wisdom with the wisdom of God. In 1 Corinthians 1:25 , he writes, "For the foolishness of God is wiser than man's wisdom, and the weakness of God is stronger than man's strength." The wise, therefore, are those who understand and accept the paradoxical nature of God's wisdom, which often defies human logic and expectations.

Characteristics of the Wise

The Company of the Wise is characterized by several key attributes:

1. Fear of the Lord: As mentioned, the fear of the Lord is foundational to wisdom. This reverence for God leads to a life of obedience and humility.

2. Discernment: The wise possess the ability to discern right from wrong and make decisions that align with God's will. Proverbs 14:8 states, "The wisdom of the prudent is to discern his way, but the folly of fools deceives them."

3. Teachability: The wise are open to instruction and correction. Proverbs 9:9 encourages, "Instruct a wise man, and he will be wiser still; teach a righteous man, and he will increase his learning."

4. Righteous Living: Wisdom is demonstrated through righteous actions and a life that reflects God's character. James 3:13 asks, "Who is wise and understanding among you? Let him show it by his good conduct, by deeds done in the humility that comes from wisdom."

5. Peace and Peacemaking: The wise are often associated with peace and the ability to foster harmony. James 3:17 describes wisdom from above as "first pure, then peaceable, gentle, accommodating, full of mercy and good fruit, impartial, and sincere."

The Role of the Wise in the Community

The Company of the Wise plays a crucial role in guiding and instructing others within the community of faith. They are often sought after for counsel and leadership, as their lives exemplify the principles of God's kingdom. In the early church, leaders were expected to possess wisdom to effectively shepherd the flock and address challenges (Acts 6:3).

In summary, The Company of the Wise in the Bible represents those who live in accordance with God's wisdom, characterized by reverence for the Lord, discernment, teachability, righteous living, and peacemaking. They serve as examples and guides within the community of believers, pointing others toward a life that honors God.