The concept of counsel holds significant importance throughout the Bible, serving as a guiding principle for decision-making, leadership, and spiritual growth. The influence of counsel is evident in both the Old and New Testaments, where it is portrayed as a means of obtaining wisdom, understanding, and direction from God and others.

Old Testament Insights

In the Old Testament, the value of wise counsel is frequently emphasized. Proverbs, a book dedicated to imparting wisdom, repeatedly underscores the necessity of seeking and heeding good advice. Proverbs 11:14 states, "For lack of guidance, a nation falls, but with many counselors there is deliverance." This verse highlights the collective wisdom that comes from multiple advisors, suggesting that diverse perspectives can lead to successful outcomes.

The account of Rehoboam, Solomon's son, in 1 Kings 12, serves as a cautionary tale about the influence of counsel. Rehoboam rejected the advice of the elders who had served his father and instead followed the counsel of his peers, leading to the division of the kingdom. This narrative illustrates the potential consequences of ignoring seasoned and wise counsel in favor of inexperienced or self-serving advice.

New Testament Perspectives

In the New Testament, the role of counsel is also significant, particularly in the context of the early Church. The apostles and early Christians often sought guidance from one another and from the Holy Spirit. Acts 15 describes the Jerusalem Council, where the apostles and elders gathered to discuss and resolve a doctrinal issue. This event underscores the importance of collective discernment and the influence of godly counsel in maintaining unity and truth within the Church.

The Apostle Paul frequently advised believers to seek wisdom and understanding. In Ephesians 1:17 , he prays, "that the God of our Lord Jesus Christ, the glorious Father, may give you a spirit of wisdom and revelation in your knowledge of Him." This prayer reflects the belief that divine counsel, imparted through the Holy Spirit, is essential for spiritual growth and maturity.

The Role of the Holy Spirit

The Holy Spirit is portrayed as the ultimate Counselor in the New Testament. Jesus refers to the Holy Spirit as the "Helper" or "Counselor" in John 14:26 : "But the Advocate, the Holy Spirit, whom the Father will send in My name, will teach you all things and will remind you of everything I have told you." The Holy Spirit's role as a divine counselor emphasizes the importance of seeking God's guidance in all aspects of life.

Practical Application

The influence of counsel in the Bible encourages believers to seek wisdom from both human and divine sources. It advocates for humility in recognizing the need for guidance and discernment in choosing advisors. The Scriptures suggest that wise counsel leads to stability, success, and spiritual growth, while ignoring it can result in folly and failure.

In summary, the Bible presents counsel as a vital component of a faithful life, urging believers to seek and heed advice that aligns with God's will and wisdom.