The Continuing Relevance of Proverbs
The Scriptures call for us to integrate Proverbs into our daily lives. Therefore, this book should have a continuing relevance to us. Its sayings should have a direct influence on us. There are four reasons why Proverbs should have this continuing relevance. First, by their very nature, proverbs express eternal truths that are applicable to daily life. Though their expression of truth is historically conditioned by political and cultural changes; nevertheless, the truth they express is unchanging.
Second, the book’s truthfulness is certified by the Ruach Ha’Kodesh’s inclusion in the TaNaKh. The early rabbis and church fathers, synagogue and Church, have universally recognized Proverbs as a part of the Bible. Inspired by ADONAI, it, too, is profitable for teaching, rebuking, correcting, and training for righteousness, so that the people of God may be equipped for every good work (Second Timothy 3:16-17).
Third, the apostles repeatedly apply the book to the Church. The editors of The Greek New Testament sponsored by the United Bible Societies list about 60 citations of direct quotations, definite allusions, and literary parallels of Proverbs in the B’rit Chadashah. Peter uses Proverbs 26:11 as a proverb with reference to false teachers: Of them the proverbs are true: A dog returns to its vomit and a sow that is washed goes back to her wallowing in the mud (2 Peter 2:22). The apostles generally use Proverbs to teach the Church how to lead godly lives. Here are some well-known examples. Give generously according to your ability (Proverbs 3:7 and 2 Cor 8:12). Live humbly before ADONAI and people because God opposes the proud, but gives grace to the humble (Proverbs 3:34; James 4:5; 1 Peter 5:5). Fear ADONAI and the king (Proverbs 24:21 and 1 Peter 2:17). Level the path for your feet, and all your ways will be sure (Proverbs 4:26 and Hebrews 12:13). If your enemy is hungry, feed him (Proverbs 25:21-22 and Romans 12:20).
Fourth, the writer to the Hebrews understands the father’s lecture to his son in 3:11-12 as being addressed to the Church: And have you forgotten the encouraging words God spoke to you as his children? He said: My child, don’t make light of the LORD’s discipline, and don’t give up when He corrects you. For ADONAI disciplines those He loves, and He punishes each one He accepts as His child (Hebrews 12:5-6).7
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