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Parenting by the Book

Proverbs   Study
Study 70

STUDY 70

Text: Proverbs 10
27 October 2002

Dear Parents,

REMEMBERING BASIC HERMENEUTICAL PRINCIPLES FOR THE INTERPRETING OF SCRIPTURES
There are a number of principles that we must always bear in mind when we read the Book of Proverbs. Let’s note two principles as we study Proverbs 10:3-5.

1. The Harmony of Scriptures

It is important that we bear this thought in mind! The Scriptures form an absolutely harmonious whole. No interpretation must cause one portion of Scripture to clash with another. If this happens, then somehow there is a wrong step somewhere.

2. The Principle of Context

Most times, the principle of context is ignored. When that happens, the interpretation of a text would cause a clash with another portion of Scripture. A careful study of the context would probably go a long way to resolve the problem(s).

A “PROMISE” FROM THE LORD’S WORD
We read what seems to be a promise from the Book of Proverbs.

The LORD will not allow the righteous soul to famish,
But He casts away the desire of the wicked.

Proverbs 10:3

At first reading, it would appear that if one worked on being righteous, then surely God would supply all his needs, and He would not allow the righteous to be in want for food.

However, in order to understand the meaning of this text, we need to read further. Let us consider the next two verses.

He who has a slack hand becomes poor,
But the hand of the diligent makes rich.
He who gathers in summer is a wise son;
He who sleeps in harvest is a son who causes shame.

Proverbs 10:4-5

These two verses help us understand that the Lord would not only bless the person who is supposed to be righteous. The so-called righteous person must also be a diligent person. If the so-called righteous person “deals with a slack hand”, then he will become poor, even if he thinks he is righteous!

LEARN HOW TO VALIDATE YOUR INTERPRETATION!
It takes skill and great carefulness to learn how to validate your interpretation. It is a worthwhile skill to acquire! Practise your hermeneutical skills prayerfully.

Prayerfully,
Pastor Charlie

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