DIRECT AND TO THE POINT
READING: PROVERBS 12:1-3
Sometimes biblical language is very direct. Statements are used which eliminate any doubt that undesirable behaviors are being identified. For example, John the Baptist called the Pharisees a “brood of vipers.” Jesus said they were faithless and perverse. He told them that harlots would enter the kingdom before they would. The verse above is every bit as pointed as the preceding statements. There is no political correctness to be found as it flat out says those who hate reproof are just plain stupid. Most of us would hesitate to say someone is stupid, but there is no such reluctance as that conclusion is offered in this scripture. It seems Solomon was being deliberate and direct in his intent to persuade or even shock the reader into being willing to accept correction. Surely no one wants to be so bluntly labeled in that way. Therefore, may the desire to avoid that experience motivate many to seek godly instruction. That’s a thought – about God’s Word.
RESPONSE
2. Can you think of another scripture that is direct in the same manner as those mentioned in this reading?
