Righteousness Is Better than Wickedness

Rev. Joel Haak, pastor at Trinity Lutheran Church in Rochester, MN, joins host Rev. Timothy Appel to study Proverbs 10:1-32. Solomon pivots from his addresses to his sons and poems concerning wisdom, but he never leaves that context behind. Each of the individual sayings in the bulk of the book of Proverbs must be understood in light of the fact that true wisdom begins with the fear of the LORD. That connection is immediately apparent as Solomon speaks of a wise son, one who has received the faith that has been taught. That faith makes itself apparent in this life right now; Solomon particularly addresses the matter of diligent work and faithful use of the tongue in this section. There are blessings received right now by the righteous who live according to the wisdom that God gives. At the same time, the final fulfillment comes in the resurrection, when God delivers to us eternal life and security in the righteousness that is ours by faith in Christ. “Wisdom and Instruction” is a mini-series on Sharper Iron that goes through the book of Proverbs. Although Proverbs is perhaps best known for its short sayings full of practical advice, the one true God has so much more in this book of wisdom. True wisdom begins with the fear of the LORD. Christians walk His way of righteousness rather than the way of wickedness because we trust that all good gifts come to us through His Son Jesus Christ, who is His wisdom made flesh for our salvation.