Proverbs 23:1-11
Q.1. What do you make of the advice about accepting hospitality from others? – (Prov.23:1-3, 6-8)
The Scriptures make much of the importance of fellowship and hospitality (see Rom.12:9-13). The foundation of such fellowship is our oneness in Christ. However, here the writer shared insights into hospitality where such oneness does not exist. A ruler is someone who may easily have his own agenda and think himself to be more important than others. We should exercise caution in the presence of such a person (see Prov.23:1-3). Likewise, we should be cautious about sharing with a selfish person who may seem to be encouraging us to enjoy his bounty, but inwardly – his heart is not with you (Prov.23:7 c.f. Prov.23:6-8).
Q.2. Why is preoccupation with growing wealthy futile? Why is it unwise to take advantage of the defenseless? – (Prov.23:4-5, 10-11)
The first thing to observe about wealth, is how quickly it evaporates – 4 Do not weary yourself to gain wealth, cease from your consideration of it 5 When you set your eyes on it, it is gone … (Prov.23:4-5 c.f. Mt.6:19-21). Therefore, it is best to follow more lasting pursuits. The writer was even stronger in his conviction that we should not try to gain, at the expense of the defenseless (orphans). The reason is plain – For their Redeemer is strong; He will plead their case against you (Prov.23:11). To remove the ancient landmarks and disadvantage the poor, the needy, the widow, orphans, or the foreigner is futile, since we will invoke God’s opposition to such a venture.