Proverbs 20: Group Study Handout

How to use: read Proverbs 20 aloud together, then take the questions in order. One page is enough for an evening.

Overview

Proverbs 20 highlights the value of integrity, wisdom, and diligence, providing practical guidance for righteous living. The chapter emphasizes the dangers of wine, indicating it can lead to mockery and strife, pulling individuals away from wisdom. It underscores the importance of fairness in business, warning against deceitful practices like using false weights or measures.

Key verse

“Counsel in the heart of man is like deep water; but a man of understanding will draw it out.”
Proverbs 20:5 (WEB)

Outline

Proverbs 20:1–3 The Dangers of Alcohol
Proverbs 20:4–7 Consequences of Laziness
Proverbs 20:8–14 Fairness and Integrity in Business
Proverbs 20:15–19 The Value of Wisdom and Discretion
Proverbs 20:20–30 The Distinction of Character

Discussion questions

In v1, what does wine do according to the text?
What does the phrase 'a snare to a man' in v25 suggest?
In v9, how does the question of purity relate to human nature?
What does v23's mention of 'differing weights' imply about business practices?
When have you felt tempted to 'pay back evil' as mentioned in v22?

Go deeper

Passages that echo Proverbs 20: Proverbs 16, Romans 12, Proverbs 24.

Before next time: read Proverbs 21.