Proverbs 25: Group Study Handout

Overview

Proverbs Chapter 25 marks a collection of Solomon's proverbs, compiled during the reign of King Hezekiah of Judah. This chapter emphasizes wisdom in social conduct, particularly concerning relationships with leaders and neighbors. It begins by articulating the glory of God in concealing matters and the honor of kings to search them out, highlighting a theme of divine sovereignty and human responsibility. Central to the text is the prudence required in dealings with authority, portraying the nuanced nature of leadership. Critical is the guidance on how to handle disputes and the importance of restraint in speech, underscoring the value of humility and discernment.

Key verse

“It is the glory of God to conceal a thing, but the glory of kings is to search out a matter.”

Proverbs 25:2 (WEB)

Outline

1. Proverbs 25:1–2 Introduction of Solomon's Proverbs
2. Proverbs 25:3–5 Understanding Leadership
3. Proverbs 25:6–10 Caution in Social Standing
4. Proverbs 25:11–15 The Value of Words
5. Proverbs 25:16–20 Prudence in Conduct
6. Proverbs 25:21–24 Responses to Adversity
7. Proverbs 25:25–28 The State of the Heart

Discussion questions

1. In v2, what is said about the glory of God and the glory of kings?
2. What does the phrase 'a word fitly spoken' in v11 suggest about communication?
3. In v21, what does giving food to an enemy mean in the context of kindness?
4. The phrase 'a city that is broken down and without walls' in v28: what does this imply about a man's spirit?
5. When have you felt like giving 'cold water' to someone in need, as mentioned in v25?

Go deeper

Passages that echo Proverbs 25: Proverbs 15, Matthew 5, Proverbs 16.

Before next time: read Proverbs 26.