Proverbs 4: Group Study Handout

How to use: read Proverbs 4 aloud together, then take the questions in order. One page is enough for an evening.

Overview

Proverbs chapter 4 presents a father's earnest appeal to his children to embrace wisdom. The chapter is structured as an exhortation to pursue understanding and knowledge, equating these with a more moral and fulfilling life. The father shares his own experiences of being taught by his parent, emphasizing the necessity of gaining wisdom from a young age and holding it of greater value than material wealth.

Key verse

“Keep your heart with all diligence, for out of it is the wellspring of life.”
Proverbs 4:23 (WEB)

Outline

Proverbs 4:1–2 A Father's Instruction
Proverbs 4:3–4 Personal Experience
Proverbs 4:5–9 The Value of Wisdom
Proverbs 4:10–12 Guidance in Life
Proverbs 4:13–19 Choosing Paths
Proverbs 4:20–22 Attentiveness to Teachings
Proverbs 4:23–27 Guarding the Heart

Discussion questions

In v5, what is the father instructing his son to 'get'?
What does the father say about wisdom in v7?
In v12, why does the father say, 'your steps will not be hampered'?
In vv. 18-19, how is the path of the righteous contrasted with that of the wicked?
When have you faced a choice between 'the path of the wicked' and 'the way of righteousness'?

Go deeper

Passages that echo Proverbs 4: Luke 6, Matthew 12, Mark 7.

Before next time: read Proverbs 5.