United Commentaries

Pr.27.1

We should plan (24:27), but our plans succeed only when God so wills (16:1, 3, 33; Jas 4:13-16). Only fools think that they control the future.

Pr.27.2

The Hebrew word translated praise comes from the same root as “brag” in 27:1. Bragging (self-praise) is foolish.

Pr.27.3

Fools cause heavy . . . resentment by their foolish words and actions.

Pr.27.4

Anger can be dangerous but can be countered with a gentle answer (15:1). Jealousy is harder to resolve (6:34-35).

Pr.27.5

A rebuke improves life by correcting harmful behavior (13:1; 14:6). Hidden, unexpressed love has no value.

Pr.27.6

Wounds from a . . . friend are from a loving rebuke (27:5). They are better than flattery (many kisses) from an enemy who intends to harm rather than help.

Pr.27.7

Even the best teaching (honey) will be refused if offered at the wrong time. The key to real learning is the receptivity of the student.

Pr.27.8

A person who forsakes his family and strays from home will more likely find trouble than whatever he was seeking (e.g., Luke 15:11-16).

Pr.27.9

Nothing is more encouraging than heartfelt counsel from an intimate friend (see also 27:6).

Pr.27.10

In a crisis, one might need immediate assistance, so it is important to have friends close by and neighbors who can help.

Pr.27.11

Fairly or not, parents are evaluated by their children’s public behavior.

Pr.27.12

This proverb repeats 22:3.

Pr.27.13

This proverb repeats 20:16.

Pr.27.14

It is important to speak appropriately for the circumstances (cp. 15:23).

Pr.27.15

A quarrelsome wife: Cp. 19:13; 21:9, 19; 25:24.

Pr.27.17

iron sharpens iron: Wisdom comes from interaction, often critical, with a good friend (see 27:6, 9).

Pr.27.18

An employer values loyal workers who protect their employer’s interests. Wise employers give their workers incentives to be loyal, such as allowing them to eat the fruit (see Deut 25:4; 1 Cor 9:7-10; 1 Tim 5:17-18).

Pr.27.20

Death and Destruction: See study note on 15:11.

Human desire is never satisfied by money, power, or pleasure.

Pr.27.21

A person who avoids conceit in response to praise demonstrates purity of character (cp. 17:3).

Pr.27.22

Foolishness is deeply ingrained in the character of a fool.

Pr.27.23-27

Agricultural property can provide food and clothing from generation to generation; these resources require continuous labor and attention or, like riches, they disappear.