Proverbs 15:10, Apostates Resent Reproofs

September 16, Proverbs 15:10

Matt. 12:31-37 “The world hates me, because I testify of it, that the works thereof are evil” (Jn. 7:7).

Apostates Resent Reproofs

This is a proverb where the first line amplifies the second. Modern versions, following the RV (1881), re-interpret the first line of this proverb, Correction is grievous unto him that forsaketh the way (KJV), to read, “Stern discipline awaits him who leaves the path” (NIV, NKJV). These versions all paraphrase here, and that changes the true thrust of its message! There is no word for “awaits” in the text, and then they make bad to modify grievous, hence, “stern discipline.” While Perowne accepts the RV reading, Kidner appreciates that the AV is “perhaps” preferable to RV, a cautious concession indeed! Scholars love to cover their backs!

1. Departure Demands Discipline: Those who forsake the way must be disciplined, corrected. If they will not yield to the pleadings of the Spirit, then more severe corrections must be used to rebuke them. It is true also that “stern discipline awaits him who leaves the path,” but this proverb is about those who refuse to be corrected now. Such a person usually takes offence if admonished on such points. He resents, even hates, any reproof, and often turns his anger against those who seek to deal faithfully with him. He refuses to confess he has forsaken the way, but is as “evangelical” as ever! If you, dear reader, are under the Lord’s chastening, let it not be a grievous or an unpleasant thing to you. Realise that “God punishes most when He does not punish at all” (Watson).

2. Discipline Develops Direction: The AV (KJV) reads, Correction is grievous to the one forsaking the way. To the wicked, discipline is always grievous, but the truly godly man recognises such reproof as God’s dealing with him to lead him back into the old path, the right way. Hear and follow the saintly Murray M’Cheyne who prayed, “If nothing else will do to sever me from my sins, Lord, send me more and trying calamities as shall awake me from my earthly slumbers.” Yes, when you keep your feet on the straight path, you are a strengthening influence to those weaker brothers and sisters (Heb. 12:13).

3. Direction Determines Destiny: Certainly, KJV is closest to the intent of the Hebrew text, which clearly implies that, when one begins to stray from the right way, it soon hardens into a wicked stubbornness. Unless this is corrected early, the offender will die in sin and rebellion! The path we follow leads inevitably to our destiny. Oh! see and be warned that those most needing correction, are most impatient of it, and most in danger without it. Refusing correction for sin is an unpardonable sin. Be reproved or be ruined!

“The character wherewith we sink into the grave at death is the very same character wherewith we shall reappear at the resurrection” (Thomas Chalmers).

Thought: “When the thorn is in the flesh, pray for grace in the heart.”

Prayer: Show me Thy love, O Lord; then do with me what Thou will.