The tongue of the wise commends knowledge, but the mouth of the fool spouts folly. The tongue of the wise commends knowledge,Wise speech rightly presents truth and understanding. In Israel’s oral culture, words carried great weight in teaching, judgment, worship, and family life. Wisdom begins with reverence for God and shapes both what a person says and how it is said. Such speech strengthens others, preserves what is true, and reflects a heart governed by understanding. Pro 10:13 Wisdom is found on the lips of the discerning,… but the mouth of the fool spouts folly. A fool rejects God’s instruction and speaks without restraint or discernment. His words pour out recklessly, revealing a corrupt character and often bringing harm, conflict, and confusion. The contrast shows that speech is not neutral: it exposes whether a person is guided by godly wisdom or by foolish rebellion. Pro 12:23 A shrewd man keeps his knowledge to himself,… Persons / Places / Events 1. SolomonTraditionally regarded as the author of Proverbs, Solomon was the son of King David and known for his wisdom. His proverbs are a collection of wise sayings meant to instruct and guide. 2. The Wise In the context of Proverbs, the wise are those who fear the Lord and live according to His commandments. They are characterized by their understanding and prudent speech. 3. The Fool Biblically, a fool is someone who rejects wisdom and instruction, often characterized by reckless and thoughtless behavior. 4. The Tongue Represents speech and communication. In Proverbs, the tongue is often highlighted as a powerful tool that can be used for good or evil. 5. Knowledge and Folly Knowledge in Proverbs is often associated with the fear of the Lord and understanding, while folly is linked to ignorance and moral deficiency. Teaching Points The Power of SpeechOur words have the power to build up or tear down. As believers, we are called to use our speech to commend knowledge and truth. Wisdom in Communication Wise communication involves not just what we say, but how and when we say it. It requires discernment and a heart aligned with God's wisdom. Guarding Against Folly We must be vigilant to avoid foolish talk, which can lead to misunderstanding and conflict. This requires self-control and a commitment to truth. The Source of Wisdom True wisdom comes from a relationship with God. As we grow in our knowledge of Him, our speech should reflect His character and truth. Reflecting Christ in Our Words As followers of Christ, our words should reflect His love and truth, serving as a testimony to those around us. Bible Study Questions 1. How does the concept of the "tongue of the wise" in Proverbs 15:2 challenge you in your daily communication?2. In what ways can you actively seek to commend knowledge in your conversations with others? 3. Reflect on a time when you witnessed the destructive power of foolish speech. What lessons can you draw from that experience? 4. How can you cultivate a heart of wisdom that naturally leads to wise speech, according to biblical principles? 5. Consider James 3:5-6 and Proverbs 15:2. How do these passages together inform your understanding of the responsibility that comes with the power of speech? Connections to Other Scriptures James 3:5-6This passage discusses the power of the tongue, comparing it to a small spark that can set a great forest on fire, emphasizing the potential for both good and harm in our speech. Proverbs 10:19 This verse warns that when words are many, sin is not absent, but he who holds his tongue is wise, reinforcing the idea of prudent speech. Ecclesiastes 10:12-14 These verses contrast the words of the wise and the fool, similar to Proverbs 15:2, highlighting the destructive nature of foolish talk.
People Abaddon, SolomonPlaces JerusalemTopics Acceptable, Aright, Commends, Dispenses, Dropping, Folly, Fool, Foolish, Foolishness, Fools, Gush, Gushes, Makes, Maketh, Mouth, Mouths, Pour, Poureth, Spouts, Stream, Tongue, Useth, Uttereth, WiseDictionary of Bible Themes Proverbs 15:2 5262 commendation Library God, the All-Seeing OneA sermon (No. 177) delivered on Sabbath morning, February 14, 1858 At The Music Hall, Royal Surrey Gardens by C. H. Spurgeon. "Hell and destruction are before the Lord: how much more then the hearts of the children of men?" -- Proverbs 15:11. You have often smiled at the ignorance of heathens who bow themselves before gods of wood and stone. You have quoted the words of Scripture and you have said, "Eyes have they, but they see not; ears have they, but they hear not." You have therefore argued that … C.H. Spurgeon—Sermons on Proverbs The Hedge of Thorns and the Plain Way God, the All-Seeing One How the Humble and the Haughty are to be Admonished. And He had Also this Favour Granted Him. ... Epistle cxxii. To Rechared, King of the visigoths . Contention Over the Man Born Blind. "And the Life. " How Christ is the Life. "Now the End of the Commandment," &C. "Thou Shall Keep Him in Perfect Peace, Whose Mind is Stayed on Thee, Because He Trusteth in Thee. " The Authority and Utility of the Scriptures An Exposition on the First Ten Chapters of Genesis, and Part of the Eleventh I Will Pray with the Spirit and with the Understanding Also- How Christ is the Way in General, "I am the Way. " Proverbs Links Proverbs 15:2 NIVProverbs 15:2 NLT Proverbs 15:2 ESV Proverbs 15:2 NASB Proverbs 15:2 KJV Proverbs 15:2 Commentaries Bible Hub |
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