"Stolen water is sweet, and bread eaten in secret is tasty!" “Stolen water is sweet,Folly’s invitation presents forbidden pleasure as superior to the honest provision of Wisdom. In a land where water was precious, stolen water pictured the thrill of taking what belongs to another. The immediate setting also recalls the warnings against adultery in Proverbs 5:15–20. Sin often appears desirable because it is prohibited, as Eve saw the forbidden fruit as good for food and desirable (Genesis 3:6), yet deceitful gain finally brings ruin (Proverbs 20:17). Pro 20:17 Food gained by fraud is sweet to a man,… and bread eaten in secret is tasty!” Secret eating suggests deeds concealed because they cannot endure the light. Folly promises private satisfaction, but secrecy reveals guilt, betrayal, and separation from God and neighbor. Those who love darkness avoid exposure because their works are evil (John 3:19–20). Her feast is counterfeit; its guests do not find life but descend to death (Proverbs 9:18). Christ alone gives the true bread that satisfies eternally (John 6:35). Jhn 3:19-20 And this is the verdict: The Light has come into the world…… Persons / Places / Events 1. SolomonTraditionally considered the author of Proverbs, Solomon was the son of King David and known for his wisdom. Proverbs is a collection of his wise sayings and teachings. 2. Lady Folly In Proverbs 9, Lady Folly is personified as a seductive figure who entices individuals away from wisdom and righteousness. She represents foolishness and sin. 3. The Simple This term refers to those who are naive or lack discernment. They are easily swayed by temptation and deception. 4. The House of Folly Symbolically, this is the place where foolishness and sin reside. It contrasts with the house of wisdom, which offers life and understanding. 5. The Path of Sin This is the metaphorical journey one takes when succumbing to temptation and folly, leading away from God's wisdom and righteousness. Teaching Points The Deceptive Allure of SinSin often appears attractive and desirable, much like "stolen water" and "bread eaten in secret." However, its sweetness is temporary and leads to destruction. The Importance of Discernment Believers must cultivate discernment to recognize and resist the seductive call of folly. This requires a deep understanding of God's Word and reliance on the Holy Spirit. The Consequences of Folly Engaging in sin may seem pleasurable at the moment, but it ultimately leads to spiritual death and separation from God. The Call to Wisdom Proverbs encourages us to seek wisdom, which leads to life and understanding. This involves making choices that align with God's will and righteousness. Accountability and Community Engaging in secretive sin often isolates individuals. Christians are called to live in community, holding each other accountable and encouraging one another in righteousness. Bible Study Questions 1. How does the allure of "stolen water" and "bread eaten in secret" manifest in today's society, and what are some practical ways to resist these temptations?2. In what ways can we cultivate discernment to recognize the deceptive nature of sin, as described in Proverbs 9:17? 3. How does the account of Eve's temptation in Genesis 3 relate to the message of Proverbs 9:17, and what lessons can we learn from it? 4. Reflect on a time when you faced a choice between wisdom and folly. What was the outcome, and how did it impact your spiritual journey? 5. How can Christian community and accountability help us avoid the path of folly and stay committed to the path of wisdom? Connections to Other Scriptures Genesis 3The temptation of Eve by the serpent parallels the allure of "stolen water" and "bread eaten in secret," highlighting the deceptive nature of sin. James 1:14-15 This passage discusses how desire leads to sin, and sin leads to death, echoing the consequences of following Lady Folly. Matthew 7:13-14 The narrow and wide gates illustrate the choice between wisdom and folly, life and destruction.
People SolomonPlaces JerusalemTopics Bread, Delicious, Drink, Eaten, Hidden, Pleasant, Pleasing, Secrecy, Secret, Stolen, Sweet, WatersDictionary of Bible Themes Proverbs 9:176182 ignorance, human situation Library The Temple of Wisdom(Preached at Wellington College, All Saints' Day, 1866.) PROVERBS ix. 1-5. Wisdom hath builded her house, she hath hewn out her seven pillars: she hath killed her beasts; she hath mingled her wine; she hath also furnished her table. She hath sent forth her maidens; she crieth upon the highest places of the city, Whoso is simple, let him turn in hither: and to him that wanteth understanding, she saith to him, Come, eat of my bread, and drink of the wine which I have mingled. This allegory has been … Charles Kingsley—Discipline and Other Sermons The Dryness of Preachers, and the Various Evils which Arise from their Failing to Teach Heart-Prayer --Exhortation to Pastors to Lead People Towards this Form Of Letter xxi (Circa A. D. 1128) to the Abbot of S. John at Chartres To Pastors and Teachers From his Entrance on the Ministry in 1815, to his Commission to Reside in Germany in 1820 The Authority and Utility of the Scriptures An Analysis of Augustin's Writings against the Donatists. The Gospel Feast Proverbs Links Proverbs 9:17 NIVProverbs 9:17 NLT Proverbs 9:17 ESV Proverbs 9:17 NASB Proverbs 9:17 KJV Proverbs 9:17 Commentaries Bible Hub |
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