TEXT: Proverbs 8:1-36
In Proverbs 8 wisdom is once again personified as a woman (Just like Chapter 1). But instead of strong warnings against rejecting her, Lady Wisdom here draws the reader in with the rich rewards of pursuing wisdom. The pursuit of God, the source of all wisdom and blessing, is not a dry or lifeless endeavor. The blessing of wisdom is far more valuable than all the riches this world has to offer. Proverbs 8 serves to stir our affections for God and all he has to offer those who seek wisdom in him.
DISCUSSION QUESTIONS
HEAD: Questions aimed at our minds to help us understand God’s word.
This is the second time wisdom has been personified as a woman calling out to others. Compare and contrast Proverbs 8 with 1:20-33. What are the similarities? What are the differences? Why is this significant?
Read verses 1-3. As you consider the rhetorical question in Verse 1 and the imagery of verses 2-3, what do you think Lady Wisdom is teaching us about the accessibility of wisdom?
HEART: Questions aimed at our affections to help us love God.
Read verses 6-11 and compare Lady Wisdom’s call to the alluring temptress of Proverbs 7:10-23. What is Proverbs teaching us about the difference between the allurement of sin and the attractiveness of righteousness? What’s the result of each of these pursuits?
Everyone knows wisdom is valuable. But Proverbs 8 makes the bold claim that wisdom is more valuable than all the riches this world has to offer. (v.10-21). Do you actually believe this?
HANDS: Questions aimed at our hands to help us live for God (Personally, Communally, and Missionally).
There are many competing “treasures” that we face in our pursuit of wisdom. What are some competing treasures in your life that drown out the call of wisdom? (Read 1 John 2:15–17 for some helpful biblical categories).
Since the fear of the LORD is hatred of evil (v.13), What practical steps will you take to fight against these competing treasures in your everyday life?
DIG DEEPER
Read John 1:1–3; 1 Corinthians 1:18–31; Colossians 1:16–17; and Hebrews 1:3, 10–12 along with Proverbs 8:22–31. What do these passages teach us about Christ?