Does Wisdom Contradict Itself? A Journey Through Biblical Teachings
In this article, you will learn how Proverbs 28:7 contradicts Proverbs 28:24, Matthew 11:19, Ecclesiastes 8:15, Luke 15:13, Romans 14:3 and 1 Timothy 4:4. Find the translations at the bottom of the page..
In the biblical landscape, the teachings of wisdom occasionally seem to contradict one another, presenting a complex maze for those seeking guidance. Proverbs 28:7 offers a clear message: a wise child follows rules and brings pride to their parents, whereas associating with troublemakers leads to parental embarrassment. This verse appears straightforward, encouraging a life of discipline and careful choice of company.
However, other biblical passages present contrasting views. For instance, Proverbs 28:24 rationalizes taking from parents without guilt, presenting a stark opposition to the condemnation of reckless behavior suggested in Proverbs 28:7. It raises an intriguing question: does wisdom endorse doubling back on its own principles?
The New Testament provides further contrast. In Matthew 11:19, Jesus is seen engaging with gluttons and winebibbers, which suggests acceptance and love even for those living riotously. Similarly, Ecclesiastes 8:15 advises embracing merriment, encouraging eating and drinking, diverging from the idea that such behaviors are shameful.
The parable of the Prodigal Son in Luke 15:13 illustrates a story of redemption. Despite initially living in excess, the son is forgiven and welcomed back, highlighting a more forgiving stance towards indulgent living.
Romans 14:3 and 1 Timothy 4:4 continue this theme of acceptance. Romans asks for respect towards others’ dietary choices, while Timothy encourages gratitude for God’s creations, challenging the notion that indulgence is inherently negative.
These passages collectively invite us to consider the nuanced perspectives within biblical wisdom, much like different approaches to parenting: should one be strict and rule-abiding, or nurturing and accepting of human flaws? This complex interplay of guidance encourages us to ponder: does true wisdom embrace contradictions, or is it in the balance of these teachings that deeper understanding is found?
| # | Verse | Translation |
|---|---|---|
| 1. | Proverbs 28:7 | Whoso keepeth the law [is] a wise son: but he that is a companion of riotous [men] shameth his father. [is a companion...: or, feedeth gluttons] |
| 2. | Proverbs 28:24 | Whoso robbeth his father or his mother, and saith, [It is] no transgression; the same [is] the companion of a destroyer. [a destroyer: Heb. a man destroying] |
| 3. | Matthew 11:19 | The Son of man came eating and drinking, and they say, Behold a man gluttonous, and a winebibber, a friend of publicans and sinners. But wisdom is justified of her children. |
| 4. | Ecclesiastes 8:15 | Then I commended mirth, because a man hath no better thing under the sun, than to eat, and to drink, and to be merry: for that shall abide with him of his labour the days of his life, which God giveth him under the sun. |
| 5. | Luke 15:13 | And not many days after the younger son gathered all together, and took his journey into a far country, and there wasted his substance with riotous living. |
| 6. | Romans 14:3 | Let not him that eateth despise him that eateth not; and let not him which eateth not judge him that eateth: for God hath received him. |
| 7. | 1 Timothy 4:4 | For every creature of God [is] good, and nothing to be refused, if it be received with thanksgiving: |