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Parenting by the Book

Proverbs   Study
Study 304

STUDY 304

Text: Proverbs 26
22 April 2007

Dear Parents,

CAN “FOOLS” BE TRUSTED?
The following proverb is most intriguing. It involves the question of whether “a fool” can be trusted with responsibility.

He who sends a message by the hand of a fool
Cuts off his own feet and drinks violence.
Like the legs of the lame that hang limp
Is a proverb in the mouth of fools.

Proverbs 26:6-7

1. The sending of messengers

a) This is a reference to communication in the ancient days.

b) If a master wants to send a message he must send a messenger.

2. Should “a fool” be sent as a messenger?

a) Can a fool be trusted to send a message correctly?

b) Can a fool be trusted with this responsibility?

3. A solemn conclusion

a) Cutting off one’s feet

This is a graphic description of the danger of trusting “a fool”. Would one cut off one’s feet? Then neither would one send a fool on an important errand.

b) “Drinks violence”

Would one “drink violence”? This is a reference to an outcome that can turn “violent” when a message is relayed wrongly.

c) “Legs of the lame”

Can the legs of the limp walk long distances? Of course not!

d) A proverb in the mouth of fools

Can a fool understand “a proverb”? (In the context of the book of Proverbs, it is a reference to wisdom, deep knowledge… Cf. Proverbs 1:1-7). If the fool cannot comprehend a proverb, what hope would he have to relay the message correctly? If the fool were to be quizzed on what the message means, he would probably come up with a completely wrong answer! A fool would never make a good messenger!

Prayerfully,
Pastor Charlie

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