Pastor Rob Wheeler

Feb 28, 2010

Wisdom for the Generations

Proverbs 4:1-19

I. First generation wisdom - David (1-9)

A. Parental responsibility to impart wisdom (1-2)

1 Thess 1:4 For we know, brothers loved by God, that he has chosen you, 5 because our gospel came to you not simply with words, but also with power, with the Holy Spirit and with deep conviction. You know how we lived among you for your sake. NIV

B. Path toward wisdom should start early (3)

2 Sam 12:24 Then David comforted his wife Bathsheba, and he went to her and lay with her. She gave birth to a son, and they named him Solomon. The Lord loved him; 25 and because the Lord loved him, he sent word through Nathan the prophet to name him Jedidiah. NIV

C. Passing along wisdom is foundational to life (4-9)

1 Kings 3:9 So give your servant a discerning heart to govern your people and to distinguish between right and wrong. For who is able to govern this great people of yours?" NIV

1 Kings 3:12 I will do what you have asked. I will give you a wise and discerning heart, so that there will never have been anyone like you, nor will there ever be. NIV

II. Foster wisdom in generations to come - Solomon

A. Priority of wisdom must be stressed (10-12)

Prov 4:11 I have taught you in the way of wisdom; I have led you in right paths. NKJV

B. Personal responsibility to act on wisdom (13)

C. Path of the wicked must be avoided (14-17)

III. Facing the choice of which road to follow

A. Pursuit of righteousness is a road to ever-increasing light (18)

B. Participating in wickedness leads only to deeper darkness (19)