Why be captivated, my son, by an adulteress, or embrace the bosom of a stranger? Why be captivated, my son, by an adulteressThis phrase addresses the allure and danger of being seduced by an adulteress. In biblical times, adultery was a serious offense, often punishable by death (Leviticus 20:10). The term "captivated" suggests being ensnared or entrapped, indicating the powerful and destructive nature of such temptation. The use of "my son" reflects the fatherly advice given throughout Proverbs, emphasizing wisdom and moral integrity. This warning is consistent with the broader biblical theme of fidelity, as seen in the commandment against adultery (Exodus 20:14) and the call to purity in relationships (1 Thessalonians 4:3-5). or embrace the bosom of a stranger? Persons / Places / Events 1. SolomonTraditionally considered the author of Proverbs, Solomon was the son of King David and known for his wisdom. He wrote Proverbs to impart wisdom and understanding. 2. Adulteress Represents a woman who engages in sexual relations outside of marriage. In the context of Proverbs, she symbolizes temptation and moral danger. 3. Son The recipient of Solomon's wisdom, often seen as a young man or a disciple seeking guidance. 4. Stranger In this context, a stranger refers to someone outside the covenant community, often used metaphorically for someone who leads others away from God's path. 5. Ancient Israel The cultural and historical backdrop of Proverbs, where adherence to God's law was central to community life. Teaching Points Guard Your HeartProverbs 5:20 calls believers to be vigilant about what captivates their hearts. The allure of sin can be strong, but wisdom calls for discernment and self-control. Value of Faithfulness The verse underscores the importance of faithfulness in relationships, particularly marriage. It serves as a reminder of the covenantal nature of marriage and the need to honor it. Consequences of Sin Engaging with an adulteress or a stranger leads to spiritual and often physical consequences. Understanding these consequences can motivate believers to pursue righteousness. Seek Wisdom The call to avoid the embrace of a stranger is a call to seek wisdom and understanding, which are found in God's Word and through a relationship with Him. Community Accountability Being part of a faith community can provide support and accountability, helping individuals resist temptation and remain faithful. Bible Study Questions 1. What does it mean to be "captivated" by an adulteress, and how can we guard against this in our daily lives?2. How does the concept of faithfulness in Proverbs 5:20 relate to the broader biblical teaching on marriage and relationships? 3. In what ways can the wisdom of Proverbs 5:20 be applied to modern-day temptations that may not be explicitly sexual in nature? 4. How can we use the support of our faith community to help us avoid the pitfalls described in Proverbs 5:20? 5. Reflect on a time when you were tempted by something that seemed appealing but was ultimately harmful. How did you overcome it, and what role did your faith play in that process? Connections to Other Scriptures Proverbs 6:24-29These verses warn against the dangers of adultery and the consequences of succumbing to such temptations, reinforcing the message of Proverbs 5:20. 1 Corinthians 6:18-20 Paul advises believers to flee from sexual immorality, emphasizing that the body is a temple of the Holy Spirit, which aligns with the call to avoid the embrace of a stranger. Matthew 5:27-28 Jesus expands on the commandment against adultery, teaching that even lustful thoughts are sinful, which deepens the understanding of being captivated by an adulteress.
People SolomonPlaces JerusalemTopics Adulteress, Adventuress, Alien, Arms, Bosom, Captivated, Embrace, Exhilarated, Foreigner, Infatuated, Loose, Magnify, Man's, Ravished, Shouldest, Strange, Stranger, Thyself, Wife, WiltDictionary of Bible Themes Proverbs 5:20 5126 arm 6237 sexual sin, nature of Library The Cords of Sin'His own iniquities shall take the wicked himself, and he shall be holden with the cords of his sins.'--PROVERBS v. 22. In Hosea's tender picture of the divine training of Israel which, alas! failed of its effect, we read, 'I drew them with cords of a man,' which is further explained as being 'with bands of love.' The metaphor in the prophet's mind is probably that of a child being 'taught to go' and upheld in its first tottering steps by leading-strings. God drew Israel, though Israel did not yield … Alexander Maclaren—Expositions of Holy Scripture Last Things Sinners Bound with the Cords of Sin Sinners Bound with the Cords of Sin How the Silent and the Talkative are to be Admonished. How the Rude in Sacred Learning, and those who are Learned but not Humble, are to be Admonished. Twenty Second Sunday after Trinity Paul's Thanks and Prayers for Churches. "The Truth. " Some Generals Proposed. Thirdly, for Thy Actions. The Right Understanding of the Law Second Great Group of Parables. Proverbs Links Proverbs 5:20 NIVProverbs 5:20 NLT Proverbs 5:20 ESV Proverbs 5:20 NASB Proverbs 5:20 KJV Proverbs 5:20 Commentaries Bible Hub |
    |