Topical Bible: Reproof: Attention to a Proof of Prudence

◄ Reproof: Attention to a Proof of Prudence ►

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Topical Encyclopedia

Reproof, in the biblical context, is an expression of disapproval or correction, often intended to guide an individual back to a path of righteousness and wisdom. It is a critical component of spiritual growth and moral development, serving as a tool for instruction and improvement. The concept of reproof is deeply rooted in the wisdom literature of the Bible, particularly in the Book of Proverbs, where it is frequently associated with prudence and the pursuit of a godly life.

Biblical Foundation

The Bible emphasizes the importance of accepting reproof as a sign of wisdom and maturity. Proverbs 12:1 states, "Whoever loves discipline loves knowledge, but he who hates correction is stupid." This verse highlights the value of reproof as a means to acquire knowledge and understanding. The wise person embraces correction, recognizing it as an opportunity for growth and refinement.

Proverbs 15:31-32 further underscores this principle: "He who listens to life-giving reproof will dwell among the wise. He who ignores discipline despises himself, but whoever heeds correction gains understanding." Here, reproof is described as "life-giving," suggesting that it is essential for spiritual vitality and wisdom. Ignoring reproof, conversely, is portrayed as self-destructive.

Reproof and Prudence

Prudence, in the biblical sense, involves careful and sensible decision-making that aligns with God's will. It is closely linked to wisdom and understanding. Reproof serves as a proof of prudence by providing the necessary correction that leads to sound judgment and righteous living. Proverbs 19:20 advises, "Listen to counsel and accept discipline, that you may be wise in your latter days." This counsel implies that reproof is integral to developing prudence over time.

The prudent individual recognizes the value of reproof and seeks it out as a means to avoid folly and sin. Proverbs 27:5 states, "Better an open rebuke than love that is concealed." This verse suggests that open correction, though potentially uncomfortable, is more beneficial than hidden affection, as it leads to genuine improvement and wisdom.

Reproof in the New Testament

The New Testament also addresses the role of reproof in the life of a believer. In 2 Timothy 3:16 , Paul writes, "All Scripture is God-breathed and is useful for instruction, for conviction, for correction, and for training in righteousness." Here, reproof is part of the broader purpose of Scripture, which is to guide believers toward righteousness through correction and instruction.

Jesus Himself practiced reproof during His earthly ministry, often correcting His disciples and others to align their understanding and actions with God's truth. In Revelation 3:19 , Jesus declares, "Those I love, I rebuke and discipline. Therefore be earnest and repent." This statement reflects the loving nature of divine reproof, intended to bring about repentance and spiritual growth.

Practical Application

In practical terms, reproof should be administered with love, humility, and a desire for the recipient's well-being. Galatians 6:1 advises, "Brothers, if someone is caught in a trespass, you who are spiritual should restore him with a spirit of gentleness." This approach ensures that reproof is constructive and edifying, rather than harsh or judgmental.

For the believer, receiving reproof requires a humble and teachable spirit, recognizing that correction is a gift that leads to greater wisdom and alignment with God's will. Embracing reproof as a proof of prudence is a mark of spiritual maturity and a step toward a life that honors God.

Torrey's Topical Textbook

Proverbs 15:5
A fool despises his father's instruction: but he that regards reproof is prudent.
Torrey's Topical Textbook

Library

On Corrupting the Word of God
... this; nothing creates either a greater attention in the ... suspect his integrity, who,
without proof, suspected the ... either for doctrine, or reproof, or correction ...
/.../wesley/sermons on several occasions/sermon 136 on corrupting the.htm

The Resurrection of Christ; his Last Interview with his Disciples ...
... in the grave; and it is, therefore, a proof that he ... Our attention is next called
to the interview, which took ... answer, but one which implied a reproof of that ...
/.../dick/lectures on the acts of the apostles/lecture i the resurrection of.htm

Account of Proceedings in the Peninsula
... scarcely one typographical error, every proof having been ... proceedings were such as
could possibly merit reproof. ... who examined the book with attention, many of ...
/.../borrow/letters of george borrow/account of proceedings in the.htm

the Nature of this Oversight
... of this, and that it would need no further proof. ... to all the flock, we must pay special
attention to some ... be as pettish and as impatient of reproof as some ...
//christianbookshelf.org/baxter/the reformed pastor/section 1 the nature 2.htm

Paul Before Felix.
... Paul was accused would not appear a proof or even a ... on justice and temperance was
a direct reproof of the ... trusting, that by this instance of attention to their ...
/.../dick/lectures on the acts of the apostles/lecture xxvii paul before felix.htm

The Morality of the Gospel.
... principal purpose is to draw upon himself attention, is sure ... This was a proof both
of sincerity and judgment ... outer darkness." (Matthew 8:11.) His reproof of the ...
/.../paley/evidences of christianity/chapter ii the morality of.htm

Galatians Chapter ii.
... as well as an incontrovertible proof of their ... persons should meet with much attention;
and Paul not ... afforded of delivering a severe reproof, impressed Peter's ...
/.../galatians chapter ii.htm

The Uproar in Ephesus.
... The reproof of our Saviour to his two intemperate disciples ... of sufficient importance
to engage the attention of the ... in support of a cause, is no proof of its ...
/.../dick/lectures on the acts of the apostles/lecture xxiii the uproar in.htm

Homilies on the Gospel of John.
... the Resurrection, [183]319, [184]320; a reproof to costly ... 321; vainglorious,
[969]ib.; moderation in, a proof of faith ... Games, attention paid to, [973]1, [974] ...
/.../homilies on the gospel of st john and hebrews/homilies on the gospel of.htm

Against Rash and Vain Swearing.
... solemn, our mind being framed to earnest attention, and endued ... That which reproof
did not, this an oath did do ... he deemeth his own honesty to bear proof, doth he ...
/.../sermons on evil-speaking by isaac barrow/against rash and vain swearing.htm