Parenting By The Book Article

STUDY 233

Proverbs 20

THE PRESENCE OF EVIL

We must never take the presence of evil lightly. It manifests in many different forms. The following text helps us to be even more aware of the way in which evil can assert its influence.

"Most men will proclaim their own goodness…" Proverbs 20:6a

"Who can say, 'I have made my heart clean,
I am pure from my sin?'" Proverbs 20:9
"Diverse weights and diverse measures,
They are both alike, an abomination to the LORD" Proverbs 20:10

1. The problem of "self-righteousness" Proverbs 20:6

2. The problem of business fraud Proverbs 20:10

3. Nobody can claim that that he is free from sin Proverbs 20:9

A SPECIAL PROVISION TO COUNTER EVIL

Evil must be resisted at all times. One of the ways in which God counters evil is through "the king." He would represent high authority in the land.

"A king sits on the throne of judgment
Scatters all evil with his eyes." Proverbs 20:8

1. The King

This reference is valid because of the monarchial system of government in the early days.

2. The Representatives of the king

The righteous king would normally be assisted by a good judiciary. Two groups of people may be highlighted in particular:-

a) Fair and impartial judges

These were provided for in the Mosaic laws.

b) Leading elders

Ancient Israel had deep tribal roots. Thus there were always "elders" of the tribe who carried a lot of weight and influence.

Their greatest challenge was "to scatter evil." How we must pray for our leaders.

Prayerfully,

Pastor Charlie