.29:1-27.

Back to Contents

Authority with justice (Prov 29:1-27)

Many themes that we have already met in Proverbs are repeated in this section: stubbornness, good and bad government, family values, prostitution, justice, flattery, cunning and concern for the poor (Prov 29:1-7).

Scoffers are more than just fools; they are trouble-makers. They are not open to reason and cannot control their temper (Prov 29:8-11).

Unjust rulers oppress innocent citizens, and the rich persecute the poor, but good and bad alike receive the blessings that God gives to people in general (Prov 29:12-13).

The ruler of a country and the head of a family should work for the contentment and well-being of those for whom they are responsible, but they can expect success only if they themselves are good and just.

The pursuit of righteousness leads to stability (Prov 29:14-17).

One reason for a nation’s spiritual or moral decay is its neglect of the revealed word of God (Prov 29:18).

A stubborn servant is a problem for his master, but a shrewd servant, if he receives too many favours, could one day take over his master’s property (Prov 29:19-21).

Those who are bad tempered or arrogant bring trouble, not just to others but also to themselves (Prov 29:22-23).

When a person who was partner in a crime refuses to give evidence to the judge, his guilt increases (Prov 29:24).

There can be no justice when the basis of people’s decision-making is fear of those who are influential or partiality towards those who are their friends (Prov 29:25-27).