RC Sproul on Proverbs and popular sayings
This painting (oil on wood) from the last third of the 17th century alludes to the popular proverb "Nimm dich selbst bei der Nase" ("take yourself by your nose"). It's also called "Vogel Selbsterkenntnis" (Bird of self-knowledge) and exists in several samples (three, at least, in that same museum). (Photo credit: Wikipedia ) The book of Proverbs is an entire book of short practical sayings . However, this compilation of proverbial wisdom is different from all other such collections in that these sayings reflect not just human wisdom but divine wisdom, for these proverbs are inspired by God . We must be very careful in how we approach and implement these wise sayings. Simply because they are inspired does not mean that the biblical proverbs are like laws, imposing a universal obligation. Yet, some people treat them as if they were divine commandments. If we regard them in that way, we run into all kinds of trouble. Even divinely inspired proverb...