proverbs - Harvest Free Will Baptist Church

B. The Three Types of Proverbs - To learn to appreciate the main features of Proverbs you need to
understand the three types of proverbs.
I. Contrastive proverb – Emphasizes the truth by using striking contrast.
(Chapter 17 Verse 22)
II. Completive proverb – The second line of the proverb agrees with the first and brings it to
a conclusion. (Chapter 16 Verse 3)
III. Comparative proverb – Uses a comparison to lead to the second line of the proverb.
(Chapter 16 Verse 8)
3. THE AUTHORITY OF THE BOOK
A. God’s instructions to his children come primarily in three forms. Each has both positive and
negative application (do or don’t do) depending on the context.
I. Precept – A command or rule. An authorized direction or order. (1:10)
II. Principle – A policy or characteristic. A basic generalization that is accepted as true and
that can be used as a basis for reasoning or conduct. (6:6-8)
III. Precedent – An example or model. An act or instance that may be used as an example in
dealing with subsequent similar instances. (31:10-28)
4. THE APPLICATION OF THE BOOK
a. While studying the book of Proverbs, like any portion of God’s Word, you need to consider how the
passage relates to you. There are three levels of application that can be considered:
i. Head – This is something I need to know and remember (4:19).
ii. Heart – This is something I need to add to my values or priorities (15:3).
iii. Hand – This is something I need to do (or not do) (3:5).
b. How do you digest the book of Proverbs
i. Slowly – This book is not to be read like a normal book.
ii. Ponder – This is not a book of stories or history, but a book that applies to us.
iii. Memorize – Proverbs are meant to help you remember and are difficult to forget.
Harvest Free Will Baptist Church
www.harvestbakersfield.com
Pastor Kurt Lindgren
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