PROVERBS & SONG OF SONGS LEARN, LIVE, AND LOVE

WHAT’S INSIDE … SPRING 2014

The goal of the Collegiate’s Explore the Bible® online features is to bring you a structured teaching plan with additional helps and relevant questions to equip you to lead a strong discussion-based lesson. As always, we’re here for you. Please send us your questions, thoughts, and suggestions. Let us know how we can better serve you and your group. Adam York Editor, Collegiate [email protected]

MARCH RIGHT CHOICE, RIGHT MOVEMENT................ 2 THE UPSIDE OF WISDOM................................... 9 THE WRITING ON THE WALL...........................16 WORDS MATTER................................................23 WISE ENOUGH TO WORK HARD.....................30

APRIL FINANCIAL RESPONSIBILITY 101...................37

MEET THE WRITERS

THE SEARCH FOR LOYAL FRIENDSHIP..........43

LUKE RAMEY (MARCH) is an author, teacher, husband of a Tennessee Tech

THE AMAZING RESURRECTION......................49

professor, and father of two. A student at Liberty University, Luke has no plans to ever stop taking classes. Luke and his family attend Clarkrange Baptist Church near their home in Tennessee.

REBECCA GEORGE (APRIL) is a doctoral student in Christian Education and adjunct instructor of Christian and Cross-Cultural Ministry at Oklahoma Baptist University where her husband, Christian, is a religion professor. In her 10 minutes of free time each week, Rebecca likes reading medical mysteries and swinging in hammocks. JOHN AARON MATTHEW (MAY)  is the Baptist Collegiate Ministry director at

AVOIDING ABUSE..............................................55

M AY LIVE IN MORAL PURITY ................................... 61 TREASURE MOM................................................67 RIGHTEOUS ROMANCE....................................73 INVEST IN THE BEST..........................................79

Tennessee Tech University. He and his family attend Stevens Street Baptist Church in Cookeville where they lead college students to follow Jesus. Along with student leaders, John Aaron hosts an International Night each week with about 75 students from India, Nepal, Saudi Arabia, Iran, Ethiopia, Nigeria, South Korea, China, and other countries. © 2014 LifeWay Christian Resources of the Southern Baptist Convention

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SPRING 2014 COLLEGIATE TEACHING PLANS

RIGHT CHOICE, RIGHT MOVEMENT

WEEK OF MARCH 2

WHAT YOU NEED > This week’s lesson on pages 4-5 of Collegiate’s Spring 2014 Explore the Bible® pull-out insert >Refer to “Solomon” on page 5 of Collegiate’s Spring 2014 Explore the Bible® pull-out insert for a supplemental element to enhance your lesson. HIGHLIGHTS God provided wisdom in the Bible, and we need to be students of this wisdom, training ourselves to make right decisions when faced with both good and bad options, evaluating how we are making decisions, and making sure they’re influenced by biblical principles. SCRIPTURE Proverbs 1:1-19 GETTING STARTED To kick things off this week, have group members focus on where or with whom they’re influenced in their decision-making. Ask them to pick one of the following relationships as most influential, name the person, and then explain why: 1. Parent 2. Brother/Sister 3. Best Friend 4. Teacher/Pastor Introduce this week’s lesson by talking about the impact of the Bible’s influence, if we allow it. Lead group members to focus on Scripture as the source of wisdom that God has given us to our benefit.

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RIGHT CHOICE, RIGHT MOVEMENT

WEEK OF MARCH 2

EXPLORE THE BIBLE Can you relate with making a bad decision only to look back and see it was clearly a bad one? What influenced you in the decision? What “data” was your mind consulting?

1. PERFECT TIMING > HAVE A VOLUNTEER READ PROVERBS 1:1-6. 1 The proverbs of Solomon son of David, king of Israel: 2 For learning what wisdom and discipline are; for understanding insightful sayings; 3 for receiving wise instruction in righteousness, justice, and integrity; 4 for teaching shrewdness to the inexperienced, knowledge and discretion to a young man— 5 a wise man will listen and increase his learning, and a discerning man will obtain guidance— 6 for understanding a proverb or a parable, the words of the wise, and their riddles

When you don’t have a parent to consult, how do you decide whether an event or activity would be beneficial and good? In what ways has the freedom of college life made it harder to make good choices? Are there standards and expectations that you’ve carried with you to college? Explain. When have you experienced God’s wisdom a little too late? What led to missing God’s wisdom at the opportune time?

2. THE CORNERSTONE OF WISDOM

> HAVE A VOLUNTEER READ PROVERBS 1:7. 7 The fear of the LORD is the beginning of knowledge; fools despise wisdom and discipline

Fear of God is one of the most misunderstood concepts in the Christian faith. Fearing God is simply speaking to the idea of obedience. It’s not a fear of what God will do to you if you don’t obey; it is a fear of what the world will do to you if you don’t obey. In what ways do you fear your parents? Does this fear help you make good decisions? What are some decisions God has instructed us to make and what are their natural consequences? How does understanding a biblical fear of God help us to make good choices?

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RIGHT CHOICE, RIGHT MOVEMENT

WEEK OF MARCH 2

3. LEARNING HOW TO BE > HAVE A VOLUNTEER READ PROVERBS 1:8-9. 8 Listen, my son, to your father’s instruction, and don’t reject your mother’s teaching, 9 for they will be a garland of grace on your head and a gold chain around your neck.

Wisdom can be found in the Bible — the best place to find it. Wisdom can also be passed from parent to child and from friend to friend. Wisdom is meant to be shared with as many people as possible. It is God’s will that His principles are shared. How did you learn the wisdom you have today? Second to the Bible, God says to learn from our parents. How is this easy, and how is it difficult? (Students will be coming from very different backgrounds and we should be sensitive to this.) In what ways can we offer wisdom to our friends who did not have the benefit of godly parents?

4. FOOLS GET A FOOL’S REWARD > HAVE A VOLUNTEER READ PROVERBS 1:10-19. 10 My son, if sinners entice you, don’t be persuaded. 11 If they say —“Come with us! Let’s set an ambush and kill someone. Let’s attack some innocent person just for fun! 12 Let’s swallow them alive, like Sheol, still healthy as they go down to the Pit. 13 We’ll find all kinds of valuable property and fill our houses with plunder. 14 Throw in your lot with us, and we’ll all share our money”— 15 my son, don’t travel that road with them or set foot on their path, 16 because their feet run toward trouble and they hurry to commit murder. 17 It is foolish to spread a net where any bird can see it, 18 but they set an ambush to kill themselves; they attack their own lives. 19 Such are the paths of all who make profit dishonestly; it takes the lives of those who receive it.

We must guard against unwise counsel. This is a huge issue with students in college who have recently moved away from their parents’ influence. We naturally look for guidance as we’re faced with decisions, and we must make sure we are getting wise advice. What is a cornerstone of good advice? How do you know you’re getting good counsel? What steps can you take to insure the counsel you’re receiving is wise?

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RIGHT CHOICE, RIGHT MOVEMENT

WEEK OF MARCH 2

APPLY TO LIFE OPTION 1:

Start an accountability group with others seeking godly wisdom. Make it a priority to listen to the struggles and decisions each other have and share advice rooted in a biblical principle you investigate together. • Have group members list potential members. • Make a list of decisions they’re facing now that could use a good dose of godly wisdom. A) Set a weekly time to connect with godly parents and talk about important decisions. Skype, meet in person, or even attempt a phone call. B) Finally, have group members compose a note of encouragement letting the leaders know you’re praying that they’re able to follow Christ fully in their work. OPTION 2:

Set a weekly time to connect with godly parents and talk about important decisions. Encourage group members to find ways to connect with parents: • Meeting in person, taking advantage of the free lunch or dinner. • Skype with parents who live farther away. • Have a phone call date with those technology-challenged parents who live far away. No matter how they decide to “meet up,” make sure group members understand the benefit of telling their parents they’re seeking counsel and making it a point to focus the time on their own decisions — not on the happenings in their parents’ lives. OPTION 3:

Have group members make a list of elders in their lives (people who have obviously made decisions based on godly wisdom). From this list, encourage them to write notes of encouragement, thanking them for displaying godly wisdom and asking them to help with a current decision they are facing. Close in prayer by asking God to help us in building wisdom. Specifically ask God to bring people into our lives that can help us make decisions in line with godly wisdom and ask Him to continue to encourage us to be in His word studying His wisdom.

NEXT WEEK > Read next week’s lesson, “The Upside of Wisdom,” on pages 8-9 of Collegiate’s Spring 2014 Explore the Bible® pull-out insert. 5

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COMMENTARY BACKGROUND When Solomon became king of Israel, he prayed for God to give him understanding to lead God’s people (see 1 Kings 3:9). God responded by giving Solomon great wisdom, including that which is collected in the Book of Proverbs. Proverbs is written as a father’s instructions for his son, but applies to all. 1. PERFECT TIMING (PROVERBS 1:1-6) Verse 1. Although this book contains the proverbs of Solomon, we should keep in mind that Proverbs, like all of the Bible, was inspired by God (see 2 Tim. 3:16). Therefore, we receive these sayings as coming from Him. Human wisdom often fails; it is limited by human intelligence and sinful frailty. God, however, is all knowing. His wisdom includes perfect knowledge of all that is, that was, and that is to come. Solomon identified himself as the son of David before adding that he (Solomon) was king of Israel. Except for the will of God and the favor of his father, David, Solomon would never have been the king. Verse 2. Compare the purposes of wisdom in Proverbs 1:2-4 with the results a wise person will experience, described in 1:5-6. Proverbs help us understand the nature of wisdom and discipline. Wisdom refers not to human intelligence but to spiritual prudence. Discipline involves using instruction to correct one’s behavior. God’s Word as expressed in these proverbs helps believers gain (to learn, to know) this experiential knowledge. We can be encouraged that God wants us to learn and apply His truth to our lives. Through insightful sayings, Proverbs helps us know more about God and His ways. In other words, as believers we can gain spiritual perception through these maxims. The Holy Spirit teaches us more than can be gained by mere human intellect (see 1 Cor. 2:1214). The Book of Proverbs offers guidance in all aspects of life to people who will receive it as children of a loving, wise Father. Verse 3. Another purpose of Scripture’s proverbs is to offer wise instruction in aspects of God’s holy character. Believers are to be holy because He is holy (see Lev. 11:45; 1 Pet. 1:15-16). Thus God wants people to live in ways that reflect having a right relationship with Him through faith in Jesus Christ (righteousness). Second, God wants His people to live in right relationship with one another (justice). Third, God wants His people to live authentic lives—that is, to be pure and honest with themselves (integrity). If we believe that God wants to bless us with abundant life (see John 10:10), then we should accept His guidance. Since we are limited by human perspective and flawed by our sinful nature, we need our Heavenly Father’s direction in making wise choices. Verse 4. The Bible’s proverbs are especially valuable for young, inexperienced believers. They help young Christians make wise choices and avoid the damaging effects of foolish choices. Solomon wanted his son to have the benefit of God-given knowledge and discretion. Verse 5. If as believers we are willing to receive God’s wisdom and instruction, we will experience three positive results. First, we will hear and understand what God says. Jesus pointed out the vast difference between just hearing the words He taught and acting on the truth (see Mark 4:10-12; Luke 8:8). Second, God’s wisdom helps us grow in our understanding of God and His ways. This concept of learning involves more than educational achievement; it involves being persuaded of truth and implementing it in daily life. Third, we gain counsel, or guidance, for everyday life. Everyone needs wise direction in life. In Psalm 25:5, David (Solomon’s father) prayed for God’s guidance. God promises to guide anyone who will trust and follow Him (see Ps. 23:3). Verse 6. Here Solomon listed four terms that describe means by which God has revealed His wisdom: A proverb reveals principles of ethical behavior set in the style of a maxim. Some proverbs are direct statements of truth; others contrast wise and foolish behavior in parallel statements. 6

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COMMENTARY A parable refers to a longer poem built around an everyday setting, character, or situation to reveal spiritual truth. Jesus was the Master of this parable form (see Mark 4:33-34). The words of the wise probably refers to the collected writings of those who, like Solomon, were known for their devotion to God’s wisdom (see Eccl. 12:10-11). All true wisdom is consistent with God’s revealed Word. The term riddles refers to sayings with concealed meanings, not evil or magical sayings. They were designed to make people think and search for truth (see Judg. 14:12; Ezek. 17:2; Dan. 5:12). 2. THE CORNERSTONE OF WISDOM (PROVERBS 1:7) Verse 7: This is a key verse in the Book of Proverbs. It reveals the uniqueness of Scripture’s wisdom as over against mere human intellect and experience. Other ancient cultures besides the Israelites had collections of wisdom literature. Not only that, today people can walk into almost any bookstore and find shelves upon shelves of self-help manuals, books of clever quotations, and the like. Scripture’s wisdom has a different starting place from all those collections. True wisdom begins with “the fear of the LORD.” What is “the fear of the LORD”? Hebrews 10:31 warns that it is a terrifying thing to fall into the hands of the living God. The writer of Hebrews was referring to those who reject salvation in Christ and show through their deliberate, sinful actions that they despise Him. The Book of Proverbs calls such people fools. They are destined for God’s judgment. The application is different, however, for those who through faith in Christ have received God’s redeeming grace. To fear the Lord as a believer is to love and revere Him. It is a reverence that leads to complete trust and joyful obedience. Those who live in such a relationship with God are confident that He will instruct them in His wisdom. With His wisdom, believers can discern between right and wrong and make wise choices. 3. LEARNING HOW TO BE (PROVERBS 1:8-9) Verse 8: Take note of Solomon’s imperative. He urged his son not just to hear the words of instruction but to obey them. God’s wisdom is not something to treat with indifference. The issues of life are too important to take or leave God’s instruction according to our whims. Solomon admonished his son to heed his instruction, even when it involved correction. Centuries later, the apostle Paul also under the Holy Spirit’s guidance declared that God’s Word is profitable “for teaching, for rebuking, for correcting, for training in righteousness” (2 Tim. 3:16). The word Solomon used has elements of all four ideas. Although they lived in a patriarchal society, Solomon also urged his son not to forsake his mother’s instruction. The implication was that both parents would strive to impart God’s ways—that is, His torah—to their children (see Deut. 6:4-9). Proverbs is noteworthy in its presentation of the role of women (see Prov. 31:1-31). Verse 9: Solomon used multiple images to describe the results of following godly wisdom. Heeding wise instruction would be like having a garland of grace upon one’s head and a gold chain about one’s neck. Physically, these items were worn as ornaments. Spiritually speaking, however, they represented favor and authority. God had given Solomon the wisdom he asked for. That God-given wisdom resulted in renown and authority that went far beyond Solomon’s own kingdom (see 1 Kings 3:12; 4:29-31). 4. FOOLS GET A FOOL’S REWARD (PROVERBS 1:10-19) Verse 10: Solomon urged his son not to be persuaded by the enticing words of sinful people. Evil-doers like company. When they succeed at bringing others into league with them, they feel self-justified. Using flattering words, they deceive the inexperienced into joining them. Verse 11: One enticement sinners use is the lure of becoming part of the “in” group. Peer pressure is not limited to the teen years. The desire for acceptance or recognition draws many adults into improper associations that prove destructive. It can occur at work, in civic situations, or in leisure/recreation settings. 7

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COMMENTARY Solomon described an example of a gang that decided to attack and kill an innocent victim for no reason. One might think that no young person would join in such an evil plan, but even today there are gangs that recruit the young and vulnerable to commit these types of crimes. When people reject God’s ways and surrender to their base, sinful nature, all kinds of evil are possible. Verse 12. This verse demonstrates the vile attitudes of sinners toward their victims. The entire plan is like a cruel joke. They liken their plot to the grave, or Sheol, as it swallows the living. With pitiless cruelty, the perpetrators care nothing for the harm they inflict. Pleasure and power are their only concerns. They do not realize that the end they plot for others will be their own doom under God’s judgment. Verses 13-14. Another enticement sinners often use to recruit others is the promise of money. Greed is a strong motivator. Without a moral compass based on God’s Word, weak-willed people succumb without realizing the price they will pay for their sins. Again, a key component to this temptation is being part of the group. Someone might not normally initiate a crime. However, acceptance into a group can be a powerful motivation to set aside personal morality and join the conspiracy. Verse 15. Solomon again appealed to his son with affectionate firmness. He warned against even setting foot on the paths of those who devise evil. Sadly, people sometimes think they can experiment with sin without much danger. Just one drink. Just one dalliance. Just one episode of shoplifting. And on and on. Solomon knew better. He warned his son that the road of sin leads inevitably to destruction. The best way to avoid trouble is to decide not to take the first step in the direction of sin. Verse 16. Solomon’s warning emphasizes the eagerness with which wrongdoers go after trouble. It is as if they are running. They’re in a hurry to do the most horrendous acts of harm. They follow their base desires without even a thought of the harmful results. Verse 17. To make his point, Solomon used an illustration that is a proverb in itself. No one puts out a net where the bird can see it. Even birds are wise enough to avoid an obvious trap. However, foolish sinners run blindly into a snare of their own making. Verse 18. Villains who set up an ambush for the unaware target only end up hurting themselves. They laughingly seek to take advantage of others, but they suffer the sad results of their iniquity. People who reject God’s ways and live to harm others fail to realize that their own lives are at risk (see Gal. 6:7). One man thought he had the perfect plan to use an investment pyramid scheme to become rich at the expense of others. While many people lost untold amounts of money, the perpetrator not only lost his job and his family but also ended up spending many years in jail. Verse 19. Solomon ended his caution by summarizing the fate of everyone who seeks profit dishonestly. People who follow the paths of sin end up losing their lives. The very ones who joked about sending others to the grave go there themselves. Believers do well to heed Solomon’s warning to his son. Wise people refuse the enticement of sin and live in obedience to God’s guidance.

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THE UPSIDE OF WISDOM

WEEK OF MARCH 9

WHAT YOU NEED > This week’s lesson on pages 6-7 of Collegiate’s Spring 2014 Explore the Bible® pull-out insert >Refer to “Proverbs 3:5-6” on page 7 of Collegiate’s Spring 2014 Explore the Bible® pull-out insert for a supplemental element to enhance your lesson. HIGHLIGHTS People commonly aspire to a fulfilling and meaningful life and make unfounded assumptions about how to reach that goal. Some make virtual gods of such intermediate goals as success, influence, wealth, recognition, and status, paying a high price in homage to those ends. Others focus on comfort, ease, entertainment, and pleasure. Both paths eventually lead to disappointment. God desires for all people to have full and meaningful lives. He has offered the path of wisdom that leads to such fulfillment and calls people to appreciate the benefits of practicing wisdom. SCRIPTURE Proverbs 1:33–3:8 GETTING STARTED Start the lesson having group members share where they came from and how they ended up at both the university they’re at and in the Bible study group they’re in. Help group members frame their thinking by asking these follow-up questions: What were you pursuing when you decided to come here?

In what ways have you found what you were pursuing?

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THE UPSIDE OF WISDOM

WEEK OF MARCH 9

EXPLORE THE BIBLE This week, we’re discussing the pursuit of wisdom and the benefits that comes with that pursuit. Encourage group members to start where they are and push forward into godly wisdom. 1. FEELING SECURE > HAVE A VOLUNTEER READ PROVERBS 1:33; 2:7-8,20-22. 1:33 But whoever listens to me will live securely and be free from the fear of danger. 2:7 He stores up success for the upright; He is a shield for those who live with integrity 8 so that He may guard the paths of justice and protect the way of His loyal followers. 2:20 So follow the way of good people, and keep to the paths of the righteous. 21 For the upright will inhabit the land, and those of integrity will remain in it; 22 but the wicked will be cut off from the land, and the treacherous uprooted from it.

How have you found security in a search for godly wisdom? In what ways are you more motivated to work hard and gain wisdom when you feel secure? What wisdom have you gained that helps you feel secure?

2. WISDOM ALL AROUND > HAVE A VOLUNTEER READ PROVERBS 2:5-6,9-19; 3:5-6. 2:5 then you will understand the fear of the LORD and discover the knowledge of God. 6 For the LORD gives wisdom; from His mouth come knowledge and understanding. 2:9 Then you will understand righteousness, justice, and integrity—every good path. 10 For wisdom will enter your mind, and knowledge will delight your heart. 11 Discretion will watch over you, and understanding will guard you, 12 rescuing you from the way of evil—from the one who says perverse things, 13 from those who abandon the right paths to walk in ways of darkness, 14 from those who enjoy doing evil and celebrate perversion, 15 whose paths are crooked, and whose ways are devious. 16 It will rescue you from a forbidden woman, from a stranger with her flattering talk, 17 who abandons the companion of her youth and forgets the covenant of her God; 18 for her house sinks down to death and her ways to the land of the departed spirits. 19 None return who go to her; none reach the paths of life. 3:5 Trust in the LORD with all your heart, and do not rely on your own understanding; 6 think about Him in all your ways, and He will guide you on the right paths.

Where has God called you to be right now? Can you think of a passion that God has given you that you’re getting a chance to live out right now? Is there a passion you need to start to live out? What can you do if you find yourself without passion or with no sense of what to do next? What would Solomon say to do?

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THE UPSIDE OF WISDOM

WEEK OF MARCH 9

3. WHO’S IN CHARGE? > HAVE A VOLUNTEER READ PROVERBS 3:1-2,7-8. 3:1 My son, don’t forget my teaching, but let your heart keep my commands; 2 for they will bring you many days, a full life, and well-being. 7 Don’t consider yourself to be wise; fear the LORD and turn away from evil. 8 This will be healing for your body and strengthening for your bones.

Where have you seen great success in your life? Can you credit your success to godly wisdom? How much could you have done on your own? Knowing that godly wisdom leads to success, how much of our success is our work and how much is the work of God?

4. YOU GET WHAT YOU GIVE > HAVE A VOLUNTEER READ PROVERBS 3:3-4. 3:3 Never let loyalty and faithfulness leave you. Tie them around your neck; write them on the tablet of your heart. 4 Then you will find favor and high regard in the sight of God and man.

How can we mesh the impact of godly wisdom into our lives? Have you found that friends who hold to godly wisdom are more loyal and faithful? How does this affect relationships? What are the potential benefits of investing in friendships who hold to godly wisdom? What are the potential costs of relationships with those who are not?

APPLY TO LIFE OPTION 1:

As a group, share different ideas of how to use the passions God has given you and make a plan to purposely pursue them this week. Think of big things you can do (A passion to feed the hungry could spur a trip to a known hangout for homeless and less fortunate. A passion for socializing could spur an outreachfocused fun event.) The key is to align the passion God has given you with an action of godly wisdom.

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THE UPSIDE OF WISDOM

WEEK OF MARCH 9

OPTION 2:

Have group members dig around in Proverbs 1–3 looking for pieces of wisdom they would benefit from employing in their life. Ask group members to share their verses and ideas of what they could do. Focus on putting action to the wisdom learned from Proverbs. Explain that this is how wisdom works: You learn it, and then you apply it. OPTION 1:

Take a look at Matthew 5 and ask the group to take a quick inventory of the Beatitudes they find present in their lives. Have them discuss how the wisdom Jesus taught relates with the wisdom we find in Proverbs. Is it the same? Close in prayer by asking God to continue to teach us His wisdom and to reveal ways for us to apply it in our lives. Let students pray in pairs, asking God for wisdom with specific issues.

NEXT WEEK > Read next week’s lesson, “The Writing on the Wall,” on pages 8-9 of Collegiate’s Spring 2014 Explore the Bible® pull-out insert.

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COMMENTARY BACKGROUND Solomon did not follow all his advice personally. Still, Proverbs is not a case of “Do as I say, not as I do.”This book resulted from God’s inspiration through the pen of His servant to demonstrate the truth and benefits of godly wisdom. 1. FEELING SECURE (PROVERBS 1:33; 2:7-8,20-22) Chapter 1, verse 33: In Proverbs 1:20-33, Solomon personified wisdom as an astute and compassionate woman. “Lady Wisdom” stands in public places to call out God’s guidance for successful living. Foolish people ignore her voice at their own peril (see 1:24-27). In contrast, the person who listens to and obeys the voice of “Lady Wisdom” can expect to live with a sense of security and protection from evil. The term whoever underscores that wisdom isn’t limited to those with academic degrees, family wealth, or social position. Wisdom begins with a right relationship with God and grows as believers—whatever their educational, financial, and social status—listen to and follow God’s ways (see Jas. 1:22). Chapter 2, verses 7-8: God possesses a treasure (success, sound wisdom) that He keeps in plentiful reserve for His obedient people. This divine treasure is much more than mere earthly treasure. Ungodly people may experience varying degrees of worldly success, but material treasure is temporary and often robs people of genuine peace. Jesus warned His disciples not to put their hope and faith in earthly treasure, because it can disappear as fast as it is accumulated (see Matt. 6:19). Wise believers trust God to supply their every need from the storehouse of His inexhaustible riches in Christ Jesus (see Phil. 4:19). In a second word-picture, God is described as a shield. This term likely refers to the arm-held shield a warrior used in close combat. The apostle Paul used the same imagery to depict the “shield of faith” by which Christians ward off the Devil’s flaming arrows of temptation and accusation (see Eph. 6:16). In reality, the Lord Himself is that Shield for His people. Verse 20: Verses 20-22 present a concluding summary and exhortation based on the benefits of wisdom versus the dangers of the way of evil (see Prov. 2:10-19). The exhortation comes in 2:20, and it urges God’s people to walk in the way of good people so as to stay on the paths of the righteous. The two lines are parallel. Thus what Solomon meant by good was not human efforts of goodness but rather a God-given quality that reflects a right relationship with God (see Mark 10:18; Gal. 5:22). The terms “way” and “path” are reversed in order from 2:8, but the emphasis is the same. Younger, inexperienced Christians show wisdom when they follow the way of faith they see in mature believers and emulate their Christ-honoring choices in everyday life. Verses 21-22: These two verses summarize the contrasting results of the wise way of life versus the foolish, or ungodly, way of life. The wise will have a God-given place to dwell, the land, and a God-given promise of security (they will remain in it). Again, this should not be taken as a guarantee of life without problems but rather as a promise of God’s unending care and provision for His people. The wicked have no such promise and thus can expect the opposite—no part in God’s dwelling and no peace or stability in life. 2. WISDOM ALL AROUND (PROVERBS 2:5-6,9-19; 3:5-6) Chapter 2, verses 5-6: The promises given in the Book of Proverbs often are conditional. They show the concrete results that generally hold true for particular kinds of behavior, whether wise or foolish. The opening word of this verse, then, shows what will be the result if a believer diligently seeks after and accepts God’s wisdom (see 2:1-4). First, that believer will better understand the fear of the LORD. We learned in the discussion of Proverbs 1:7 that for the believer this fear is not terror but a deep reverence for who God is. Since wisdom begins with a right relationship with God, the seeker of wisdom will gain insight into the kind of relationship the Heavenly Father desires for His children. 13

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COMMENTARY Second, the believer who searches diligently for God’s wisdom will find the knowledge of God. This phrase can refer either to knowledge that comes from God or to knowledge about God. Ultimately, these two types of knowledge are intertwined. The only way that we as created beings can know the truth about God is through His self-revelation. That revelation comes to us in the created universe (see Ps. 19:1; Rom 1:19-20), the inspired Scriptures (see Ps. 19:7-11; 2 Pet. 1:20-21), and ultimately in the Lord Jesus Christ (see John 14:7-11; Heb. 1:1-2). The purpose of our finding this knowledge is not for information but for deepening our relationship with our Maker and Redeemer. As our trust and devotion grow, He gives us more of His wisdom … knowledge and understanding. Wisdom is the skill of making right choices at the opportune time. Knowledge involves that which one knows through experience. It is not theoretical musing but the insight of practical experience. Understanding is more than the accumulation of information; it is the ability to put knowledge into practice. God does not give us His Word to satisfy our intellectual curiosity but to help us live wisely in everyday situations. Here is another verse that begins with “then” because it shows the results of walking in the way of faith (see 2:8). These results are catalogued in 2:9-12. First, walking in the way of faith leads to a deeper understanding and application of three qualities that build godly relationships: righteousness, justice, and integrity. No one can attain right-standing with God through self-effort (see Isa. 64:6; Eph. 2:8-9). To experience righteousness, human beings are totally dependent on the work of God through His Son, Jesus Christ. Only by faith in Him can we be made right with God. Consequently, we live rightly because God through Christ makes us righteous. This concept applies also to our relationships with other people. God wants us to treat one another as He would (righteously), to apply justice in daily interactions, and to maintain integrity, personal honesty and fairness. Solomon described this trio as “every good path.” Verse 10. When we receive and obey God’s Word, wisdom enters our experience. It takes up residence in our thought life, giving us the proper way of perceiving truth and reality. As we experience this new manner of thinking, godly knowledge produces a sense of spiritual delight. Verses 11-12,16. Another aspect of discernment is discretion, the ability to choose wisely between good and evil options. Such skill can preserve the inexperienced when encountering subtle or dangerous choices. Coupled with discretion is understanding, pictured here as keeping guard over believers and rescuing us from the way of evil. Just as the way of faith and faithfulness is a direction in life and not a one-time event, so is the way of evil—but with terrible results. Thus understanding can rescue the believer from perverse speech and actions as well as from the temptations of immorality. Chapter 3, verses 5-6. In one of the most familiar expressions of the Old Testament, Solomon summarized his fatherly advice by encouraging his son to trust in the LORD. Effective trust does not happen with a casual attitude. We must place our lives in His care with all our heart. Half-hearted faith, like a double mind, produces unstable lives (see Jas. 1:8). Our reliance on God must apply to all of our ways. We must not try to compartmentalize our faith, offering God one day a week or giving Him only partial allegiance. How foolish it would be to trust God for our eternal salvation and not rely on Him in family, business, and other areas of life! When we commit to following Him unreservedly, we can depend on Him to guide us in the right paths. 3. WHO’S IN CHARGE? (PROVERBS 3:1-2,7-8) Chapter 3, verse 1: Whenever Solomon emphasized a particular section, he used the endearing term, “My son.”We can almost see him reaching out, placing his hand on his son’s shoulder, and looking at him with strong, loving eyes as he urged him to remember God’s instruction. As we grow older, we sometimes forget the wise lessons of godly parents. We need to impress God’s Word into our hearts and minds so that we never forget it. Verse 2. Solomon described three benefits of following his instruction. First, the son 14

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COMMENTARY would enjoy a longer life. Second, the son’s life would be full and meaningful. He would have a sense of purpose and satisfaction about life. Third, the son would experience peace (wholeness, well-being). This third benefit is a reference to the Hebrew concept of shalom [pronounced: shah LOHM]. It is a word often translated as “peace,” but it means more than the mere absence of conflict. It refers to “wholeness” or “completeness.” Once again, we must not misunderstand this verse to guarantee that believers will never die young, get sick, or experience the stresses of life. Rather, it promises that living in faith and according to God’s wisdom helps us avoid many of the situations that can result in pain and distress. Verses 7-8. Many people are wise in their own eyes. They think they can manage their lives better than their Creator. Solomon warned his son never to consider himself to have arrived at perfection or full maturity. Again invoking the admonition to fear the LORD, Solomon escorted his son full circle to the Source of genuine wisdom—reverence for God. The evidence of genuine wisdom is to refuse the enticements of evil. The reference to healing can be verified in the simple observation that people who follow God’s commands make life choices that are more wholesome and healthy than those who engage in sinful lifestyles. 4. YOU GET WHAT YOU GIVE (PROVERBS 3:3-4) Verse 3: God wants us to enjoy healthy relationships. Too often we base friendships on compatible personalities or mutual interests. God knows that such qualities are fleeting, changeable, and insufficient for stable relationships. Two characteristics of godly friendships are loyalty and faithfulness. Lasting relationships involve people who are committed to one another whether times are easy or difficult. The second characteristic, faithfulness, involves the consistency and integrity necessary for right relationships. Vacillation and dishonesty never produce trust, and without trust relationships are impossible. Trust is built on the foundation of truth. Solomon’s counsel emphasizes that believers, through the Holy Spirit, have the power to hold on to these qualities. The picture is that of wearing them constantly as we might wear a necklace. It’s also interesting to note that a necklace is part of our outer appearance while the heart points to the inner center of our being. In Christ, we are transformed from the inside out. We think differently inside, and we act differently outside. Verse 4: This verse points ahead to One who fulfilled it in full measure. Perhaps without realizing it, Solomon described how Jesus would display wisdom and experience favor even as a young Boy (see Luke 2:52). When we exhibit God’s wisdom in our relationships, we will not only please God but also will build a name (reputation) among other people as being trustworthy and genuine.

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THE WRITING ON THE WALL

WEEK OF MARCH 16

WHAT YOU NEED > This week’s lesson on pages 8-9 of Collegiate’s Spring 2014 Explore the Bible® pull-out insert >Refer to “If you want to be happy ...” on page 9 of Collegiate’s Spring 2014 Explore the Bible® pull-out insert for a supplemental element to enhance your lesson. HIGHLIGHTS This week, we discuss making an educated decision to follow Christ. Solomon said there are two ways to go, and this week, we’re encouraging students to choose Christ. SCRIPTURE Proverbs 8:1–9:18 GETTING STARTED Open up the group gathering by handing out index cards with decisions that lead to short-term happiness. (Ideas include: Eating three deserts, staying up to watch one more episode on Netflix, putting off writing the paper, skipping Bible study, pushing the dirty clothes under the bed, and so forth.) Make sure you have enough so each group member has one. Have group members to write what the long-term happiness solution is on the back of the card, and then go around and let everyone share responses with the group. Encourage group members to share other long-term/short-term happiness comparisons.

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EXPLORE THE BIBLE Making decisions (or failing to) has consequences, none more serious than the question to follow Christ verses following the world. Many times, our choices in life are for long-term happiness or short-term happiness. It’s important to make the decision to always choose according to what will benefit us long-term. 1. SHREWD CHARACTER > HAVE A VOLUNTEER READ PROVERBS 8:1-6. 1 Doesn’t Wisdom call out? Doesn’t Understanding make her voice heard? 2 At the heights overlooking the road, at the crossroads, she takes her stand. 3 Beside the gates at the entry to the city, at the main entrance, she cries out: 4 “People, I call out to you; my cry is to mankind. 5 Learn to be shrewd, you who are inexperienced; develop common sense, you who are foolish. 6 Listen, for I speak of noble things, and what my lips say is right.

When we’re faced with important decisions, how can we make sure to make shrewd decisions? When you think of common sense, what comes to mind? Have you ever met someone who just doesn’t seem to have any common sense? What is the evidence of that? What are some ways we can develop shrewdness and common sense?

2. FOLLY’S DISTRACTION > HAVE A VOLUNTEER READ PROVERBS 9:13-17. 13 The woman Folly is rowdy; she is gullible and knows nothing. 14 She sits by the doorway of her house, on a seat at the highest point of the city, 15 calling to those who pass by, who go straight ahead on their paths: 16 “Whoever is inexperienced, enter here!” To the one who lacks sense, she says, 17 “Stolen water is sweet, and bread eaten secretly is tasty!”

What follies distract you from pursuing God in bigger ways?

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When you think about the decision to follow Christ, is this a decision you made out of gullibility or shrewdness? Explain. How would you encourage others facing this decision to pursue it with shrewdness and common sense?

3. FULLY RESPONSIBLE > HAVE A VOLUNTEER READ PROVERBS 8:17-21,32-36; 9:18,12. 8:17 I love those who love me, and those who search for me find me. 18 With me are riches and honor, lasting wealth and righteousness. 19 My fruit is better than solid gold, and my harvest than pure silver. 20 I walk in the way of righteousness, along the paths of justice, 21 giving wealth as an inheritance to those who love me, and filling their treasuries. 8:32 “And now, my sons, listen to me; those who keep my ways are happy. 33 Listen to instruction and be wise; don’t ignore it. 34 Anyone who listens to me is happy, watching at my doors every day, waiting by the posts of my doorway. 35 For the one who finds me finds life and obtains favor from the LORD, 36 but the one who misses me harms himself; all who hate me love death.” 9:18 But he doesn’t know that the departed spirits are there, that her guests are in the depths of Sheol. 9:12 If you are wise, you are wise for your own benefit; if you mock, you alone will bear the consequences.

What decisions have you made that cost you the most in the long-term? What decisions have you made that cost you the most short-term? When you think about the decision to follow Christ, what are the potential costs and benefits? Are the costs worth bearing? Explain. Knowing the costs and benefits, do you think you would like to accept Christ today?

APPLY TO LIFE OPTION 1:

Brainstorm and write out a few guiding principles for your group. Things like “If you want to be happy, be good.” Guiding principles are many times simple 18

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proverbs that convey wisdom. Put some of these into your groups’ own words, and then see if everyone can commit to hold the group to them. OPTION 2:

Everyone has folly in their lives that calls them out of good decisions and into the darkness. Have group members list out their own “folly” individually on a piece of paper, and then have them spend sometime praying that God would help to guard them against it. If you would like to add some symbolism, have them take turns putting their folly in a paper shredder. Always allow students to share these with the group if they would like, but be careful not to pressure people into it. Close your time in prayer asking God to guard us against folly and give us the common sense we need to make shrewd decisions. Thank Him for any first-time decisions that happened and ask Him to bring special protection into their lives.

NEXT WEEK > Read next week’s lesson, “Words Matter,” on pages 10-11 of Collegiate’s Spring 2014 Explore the Bible® pull-out insert.

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COMMENTARY BACKGROUND God’s wisdom is not mystical or theoretical. Unlike worldly philosophies, God’s wisdom is both personal and practical. Proverbs addresses the real-life issues of ordinary people. It points to the reality of life through faith in Jesus Christ. God’s wisdom calls us to hear and respond that we might live well by knowing the Lord and following His ways. 1. SHREWD CHARACTER (PROVERBS 8:1-6) Chapter 8, verse 1: Solomon couched the Lord’s summons in the voice of Wisdom. Personified as a gracious woman, “Lady Wisdom” issues an invitation for all to receive her counsel. The terms wisdom and understanding refer to the same entity with slight nuances of meaning. Wisdom in this case involves godly knowledge, while understanding applies such wisdom to life. In this word-picture, Solomon painted wisdom as a godly mother calling out to her children. She knows the dangers they will face and wants them to make wise choices. “Lady Wisdom” takes the initiative to engage and confront people. She doesn’t whisper; rather, she speaks loudly and clearly, knowing that competing voices—foolish, distracting, evil voices—also clamor for people’s attention. God’s wisdom makes its voice heard above the din. No one can rightly say that God didn’t make known His ways (see Rom. 1:18-20). Verses 2-3. Solomon referred to three locations where “Lady Wisdom” stations herself in order to engage people. First, she stands on the heights that overlook a busy road. Outdoor advertisers know the value of stationing a billboard on a high spot beside a packed interstate highway. Solomon used a similar idea to picture God’s wisdom situated where any and every traveler would be confronted by it. Second, “Lady Wisdom” stands at the crossroads—in other words, where God’s wisdom and worldly wisdom cross paths and people must make choices. We need God’s wisdom as we face such crossroads in life. Only God knows fully what lies down each road. We need His trustworthy guidance. Third, “Lady Wisdom” can be found at the gates of the city. In Solomon’s time, the gates of a fortified city were not only the sole point of entry for all merchants but also the area where community leaders met to hear disputes and dispense justice. When rulers are corrupted by the lure of power or greed, justice always suffers. Verse 4. “Lady Wisdom” appeals directly and forcefully. She addresses the entire human race. Every person stands in need of divine understanding. The pronouns I and you emphasize the direct, personal appeal God’s wisdom makes to each of us. No one is excluded. Verse 5. Some people are inexperienced in life. They are immature, yet they have an opportunity to receive God’s wisdom and thus learn to be prudent in their actions. Others have plenty of life experience but so far have chosen the way of folly. In the Book of Proverbs, both the inexperienced and the foolish are people who have not responded in faith to the Lord and His guidance. Psalm 14:1 and 53:1 describe the fool as one who doesn’t even acknowledge God’s existence. The fool’s denial of God’s existence is not from a lack of intelligence. Rather, the fool in Proverbs suffers from a lack of moral discernment. When people refuse to heed God’s invitation to life and wisdom, they choose a foolish, deadly path. These conditions do not have to be permanent. God is gracious and patient, not wanting any to perish (see 2 Pet. 3:9). Heeding God’s call to new life through faith in Jesus Christ ushers us into His wisdom and way of life. In Christ, believers receive God’s indwelling Spirit, whose work is to teach us all things (see John 14:26) and to develop in us the fruit of spiritual maturity (see Gal. 5:22-23; 2 Pet. 1:3-8). Verse 6. With solemn earnestness, “Lady Wisdom” urges people to heed her call. What she offers are noble things and right things. God’s wisdom leads to experiencing life at 20

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COMMENTARY its best, to the full (see John 10:10). God’s ways are best for us because they are right (see Hos. 14:9). 2. FOLLY’S DISTRACTION (PROVERBS 9:13-17) Chapter 9, verse 13: Solomon characterized “Folly”—and thus foolish people—as having three potentially fatal, adverse qualities. First, “Folly” is rowdy. Foolish people often are obnoxious and uncouth, having no boundaries on their behavior and being aggressive toward those they think they can victimize. In Proverbs 7:10-11, this quality is used to describe an aggressive prostitute. Second, “Folly” is gullible. Foolish people try to seduce, or fool, others; they do not realize they are fooling themselves worst of all. Because they reject God’s wisdom, they are the gullible ones who are headed for destruction. Third, “Folly” knows nothing. Foolish people lack a basic understanding of authentic life; they are easily deceived. Verse 14. “Lady Wisdom” takes the initiative to engage people in their key locations. In contrast, “Folly” sits by the doorway of her house. Like a hungry spider, she sits patiently on her “web,” waiting for new victims to wander foolishly into her trap. This contrast reveals much about our fallen nature as sinners. We are desperately prone to stumble into—if not to seek out—the foolish pleasures of sin; we must be pursued by and confronted with the gospel’s godly wisdom. Ironically, “Folly’s” residence sits on the highest point in the city. The lure of foolishness is always visible. Jesus taught that the “broad road” of sin leading to destruction appeals to many people (see Matt. 7:13). Verse 15. Like “Lady Wisdom,”“Folly” calls out to people as they travel life’s path. These potential victims might not intend to fall prey to “Folly.” Nevertheless, they walk close enough to her house to see it and to hear the siren calls of temptation. Verses 16-17. “Folly” tempts people by making promises she can’t keep and never intend to keep. She promises that the inexperienced can enter her residence and experience the pleasures of a lifetime. What she doesn’t mention is the deadly price that sin ultimately requires (see Rom. 6:23; Jas. 1:14-15). Those who are morally and spiritually immature lack the discernment to see the hook inside “Folly’s” bait. Likewise, people who lack sense are not necessarily intellectually empty; rather, they lack spiritual and moral discernment. “Folly” entices them by speaking of hidden sinful desires. She describes the sweetness of stolen water and the tastiness of bread eaten secretly. Both of these descriptions may be euphemisms for sexual immorality. In any case, they show that “Folly” focuses on temptation but remains silent about the consequences of sin. However, foolish people fail to realize that an omniscient God sees every action and knows every intent of the human heart. 3. FULLY RESPONSIBLE (PROVERBS 8:17-21,32-36; 9:18,12) Chapter 8, verse 17: Solomon depicted “Lady Wisdom” as establishing a relationship of love with everyone who embraces God’s wisdom. The love is mutual; she loves them, and they love her. Moreover, people who sincerely seek God’s wisdom will find it. God does not play hide and seek with His Word. He wants His children to find Him (see Jer. 29:13). Verses 18-19. Embracing God’s wisdom leads to blessings beyond compare. We’re tempted to focus on monetary blessings, the riches. But notice this is a reference to true, enduring wealth; and it is coupled with the blessings of honor and righteousness. Wisdom’s wealth is not monetary, because her fruit is more desirable than pure gold. Wisdom’s riches bring a return that far outweighs earthly treasure. Jesus taught His followers to trust God for their needs and to seek first His kingdom and righteousness— treasures that are eternal (see Matt. 6:31-33). Verses 20-21. “Lady Wisdom” walks in the way of righteousness, and so those who embrace God’s wisdom travel that path with her. Righteousness is a right relationship with God that comes through faith in Jesus Christ. When we are right with God, we then can relate rightly to others, treating them with fairness and mercy just as God treats us. People who embrace God’s wisdom receive an unbelievable inheritance. 21

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COMMENTARY The apostle Paul described this inheritance as “every spiritual blessing in the heavens” (Eph. 1:3). With that in mind, we begin to understand the great benefit of choosing wisdom over folly. The primary inheritance of choosing the Lord is eternal life through Jesus Christ (see Col. 1:12; Heb. 9:15; 1 Pet. 1:4) Verse 32-33. “Lady Wisdom” blesses her children. She urges them to heed her guidance so that they will be truly happy. In the New Testament, true happiness is a matter of joy, a fruit of the Spirit (see Gal. 5:22; 1 Thess. 1:6). Not only will “Lady Wisdom’s” children experience joy, but they also will grow to be wise. The repeated emphasis of listening to (hearing and obeying) instruction shows the importance of God’s Word for believers. Instruction pictures a child under the guidance of a tutor. Many people are smart but fail to acquire godly wisdom. The Holy Spirit uses God’s Word to equip us for life (see 2 Tim. 3:15-17). Verse 34. “Lady Wisdom” pledges again that all who listen to and obey her will be happy. We should recognize two important truths related to this promise. First, this assurance is not limited to people of extraordinary intellect. Anyone who embraces God’s wisdom will receive this blessing. Second, those who embrace God’s wisdom soon find themselves desiring more of it. Solomon depicted this truth as “Lady Wisdom’s” followers camping out at her door daily, anxiously waiting for her to emerge and give them more instruction. Verse 35. Here is a key truth: to find God’s wisdom is to find life itself. The favor of the Lord is nothing less than His salvation that comes through believing in Jesus Christ. Jesus declared that the reason He came into the world was to give forgiveness and new life to repentant sinners (see John 10:10; see also Acts 2:37-38; Rom. 6:4,23). Christ alone can give us genuine life in this world and in the next. The only way that sinners can be reconciled to God and can enter His holy heaven is to be rid of our sin. Being baptized will not remove sin from our hearts. All our good works cannot balance the evil of our iniquity. God sent His Son, Jesus, to live a perfect life and die on the cross in our place, taking our sin on Himself. Jesus was raised from the dead, completely conquering sin and death, so that through faith we can have life in Him. When we accept Jesus as Lord and Savior, we receive the Lord’s favor and demonstrate the height of true wisdom. Verse 36. In contrast to the believer who finds life is the person who fails to embrace God’s wisdom. That person is in peril, because to reject God’s wisdom is to put oneself in danger of eternal harm. A second contrast in this verse points back to Proverbs 8:17. The people who love “Lady Wisdom” are loved by her. Foolish people, however, hate wisdom and, in effect, love death. In Scripture, “hate” and “love” are more about actions and the will than about feelings. In that sense, those who reject God’s salvation in Christ choose a destiny of eternal death. Chapter 9, verse 18. This verse expresses the conclusion of Solomon’s picture of the woman “Folly.” Imagine the hotel of horror whose proprietor is “Folly.” Those who fall for her enticements and enter her residence ignore the reality that its inhabitants have one thing in common: they are the departed spirits! This graphic word-picture portrays the doom that awaits those who reject God’s salvation in Christ. In Solomon’s day, the concept of the afterlife was not as complete as we find in the New Testament. Nevertheless, Solomon warned that the guests in “Folly’s” residence soon discover they are in the realm of the dead. The Hebrew word Sheol depicts that realm. The Hebrew concept included both the grave in general and the place of punishment for the ungodly in particular. Verse 12. The concluding verse for this study points to the personal responsibility all people bear for their eternal destiny. The wise benefit themselves by embracing God’s provision of salvation. Likewise, unbelievers will bear the eternal consequences of their folly. The Old Testament picture of two paths, one an expression of God’s wisdom that leads to life and the other an expression of sinful folly that leads to death, finds its ultimate expression in the New Testament. Jesus came into the world as God’s Wisdom in Person. Life and death in the fullest sense hang in the balance when people make a choice about Him. To respond through faith in Christ is to embrace God’s wisdom and find life. To reject Him is the ultimate in foolishness and leads to death. 22

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WORDS MATTER

WEEK OF MARCH 23

WHAT YOU NEED > This week’s lesson on pages 10-11 of Collegiate’s Spring 2014 Explore the Bible® pull-out insert >Refer to “5 Ways to Avoid Gossip” on page 11 of Collegiate’s Spring 2014 Explore the Bible® pull-out insert for a supplemental element to enhance your lesson. HIGHLIGHTS This lesson focuses on the use of our speech in building people up and tearing people down. SCRIPTURE Selected Proverbs GETTING STARTED Start off the group gathering by talking about the power of a compliment and ask group members to share answers to the following questions: What is the best compliment you have ever received? How has this compliment shaped your life?

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WORDS MATTER

WEEK OF MARCH 23

EXPLORE THE BIBLE Many times, we find ourselves speaking without thinking. Because of that, we hurt relationships. God says our tongues are powerful — both for good and evil. It’s important that we learn to control our words and use them to build up, not tear down. 1. FIRST THINGS FIRST > HAVE A VOLUNTEER READ PROVERBS 17:27-28; 21:23. 17:27 The intelligent person restrains his words, and one who keeps a cool head is a man of understanding. 28 Even a fool is considered wise when he keeps silent, discerning when he seals his lips. 21:23 The one who guards his mouth and tongue keeps himself out of trouble.

When you think about controlling your words, to what relationships would this be applicable? In which relationships do you most lose control of your words? Which relationships is it most important to keep control of your words? In what medium do you more easily control your words — email, text message, on the phone, in person, and so forth?

2. WORDS GET THINGS DONE > HAVE A VOLUNTEER READ PROVERBS 18:19-21. 18:19 An offended brother is harder to reach than a fortified city, and quarrels are like the bars of a fortress. 20 From the fruit of his mouth a man’s stomach is satisfied; he is filled with the product of his lips. 21 Life and death are in the power of the tongue, and those who love it will eat its fruit.

How are you represented by your words? What would people say about you — based solely on your words in the last week? Given a chance to represent God’s love, how should we use our words? In what specific ways can you use your words in a powerful way this week? Whose life can you impact positively with your words?

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3. GOSSIP IS FOR ... NOBODY > HAVE A VOLUNTEER READ PROVERBS 11:13; 26:20-24. 11:13 A gossip goes around revealing a secret, but a trustworthy person keeps a confidence. 26:20 Without wood, fire goes out; without a gossip, conflict dies down. 21 As charcoal for embers and wood for fire, so is a quarrelsome man for kindling strife. 22 A gossip’s words are like choice food that goes down to one’s innermost being. 23 Smooth lips with an evil heart are like glaze on an earthen vessel. 24 A hateful person disguises himself with his speech and harbors deceit within.

How does gossip begin and what fuels it? How can we combat against gossip?

4. TRUTH ALWAYS WINS > HAVE A VOLUNTEER READ PROVERBS 10:18-19; 12:17-19. 10:18 The one who conceals hatred has lying lips, and whoever spreads slander is a fool. 19 When there are many words, sin is unavoidable, but the one who controls his lips is wise. 12:17 Whoever speaks the truth declares what is right, but a false witness, deceit. 18 There is one who speaks rashly, like a piercing sword; but the tongue of the wise brings healing. 19 Truthful lips endure forever, but a lying tongue, only a moment.

When have you experienced the healing that truth brings? Can you remember the relief you felt when you finally learned the truth about something? What did you do Can you remember a time when someone’s lie hurt you? Can you remember a time when your lie hurt yourself? Explain.

5. WORDS CAN HEAL > HAVE A VOLUNTEER READ PROVERBS 25:11-13; 31:8-9. 25:11 A word spoken at the right time is like gold apples on a silver tray. 12 A wise correction to a receptive ear is like a gold ring or an ornament of gold. 25

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WORDS MATTER

WEEK OF MARCH 23

13 To those who send him, a trustworthy messenger is like the coolness of snow on a harvest day; he refreshes the life of his masters. 31:8 Speak up for those who have no voice, for the justice of all who are dispossessed. 9 Speak up, judge righteously, and defend the cause of the oppressed and needy.

What kind of good have you experienced through someone’s words? As you think about your family and friends, how can you use your words for good this week?

APPLY TO LIFE OPTION 1:

Take action with your words this week. Pick up a pen and paper and help each other spend a few minutes writing encouraging words to friends. Share these with each other as a way to bring accountability to the group. OPTION 2:

Decide that you are done with gossip and make a plan to kill it this week. Think about the gossip that has been shared with you, and systematically find the subject of the gossip, verifying what you were told. This brings the truth to light when you don’t allow others to inform you of things. Or, simply stop participating in gosspip by stopping gossip before it begins. Ask the gossiper to take you out of their gossip circle and instead find other things to talk about. OPTION 3:

As a group, find a big lie to start to stamp out with the truth. Whether it be a big issue like abortion or human trafficking or even locally — take action to inform people about the truth and ask them to respond with you. Close in prayer by asking God to help keep our words in check this week. Ask specifically for him to help us to slow down and evaluate what we’re saying and how we’re saying it. Thank God for being the truth in a world so full of lies.

NEXT WEEK > Read next week’s lesson, “Wise Enough to Work Hard,” on pages 12-13 of Collegiate’s Spring 2014 Explore the Bible® pull-out insert.

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COMMENTARY BACKGROUND The old saying about words never hurting us is just wrong. Words can hurt. They are powerful—for good or for evil. We must use words wisely because we will stand accountable for them (see Matt. 12:36). As Christ’s followers, we are called to use our words always for good (see Col. 4:6). 1. FIRST THINGS FIRST (PROVERBS 17:27-28; 21:23) Chapter 17, verse 27. The beginning of wise speech is learning when to speak at all. Empowered by God’s Spirit, believers learn to use restraint in their speech. They develop the knowledge to discern when to speak and when not to speak. Moreover, they learn to have a cool head about themselves in tense situations. They keep an even temper, understanding well the danger of letting anger fuel one’s words. The term understanding involves more than knowing facts or details. It involves discernment based on God’s wisdom plus the strength of will to apply that discernment at appropriate times. Verse 28. This verse echoes the theme of the previous verse. In doing so, it reflects a common feature of Hebrew poetry: using a parallel line to repeat a theme in slightly different terms. It’s like looking at the same finely cut diamond from different angles. Here Solomon was not saying that a foolish person is wise, only that when such a person holds his tongue in a tense situation he appears wise. Guarding one’s speech is so fundamental to Christian living that refusing to do so makes a believer appear more foolish than a fool—that is, an unbeliever. Perhaps this Old Testament proverb was the basis of our modern saying: “Better to be silent and thought a fool than to open one’s mouth and remove all doubt.” The wise believer knows when to speak and when to be silent. A peaceful spirit produces a quiet mouth. Chapter 21, verse 23. How often have you found yourself in trouble with someone because of simple misunderstandings? The word guards in this proverb literally means “to keep watch over.” One form of the word was used in the Old Testament to refer to “watchmen,” guards posted on a city’s walls to look for approaching trouble (see Isa. 62:6). In the New Testament, Paul urged believers in his Letter to the Colossians to season their speech at all times with the salt of grace, especially when talking with unbelievers (see Col. 4:5-6). Wise believers diligently keep watch over their speech and, consequently, often avoid getting into trouble or conflicts. 2. WORDS GET THINGS DONE (PROVERBS 18:19-21) Verse 19. Most of us know what it is like to have our feelings hurt by someone’s thoughtless words. Likewise, then, most of us probably have been on the other side of that equation. We have offended someone by using hurtful words. Perhaps we didn’t intend to offend the person; nevertheless, we did offend. In the case of this proverb, the offended person is a brother, making the wounded feelings all the more painful. The point is that once the damage is done, the relationship may not be easily repaired. Even if we, the offender, reach out to be reconciled, we may discover that our wounded sibling (or fellow believer, in the case of God’s family) has built a wall to protect from further heartache. If the hurtful words represent just one volley in a broader, more entrenched family quarrel, then the difficulty in reconciling only intensifies. We install even more barriers, like the bars of a fortress. Verse 20. In contrast to the scenario in 18:19, this verse implies the scenario of a good and satisfying relationship. What helps to make this difference are the kind and truthful words we speak, what Solomon referred to as the fruit of our mouths and the “produce” of our lips. When believers follow God’s direction and speak in such a way as to honor Him, we are blessed with satisfaction. The proverb also emphasizes that we generally receive what we give. If we use good words for good purposes, we usually get the same in return. Verse 21. As believers, we must never forget that words can have extraordinary power—even the power to make the difference between life and death for a speaker 27

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COMMENTARY or a hearer (or both!). What we say can be constructive or destructive, but words are rarely neutral. By recognizing the benefits and dangers of words, we can employ their power for good rather than harm. In Scripture, to love is to decide and to act in ways that promote the well-being of the object or person who is loved. Thus to love wise speech is to practice it and enjoy its fruit, or results. 3. GOSSIP IS FOR … NOBODY (PROVERBS 11:13; 26:20-24) The proverbs in this section highlight one of the ways people use words for harm rather than for good. This type of speech can be referred to as “gossip,”“tale-bearing,” or in some cases “slander.” Chapter 11, verse 13. The contrast Solomon made in this proverb shows that at its base gossip is a terrible breach of trust. He put at opposite ends of the relationship spectrum the trustworthy person on the one hand and the tale-bearer on the other. On either end, the person’s actions are a reflection of that person’s character. A gossip can’t be trusted with confidential information. The slanderer takes tale-bearing to another level; slanderers seek to harm others with false testimony. In contrast, friends who maintain a confidence show by their action that they are trustworthy. Chapter 26, verses 20-21. These two proverbs emphasize the same truth: those who are given to gossiping or quarreling usually keep conflicts going long after they should have been resolved. The image Solomon used is that of fire, an image also employed by James in the New Testament (see Jas. 3:5-6). To keep burning, a fire needs fuel, such as wood. Even if the fire dies down to a few glowing embers, all it takes is putting on some more wood and fanning the embers. That’s a vivid picture of what gossips do for conflicts. They keep putting fuel on the quarrel and fanning the embers. They do this with their words. Many a church has had to confront members who disrupt the fellowship with constant hurtful, quarrelsome speech (see 2 Cor. 10:1-2; 1 Tim. 5:11-13; Titus 1:10-14). Church discipline should always be done prayerfully, fairly, and in an effort to bring about repentance and restoration. However, worse damage can occur if churches allow gossips to continue spewing toxic words. Verse 22. Sadly, too many people are willing to empower gossips by eagerly listening to their tales. Because of our sinful nature, too often we’re drawn to the gossip’s whispered words like we’re drawn to a dish of tantalizing food. Gossip, however, is a poison dish that, when ingested, will infect our very soul (innermost being). Verses 23-24. In these two proverbs, Solomon warned that people often do not recognize the danger that a gossip’s words present. Gossips use smooth talk to disguise their hatred and evil intent. Their efforts can be compared to putting a shiny glaze on a piece of common earthenware. The exterior looks good, but the heart of it is still just baked mud. 4. TRUTH ALWAYS WINS (PROVERBS 10:18-19; 12:17-19) While most people might unknowingly say things at times that are not accurate, falsehood involves the deliberate use of untruth. Lies find their ultimate origin in the Devil, the father of lies (see John 8:44). Chapter 10, verse 18. One root of lying lips is a heart filled with hatred. We don’t lie to people we love. When people knowingly lie, they usually do so for personal advantage, often to the harm of someone else. Solomon observed that the person who slanders another is a fool. Verse 19. James taught that a believer who never stumbles into sin through words is spiritually mature indeed (see Jas. 3:2)! His teaching reflects what Solomon wrote in this proverb. It stands to reason that the more someone talks, the more likely the person is to say something along the way that crosses the line of sin, or transgression. It is the Holy Spirit who gives believers self-control to guard against falsehood (see Gal. 5:22-23). Chapter 12, verse 17. God’s truth produces boldness as the believer declares what is right. The picture behind this proverb is that of a witness who confidently tells the truth. 28

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COMMENTARY This person has no fear of being indicted for dishonesty. By contrast, the false witness must always work to keep the details of deceit consistent. Therefore, such people often use vague words in sly ways, speaking in whispers lest someone expose their lie. Verse 18. This proverb contrasts rash speech with wise speech. Rash, or reckless, speech uses words without thought or consideration for the damage words can inflict. Rash speakers often use words like a sword, stabbing and slicing their targets without mercy. Conversely, wise speech has a healing quality. Wise Christians know they can use words to heal fractured relationships, mend hurt feelings, and restore peace. Verse 19. All real truth comes from the Lord. As indicated in 12:17, the truth stands on its own; it endures simply because it is true (see Ps. 19:9; Ps. 119:160). When we speak truthfully, that truth lasts through the tests of time. The words of a lying tongue, however, soon crumble into dust. As believers we are to always speak the truth in love (see Eph. 4:15). 5. WORDS CAN HEAL (PROVERBS 25:11-13; 31:8-9) Chapter 25, verse 11. Recall that biblical wisdom is the God-given skill of making the right choice at the opportune time. Wise words, then, have to do not only with their content but also with their timing. A wise word can be spoken at just the time it’s needed. Or it might be a word that aptly fits a given situation that arises. Or it could be a timely right judgment, or response. Solomon’s point was that wise words are precious, as valuable as gold apples on a silver tray. Verse 12. Sometimes the wise word someone needs is a word of correction, or reproof. Hearing a word of correction may not seem pleasant at the time; it takes maturity to appreciate and learn from correction. However, Solomon pictured wise correction that comes from a loving, concerned heart with the intent to help, nor harm. The person who is receptive to such correction will find it to be of great value, like a beautiful gold ornament that adorns their life. Verse 13. Here Solomon pictured the value of a trusted messenger to the masters who dispatched him to deliver an important message. Long before the advent of telegraph, telephone, and satellite-based communication, messengers were the vital link between people and nations. How valuable was a capable, trustworthy messenger? Solomon compared it to the refreshment that parched, thirsty, Middle Eastern field workers would experience when someone delivered a barrel of cool, melted snow for them to drink. Similarly, we can be reinvigorated when a pastor faithfully conveys to us God’s message from His Word. Chapter 31, verses 8-9. These two verses are part of an oracle spoken to King Lemuel by his mother (see Prov. 31:1). Other parts of the oracle will be addressed in later studies. The mother’s counsel was intended to help her son rule wisely and justly. Throughout history, there have been people who for various reasons are unable to speak. Lemuel’s mother may have had such citizens in mind, but she also wanted the king to speak up for those with no voice of power, or influence. The king in ancient life was the supreme human judge in the land. Therefore he needed to judge righteously and to be a constant advocate for the oppressed and needy. He needed to be their voice to ensure justice. Justice involves not only legal judgments but also, in the broader sense, fair treatment of people in every aspect of life. The Scriptures call for all believers to have our Heavenly Father’s commitment to justice and mercy (see Mic. 6:8; Luke 6:36). Under the Spirit’s guidance, we can take at least two actions. First, we can speak up for vulnerable people. Second, we can treat all people fairly, in ways that honor our Lord Jesus Christ. In the Spirit’s power, let us do so today!

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WISE ENOUGH TO WORK HARD

WEEK OF MARCH 30

WHAT YOU NEED > This week’s lesson on pages 12-13 of Collegiate’s Spring 2014 Explore the Bible® pull-out insert >Refer to “What vs. How” on page 13 of Collegiate’s Spring 2014 Explore the Bible® pull-out insert for a supplemental element to enhance your lesson. HIGHLIGHTS God isn’t interested in us being lazy. Just because the work of salvation is done for us through Jesus Christ doesn’t mean we also don’t have work to do in this world. Within God’s Word, we learn that hard work is rewarded, and laziness leads to need. SCRIPTURE Selected Proverbs GETTING STARTED To open the group gathering time, ask group members to share their hopes and dreams for future careers. Use the following questions to start discussion: Given a chance to do anything as your career, what would you do? What must be done before you can have that ideal career? Are you willing to do the work to reach your ideal career?

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WISE ENOUGH TO WORK HARD

WEEK OF MARCH 30

EXPLORE THE BIBLE 1. WORK WHAT YOU GOT > HAVE A VOLUNTEER READ PROVERBS 13:4; 14:23; 20:4; 24:30-34; 26:13-14; 28:19. 13:4 The slacker craves, yet has nothing, but the diligent is fully satisfied. 14:23 There is profit in all hard work, but endless talk leads only to poverty. 20:4 The slacker does not plow during planting season; at harvest time he looks, and there is nothing. 24:30 I went by the field of a slacker and by the vineyard of a man lacking sense. 31 Thistles had come up everywhere, weeds covered the ground, and the stone wall was ruined. 32 I saw, and took it to heart; I looked, and received instruction: 33 a little sleep, a little slumber, a little folding of the arms to rest, 34 and your poverty will come like a robber, your need, like a bandit. 26:13 The slacker says, “There’s a lion in the road— a lion in the public square!” 14 A door turns on its hinges, and a slacker, on his bed. 28:19 The one who works his land will have plenty of food, but whoever chases fantasies will have his fill of poverty.

When you think of what you’re called to do, how much of that calling is tied to a career? Is it OK to say that God calls us to careers? How do you respond to this statement: “God provides for our need through hard work”? Does that seem right or wrong? In what ways can we worship God through our vocation? What about working brings honor to God?

2. TAKING CARE OF NOW > HAVE A VOLUNTEER READ PROVERBS 6:6-8; 10:5; 14:4; 21:20; 24:27. 6:6 Go to the ant, you slacker! Observe its ways and become wise. 7 Without leader, administrator, or ruler, 8 it prepares its provisions in summer; it gathers its food during harvest. 10:5 The son who gathers during summer is prudent; the son who sleeps during harvest is disgraceful. 31

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WISE ENOUGH TO WORK HARD

WEEK OF MARCH 30

14:4 Where there are no oxen, the feeding trough is empty, but an abundant harvest comes through the strength of an ox. 21:20 Precious treasure and oil are in the dwelling of a wise person, but a foolish man consumes them. 24:27 Complete your outdoor work, and prepare your field; afterward, build your house.

Can you think of a specific trait God has developed in you through the workplace? How could this trait be used for the church? Have you experienced God’s blessing in your work by increasing it? Explain. When you think about your time in college, is it possible to consider that God will bless you in work in relation to how you proved yourself with the education He provided?

3. BEING GENEROUS > HAVE A VOLUNTEER READ PROVERBS 11:24-25; 19:17; 22:9; 28:27. 11:24 One person gives freely, yet gains more; another withholds what is right, only to become poor. 25 A generous person will be enriched, and the one who gives a drink of water will receive water. 19:17 Kindness to the poor is a loan to the LORD, and He will give a reward to the lender. 22:9 A generous person will be blessed, for he shares his food with the poor. 28:27 The one who gives to the poor will not be in need, but one who turns his eyes away will receive many curses.

How do you settle the desire to have things and do things against the need to help others? In what areas has God been able to use you to be a financial blessing to others? Have you ever regretted a decision to not help someone in need? How does this impact your relationship and your reputation as a Christian? How do you balance loving extravagantly and living extravagantly? What ways can you be lovingly generous with the resources God has given you?

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WISE ENOUGH TO WORK HARD

WEEK OF MARCH 30

APPLY TO LIFE OPTION 1:

Have group members spend time praying and thinking about what God has planned for them in regards to work and career. Challenge them to focus on two things: What is the calling God has given you? And what is the process to reach that calling? OPTION 2:

As a group, is there a way we can team together to be generous? Consider: a) sponsoring a child through Compassion International or WorldVision, b) finding students in need of financial help and pooling money to supply it, or c) putting together a fundraiser event that helps a local or international missionary. OPTION 3:

Break into pairs and discuss the laziness that invades our lives. Share key times or activities that cause laziness to set in and ways to combat that laziness. Then instruct group members to pray for each other. Close in prayer by asking God to bring our view of work in line with His. Thank God for the opportunity we have to work and for the provision He gives us through that. Also pray that God will make clear opportunities for us to give generously.

NEXT WEEK > Read next week’s lesson, “Financial Responsibility 101,” on pages 14-15 of Collegiate’s Spring 2014 Explore the Bible® pull-out insert.

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COMMENTARY BACKGROUND Whether or not we fully appreciate it, we find identity and purpose in our work. The Bible teaches that such benefits are rooted in God’s purposes in creation. God placed the first man in the garden of Eden not just to enjoy its delights but to tend it (see Gen. 2:15). Working the garden was part and parcel of enjoying it. Neither was work a punishment for mankind’s fall into sin. Rather, sin’s effect on work was to make it frustrating and difficult (see Gen. 3:17-19). In the redeeming power of Christ, however, work has been returned to its original blessed purpose. As Paul wrote in Ephesians 2:10: “For we are His creation, created in Christ Jesus for good works, which God prepared ahead of time so that we should walk in them.” In other words, saving faith leads to a wise work ethic. 1. WORK WHAT YOU GOT (PROVERBS 13:4; 14:23; 20:4;24:30-34; 26:13-14; 28:19) The proverbs grouped together in this section teach us as believers that living out God’s wisdom involves being diligent in our work responsibilities. We should be careful here to remember that there were people in Solomon’s day—just as in our day—who were willing to work but were unable to do so for a variety of reasons. These proverbs are aimed at individuals who can work but won’t. Chapter 13, verse 4. Solomon contrasted the slacker with a diligent worker. Slackers have physical desires, as all people do, but because of their laziness are unable to satisfy those desires. In this case, the word-picture is probably that of a glutton, someone whose appetite is out of control. The slacker constantly craves more and more, but cannot satisfy the craving. In contrast to slackers are the diligent. Their conscientious work habits lead to their being satisfied. In the concrete, visual language of the Hebrew Old Testament, the idea of satisfaction was pictured as “fatness.” This doesn’t mean that diligent work promotes obesity. Rather, it meant that the diligent would not find themselves in want or unable to meet their physical needs. The results of diligent work had to do not only with wages and productivity but also with the satisfaction of a job well done. Chapter 14, verse 23. Just as there is a contrast in the “satisfaction factor” between the lazy and the diligent, there’s also a contrast in what gets done—in other words, the “profit factor.” Through their hard work, the diligent accomplish things that bring reward. Slackers, on the other hand, tend to talk endlessly about what they’re going to do without ever actually doing it. This may also refer to workers who have a job to do but spend their time idly chatting while they should be working. Either way, the work goes undone and the “reward” sooner or later is poverty. Again, we must be careful not to misapply this proverb. It is neither a prompting for workers to become “workaholics” nor for employers to impose oppressive conditions on their workers. By His example in creation and His command in the law regarding the Sabbath, the Lord designed a balance for us between diligent work and rejuvenating rest and worship (see Ex. 20:8-11). Chapter 20, verse 4. We might think of this proverb as a contrast in the “timing factor.” God’s wisdom involves making right decisions and doing the right thing at the appropriate time. Using an agricultural analogy, Solomon drove home the point that every season has its tasks. Slackers cannot expect to reap a crop at harvest time if they’re unwilling to do the work of plowing and planting months earlier. One need not be a farmer to understand the application: if we do not work diligently and save wisely, we will find ourselves unable to meet future needs. Chapter 24, verses 30-34. This passage also employs agricultural imagery to emphasize the importance of working diligently at the time the work needs to be done. Solomon recalled walking by the field and vineyard of a known slacker. 34

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COMMENTARY The field was covered in weeds, and the protective stone wall was in disrepair. As Solomon gazed at the sight, the Lord gave him insight. The slacker lacked sense, or understanding. However, this description referred not so much to mental ability as to drive. The farmer simply didn’t have his heart in the work. To own a business and not tend to it makes no sense. Scripture urges believers to work wholeheartedly, as unto the Lord (see Col. 3:2324). This principle applies not only in agricultural industries but also in every area of life. Not giving diligent care to our jobs adversely affects our workplace and has corresponding negative results for future employment prospects. Solomon observed that the resultant problems associated with laziness and disdain for work often strike unexpectedly and without mercy, leaving the slacker stunned and destitute. Chapter 26, verse 13. Here Solomon described the common practice among slackers of making lame excuses for not being able to go to work (see also Prov. 22:13). While there can be legitimate reasons for an employee to miss a day of work, the picture of a lion running loose on the streets was an obvious, outrageous excuse. People who simply do not want to work can devise many reasons for justifying their laziness. Verse 14. In another observational proverb, Solomon compared the slacker on his bed to a door swinging on its hinges. When it’s time to get up and go to work, the slacker turns over and goes back to sleep. Chapter 28, verse 19. In this proverb, Solomon returned to the theme of the contrasting results of diligent work versus worthless pursuits. The former can expect to have plenty of food; the latter can expect to experience poverty. Many an entrepreneur started a business in pursuit of a dream or with a creative idea or approach. However, no meaningful, enduring success comes without diligent work. 2. TAKING CARE OF NOW (PROVERBS 6:6-8; 10:5; 14:4; 21:20; 24:27) Some people think a good work ethic just means spending more time working. Often what is needed isn’t working longer hours but working smarter. As my carpentergrandfather used to say: Measure twice; cut once. In God’s wisdom, working smartly means doing the right thing at the right time in the right way. Chapter 6, verses 6-8. Sometimes God gave Solomon inspired insights as the king observed common sights in the natural world. In these verses, Solomon counseled the slacker to go to the ant and learn some important lessons about working wisely. First, the ant diligently goes about the crucial work of gathering food for the colony without having to be goaded, forced, or supervised. Second, the ant works diligently at the right time (summer) and in the harvest fields where food is most plentiful. Third, ants work in cooperation. Solomon used the singular noun ant in a collective sense; one ant represented all the ants. Our modern word synergy refers to working with others in a mutually beneficial manner. We as believers and members of local churches do well to learn the lesson of the ant too. The Lord Jesus has given us an urgent work to do: take the gospel to the nations and make disciples as we go (see Matt. 28:18-20). We must do our task diligently until He returns, which could be at any time (see John 9:4; Luke 12:35-40). We will be most effective in our mission when we work together in unity and in the power of the Holy Spirit (see John 17:21; Acts 1:8). Chapter 10, verse 5. Here Solomon addressed his son more personally. A son who gathers the crops in summer, when the harvest is ready, shows prudence. By doing the right thing at the right time, the son demonstrates wisdom, which makes most any father proud. By contrast, a son who sleeps away the days while the crops lie ready in the fields brings shame on his parents. The main teaching of the proverb is that we show wisdom as God’s people when we recognize what needs to be done and are ready to do the work in a timely fashion. Chapter 14, verse 4. This proverb employs another agricultural example, oxen, to show the benefit of making wise investments. Oxen served in Solomon’s day much like tractors do today. They provided the muscle to pull plows through tough ground 35

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COMMENTARY so that crops could be planted. An empty feed trough on a farm could mean only one thing: the farmer had no oxen. And with no oxen there was little chance of a good harvest. This proverb highlights the wisdom of working smartly by using the best tools God gives us to use. Another way of expressing it is that sometimes we have to invest money—and invest it wisely—to make money. God expects us to use His provisions wisely in accomplishing the work He gives us to do (see Luke 19:11-27). Chapter 21, verse 20. Wise believers learn that biblical stewardship involves a balanced approach of spending (investing), saving, and giving. This proverb focuses on the importance of saving for future needs by managing one’s consumption. Solomon pictured a household in which the family had some items of high value (the word can refer to some type of treasure or to food delicacies) and the vital commodity of oil. The oil had multiple uses, from cooking to burning in lamps to use as medicine. The proverb reveals a God-given principle that applies whatever a family’s income might be. The wise person diligently seeks to keep something in store for the future. The foolish person lives only for the moment, using up everything to gratify immediate pleasure. Chapter 24, verse 27. This proverb teaches us to work smartly by making wise decisions about priorities. Working smartly involves setting proper priorities between work and personal needs or desires. Solomon urged God’s people to work smartly by taking the right actions at the right time. 3. BEING GENEROUS (PROVERBS 11:24-25; 19:17; 22:9; 28:27) Chapter 11, verses 24-25. Sometimes people argue that if they give generously to help others, they won’t have enough for their own needs. This is where trust in the Lord comes into play. The Scriptures teach that God loves a cheerful, generous giver. These two proverbs imply that truth, and 2 Corinthians 9:7 states it directly. Christians who give generously in the Lord’s name show they are trusting Him to provide their needs (see also Phil. 4:19). None of us can ever out-give God. By contrast, the selfish, stingy person ultimately misses out on God’s greatest blessings. Chapter 19, verse 17. Jesus taught that when we give to help the needy in His name, it is as though we are giving to Him (see Matt. 25:35-40). This proverb makes the same point. God looks on His people’s generosity in helping the poor as though it were a loan to Him. The point being, the Lord will not remain in debt; He will repay the generous Christian with interest! Deuteronomy 15:6-7 also illustrates God’s attitude about giving. The Lord gave the Israelites a land they had not earned; therefore, they were to give generously to others in need. Chapter 22, verse 9. Generosity is blessed, for it reflects the nature of God. God loved us so much He gave His only Son, Jesus Christ, that we might have life through faith in Him (see John 3:16). God continues to lavish His love on us every day. When we give generously in the Lord’s name to provide food or other of life’s necessities for the poor, we show others God’s lavish love. We also show how God’s love has transformed our lives from self-centeredness to generosity. Chapter 28, verse 27. This closing proverb contrasts the blessing of the giver and the misery of the miser. We should not interpret the first half of the verse as a guarantee that all Christians will experience material prosperity. However, people who give to the poor as unto the Lord can confidently trust in the Lord’s provision for their needs. Conversely, they will suffer curses who are able to aid others—financially or otherwise—but callously refuse to see the needs before their eyes. Here the idea of curses may not necessarily imply the final judgment of God on unbelievers. The Hebrew word can refer to threats, punishments for disobeying God’s laws, or God’s judgment. Certainly the Lord will judge those whose hardened unbelief is evidenced by their lack of compassion (see Matt. 25:42-46). Before then, however, the miser’s curses may include the isolation and shame from others who observe the selfish person’s behavior. By working diligently and smartly, we not only provide for our families, but we are also able to do much good for others in Christ’s name.

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FINANCIAL RESPONSIBILITY 101

WEEK OF APRIL 6

WHAT YOU NEED > This week’s lesson on pages 14-15 of Collegiate’s Spring 2014 Explore the Bible® pull-out insert >Refer to “Take the Challenge” on page 15 of Collegiate’s Spring 2014 Explore the Bible® pull-out insert for a supplemental element to enhance your lesson. >Refer to the “Recommended Read” suggestion on page 14 of Collegiate for supplemental elements to enhance your lesson. >P  aper/index cards and pens, if you go with Option 2 at the end. HIGHLIGHTS This lesson is about earning and using financial resources. The emphasis is on maintaining a biblical perspective on finances. The lesson challenges college students to honor the Lord in earning and using their financial resources. SCRIPTURE Selected Proverbs GETTING STARTED To introduce this week’s theme of financial responsibility, ask these questions: What is the most extravagant thing you’ve ever bought? What’s the most ridiculous thing you’ve ever done to earn or save money? What’s the most useful thing you’ve ever bought? If you had $50 in your pocket right now, what would you spend it on?

Money can be a tricky thing. But the Book of Proverbs gives us ample insight into viewing, earning, and using our money and possessions.

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FINANCIAL RESPONSIBILITY 101

WEEK OF APRIL 6

EXPLORE THE BIBLE 1. ANOTHER DAY, ANOTHER DOLLAR > HAVE A VOLUNTEER READ PROVERBS 16:16; 22:1-2; 23:4-5; 28:20; AND 30:7-9. 16:16 Get wisdom—how much better it is than gold! And get understanding—it is preferable to silver. 22:1 A good name is to be chosen over great wealth; favor is better than silver and gold. 2 The rich and the poor have this in common: the Lord made them both. 23:4 Don’t wear yourself out to get rich; stop giving your attention to it. 5 As soon as your eyes fly to it, it disappears, for it makes wings for itself and flies like an eagle to the sky. 28:20 A faithful man will have many blessings, but one in a hurry to get rich will not go unpunished. 30:7 Two things I ask of You; don’t deny them to me before I die: 8 Keep falsehood and deceitful words far from me. Give me neither poverty nor wealth; feed me with the food I need. 9 Otherwise, I might have too much and deny You, saying, “Who is the Lord?” or I might have nothing and steal, profaning the name of my God.

Who or what typically informs the way people view money? If you’re honest, would you consider yourself in a hurry to get rich? What about college encourages that type of attitude? When have you had an opportunity to choose wisdom or reputation over money? What was the situation, and how did it play out? How can you find a balance between preparing for a career and relying on God’s provision?

2. BRINGING HOME THE BACON > HAVE A VOLUNTEER READ PROVERBS 13:11; 15:27; 20:17; 21:6; 22:16; AND 28:6,8,24. 13:11 Wealth obtained by fraud will dwindle, but whoever earns it through labor will multiply it. 15:27 The one who profits dishonestly troubles his household, but the one who hates bribes will live. 20:17 Food gained by fraud is sweet to a man, but afterward his mouth is full of gravel. 21:6 Making a fortune through a lying tongue is a vanishing mist, a pursuit of death. 22:16 Oppressing the poor to enrich oneself, and giving to the rich—both lead only to poverty. 28:6 Better a poor man who lives with integrity than a rich man who distorts right and wrong. 28:8 Whoever increases his wealth through excessive interest collects it for one who is kind to the poor. 28:24 The one who robs his father or mother and says, “That’s no sin,” is a companion to a man who destroys.

When have you seen these verses play out in real life? Choose one and give and example. What does it look like to rob a father or mother while in college?

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FINANCIAL RESPONSIBILITY 101

WEEK OF APRIL 6

In what way do the purchases we make reflect the truth of these verses? Think in terms of fair-trade products, goods made overseas and sold through WorldCrafts, or cheap items made in factories in other countries. How can we ensure that our purchasing habits support a biblical perspective on money?

3. HONORING GOD WITH OUR STUFF > HAVE A VOLUNTEER READ PROVERBS 3:9-10; 11:28; AND 16:8. 3:9 Honor the Lord with your possessions and with the first produce of your entire harvest; 10 then your barns will be completely filled, and your vats will overflow with new wine. 11:28 Anyone trusting in his riches will fall, but the righteous will flourish like foliage. 16:8 Better a little with righteousness than great income with injustice.

We honor God through tithes and offerings, and when we seek His guidance on earning and using our resources. Ask a volunteer to read the sidebar “Take the Challenge” on page 15 of Collegiate. Discuss this opportunity with your group. How might child sponsorship help reshape the way you or your friends view money? List a few other tangible ways you could honor God with your possessions during this season of life. How would practicing one of these ideas revolutionize your faith experience?

APPLY TO LIFE OPTION 1:

Divide into small groups and discuss: How has this week’s lesson affected the way you view money or the way you view your future career? OPTION 2:

Ask group members to choose one of the verses above and write it on a piece of paper or an index card. Encourage them to tape it to their bathroom mirror or another visible place where they’ll see it often throughout the week. Encourage them to talk about that verse with their roommate or other close friend. As you close your time in prayer, thank God for caring about things in our lives like money. Ask Him to help shape the way your group members view money and resources. Ask God to reveal specific opportunities to sacrifice, earn, and spend in ways that honor Him.

NEXT WEEK > Read next week’s lesson, “The Search for Loyal Friendship,” on pages 16-17 of Collegiate’s Spring 2014 Explore the Bible® pull-out insert.

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COMMENTARY BACKGROUND In the garden of Eden, God gave Adam and Eve two responsibilities: to reflect His image and to be stewards over His creation (see Gen. 1:26-30). Being a Christian does not guarantee health, wealth, or a life free of problems. Receiving Jesus as Savior and Lord means we accept His rightful place in every aspect of life, including the way we use money. 1. ANOTHER DAY, ANOTHER DOLLAR (PROVERBS 16:16; 22:1-2; 23:4-5; 28:20; & 30:7-9) Money plays an important role in human life. There’s no question about that. The focus of this lesson is on where money, or material treasure, fits in respect to other crucial issues of life. Some people seem to have as their sole purpose in life amassing as much material wealth as possible. Money has become their master, or idol, and they neglect weightier matters, including God and family. The Scriptures give us God’s wisdom regarding the place and use of money. Chapter 16, verse 16. Wisdom is a God-given commodity that is rarer than gold and more precious than silver. Most nations of the world have at one time or another based their currencies on these precious metals. Yet the value of gold and silver can fluctuate too, and their stockpiles are limited. In contrast, the storehouse of God’s wisdom is unlimited (see Prov. 2:6-7). The understanding God desires to give His people never loses its value. Knowing how to use wisely the dollars one possesses is always better than having more dollars just to waste foolishly! Chapter 22, verse 1. Likewise, a good name—that is, a reputation characterized by honesty, trustworthiness, kindness, and the like—is more valuable than silver and gold. No one can buy true respect, or favor. A good reputation means that people value us for our godly character, not merely for what we possess. Verse 2. In God’s eyes, the rich and the poor, are the same. He values both groups equally because He made us all. Rich and poor alike are sinners and in need of a Savior (see Rom. 3:23). Rich and poor were included in God’s plan of redemption in Jesus Christ (see Isa. 53:6; 1 Tim. 2:5-6). God shows no favorites, and He’s not impressed by how much money is in a person’s bank account (see Rom. 2:11; Jas. 2:1-3). All of us are accountable for what God has placed in our hands, whether material or spiritual. Chapter 23, verses 4-5. People can easily find themselves falling into workaholic habits when their primary goal is to gain riches. They neglect family, health, and other more important aspects of life because their attention is riveted on making more money. When we care more about gaining or spending money or accumulating possessions than we do about our families, we can end up losing both. One of the dangers for the person obsessed with getting rich is the fleeting nature of wealth. Notice Solomon’s play on words in 23:5. When our eyes fly to riches, wealth often makes wings for itself and, like an eagle, flies out of reach. Dramatic losses in the values of stocks, homes, and other investments demonstrate how quickly money can vanish. Chapter 28, verse 20. Here Solomon contrasted the ROI (return on investment) of two different people motivated by two different approaches in life. The faithful person trusts in the Lord, embraces God’s wisdom, and lives according to God’s priorities. This person’s “investment” will yield many true blessings. By contrast, the second person is driven inwardly by the overwhelming desire to get rich quick. That person’s “investment” will inevitably yield various punishments. This is not to say that all means of gaining wealth are sinful. However, the warning associated with this proverb relates to a lifestyle of selfish greed. Scripture consistently warns that God condemns such a lifestyle (see Ex. 20:17; Isa. 57:17; Matt. 16:26; Luke 12:15; Heb. 13:5). Chapter 30, verses 7-8. These verses are drawn from a section of Proverbs attributed to “Agur son of Jakeh” (Prov. 30:1). Agur made two requests of the Lord, and these two things give insight into the man’s character. First, he asked that God would keep him from becoming a person of lies and deceit. The word rendered falsehood can refer 40

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COMMENTARY to the use of empty promises to gain what one wants. Both terms reveal the sinful nature of lying to gain riches. Faithful people pray that they will not be drawn into this sinful lifestyle. Second, Agur asked God to give him a balanced life, characterized by neither poverty nor wealth. Instead, he confessed the desire simply to trust the Lord for his daily food (see Matt. 6:11). In praying this way, Agur first affirmed that God was his Source of provision. Second, he believed God would take care of his needs. This proverb does not promise wealth and prosperity but rather affirms faith in God and His providential goodness. Third, Agur understood the priority of his needs. The wise believer knows that a right relationship with the Lord—an eternal need—is more important than full cupboards—an earthly need. Verse 9. The temptation of too much wealth is that it can easily lead to denying one’s need for God. The temptation of poverty is that it can lead a person to think God doesn’t care and His commands don’t apply. In other words, a believer with nothing might choose to steal. In doing so, the believer would not only break the law but, more significantly, dishonor God’s name. Agur acknowledged his sinful frailty and pleaded for God to keep him from both of those temptations. 2. BRINGING HOME THE BACON (PROVERBS 13:11; 15:27; 20:17; 21:6; 22:16; & 28:6,8,24) God not only cares about how we manage our resources, but He also cares about how we acquire those resources. Living by God’s wisdom involves working diligently to earn money with integrity. Chapter 13, verse 11. Solomon contrasted two ways of gaining wealth. One way is by dishonest, deceitful means—in other words, by fraud. Solomon warned that wealth gained this way would eventually dwindle away. By contrast, the wise and appropriate way to build wealth according to Scripture is through honest, hard work. The idea is that wealth built up little by little through diligent work gives evidence that the believer is using solid biblical principles both in making and managing his or her money. Chapter 15, verse 27. In this proverb, take note of two contrasts between the foolish and the wise in regard to gaining money. The first contrast is one of character. Solomon depicted on one hand a person who profits dishonestly and on the other hand someone who rejects bribes. The foolish person is ready to sacrifice integrity for income. Wealth by any means is this person’s bottom line. By contrast, the wise person demonstrates faith in God and is ready to obey God’s Word in regard to financial dealings (see Ex. 18:21, 23:8; Deut. 16:19; 2 Chron. 19:7). The second contrast is one of result. Dishonest profiteers, when caught, bring shame and trouble not only on themselves but also on their families. By contrast, the wise who do business according to God’s ways enhance their lives. They accrue God’s blessings, not His judgment. Chapter 20, verse 17. In this proverb, Solomon revealed why a person might be tempted to do business dishonestly. For some, the idea of obtaining wealth craftily, by deceitful means, holds a certain allure. The whole enterprise may taste sweet at first, but eventually it will offer the same “thrill” as choking on a mouth full of gravel. Shady practices, like corrupt hearts, begin with sinful enticement but lead to heartache and destruction. Chapter 21, verse 6. Similarly, a fortune gained by means of a lying tongue can be compared to a dense morning fog that evaporates under the sun’s glare. Dishonest business people may think they’ve discovered the road to easy street; what they eventually discover is that they’ve been running at a breakneck pace in pursuit of death! God’s judgment is certain for those who take advantage of others. Chapter 22, verse 16. Instead of working honestly, some people take advantage of those individuals least able to fend for themselves—the poor. Scripture consistently defends the poor against oppression. This proverb warns against enriching oneself by defrauding the poor. Similarly, it warns that pandering to the rich—to the detriment of the poor—will backfire. Both scenarios will lead eventually to poverty, not gain. Chapter 28, verse 6. In God’s wisdom, poor people are not morally better because 41

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COMMENTARY they’re poor. Likewise the rich are not wicked merely because they have wealth. The difference lies in the state of the person’s heart—that is, in one’s relationship with God. A right relationship with God is evidenced by living with integrity, whether one is rich or poor. Conversely, those who cheat others and do business by distorting right and wrong give evidence that they do not know God. Verse 8. The modern term loan shark describes someone who charges excessive interest to people who cannot borrow money through normal means. Such a person will not enjoy ill-gotten gain. The ultimate beneficiaries of God’s blessings are those who are kind to the poor. Verse 24. Remarkably, instead of working to provide for their needs, some people actually choose to defraud their own parents! Their wickedness goes so far as to deny that they have sinned. This proverb reminds us of Jesus’ warning to people who misuse parents financially and excuse themselves with religious oaths (see Mark 7:9-13). God’s judgment inevitably falls with sure retribution on every person who uses sinful means for personal gain. On the other hand, God blesses believers who demonstrate their faith in daily life by earning their living with integrity. 3. HONORING GOD WITH OUR STUFF (PROVERBS 3:9-10; 11:28; & 16:8) The ultimate purpose of life, including our money management, is to honor the Lord. Christians should approach material resources differently from unbelievers. Our goal is to honor Christ in every way. Chapter 3, verse 9. While some Christians might think of tithing—that is, giving 10 percent of one’s income to the Lord’s work—as a pinnacle of spiritual maturity, other believers consider tithing as similar to the Old Testament offering of “firstfruits.” The Israelites were instructed to give an offering to the Lord’s sanctuary consisting of the first and best of their crops (see Ex. 23:19). The emphasis was on honoring the Lord with one’s best, not with the leftovers. Verse 10. God blesses His children who trust and honor Him. This proverb does not make a blanket promise of prosperity to people who tithe and give offerings. The reference to full barns and overflowing vats of wine represents the surpassing blessings God gives His obedient people. The apostle Paul later reminded believers that God is able to bless us “above and beyond all that we ask or think” (Eph. 3:20). When we honor the Lord with our possessions, He blesses us in each area of our needs. Chapter 11, verse 28. Whom we believe in is as important as what we believe. Some people demonstrate their lack of faith in God and His goodness by trying feverishly to amass riches. They trust in their bank accounts more than in God. This doesn’t mean Christians should not save money or have investments. The key issue involves focus and faith. Anyone trusting in money instead of God ultimately will fall (see Matt. 6:24). Conversely, the righteous have entered a right relationship with God through faith in Jesus Christ. God responds to their faith and faithfulness by enabling them to flourish and thrive (see Ps. 1:3). Chapter 16, verse 8. Having a right relationship with God is more important than anything else in life. Individuals may achieve great wealth through unjust means, but that wealth will never meet their deepest need for eternal life. Without a right relationship with God, every pleasure the world offers is hollow and transitory. At the other end of the spectrum, some people who lack enough food, shelter, or other basic needs of life may feel that God does not care about them. However, many believers have experienced poverty and yet maintained their faith in the Lord. They do not accept the empty promises of the so-called “health-and-wealth” gospel. Instead, they know that if one has received God’s righteousness in Christ, even a little in the way of material possessions is more than enough. The starting point for financial responsibility is honoring the Lord with everything. Then we find ways to express godly integrity in the way we earn and manage our income, so that our Lord Jesus Christ might come to have first place in everything (see Col. 1:18).

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THE SEARCH FOR LOYAL FRIENDSHIP

WEEK OF APRIL 13

WHAT YOU NEED > This week’s lesson on pages 16-17 of Collegiate’s Spring 2014 Explore the Bible® pull-out insert >Refer to “The Key to Authentic Relationships” on page 17 of Collegiate’s Spring 2014 Explore the Bible® pull-out insert for a supplemental element to enhance your lesson. >Download a copy of the song “More Than You’ll Ever Know” by Watermark for use in Option 2 of the Apply to Life section. HIGHLIGHTS This lesson is about what constitutes godly friendships. The emphasis is on how to forge godly friendships. The lesson challenges college students to forge godly friendships. SCRIPTURE Selected Proverbs GETTING STARTED To introduce this week’s theme of forging godly friendships, start by asking your students to answer these questions: How many friends on social networking sites does the typical college student have? How would you characterize those relationships? How many of those friends are friends in “real life”? What are the main differences between friends online and real-life friends?

Every one of us desires strong, healthy friendships. It’s part of being human. Let’s look at Proverbs for insight into making and maintaining godly friendships.

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THE SEARCH FOR LOYAL FRIENDSHIP

WEEK OF APRIL 13

EXPLORE THE BIBLE 1. TOUGH CONSEQUENCES > HAVE A VOLUNTEER READ PROVERBS 22:24-25; 17:14,19; 26:21; 25:19; 13:20; & 14:22. 22:24 Don’t make friends with an angry man, and don’t be a companion of a hot-tempered man, 25 or you will learn his ways and entangle yourself in a snare. 17:14 To start a conflict is to release a flood; stop the dispute before it breaks out. 17:19 One who loves to offend loves strife; one who builds a high threshold invites injury. 26:21 As charcoal for embers and wood for fire, so is a quarrelsome man for kindling strife. 25:19 Trusting an unreliable person in a difficult time is like a rotten tooth or a faltering foot. 13:20 The one who walks with the wise will become wise, but a companion of fools will suffer harm. 14:22 Don’t those who plan evil go astray? But those who plan good find loyalty and faithfulness.

Why are we affected by the behaviors and personalities of other people? Aren’t we strong enough not to let people influence us? When in your life have you felt closest to God? What were your friendships like during that season? When it comes to friendship, do you expect more of yourself or of other people? Practically speaking, how can we become the kinds of people other people want to be influenced by? If we’re supposed to surround ourselves with godly people, how do we impact people who need to know the Lord?

2. PATIENCE IS A PLUS > HAVE A VOLUNTEER READ PROVERBS 14:17,29; 15:18; 16:32; & 19:11. 14:17 A quick-tempered man acts foolishly, and a man who schemes is hated. 14:29 A patient person shows great understanding, but a quick-tempered one promotes foolishness. 15:18 A hot-tempered man stirs up conflict, but a man slow to anger calms strife. 16:32 Patience is better than power, and controlling one’s temper, than capturing a city. 19:11 A person’s insight gives him patience, and his virtue is to overlook an offense.

When have you witnessed or experienced the damaging effects of a hot temper? Why does God spend so much time talking about the temper? Why is uncontrolled anger so damaging? What practices help us cultivate patience in our relationships?

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THE SEARCH FOR LOYAL FRIENDSHIP

WEEK OF APRIL 13

3. LOYALTY EQUALS LOVE > HAVE A VOLUNTEER READ PROV. 3:3-4; 16:6; 20:6; 10:12; 11:17; 15:17; 17:17; 18:24; & 27:9. 3:3 Never let loyalty and faithfulness leave you. Tie them around your neck; write them on the tablet of your heart. 4 Then you will find favor and high regard in the sight of God and man. 16:6 Wickedness is atoned for by loyalty and faithfulness, and one turns from evil by the fear of the Lord. 20:6 Many a man proclaims his own loyalty, but who can find a trustworthy man? 10:12 Hatred stirs up conflicts, but love covers all offenses. 11:17 A kind man benefits himself, but a cruel man brings disaster on himself. 15:17 Better a meal of vegetables where there is love than a fattened ox with hatred. 17:17 A friend loves at all times, and a brother is born for a difficult time. 18:24 A man with many friends may be harmed, but there is a friend who stays closer than a brother. 27:9 Oil and incense bring joy to the heart, and the sweetness of a friend is better than self-counsel.

Does our culture encourage loyalty? Explain. In friendship, what does love look like? What are some of the characteristics that separate Christian friendship from other kinds of friendships?

APPLY TO LIFE OPTION 1:

Direct students to the sidebar, “The Key to Authentic Relationships,” on page 17 of Collegiate’s Explore the Bible pull-out insert. Discuss: Which of these steps seems the easiest to undertake? Which seems the most difficult? Encourage your students to choose one of those steps and commit to working on it this week. OPTION 2:

Listen to the song “More Than You’ll Ever Know” by Watermark. Ask your group members to think about this question during the upcoming week: Do you have the kind of friend who’s described in this song? If not, what can you do to forge that kind of relationship? Thank God for allowing us to live life in community. Ask Him to bring into our lives friends who will encourage us, challenge us, and help us to become more like Jesus.

NEXT WEEK > Read next week’s lesson, “The Amazing Resurrection,” on pages 18-19 of Collegiate’s Spring 2014 Explore the Bible® pull-out insert.

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COMMENTARY BACKGROUND Today, nearly a billion people worldwide utilize some form of social media. This technology taps into one of our basic needs as human beings, the need for relationships. A popular song from the past claims people are nobody until somebody loves them. The song encourages people to find someone to love. However, many people look for companionship in wrong places, with improper intentions. We all need friends. Because friends influence one another, it is crucial that we as followers of Christ build and maintain godly friendships. 1. TOUGH CONSEQUENCES (PROV. 22:24-25; 17:14,19; 26:21; 25:19; 13:20; & 14:22) In the New Testament, the apostle Paul reminded us that “bad company corrupts good morals” (1 Cor. 15:33). Centuries before Paul’s time, Solomon also warned God’s people to consider the consequences of poor choices regarding relationships. Chapter 22, verses 24-25. All of us are influenced by other people, especially our close friends. We also influence them. We rub off on each other over time. This proverb warns us, therefore, to avoid building a friendship with someone who constantly displays an uncontrolled temper. Anger is a God-given human emotion. We all feel angry at times. Here Solomon was referring to people characterized by their anger. They fly off the handle at the least provocation. The danger is that by keeping company with such a person, believers may be tempted to behave likewise or, at the least, become involved in unhealthy situations caused by the companion’s explosive temper. Chapter 17, verse 14. Like any relationship, a friendship occasionally gets tested by conflict. It can start with a simple difference of opinion or a careless comment—like a drip, drip, drip of water leaking over a spillway. Left unresolved, the situation can erupt into a flood of hurt washing over a broken relationship. Conflicts rarely benefit anyone. Once unleashed, they can damage everyone in their path. Yet this proverb urges believers to be peacemakers (see Matt. 5:9). Verse 19. Followers of the Prince of Peace seek to never stir up strife. Some individuals, however, seem to enjoy doing so by offending others. In this proverb, Solomon pictured someone whose master is sin, not the Lord. The fruit of God’s Spirit is peace (see Gal. 5:22). But what does a high threshold on a door or gate have to do with stirring up strife? On a visit to Eastern Europe and Russia some years ago, I noticed a number of buildings whose doors had thresholds of two or more inches in height. Unless one entered with care, it would be easy to trip and fall. Solomon warned that a stirrer of strife is like one who intentionally erects such barriers in a friendship to cause injury. Chapter 26, verse 21. This proverb employs the analogy of a fire’s components to illustrate how one might prolong or eliminate conflict. The picture is that of a quarrelsome person who keeps stoking a conflict with combustible words. Just as a person can use a few glowing embers and wood to rekindle a fire, even so the lover of strife can prolong a conflict by raising secondary issues, venting hurt feelings, gossiping, or refusing to forgive. Jesus gave His followers a pattern for handling church conflict that first involved private, personal efforts of reconciliation, then corporate efforts if the former failed to bring reconciliation, and finally the last resort of disassociating from those unwilling to resolve conflict (see Matt. 18:15-17). Chapter 25, verse 19. A true, godly friend can be counted on through thick and thin (see Prov. 17:17). Here Solomon compared the experience of an unreliable friend to the pain of a decayed tooth and the frustration of lame foot. The Hebrew terminology refers to those who act deliberately in their treachery rather than to someone who disappoints through carelessness or incompetency. Chapter 13, verse 20. Similar to Proverbs 22:24, this proverb emphasizes that constant companions influence one another. Thus we as believers must be careful to build our closest friendships with those who are wise. Again we should remind ourselves that 46

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COMMENTARY wisdom and foolishness in Scripture have to do primarily with one’s relationship to God. The wise know the Lord and seek to live by His ways. The foolish do not. To surround ourselves with foolish friends is to invite harm into our lives. Chapter 14, verse 22. Wise friends demonstrate loyalty and faithfulness, because these are attributes of the Lord they adore and serve. Such qualities result from having a heart that plans to do good rather than to do evil. Christlike friends are willing to look past wrongs and to forgive one another. They can be counted on to do the right thing. 2. PATIENCE IS A PLUS (PROVERBS 14:17,29; 15:18; 16:32; & 19:11) In working to build friendships, we should not only pay attention to the character of those we befriend but also pay attention to our own character. Maturing believers show more and more of the fruit of the Spirit in their relationships. One of the qualities the Spirit develops in us as believers is patience, also known as longsuffering or forbearance (see Gal. 5:22). Chapter 14, verse 17. This proverb warns against being quick-tempered. As has been stated previously, anger is a God-given capacity. When we live by the Spirit, we can control our anger. God can even use it constructively to motivate us to straighten out a problem or to confront evil. What Solomon referred to in this proverb is a constant losing of one’s temper. That is a misuse of anger and results in destructive words and behavior. The quick-tempered person develops a bitter spirit and often begins to scheme to hurt others. The usual result is that the quick-tempered person ends up being hated. Verse 29. The opposite of being quick-tempered is to be slow to anger, or patient. The believer who is slow to anger shows great understanding. In Proverbs, understanding refers to the application of godly wisdom in practical ways, in this case for building godly friendships. Chapter 15, verse 18. Similarly, Christians who “work out” the patience that the Spirit “works in” them (see Phil. 2:13), do so by seeking to bring peace and calm into strifefilled situations. By contrast, the quick-tempered person just keeps stirring up the conflict. Uncontrolled anger damages relationships; patience soothes emotions and frees people to reconcile with others. Chapter 16, verse 32. This proverb provides an amazing insight for conflict resolution. Being patient, or slow to anger, is better than displaying some form of raw power over another person. Power can be exercised through position, wealth, influence, or physical strength. Such power might force someone to behave in certain ways, but it cannot compel the person to be, feel, and act like a true friend. The results of controlling one’s temper are so important that patience can be likened to a military unit’s capturing a city. It is a quality to be desired and cultivated by anyone who wants to forge godly friendships. Chapter 19, verse 11. How do believers gain patience and keep proper control of anger? This proverb declares that patience comes as a by-product of insight. Proverbs 1:3 also employs this term, implying that it comes from God through His Word. In Scripture, insight involves being able to discern good and evil and right and wrong. When we receive God’s truth as the Holy Spirit illuminates Scripture to us, we can see matters as God wants us to see them. Overlooking an offense does not mean excusing or ignoring sin. Instead, it relates to people’s interactions with each other. If someone does or says something that offends us, we are able to work past the immediate hurt feelings and focus on the more important issues of forgiveness and love. Cultivating patience helps us avoid damaging our friendships by losing our temper. 3. LOYALTY EQUALS LOVE (PROV. 3:3-4; 16:6; 20:6; 10:12; 11:17; 15:17; 17:17; 18:24; & 27:9) No relationship lasts without trust and affection. Jesus taught that the distinguishing characteristic of His followers would be their Christlike love for one another (see John 13:35). Chapter 3, verses 3-4. Among the many qualities Solomon urged upon his son (and all who live by God’s wisdom), loyalty and faithfulness are among the most important. 47

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COMMENTARY The word rendered loyalty goes beyond dependability; it speaks of lovingkindness. Friendships glued together by this Christlike quality are filled with grace. Chapter 16, verse 6. The two qualities of loyalty and faithfulness are vital also for resolving conflict. Where grace abounds and truth reigns, we can work past hurt feelings and mend broken relationships. Of course, it is only the shed blood of Jesus Christ that can provide atonement for our sins and a right relationship with God. This proverb should not be understood as teaching salvation (atonement) by our works. It is through the grace of God and the righteousness of Jesus Christ that our sins are forgiven. We receive that atonement through believing in Christ. In Christ we are made right with God, the essential meaning of the phrase the fear of the LORD. Thus our wrongdoing can be covered by Christ’s atoning sacrifice, and we can be reconciled to God. By the indwelling Spirit of God we can turn from evil and live by God’s wisdom, including in the way we relate to our friends. Chapter 20, verse 6. Lasting relationships require more than lip-service. Unfortunately, many people might assert their loyalty, but their actions may prove less than true. Solomon used a rhetorical question to emphasize that truly faithful friends are rare and valuable. Chapter 10, verse 12. People who desire to build godly friendships must choose love over hatred. They know that hatred only stirs up strife. When friends experience conflict they have two choices: one, respond with bitterness, resulting in a broken relationship; two, express Christlike love, forgiving each other and restoring the friendship (see Jas. 5:20; 1 Pet. 4:8). Chapter 11, verse 17. One way we express Christlike love is by being kind to one another. Kindness demonstrates God’s mercy in attitudes and actions. Genuine grace produces stronger relationships as godly friends forgive and minister to each other. By contrast, the cruel person enjoys hurting others, but in the end damages himself or herself. Chapter 15, verse 17. Christlike love satisfies the soul. This proverb contrasts having a modest meal in an atmosphere of true friendship with participating in a feast where people hate one another. There is no question as to which scenario is to be preferred— the first one! Chapter 17, verse 17. Christlike love is consistent. A true friend does not demonstrate love only when the relationship is going well. A true friend loves at all times. Godly friendships often are like the relationships in a loving family. When one experiences a difficult time, having a concerned, loving friend is akin to having a loving sibling who stands ready to help. Chapter 18, verse 24. The emphasis of this proverb comes in the second half of the verse. One may have many so-called “friends” but find them to be unreliable in crisis situation. The true, godly friend stays closer than a brother. This is the kind of Friend that Jesus said He is for believers (see John 15:13). Chapter 27, verse 9. In biblical days, oil and incense represented value and sweetness. Similarly, a true friend offers wise counsel when needed. When people view us as channels of God’s love and grace, they will be more open to sharing their lives with us. Through Christ, we can build relationships that honor the Lord and benefit His people.

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THE AMAZING RESURRECTION

WEEK OF APRIL 20

WHAT YOU NEED > This week’s lesson on pages 18-19 of Collegiate’s Spring 2014 Explore the Bible® pull-out insert >Refer to “Debunking Resurrection Myths” on page 19 of Collegiate’s Spring 2014 Explore the Bible® pull-out insert for a supplemental element to enhance your lesson. HIGHLIGHTS This lesson is about the crucifixion and resurrection of Jesus, especially the response of the centurion and the women as they visited the empty grave. The lesson emphasizes that the death and resurrection of Jesus should move us to reverent amazement and faith. The lesson challenges college students to respond to the truth of Jesus’ resurrection with amazement and faith. SCRIPTURE Mark 14:32–16:8 GETTING STARTED To introduce this week’s focus on a right response to Jesus’ resurrection, ask your students to blurt out the first word that comes to mind when they hear the word Easter. Why do you think that word came to mind? If you’d done this activity with your friends on your hall or in your class, would the words have been different? Certain words popped into mind for each of you. How do these words reflect the way we as the church and as a culture view Easter and Jesus’ resurrection? Explain.

Jesus’ bodily resurrection validates the claim that He is both Lord and Christ. It’s a central tenet of the Christian faith.

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THE AMAZING RESURRECTION

WEEK OF APRIL 20

EXPLORE THE BIBLE 1. HUMILITY, NOT MOCKERY > HAVE A VOLUNTEER READ MARK 15:16-20. 16 Then the soldiers led Him away into the courtyard (that is, headquarters) and called the whole company together. 17 They dressed Him in a purple robe, twisted together a crown of thorns, and put it on Him. 18 And they began to salute Him, “Hail, King of the Jews!” 19 They kept hitting Him on the head with a reed and spitting on Him. Getting down on their knees, they were paying Him homage. 20 When they had mocked Him, they stripped Him of the purple robe, put His clothes on Him, and led Him out to crucify Him.

If Jesus were on earth today, would his trial and execution be different? Explain. On your campus, how is Jesus viewed? What has contributed to that perception? How, lately, have you seen Jesus be mocked? Give some examples. Practically speaking, what does it look like to humbly recognize Jesus as God? What does that look like in church? What does it look like in class or on campus?

2. SEEING WITH OPEN EYES > HAVE A VOLUNTEER READ MARK 15:33-34,37-39. 33 When it was noon, darkness came over the whole land until three in the afternoon. 34 And at three Jesus cried out with a loud voice, “Eloi, Eloi, lemá sabachtháni?” which is translated, “My God, My God, why have You forsaken Me?” ................................................................................................ 37 But Jesus let out a loud cry and breathed His last. 38 Then the curtain of the sanctuary was split in two from top to bottom. 39 When the centurion, who was standing opposite Him, saw the way He breathed His last, he said, “This man really was God’s Son!”

After witnessing Jesus’ death, one of the presiding soldiers pronounced that Jesus was God’s Son. We can express that same belief in light of Jesus’ sacrificial death for us. Direct your students to the sidebar, “Debunking Resurrection Myths,” on page 19 of Collegiate’s Explore the Bible pull-out insert. Discuss the three myths highlighted. Why does it matter whether Jesus really was raised from the dead? When have you struggled with recognizing Jesus as God’s Son? What helped you in the midst of that struggle?

3. AMAZED BY GOD > HAVE A VOLUNTEER READ MARK 16:1-8. 1 When the Sabbath was over, Mary Magdalene, Mary the mother of James, and Salome bought spices, so they could go and anoint Him. 2 Very early in the morning, on the first day of the week, they went to the tomb at sunrise. 3 They were saying to one another, “Who will roll 50

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WEEK OF APRIL 20

away the stone from the entrance to the tomb for us?” 4 Looking up, they observed that the stone—which was very large—had been rolled away. 5 When they entered the tomb, they saw a young man dressed in a long white robe sitting on the right side; they were amazed and alarmed. 6 “Don’t be alarmed,” he told them. “You are looking for Jesus the Nazarene, who was crucified. He has been resurrected! He is not here! See the place where they put Him. 7 But go, tell His disciples and Peter, ‘He is going ahead of you to Galilee; you will see Him there just as He told you.’” 8 So they went out and started running from the tomb, because trembling and astonishment overwhelmed them. And they said nothing to anyone, since they were afraid.

When you first became a Christian, how did you view the resurrection? Has that view changed since then? Explain. These days, how easily or naturally do you share the good news of Jesus’ resurrection with other people? What generally prevents Christians from telling others about the resurrection? In your daily life, what difference does the resurrection make in your life?

APPLY TO LIFE OPTION 1:

Divide in small groups and share the story of how each group member became a follower of Jesus. Share how your amazement has increased or decreased over the years. If there are members who are not yet Christians, allow them an opportunity to share in the small group about their experience with Christianity. OPTION 2:

Allow group members time to think and pray individually as you outline how to become a Christian. Refer to “How to Become a Christian” at www.sbc.net/ knowjesus/theplan.asp for reference. Thank God for sending His Son to die on the cross for our sins. Ask Him to remind us of the awe and wonder of the resurrection. Ask Him to stir in our a hearts a desire to be amazed by His sacrifice, to commit to following Him, and to share with the people around us about His death, burial, and resurrection. Ask God to provide opportunities for us to follow Jesus and to lead others to do the same.

NEXT WEEK > Read next week’s lesson, “Avoiding Abuse,” on pages 20-21 of Collegiate’s Spring 2014 Explore the Bible® pull-out insert.

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COMMENTARY BACKGROUND Throughout Scripture, God declares two truths: (1) Human beings have chosen their own path in sinful rebellion against God. (2) With sacrificial love, God allowed His Son to die for our sins; then, He raised Jesus from the grave, so that through Him we can be saved. Without the resurrection, no proof exists of the Deity of Christ and no hope survives for our salvation. 1. HUMILITY, NOT MOCKERY (MARK 15:16-20) Verse 16. After their mockery of a trial (see Mark 14:53-65), the Jewish leaders brought Jesus before Pontius Pilate, the provincial governor. He represented the authority of the Roman Empire, and he would have to approve the death warrant for Jesus to be executed. Pilate was no friend of the Jewish leaders, yet he bowed to their demand, handing over Jesus to be flogged and then crucified (see 15:1-15). Instead of taking Jesus directly to the place of execution, the soldiers led Him away to an area of the Praetorium. The complex served as the governor’s residence and headquarters in Jerusalem. It also included housing for soldiers—as many as several hundred—who were assigned to guard the palace. In their disdain for the Jews, the execution detail decided to humiliate their Prisoner in front of the entire company of soldiers. Two other men would be crucified alongside Jesus, but it appears the soldiers focused their vile mockery on this One whose death-sign read “The King of the Jews.” Verse 17. Playing out the sadistic scene, the soldiers draped around Jesus’ shoulders a robe of purple, the color of royalty. The cloth’s weight and texture no doubt shot jolts of pain throughout Jesus’ already beaten and bloody body. Further agony came when the soldiers devised a crown of thorns and forced it mercilessly onto Jesus’ brow. The “crown” probably was made by twisting together into a circle several branches from a prickly thorn bush that was common to the region. Champions of ancient athletic contests received garlands of glory for their heads, while the King of glory received a crown of abuse. Verse 18. Next, the soldiers added a mocking salutation. The word rendered to salute literally means “to embrace in respectful greeting.” In this context, however, it is clear that the soldiers expressed no genuine respect for Jesus. Their sneering chorus, “Hail, King of the Jews!” was uttered in derision. Consider, however, that what the soldiers shouted in derision was actually true. At Jesus’ birth, wise men came to Jerusalem, following a star and searching for the One born King of the Jews (see Matt. 2:1-2,11). When Pilate asked Jesus if He was the King of the Jews, Jesus responded that His kingdom was not a worldly, political one (see John 18:33-37). Jesus was (and is) the Messiah-King, sent from the Father to be the Savior by taking on Himself the sins of the world. He deserves the humble adoration the wise men offered, but not the mockery the soldiers gave. Verse 19. The soldiers then repeatedly struck Jesus on his head with a reed they had previously put in His hand as a mock scepter (see Matt. 27:29). Many of these blows no doubt landed on the crudely made “crown,” driving its thorns deeper into Jesus’ bleeding brow. Adding insult to injury, the soldiers spat repeatedly on Jesus and knelt in front of Him as though paying homage. Who can imagine this scene without a breaking heart? Verse 20. Sated by their mockery and abuse of Jesus, the soldiers returned to the task of execution. They stripped Jesus of the purple robe and dressed Him again in His own garments, including the one-piece tunic the soldiers later gambled for (see John 19:2324). What a heart-rending sight Jesus must have been as they led Him out to crucify Him! Yet Jesus was no helpless victim. He could have called legions of angels to His rescue (see Matt. 26:53), yet He remained silent “like a lamb led to the slaughter” (Isa. 53:7). The day will come, however, when every knee will bow before the Risen King and every tongue will confess that Jesus Christ is Lord (see Phil. 2:10-11)! When we consider how Jesus willingly suffered humiliation for us, we should be humbled and respond to Him with the deepest gratitude and trust. 52

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COMMENTARY 2. SEEING WITH OPEN EYES (MARK 15:33-34,37-39) The soldiers led Jesus and two other condemned men outside the gates of Jerusalem to a place called Golgotha in Aramaic. There Jesus was crucified. As He hung on the cross, bearing the sins of the world, Jesus continued to hear cruel taunts from many who passed by the scene (see Mark 15:21-32). Verse 33. The Gospels of Mark, Matthew, and Luke all report that as Jesus hung on the cross, an unusual darkness descended over the whole land at “the sixth hour” and remained until “the ninth hour” (see Matt. 27:45; Luke 23:44). Bible scholars today generally translate these time references as beginning at noon, when the sun was at its peak, until three o’clock in the afternoon. Some might look for natural explanations of this event, but a three-hour period of darkness had to be a supernatural occurrence. Neither its timing nor its effect were happenstance. God orchestrated a heavenly response to the reality that the full weight of human sin (including our sins!) pressed down on the crucified Son of God. The surreal darkness was a physical demonstration of the spiritual singularity taking place on the cross. Jesus had no sin. Yet at His crucifixion, He took the sin of the world on Himself, paying with His blood the penalty of our sins (see 1 Pet. 2:22-24). Verse 34. After hanging on the cross for three hours, Jesus cried out loudly. His reaction was not merely to the pain; neither was it the shout of a victim railing against the injustice of the situation. Instead, Jesus called out to His Father, using an Aramaic rendering of the opening line of Psalm 22:1. The Gospel writer then translated the Savior’s cry for his Greek-speaking readers. The English rendering is “My God, My God, why have You forsaken Me?” What did Jesus mean by this cry? Had God the Father somehow turned away from the scene of Jesus’ sacrificial death for sinners? Some Bible students point to Habakkuk 1:13, where that Israelite prophet declared God is too pure to look on evil. Yet moments later Jesus uttered another declaration, committing His spirit to the Father (see Luke 23:46). Consequently, other Bible students emphasize that while Psalm 22, a messianic psalm, begins with a cry of forsakenness, it ends with a victorious cry of faith that God did not hide His face from Jesus (see Ps. 22:24). Jesus’ cry, like the cross itself, revealed the dark depths of our sin that He bore in the light of His completed, victorious work of redemption (see John 19:30). Verse 37. Mark’s Gospel does not include every statement Jesus made from the cross. Mark moved immediately after the Savior’s cry of forsakenness to state the harsh reality of Jesus’ death. Jesus let out a loud cry and died. The Roman version of crucifixion was designed to prolong a victim’s agony in dying, sometimes lasting for days. Jesus’ death after three hours surprised some (see Mark 15:44), and it was hastened by His flogging plus the trauma of the cross and of bearing the sin of the world. One contemporary physician who studied Jesus’ crucifixion concluded from the fact blood and water flowed from Jesus’ pierced side (see John 19:34) that the physical trauma Jesus endured likely caused His heart to rupture. Verse 38. Mark then reported two events that emphasize Jesus’ death created a new reality. First was the supernatural rending of the curtain separating the holy of holies from the rest of the temple. This event represented the completion of the old covenant and the beginning of the new (see Mark 14:24). In Ephesians 2:11-22, the apostle Paul expounded the meaning of this event as God’s giving both Jews and Gentiles access to forgiveness and reconciliation through faith in Jesus. The writer of Hebrews also emphasized that Jesus’ blood gave a new and living way for people to enter God’s presence and be reconciled to Him (see Heb. 10:19-20). Verse 39. The second event was the Roman soldier’s affirmation of Jesus’ Deity. The centurion was the commander of the execution squad, and he was a Gentile. Mark pointed out that the centurion had carefully watched the way Jesus died. We can safely assume that Mark’s concise statement allows for the centurion to have heard all of Jesus’ words from the cross and to be aware of the unusual darkness over the land. Something about Jesus told the centurion that this Man was more than just a man. In an amazing 53

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COMMENTARY moment of God-given insight, the centurion testified aloud that Jesus was truly God’s Son. In making this confession, the centurion represented all the hosts of people who to this day look upon Jesus the crucified Savior and risen Lord and profess, “I believe!” 3. AMAZED BY GOD (MARK 16:1-8) If Jesus’ crucifixion were the end of the story, neither the centurion’s faith nor ours would be justified. However, the death of Jesus on the cross was not the last word. He arose from the dead! Verses 1-2. The burial of Jesus’ body had been hurried, both to comply with Deuteronomy 21:22-23 and because the beginning of the Sabbath Day was approaching (see Mark 15:42-47). The burial was carried out by Joseph of Arimathea, with the assistance of Nicodemus (see John 19:39), and it had been witnessed by some of the women who followed Jesus. Several of them, including Mary Magdalene, Mary the mother of James, and Salome, had purchased spices in the evening after the Sabbath ended; then they came to the burial tomb early on the first day of the week to complete the task of caring for the body. Because Jesus rose on this day, Christians worship on Sunday, celebrating the risen Lord. However, at this point, the women did not know that Jesus had been resurrected. Verse 3. One aspect of their task remained in question: how they would remove the stone that blocked the tomb’s entrance. They discussed the problem as they walked to the grave. Their focus on removing the stone indicates that the women may not have been aware of an additional problem. The Jewish authorities had arranged for Roman guards to prevent anyone from entering the tomb (see Matt. 27:62-66). Verse 4. God prepared the way for these first witnesses of the empty tomb. When they arrived, they saw the stone had already been rolled away. It would have been too large for them to move. Matthew’s Gospel notes that the angel who moved aside the stone frightened the guards so much they fainted (see Matt. 28:2-4) Thus neither the stone nor the guards presented obstacles to the women seeing evidence of Jesus’ resurrection. Verse 5. According to Mark’s Gospel, the women saw what appeared to be a young man dressed in white. In fact, it was the angel, which accounts for the women’s reactions of amazement and fear. Probably their reactions also stemmed in part from not seeing Jesus’ body where they expected Him to be. Verse 6. The angel encouraged the women not to be frightened. He knew they had come there looking for the body of Jesus of Nazareth. The angel used this title to specify the Christ. He assured the women that Jesus was no longer dead, but had been resurrected. The typical first-century Jewish belief concerning resurrection related to the end time. Thus to hear that Jesus had been resurrected shocked the women religiously as well as emotionally. The angel invited the women to see for themselves the place where Jesus’ body had lain. They did not have to take his word that Jesus was no longer in the tomb; they could examine the empty grave for themselves. Verse 7. Being a witness to the risen Christ meant more than having knowledge that Jesus was alive. These women now had a joyous task—to tell Jesus’ followers the good news. Notice that the angel specified Peter alongside the general term disciples. Since Peter had denied Jesus, he might have felt too much shame to respond to the invitation to meet Jesus in Galilee. The risen Lord wanted to restore Peter (see John 21:15-19). Verse 8. Leaving the tomb, the women ran to complete their new mission. They were still overwhelmed with fear and amazement. Imagine yourself in their place. You’ve witnessed an empty tomb and an angel! How often do we read this account as if it were just a nice story? If we would allow ourselves to enter the scene, we too might be amazed. The women excitedly shared the good news that Jesus was alive and the tomb was empty. We, too, can respond to the resurrected Christ with such awe that we cannot help but tell others Jesus is alive!

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AVOIDING ABUSE

WEEK OF APRIL 27

WHAT YOU NEED > This week’s lesson on pages 20-21 of Collegiate’s Spring 2014 Explore the Bible® pull-out insert >Refer to “Why Not Drink in College?” on page 21 of Collegiate’s Spring 2014 Explore the Bible® pull-out insert for a supplemental element to enhance your lesson. >Refer to the “For Further Study” on page 20 of Collegiate for supplemental elements to enhance your lesson. HIGHLIGHTS This lesson is about the nature and effects of alcohol. The emphasis is on alcohol’s destructive power. The lesson challenges college students to avoid alcohol and drug abuse. SCRIPTURE Selected Proverbs GETTING STARTED Describe the different perspectives Christians have on alcohol. Why don’t all Christians agree on whether or not Christians should drink? What factors — historical, cultural, familial, or Scriptural — have affected the way you view alcohol?

God wants His people to apply biblical wisdom when it comes to alcohol. Let’s look at the Book of Proverbs for insight into the use and abuse of alcohol.

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AVOIDING ABUSE

WEEK OF APRIL 27

EXPLORE THE BIBLE 1. DECEPTION > HAVE A VOLUNTEER READ PROVERBS 20:1; 23:19-21. 20:1 Wine is a mocker, beer is a brawler, and whoever staggers because of them is not wise. 23:19 Listen, my son, and be wise; keep your mind on the right course. 20 Don’t associate with those who drink too much wine or with those who gorge themselves on meat. 21 For the drunkard and the glutton will become poor, and grogginess will clothe them in rags.

Alcohol can deceive people into making unwise choices. Why does God put so much stress on wisdom? In the verses above (Proverbs 23:19-21), drunkenness and gluttony seem to be equated. In what ways are they similar? In what ways are they different? Does the church view the abuse of food and the abuse of alcohol as equally damaging? Explain. As Christians, what should our response be to this discrepancy?

2. DESTRUCTION > HAVE A VOLUNTEER READ PROVERBS 23:29-30. 29 Who has woe? Who has sorrow? Who has conflicts? Who has complaints? Who has wounds for no reason? Who has red eyes? 30 Those who linger over wine, those who go looking for mixed wine.

Direct students to the sidebar, “Why Not Drink in College?” on page 21 of Collegiate’s Explore the Bible pull-out insert. Discuss these points with your group. When have you seen alcohol’s destructive power at play in someone’s life? If a person only drinks socially, and not in excess, can alcohol still be destructive? Explain.

3. ADDICTION > HAVE A VOLUNTEER READ PROVERBS 23:31-35. 31 Don’t gaze at wine because it is red, when it gleams in the cup and goes down smoothly. 32 In the end it bites like a snake and stings like a viper. 33 Your eyes will see strange things, and you will say absurd things. 34 You’ll be like someone sleeping out at sea or lying down on the top of a ship’s mast. 35 “They struck me, but I feel no pain! They beat me, but I didn’t know it! When will I wake up? I’ll look for another drink.”

Is the potential for addiction a valid reason to abstain from drinking alcohol? Why or why not? How is an alcohol addiction different from a food addiction? How is it similar? How is an alcohol addiction different from a pornography addiction? How is it similar? 56

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WEEK OF APRIL 27

4. DISTRACTION > HAVE A VOLUNTEER READ PROVERBS 31:4-5. 4 It is not for kings, Lemuel, it is not for kings to drink wine or for rulers to desire beer. 5 Otherwise, they will drink, forget what is decreed, and pervert justice for all the oppressed.

Alcohol can distract people from fulfilling their responsibilities. Is it irrational to expect college students to be responsible all the time? Explain. Don’t other activities or substances distract us as well? Give some examples. What should our approach be to those distractions?

5. SEDATION > HAVE A VOLUNTEER READ PROVERBS 31:6-7. 6 Give beer to one who is dying and wine to one whose life is bitter. 7 Let him drink so that he can forget his poverty and remember his trouble no more.

The Bible acknowledges that the effects of alcohol were beneficial to the dying and to people in pain. What effect has modern medicine had on alcohol’s use as a sedative? Is it appropriate today to use alcohol to numb mental or physical pain? Why or why not?

APPLY TO LIFE OPTION 1:

As a group, discuss these final questions: Jesus’ first miracle was turning water into wine. Does this impact the way Christians should view alcohol today? Should Christians drink alcohol? OPTION 2:

In small groups, spend a few minutes praying for friends and family members who have experienced alcohol’s damaging effects. If members of your group are struggling with alcohol consumption, create a safe place for them to be transparent, and for others to help shoulder that burden. Thank God for allowing us to be honest with Him and with each other. Ask God to encourage us to be willing to give up activities that cause other Christians to stumble, or that damage the reputation of the church. Thank Him for helping us sort through difficult issues with humility and with a desire for truth.

NEXT WEEK > Read next week’s lesson, “Live in Moral Purity,” on pages 22-23 of Collegiate’s Spring 2014 Explore the Bible® pull-out insert. 57

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COMMENTARY BACKGROUND Despite evidence of the harmful effects of alcohol and illicit drugs, millions of people, including some believers, continue to indulge. In the United States alone, tens of thousands of people die each year in accidents involving one or more alcohol-impaired drivers. Between one and two million DUI arrests are made annually. Many other crimes occur when people are under the influence of alcohol or drugs. Alcohol and drugs contribute to wrecked marriages, child abuse, destroyed careers, and lost productivity for businesses. Yet much of society continues to mock or ignore the biblical warnings against these substances. For Christians in particular, the desire to honor Christ with all our heart, soul, mind, and strength should lead us to live under the Holy Spirit’s control. It should motivate us to stay far away from anything that could draw us into foolish and sinful behavior. 1. DECEPTION (PROVERBS 20:1; 23:19-21) To live by God’s wisdom is to submit daily to His will and therefore to avoid letting anyone or anything else be at the helm of your life. The New Testament echoes Proverbs’ wisdom where the apostle Paul wrote: “Don’t be foolish, but understand what the Lord’s will is. And don’t get drunk with wine, which leads to reckless actions, but be filled by the Spirit” (Eph. 5:17-18). Many people, however, ignore the Scriptures’ warnings and fall under the influence of alcohol’s deceptive appeal. Chapter 20, verse 1. In biblical times, alcoholic beverages came in two categories. The most common was wine. Although fermented, wine in Solomon’s day did not contain the level of alcohol found in today’s distilled liquors. A second category could be referred to as “strong drink” or “beer.” It was usually made by heating, mixing, and then fermenting certain grains in water. Fruits could be used as well. Drinking enough of either type of beverage produced intoxication. In this proverb, Solomon warned against the use of alcohol because of two harmful effects it has. He personified wine as a mocker and the stronger drink, beer, as a brawler. First, he warned that alcohol can make people stagger around, make foolish choices, and act in harmful ways. The alcohol in effect mocks them; drinkers think they’re in control, but they aren’t. Second, Solomon warned that alcohol can lead to violent behavior. Far from being an aid to social interaction as advertised, alcohol and drugs easily ignite conflict, causing people to hurt themselves and others. Chapter 23, verse 19. In the Hebrew understanding of personhood, the heart was the center of the will (see Prov. 4:23). Solomon urged his son to be wise by keeping his heart—or mind, as we might say today—on the right course. When we live under the Spirit’s control, we can stay on the wise course in life. If we put ourselves under the influence of alcohol or drugs, we foolishly veer off of God’s path of holiness and purity. Too many adults seek to discourage their children from using alcohol or drugs but do not follow their own counsel. Verses 20-21. We’ve already noted that all of us are influenced to some degree by our friends and associates. Therefore, as a follow-up to his exhortation for his son to stay on the right course, Solomon warned against keeping company with people who drink too much and eat too much. Such people show by their actions that they are out of control. Both drunkenness and gluttony are sins to be avoided, but alcohol impairment produces the additional potential harm today of jail time or, even worse, fatal automobile accidents. Solomon focused on the personal economic costs of alcohol abuse. Sooner or later, the drunkard (or drug addict) will spend themselves into poverty because of their indulgent habits. The term rendered grogginess describes the dulled mental capacity 58

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COMMENTARY of people who follow this lifestyle. No one can be at their best when they allow alcohol and drugs to impair their minds. 2. DESTRUCTION (PROVERBS 23:29-30) Most commercials for alcohol products use energetic, attractive young people. Few people would rush out to buy a six-pack of sorrow. However, many people do just that when they give themselves to alcohol. Chapter 23, verse 29. Solomon used a series of six rhetorical questions to describe the destructive effects of alcohol. First, one does not have to be an expert in social issues to recognize the woe caused by alcohol and drug abuse. People who use alcohol and drugs inevitably experience consequences that cause them great harm. Second, sorrow often follows in the wake of alcohol and drug use. Ask couples whose marriages have been torn apart by substance use. Ask children who have suffered abuse from intoxicated parents. Ask family members who have mourned a loved one killed by a drunk driver. Third, relationships suffer from alcohol and drug use. Conflicts occur within families, between business associates, and even among strangers when people surrender their minds to alcohol or drugs. Fourth, substance abuse can be a factor in people’s becoming constant complainers. Those who use alcohol and drugs are often unsatisfied with their lives and seek an escape from reality. Their discontent may target their families, their jobs, or even their health. With his fifth question, Solomon described a person coming out of a stupor to discover inexplicable wounds. Many people become involved in fights or are injured as a result of accidents triggered by alcohol or drugs. The next day they see their injuries in the mirror but have no memory of how they got them. Sixth and finally, Solomon described the bloodshot eyes of a person with a hangover. Red eyes result from dilated blood vessels, but more serious effects can occur as alcohol distorts a person’s vision. Other physical damage from alcohol and drug use can include harm to the brain, liver, and other vital organs. Verse 30. Here is Solomon’s answer to the six rhetorical questions. Those who suffer such ill effects are the ones who linger over wine and go looking for mixed wine. The term mixed wine refers to wine mixed with honey or spices. Although illicit drugs also did not exist in biblical days, they have similar, if not worse, consequences as alcohol. The undeniable deduction is that people who use these substances harm themselves and others. 3. ADDICTION (PROVERBS 23:31-35) Many people who consume alcohol or drugs think they are in control of their habit. They believe they can “take it or leave it.” When asked why they continue to drink, they often reach for any reason except the truth—they are addicted. Verse 31. In this proverb, Solomon acknowledged wine’s external appeal. Its red hue and smooth liquid texture can appear enticing as it gleams in the cup. Once ingested, however, the alcohol begins its deadly work. Traveling through the bloodstream, it affects the cells of the liver, brain, and other organs. Solomon had a wise word of counsel for the person attracted to alcohol: Don’t even look at it! Don’t let your eye linger on it. Don’t be deceived by the momentary euphoria of the drug. Verse 32. Alcohol’s external appeal masks its deadly effects. Momentary pleasure turns to pain. In the end, the inviting color and smooth texture act like the fangs of a deadly snake, delivering toxic venom into the victim’s body. Alcohol and drugs have a chemical interaction with the human body that impacts the person’s choices and creates a dependency that harms the user. Mentally and emotionally, as well as physically, addiction captivates its victims. They also suffer spiritually as they continue to take steps away from the Lord. Verses 33-35. Distortions and delusions are common results of alcohol or drug use. Alcoholics and drug addicts speak of seeing strange things. (I once was called on to give 59

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COMMENTARY comfort to an inebriated man who jumped from the second floor of his building because he thought giant spiders were chasing him.) With their mental capacities hindered, drunkards often speak with slurred speech. Reduced inhibitions can also result in their saying abusive, hurtful things, especially to their families. In verses 34-35, Solomon compared the alcoholic’s tragic addiction to being sick or in grave danger at sea, then regaining consciousness to focus on only one thing— where will the next drink come from. The addictive nature of alcohol and drugs is the only reasonable explanation for such foolish behavior. These substances gain a physical, emotional, and mental hold over their users. Because of the addictive power of alcohol and drugs, believers should abstain from both. No one became an alcoholic or addict without taking the first drink or trying the first taste of the drug. 4. DISTRACTION (PROVERBS 31:4-5) Verse 4. Because the king served as the Lord’s chosen leader, he was accountable for ruling the people justly. Lemuel’s mother therefore urged her son to stay away completely from strong drink and its attendant problems. While this truth is especially vital for people in roles of authority, it also applies to the average individual. Every person makes decisions daily. Alcohol and drugs undermine rational thinking, producing poor choices. Verse 5. One of the reasons people should avoid strong drink is its power to distract them from important responsibilities. Lemuel’s mother warned that a ruler who constantly drinks alcohol may forget, if not purposefully ignore, the law. Instead of delivering righteous decisions, the intoxicated leader will pervert justice for those who most need an advocate (see Isa. 5:22-23). The victims of corrupt rulers are often the most vulnerable citizens—the oppressed. This term literally means “children of oppression.” The connotation points to the children of the covenant. The Israelites enjoyed a special relationship with God. Its people were to treat one another not only as fellow citizens but also as brothers and sisters in God’s family. The Lord’s prophets consistently condemned the powerful who used their positions to abuse the weak (see Isa. 10:1-2, Ezek. 45:9). Alcohol can distract people from fulfilling their responsibilities. Worse, alcohol and drugs can cause people to take their eyes off of being an advocate for the people who depend on them. 5. SEDATION (PROVERBS 31:6-7) These verses and 1 Timothy 5:23 have sometimes been used to justify medicinal use of beverage alcohol. The argument is weak, however, in that today more effective sedatives than alcohol can be prescribed and their use monitored by a physician. Verses 6-7. Bible students have proposed various interpretations of Lemuel’s mother’s words in Proverbs 31:6-7. One interpretation takes the verbs as exhortations for King Lemuel to give appropriate comfort to people in hopeless, end-of-life kinds of situations. (However, giving wine to someone in distress could also be an allusion to the fact that people who use alcohol experience bitter lives.) Without the kinds of medications that are available today, strong drink was the best available sedative. A second interpretation relates these verses to the mother’s plea for her son, the king, to avoid strong drink altogether. She was not recommending a policy of providing strong drink to the desperate and dying. Rather, she was illustrating the reason that kings must avoid drunkenness to reign properly. If strong drink can cause a desperate, dying man to forget his misery, it can surely corrupt a leader from carrying out his God-given responsibilities. Christians should desire to glorify God in their bodies and habits of life. Indulging in alcohol or drugs does not honor the Lord. Believers are to present their bodies as a living sacrifice to God (see Rom. 12:1).

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LIVE IN MORAL PURITY

WEEK OF MAY 4

WHAT YOU NEED > This week’s lesson on pages 22-23 of Collegiate’s Spring 2014 Explore the Bible® pull-out insert >Refer to “A Harsh Look at Sex Trafficking” on page 23 of Collegiate’s Spring 2014 Explore the Bible® pull-out insert for a supplemental element to enhance your lesson. HIGHLIGHTS In Colossians 3:1-5, Paul reminded believers that they have died and been raised with Christ. As a result, believers are to set their minds on what is above and put to death that which belongs to their worldly nature, including sexual immorality, impurity, and lust. In this study, we will explore Solomon’s warning of falling into the enticing yet devastating trap of sexual immorality. This lesson may be a good opportunity to divide students by gender into smaller groups to facility more open discussion. SCRIPTURE Selected Proverbs GETTING STARTED Have group members pair up and face their partner. Explain the game called “Hand Trap.” Instruct one partner to put their hand open and out with their palms facing up. The other partner has to tap the inside of their partner’s hands quickly and then pull their hand back without getting caught. Let students play for a minute or so, each having an opportunity to play both roles. Then pause to share as a group who was the fastest, who was caught the least, and who was caught the most. To make it a little more interesting, add a coin (or other small object) to the palm of the hand and instruct the students to quickly grab the coin out of his or her partner’s palm without getting caught.

Was the game more challenging when the coin was added? Why?

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LIVE IN MORAL PURITY

WEEK OF MAY 4

EXPLORE THE BIBLE In this study, we’ll discuss the trap of sexual immorality. This trap is set for all men and women and there is no way to get in and out unscathed. We need to look to the wisdom of God’s Word, the help of others, and the guidance of the Holy Spirit in using self-control to avoid the trap of sexual immorality. 1. BITTER DECEPTION > HAVE A VOLUNTEER READ PROVERBS 5:3-6. 24 3 Though the lips of the forbidden woman drip honey and her words are smoother than oil, 4 in the end she’s as bitter as wormwood and as sharp as a double-edged sword. 5 Her feet go down to death; her steps head straight for Sheol. 6 She doesn’t consider the path of life; she doesn’t know that her ways are unstable.

How was the immoral woman in this passage described? What did she use to trap the young men? How can sexuality be used to entice and trap young men and women today? Verse 6 suggests that the immoral woman doesn’t even fully know what she’s doing. What does that mean? What do you think causes a young lady to seek this kind of immoral attention from men?

2. UTTER DOWNFALL > HAVE A VOLUNTEER READ PROVERBS 5:7-14. 7 So now, my sons, listen to me, and don’t turn away from the words of my mouth. 8 Keep your way far from her. Don’t go near the door of her house. 9 Otherwise, you will give up your vitality to others and your years to someone cruel; 10 strangers will drain your resources, and your earnings will end up in a foreigner’s house. 11 At the end of your life, you will lament when your physical body has been consumed, 12 and you will say, “How I hated discipline, and how my heart despised correction. 13 I didn’t obey my teachers or listen closely to my mentors. 14 I am on the verge of complete ruin before the entire community.”

What does Solomon tell young men to do if they see a woman who fits his description of an immoral woman? In what ways can sexual immorality destroy someone’s life?

3. ENLIGHTENED DIRECTION > HAVE A VOLUNTEER READ PROVERBS 5:20-23; 6:23-24. 5:20 Why, my son, would you be infatuated with a forbidden woman or embrace the breast of a stranger? 21 For a man’s ways are before the Lord’s eyes, and He considers all his paths. 22 A wicked man’s iniquities entrap him; he is entangled in the ropes of his own sin. 23 He will die because there is no discipline, and be lost because of his great stupidity. 62

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WEEK OF MAY 4

6:23 For a command is a lamp, teaching is a light, and corrective discipline is the way to life. 24 They will protect you from an evil woman, from the flattering tongue of a stranger.

Who in your life do you look up to for wise and godly advice about relationships? Falling into a trap of sexual immorality is not entirely the fault of the immoral woman. What role does a young man’s lack of wisdom and self-control play?

4. DEADFALL DISGRACE > HAVE A VOLUNTEER READ PROVERBS 6:27-29,32-34. 6:27 Can a man embrace fire and his clothes not be burned? 28 Can a man walk on burning coals without scorching his feet? 29 So it is with the one who sleeps with another man’s wife; no one who touches her will go unpunished. 6:32 The one who commits adultery lacks sense; whoever does so destroys himself. 33 He will get a beating and dishonor, and his disgrace will never be removed. 34 For jealousy enrages a husband, and he will show no mercy when he takes revenge.

What are some consequences of sexual sin? If we can see from Scripture and examples in our own communities of how sexual sin ruins lives, why do so many people fall into this trap anyway?

APPLY TO LIFE OPTION 1:

It’s not a matter of if you will be tempted, but it is a matter of when you will be tempted — and whether or not you will respond to sexual temptation with wisdom or foolishness. As a group, discuss what commitments and strategies young adults can make now to guard against sexual immorality? OPTION 2:

Discuss how you can take responsibility for helping your brothers or sisters in Christ not fall into sexual temptation. Father, thank You for the wisdom of Your Word. May it be a lamp that guides our actions and thoughts. Holy Spirit, please produce in us self-control to resist temptation and to discern Your good and perfect will for our lives. Jesus, thank You for living a perfect life, taking the penalty of death on the cross that we deserve, and rising again to offer us salvation and restoration. We trust You to forgive our sins and make us new.

NEXT WEEK > Read next week’s lesson, “Treasure Mom,” on pages 24-25 of Collegiate’s Spring 2014 Explore the Bible® pull-out insert. 63

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COMMENTARY BACKGROUND In Genesis, God created man and woman as part of His plan for populating the earth and perpetuating His purpose. Their sexuality was a gift from the Creator. It remains beautiful and fulfilling within the marriage relationship. 1. BITTER DECEPTION (PROVERBS 5:3-6) God created human beings with certain physical desires, including the desire for companionship and intimacy. He then designed the marriage relationship with its lifelong commitment as the one proper context for sexual intimacy and procreation (see Gen. 1:18,22-25). God’s design is good, right, and wise. However, the very definition of human sinfulness is rebellion against God and His plan for us. This rebellion is clearly evident when men and women surrender to the temptations of sexual immorality. Only in Christ can we be rescued from slavery to our fleshly lusts and be restored to live by God’s wisdom in moral purity. Verse 3. We’ve seen in previous studies how Solomon used personification at times to provide poignant word-pictures (see Prov. 1:20; 9:13). Here he personified sexual immorality—adultery in particular—as a forbidden woman. Remember that Solomon’s first audience for Proverbs likely was the group of young males in the royal household, especially his sons. As Holy Scripture, however, Proverbs is God’s wisdom for all believers, male and female. Furthermore, the term forbidden can rightly be applied to all situations of sexual promiscuity. Solomon warned that sexual immorality can seem attractive at first. The imagery of honey-glazed lips and flattering words (smoother than oil) depicts the seductive appeal of sexual temptation. Spiritually gullible people easily fall for the temptations, ignoring the attendant dangers. Verse 4. Wormwood refers to a plant in the ancient Near East that was well-known for its bitter taste. Not only does sexual immorality turn into a bitter experience, it can cause deep, if not fatal, gashes to a marriage relationship. It leaves behind bleeding wounds, such as emotional distress and physical harm. One such physical danger is the threat of sexually transmitted diseases acquired by promiscuous behavior. Verse 5. Solomon warned that sexual immorality takes people down a path they don’t want to go. The “forbidden woman’s” steps go down to death. The parallel term Sheol in some contexts refers to the abode of the unrighteous dead. This does not imply that sexual immorality is an unforgivable sin, but rather that an unrepentant immoral lifestyle is evidence of being separated from God and in bondage to sin. Such a lifestyle leads to terrible consequences in this life and in the life to come. Verse 6. In contrast to the way of immorality is “the path of life.” It involves living by the wisdom God has revealed in His Word. The “forbidden woman”—representative of all who live to satisfy their fleshly appetites—refuses to consider this path. She stubbornly walks in the opposite direction. Like a drunkard reeling to and fro, her life is aimless and unstable. 2. UTTER DOWNFALL (PROVERBS 5:7-14) Verse 7. Immoral behavior can have far-reaching consequences. People can ruin their reputations, health, and families in ways that can never be repaired in this life. While God graciously forgives all of our sins when we trust in Jesus, some temporal consequences may remain for a lifetime. This is why Solomon appealed so urgently for his sons to heed his instructions concerning moral purity. Having experienced harm from his own sins (see 1 Kings 11:1-13), Solomon wanted his children to make better choices. Verse 8. Solomon wisely noted that sexual temptation often comes because we foolishly put ourselves in situations where temptation is likely to happen. Solomon urged his sons to stay far away from the “forbidden woman’s” path and to never go 64

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COMMENTARY near the door of her house. Verse 9. In 5:8, Solomon gave the urgent instruction to stay far away from sexual immorality. Beginning in 5:9, he described the potential lifelong consequences of rejecting God’s wisdom. First, those who engage in immoral behavior are putting their reputations at great risk. The term rendered vitality can signify both respect and personal vigor. One consequence of sexual sin is that it steals your life. You give up your zeal and joy and become trapped under a cruel, merciless weight of guilt. Years of family life, happiness, and service in God’s kingdom can be lost for a few moments of selfish pleasure. Verse 10. Second, those who take the path of sexual immorality put their financial well-being at great risk. Costly divorces and custody battles can sap all the resources of families broken by infidelity. Houses and jobs can be forfeited. In Solomon’s day, this verse might have had reference to financial ruin as a result of being blackmailed because of one’s illicit behavior. The main point in any case is the high cost of immorality. Verse 11. Third, promiscuous behavior can put people’s physical well-being at great risk. It leads far too often to the deaths of innocent infants by abortion, to sexually transmitted diseases, to emotional dysfunction, and to lifelong difficulties in relationships. Both single and married persons who commit sexual immorality put their bodies at risk. In this way, sexual sin is different from many other transgressions. Paul warned the Corinthians to flee fornication, because it is a sin against one’s body—which for believers is the Holy Spirit’s sanctuary (see 1 Cor. 6:18-19). Verses 12-13. Fourth, sexual immorality can result in a life filled with regrets. Looking back, people can recognize where they took the wrong turns in life. They can recall how they received biblical instruction but rejected it as old-fashioned or restrictive. They can remember how loving parents or concerned teachers tried to correct them but to no avail. They can pinpoint times they refused to listen to pastors or other spiritual instructors who urged them to embrace God’s wisdom. Ignoring godly wisdom, we make very poor choices. Verse 14. Finally, when we insist on going our own way, disregarding God’s direction, we can experience utter downfall. This verse teaches us that sin’s punishment is personal and real, not theoretical. Second, it teaches that sin’s destructive power affects every aspect of a person’s life. Third, it teaches that while sin’s consequences are personal and comprehensive, it also impacts the faith community, especially if the offenders are church members. In Old Testament covenant life, it was a consequence worse than death to be shamed and cut off from the community. Notice one phrase that offers a ray of hope. Being on the verge of complete ruin suggests that the guilty party had not yet reached the abyss. God is more patient with us than we deserve! While we have life, we can repent of our sins and find God’s indescribable mercy in Jesus Christ. He may not remove some temporal consequences, but He will forgive our sins and make us spiritually whole again. 3. ENLIGHTENED DIRECTION (PROVERBS 5:20-23; 6:23-24) Chapter 5, verse 20. The simple question “Why?” forces anyone tempted with sexual sin to shift from emotional decisions to rational choices. People caught up in an immoral relationship might try to justify their actions to themselves and others, but they cannot expunge their sin. Only God can. Since Solomon was addressing his son, the object of illicit passion was a forbidden woman. Verse 21. Generally, people who commit fornication or adultery try to hide their activities, although many in today’s society are more brazen in their sin. However, no one can hide from God. Everything we do is known to God. He is all knowing, and He pays attention to the direction of our lives. Verse 22. Here Scripture holds back nothing in calling sexual sin wicked. The adulterer’s actions are transgressions against all that God has designed as good for human relationships. God does not judge us in comparison to other people but rather in relationship to His standards. 65

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COMMENTARY Sinners may deceive themselves into thinking God does not know about their actions, but their sins are a snare in themselves. The twisted nature of sexual sin binds offenders in a knot of emotions, lies, and hurt. Verse 23. The apostle Paul reminded us that sin pays horrendous wages: death (see Rom. 6:23). Sexual sin reveals a fatal lack of spiritual and physical discipline. Lacking self-control, those who give themselves to sexual immorality are engulfed in foolishness. The word stupidity is a reference to moral bankruptcy rather than to mental impairment. Chapter 6, verse 23. The best way to avoid sin’s destruction is to follow the enlightened direction of God’s Word. God’s wisdom is like a lamp that guides us along the right direction. His instruction is like a light, bringing clarity and insight. His discipline is meant not merely to punish but to motivate us to follow His way of life (see 1 Cor. 11:32). Verse 24. God’s commands are not intended to deny His people happiness. Just the opposite, His ways are meant to bless us. Jesus came as the Redeemer to give abundant life (see John 10:10). However, the pathway of sexual sin leads not to life, but to death. God’s Word provides protection as we heed and obey His commands (see 1 Cor. 10:6-13). By heeding the enlightened direction of God’s Word, we can resist sexual temptation, stay true to God, and honor the marriage relationship. 4. DEADFALL DISGRACE (PROVERBS 6:27-29,32-34) Verses 27-28. Two rhetorical questions introduce the folly of thinking sexual immorality will not result in tragic consequences. The first analogy portrays someone foolish enough to embrace fire. Only an irrational person might think such an act would not result in getting burned. Similarly, those who attempt a casual stroll across red-hot coals will end up scorching their feet. Verse 29. Both of the analogies emphasize that people who commit adultery just as surely will bring suffering and judgment on themselves. We can rightly make application of this warning not just in cases of adultery between a man and another man’s wife, but also in cases of adultery between a woman and another’s woman’s husband, in cases of fornication between two unmarried persons, a married person and an unmarried person, and in cases of homosexual behavior. Verse 32. Given the vast evidence in support of maintaining moral purity, why would anyone commit adultery? Solomon observed that such a person lacks understanding. The Hebrew term relates to the heart, which in Hebrew understanding referred not just to intelligence or emotions but also to moral decision making. Moral and spiritual confusion afflicts someone who flaunts God’s laws and engages in sexual immorality. Doing so is the epitome of self-destructive behavior. Verse 33. The penalty for sexual sins in Old Testament Israel could be as severe as death (see Deut. 22:22). The transgressor at the least would suffer physical injury, which could include either a public whipping or stoning. While modern justice does not include corporal or capital punishment for sexual misdeeds, many persons caught in adultery have suffered injury at the hands of a betrayed spouse. In the Old Testament world, suffering dishonor was considered a punishment equal to if not worse than death. Significantly, today’s “liberated” culture often tries to downplay any stigma attached to adultery and fornication. Still, a perpetrator’s inner sense of shame and regret cannot be removed, even by an permissive society. Although God is willing to forgive repentant sinners, the past cannot be undone; regrets and other temporal consequences can follow them for the rest of their lives. Verse 34. This proverb does not give offended spouses the right of unlimited revenge. Rather, it describes what often occurs when someone is betrayed by a spouse. The apostle Paul warned believers to make no provision for the lusts of the flesh (see Rom. 13:14). In applying God’s wisdom, therefore, believers should diligently avoid viewing pornography in any venue. They should set the example of holding sacred God’s design for marriage and sexual purity.

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TREASURE MOM

WEEK OF MAY 11

WHAT YOU NEED > This week’s lesson on pages 24-25 of Collegiate’s Spring 2014 Explore the Bible® pull-out insert >Refer to “Two Godly Women” on page 25 of Collegiate’s Spring 2014 Explore the Bible® pull-out insert for a supplemental element to enhance your lesson. HIGHLIGHTS If you didn’t know, it’s Mother’s Day . . . surprise! In this study, we will take a look at a wise woman in Proverbs 31 who gives an example that young college girls can attempt to emulate, college guys can look to for qualities they should find in a future wife, and a reminder to us all of how godly women, particularly godly mothers, should be treasured. SCRIPTURE Proverbs 31:10-31 GETTING STARTED What did you get your mom (or a mother figure) for Mother’s Day and why?

As a group, brainstorm a list of what you believe makes a great mom. You may want to write this list on a white/chalk board or on a large sheet of paper/ poster board so that everyone can see. There’s a list in the Bible of what makes a great wife and mother. This is not a checklist for every woman to follow, but it’s an idealized description of a virtuous woman whom young ladies should be inspired by and qualities young men should look for in a future wife.

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TREASURE MOM

WEEK OF MAY 11

EXPLORE THE BIBLE 1. FOR HER DILIGENCE > HAVE A VOLUNTEER READ PROVERBS 31:10-19. 10 Who can find a capable wife? She is far more precious than jewels. 11 The heart of her husband trusts in her, and he will not lack anything good. 12 She rewards him with good, not evil, all the days of her life. 13 She selects wool and flax and works with willing hands. 14 She is like the merchant ships, bringing her food from far away. 15 She rises while it is still night and provides food for her household and portions for her female servants. 16 She evaluates a field and buys it; she plants a vineyard with her earnings. 17 She draws on her strength and reveals that her arms are strong. 18 She sees that her profits are good, and her lamp never goes out at night. 19 She extends her hands to the spinning staff, and her hands hold the spindle.

What is the value of wife or mother with godly character? The Proverbs 31 Woman is an excellent wife and mother, as well as a manufacturer, farmer, realtor, and upholsterer. We can see from these verses that mothers should be praised for their diligence. Who are some examples of godly women that you have seen do an inspiring job of balancing work within and outside of the home?

2. FOR HER COMPASSION > HAVE A VOLUNTEER READ PROVERBS 31:20. 20 Her hands reach out to the poor, and she extends her hands to the needy.

Showing concern for the poor is a consistent portrait of biblical wisdom. The Proverbs 31 Woman demonstrated wisdom by opening her arms to those in need. How has your mom or a mother figure in your life modeled compassion to the poor and needy?

3. FOR HER DEDICATION > HAVE A VOLUNTEER READ PROVERBS 31:21-29. 21 She is not afraid for her household when it snows, for all in her household are doubly clothed. 22 She makes her own bed coverings; her clothing is fine linen and purple. 23 Her husband is known at the city gates, where he sits among the elders of the land. 24 She makes and sells linen garments; she delivers belts to the merchants. 25 Strength and honor are her clothing, and she can laugh at the time to come. 26 She opens her mouth with wisdom and loving instruction is on her tongue. 27 She watches over the activities of her household and is never idle. 28 Her sons rise up and call her blessed. Her husband also praises her: 29 “Many women are capable, but you surpass them all!”

What has been the most interesting quality about the Proverbs 31 Woman that you have read so far? What are some ways this mother cares for her family? What do you think verse 25 means when it says “she laughs at the days to come”? 68

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TREASURE MOM

WEEK OF MAY 11

Read verses 28-29 again. Why do you think it mentions how her children and husband publicly praised her?

4. FOR HER DEVOTION > HAVE A VOLUNTEER READ PROVERBS 31:30-31. 30 Charm is deceptive and beauty is fleeting, but a woman who fears the Lord will be praised. 31 Give her the reward of her labor, and let her works praise her at the city gates.

Do you think our culture puts too high of a value on charm and beauty? Why or why not? The Proverbs 31 Woman’s secret to being an amazing wife and mother is that she fears the Lord. What does it mean to fear the Lord?

APPLY TO LIFE OPTION 1:

The Proverbs 31 Woman wasn’t living life trying to please herself or others. She was ultimately trying to please God. In what ways might your life be different if your main focus was to please God in everything you do? OPTION 2:

Take some time to write a note to your mom or an important woman in your life. Thank her for all she has done for you and how God has used her to bless your life. Father, thank You for being a perfect Father. Thank You also for putting godly women in our lives to care for us and set an example for us in the faith. God help us to honor and treasure our mothers and motherly figures, praising them publicly for all they have done to love and care for us. Holy Spirit, we pray that You will help us to submit ourselves to Your will and give our lives for You and others the way Jesus did when He gave His life on the cross.

NEXT WEEK > Read next week’s lesson, “Righteous Romance,” on pages 26-27 of Collegiate’s Spring 2014 Explore the Bible® pull-out insert.

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COMMENTARY BACKGROUND Many young adults have deep affection for their mothers and acknowledge their mothers’ influence in their lives. No one is perfect, however, not even one’s mother. Some adults know that their mothers helped shape them, but that influence may not have led to honoring God or to living by biblical teachings. Some may struggle with how to show appreciation for a lessthan-godly parent. Still other young adults may be emotional around the time of Mother’s Day because their godly mothers are stricken with illness or have died. These students need sensitivity as they express appreciation for their mothers. 1. FOR HER DILIGENCE (PROVERBS 31:10-19) Verse 10. The poem focuses on a capable wife. While the passage considers these characteristics related to someone who is a wife and mother, many could apply equally to single women. The term rendered capable emphasizes the woman’s inner strength. She is a force to be reckoned with physically, mentally, and spiritually. She demonstrates skill in fulfilling various responsibilities in the home and community. Verse 11. A foundational trait of any godly woman is trustworthiness. A husband whose wife is trustworthy is not afraid to give his whole heart to her, to trust her completely in all things. The second part of this verse does not mean the godly wife carries the responsibility for providing for the household. Rather, it means the husband knows that with her he can enjoy a good family life. Verse 12. This verse further explains why the godly wife makes her husband feel so secure in their marriage relationship. Such a woman seeks to glorify God all of her life and in every way. She consistently acts for the good of her family, not in ways that might harm them. Of course, no one except Jesus has lived without ever committing a sin or falling short of God’s expectations. Godly women—and godly men for that matter— live in God’s grace through faith in Jesus and depend on the Holy Spirit to help them do good for their families and others around them. Verse 13. This verse begins an extended list of specific examples that highlight the godly wife’s/mother’s contributions to her family’s well-being. To interpret this part of the poem as a checklist of requirements is to miss the point. The poem is meant to elicit praise for the God-fearing woman who gives of herself so willingly and in so many ways to benefit others. Verses 14-15. These verses highlight another everyday household need, provision of food—which often includes both procurement and preparation. The biblical writer pictured the procurement task by comparing the godly mother to a merchant ship. Just as a ship sailed to a faraway port to obtain needed goods, the mother first had to gather the food items needed. Many mothers today understand what it means to arise while it is still night to prepare breakfast, feed the family, get the kids ready for school, and get everyone out the door for the day’s activities. The fact that the woman in Scripture had household helpers only increased her responsibility to ensure they too had food to eat. Verses 16-18. These verses describe a woman who is gifted at investing, who is industrious, and is determined. In the context of the poem, we need to keep in mind that her actions were for the well-being of her family, not for selfish gain. She used her God-given abilities to honor the Lord and to bless others. She purchased a fertile field that could be used for growing food or for raising livestock. She then reinvested earnings by planting a vineyard, which also was expected to produce a profit. She displayed physical stamina as well as business sense and determination. In today’s parlance, she was a strong multi-tasker. Verse 17 also suggests that this godly wife and mother was diligent to take care of her own health and spiritual well-being. Out of her strength she worked smartly (focusing on profitable merchandise) and diligently (staying determined). The word-picture in 70

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COMMENTARY 31:18 of her lamp never going out at night was not meant to suggest a workaholic but rather someone who never lost focus and determination. Verse 19. This verse returns to the theme with which the list of examples began in 31:13, that of making garments. Wool and flax were needed for making the material; thread had to be spun by hand using a spindle. Both skills pointed to the hands-on expertise this godly woman displayed. Presumably someone taught her these skills, and she passed on the skills to her children and others. This fact underscores the need worldwide for women as well as men to have access to education and training. It also highlights the need of mentoring (see Titus 2:2-4). 2. FOR HER COMPASSION (PROVERBS 31:20) Verse 20. Although this godly mother’s hands were busy, she was willing to stretch them out in compassion to meet the needs of people outside her household. Throughout Scripture, God calls His people to have special concern for vulnerable groups such as the poor and the needy. The picture of stretching out one’s arms and hands emphasizes taking personal action to help. It also suggests going beyond token acts of charity to desperately needed ministry (see Jas. 2:5-17). We aren’t told exactly how the godly mother in Scripture reached out to the poor and needy of her day. Probably she used some of the resources and skills God blessed her with. Today that ministry can include providing food, clothing, and school supplies; volunteering as tutors for children and adults in language and job skills; leading Bible studies; and numerous other compassionate actions. 3. FOR HER DEDICATION (PROVERBS 31:21-29) Verse 21. Scripture’s tribute to the godly mother portrays a woman who is confident in her preparation for the changing seasons. Recall that her diligence and expertise in garment-making were described in 31:13,19. Although wintertime in much of the land of Israel enjoys moderate temperatures, higher elevations can see snow. Again, this mother was thinking of her family in making sure they had appropriate clothing. Verse 22. This verse highlights that the mother had worked to become highly skilled in her sewing. Along with garments, she made bed coverings—what we might think of as tapestries or fine quilts. She sewed her own clothes, a fine wardrobe of garments made of fine linen and purple. Purple-dyed cloth was rare, often reserved for royalty. The point of the verse is that this godly woman sought to enhance her family’s reputation by presenting herself well. Verse 23. In context, this verse reveals how the godly woman’s sterling character, impressive skills, and gracious heart impacted her husband’s reputation. Her husband was a respected man in his own right, but his reputation was enhanced by his wife’s noble character. The city gate was a location where influential civic leaders (elders of the land) gathered to hear cases, make decisions, and discuss the community’s needs. Verse 24. Again the tribute poem returns to applaud the woman’s sewing skills and business acumen. She constantly looked for ways that she could use her skills not only to clothe her family but also to generate additional income for the household. Verse 25. While the woman sewed fine garments for herself, her best and most enduring “clothing” consisted of inner qualities (see 1 Pet. 3:3-4). Her strength of spirit and honor (dignity, noble character) enhanced her entire household. She had a Godgiven confidence about their future. Verse 26. Here is yet another reason to treasure a godly mother. The woman in the poem spoke words of wisdom and loving instruction to those around her. Given what we’ve learned about her skills and determination, we can well imagine this wise husband and wife having many private, insightful discussions about everything concerning their family and community. For certain we can imagine her gently yet firmly instructing the children out of her wisdom and experience. Verse 27. Sadly, some people go through life without someone to care for them or guide them. A godly mother does all that she can to watch over the ways and 71

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COMMENTARY well-being of her family. She stays aware of her children’s activities, paying attention even to the friendships they make. To never be idle does not call for a wife and mother to labor constantly without any time for personal rest and spiritual renewal. Rather, it emphasizes that she never lets down her guard. She never stops caring for her husband and children. She is always looking out for their interests, not just her own (see Phil. 2:4). Verse 28. Such a godly mother is worthy of recognition and appreciation, both privately and publicly. She is a woman who is truly blessed of God, and she in turn is a remarkable blessing from God to her children. Similarly, as a godly wife she is a blessing from God to her husband, and he does well to treasure her. Wise husbands take care not to neglect their wives’ needs. They also find ways regularly to show appreciation for them, both privately and publicly. Verse 29. If King Lemuel wrote this magnificent poem as a tribute to his mother, he used this verse to express a personal, direct word of praise. He affirmed there were (and are) many capable, godly women in the world. However, the woman he described in the poem surpassed them all. Many children rightfully feel their mom is the best. Certainly every husband should believe his wife outshines all others. We can be grateful for this verse in God’s Word that helps us express appreciation to the godly women in our lives. 4. FOR HER DEVOTION (PROVERBS 31:30-31) Verse 30. Although it is expressed only here at the end of the poem, the recognition of this woman’s right relationship with God underpins every stanza. Indeed, this verse serves with Proverbs 1:7 to set the entire Book of Proverbs in the context of “the fear of the LORD.” God’s wisdom is not the best of human thinking, experience, or appearances. It is the abundant life that comes by relating to God through faith in Jesus Christ as Savior and Lord (see John 10:10). Thus Scripture’s tribute to the wife and mother reminds us that human charm and beauty are not final measures of godliness. This doesn’t mean that wanting to act and to present oneself in a pleasant, appealing way is wrong. Rather, the verse simply reminds us that external appearances are limited and can easily become more important to us than what counts eternally. For believers, fearing the Lord means living in right relationship with Him and revering Him above all else, including the desire to be charming and attractive to other people. Such women (or men) present a praiseworthy example for their family, friends, and others. Verse 31. The concluding verse of the poem calls for the godly wife and mother to be duly rewarded and praised. The reward for her labor can refer both to the physical labor she does as well as to her spiritual efforts in pointing her family to faith in God. Nothing pleases a devoted Christian mother so much as to see her children confess their faith in Christ! Such a woman does not seek public acclaim. Nevertheless, her devotion to God, her sterling character, and her accomplishments on behalf of her family deserve to be publicly appreciated. In fact, the verse seems to indicate that her godly reputation and endeavors cannot stay hidden. That we have studied this Bible passage is evidence that the godly woman’s example endured long after her time (see Matt. 26:13). Let us treasure godly women today, and thank the Lord for each one He brings into our lives.

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RIGHTEOUS ROMANCE

WEEK OF MAY 18

WHAT YOU NEED > This week’s lesson on pages 26-27 of Collegiate’s Spring 2014 Explore the Bible® pull-out insert >Refer to “The Church as Bride & Christ as Groom” on page 27 of Collegiate’s Spring 2014 Explore the Bible® pull-out insert for a supplemental element to enhance your lesson. HIGHLIGHTS Song of Songs may read like a secret love note, but it is a reminder to us that God created sex. Since sex was His idea, God wants us to understand the best way of expressing romantic love and sexuality is within a God-honoring marriage. As you study Song of Songs, keep in mind that Solomon gives us a picture of what deep, romantic love could look like without compromising our Christian faith. To facilitate open discussion, this may be a lesson that you choose to divide girls and guys into two different groups. SCRIPTURE Song of Songs 1:1–5:1 GETTING STARTED As a group or smaller groups, give group members 2 to 5 minutes to brainstorm and list as many songs as they can think of that have to do with relationships, love, or sex. What are some of the overall messages communicated in those songs? What do you think the Bible has to say about sex? What do you think people commonly believe the Bible’s view of sex is?

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RIGHTEOUS ROMANCE

WEEK OF MAY 18

EXPLORE THE BIBLE 1. IT’S ABOUT BEING TOGETHER > HAVE A VOLUNTEER READ SONG OF SONGS 1:7-8. 7 Tell me, you, the one I love: Where do you pasture your sheep? Where do you let them rest at noon? Why should I be like one who veils herself beside the flocks of your companions? 8 If you do not know, most beautiful of women, follow the tracks of the flock, and pasture your young goats near the shepherds’ tents.

God inspired the writing of this book of love songs in which the bride and groom in Song of Songs had a playful and sensual love for one another, expressed and enjoyed within the bounds of marriage. Why might it be difficult for us to comprehend that sex was originally God’s idea and design? In this passage, the bride had a deep desire to be with her new husband. What does Mark 10:9 tell us about the bond between husband and wife?

2. MUTUAL ADMIRATION > HAVE A VOLUNTEER READ SONG OF SONGS 1:15–2:2. 1:15 How beautiful you are, my darling. How very beautiful! Your eyes are doves. 16 How handsome you are, my love. How delightful! Our bed is lush with foliage; 17 the beams of our house are cedars, and our rafters are cypresses. 2:1 I am a rose of Sharon, a lily of the valleys. 2 Like a lily among thorns, so is my darling among the young women.

The bride and groom in Song of Songs had no problem expressing their affection for one anther in vivid detail. The groom and bride’s admiration was mutual and exclusive; they had eyes for each other only. How do these ideas of love differ from what we see in today’s media, culture, and college campuses? The love displayed in Song of Songs was shared and true. Jesus demonstrated true love for His bride, the church, when He gave His live for her. What are some ways that we can demonstrate our love for Jesus?

3. BE ON GUARD > HAVE A VOLUNTEER READ SONG OF SONGS 2:15. 15 Catch the foxes for us—the little foxes that ruin the vineyards—for our vineyards are in bloom.

A goal of a godly couple would be to protect their marriage. The “little foxes” in this passage are little problems or conflicts that, if left unresolved, can seriously harm a relationship. What are some problems that can threaten a godly marriage?

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RIGHTEOUS ROMANCE

WEEK OF MAY 18

4. TREASURE THE TREASURES > HAVE A VOLUNTEER READ SONG OF SONGS 4:9-12. 9 You have captured my heart, my sister, my bride. You have captured my heart with one glance of your eyes, with one jewel of your necklace. 10 How delightful your love is, my sister, my bride. Your love is much better than wine, and the fragrance of your perfume than any balsam. 11 Your lips drip sweetness like the honeycomb, my bride. Honey and milk are under your tongue. The fragrance of your garments is like the fragrance of Lebanon. 12 My sister, my bride, you are a locked garden—a locked garden and a sealed spring.

We see in this passage that it isn’t wrong to have a desire for sexual intimacy. But when we practice self control in our sexual desires until marriage, we display wisdom and demonstrate our love for God, respect for ourselves, and true love rather than lust. The bride and groom treasured each other, and their virginity was kept, like a hidden garden. How does remaining sexually pure in a relationship show that you treasure God as well as one another?

APPLY TO LIFE OPTION 1:

As a group , discuss this question: When someone falls into sexual sin, how can he or she begin to rebuild control over their sexual desires and honor God in future relationships? OPTION 2:

If you’ve been sexually intimate outside of marriage, God can and wants to bring restoration to your life. First, admit to God that you were wrong, believe He can forgive you, and ask Him for help to turn away from pursuing sex until marriage. Father, thank You for making us and loving us. Thank You for the gift of marriage and sex. Jesus, thank You for saving us and showing us true love displayed on the cross. Holy Spirit, help us not to be ruled by our sexual desires, but give us strength to enact self control, so that we may honor You with our minds and bodies.

NEXT WEEK > Read next week’s lesson, “Invest in the Best,” on pages 28-29 of Collegiate’s Spring 2014 Explore the Bible® pull-out insert.

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COMMENTARY BACKGROUND Our culture today has cheapened romantic expression to the point of degrading people to mere objects. As a reaction, some Christians are uncomfortable with any discussion of personal matters, especially with one’s family or in Bible classes. In the Song of Songs, Solomon presented a divinely inspired portrait of how romantic love can be expressed without compromising God-given moral standards. Believers are wise to obey what God’s Word teaches about expressing romantic love in God-honoring ways. 1. IT’S ABOUT BEING TOGETHER (SONG OF SONGS 1:7-8) Verse 7. This amazing love poem in Scripture was written by Solomon either about the love of his life or the ideal love relationship. Because of the poem’s focus on the purity of God-given love, some Scripture interpreters across the centuries have also understood it to picture either God’s love for Israel, His chosen people, or in New Testament terms, Christ’s love for the church. Essentially, however, the poem tells the story of a man and woman who are in love; it begins when they are engaged to be married. The man is identified as King Solomon (see 1:1; 3:9,11; 8:11-12). His bride is identified by name only once in the poem (see 6:13). That name, Shulammite, could be her actual name, a nickname (it is the feminine form of the name Solomon, meaning “peaceful one”), or the name of the area where she grew up. As the poem opens, the engaged couple are looking forward to their wedding day. They want to spend time in each other’s company, but Solomon’s work has called for him to be out in the fields for a time with his shepherds and flocks. Shulammite, meanwhile, longs to see him but doesn’t know where he is camped. Shulammite addressed Solomon—perhaps in her thoughts—as the one man she loved. In the beginning of creation, God made one man and one woman and gave them the garden of Eden for their home. In doing so, God established His design for a husband and wife to find fulfillment in a monogamous, lifelong relationship of love, commitment, and shared life (see Gen. 2:15-25). The first man and woman of the human race (and the first married couple) found delight in each other. When Adam first saw Eve, he exclaimed (in a paraphrase of the Hebrew), “At last, this is the one!” (see Gen. 2:23). Thus God designed for romantic expressions of love to be confined to the marriage relationship. God-given love is much more than just emotions or feelings of attraction. Shulammite’s longing for Solomon demonstrated the depth of her love. She wanted to know where he was and to be with him. Since Solomon was a king, some Bible students interpret his depiction as a shepherd figuratively. However, leaders of God’s people—including David, Solomon’s father—were sometimes referred to as shepherds (see 2 Sam. 7:7; 1 Chron. 11:2). Moreover, Solomon’s royal household required a vast amount of daily provisions (see 1 Kings 4:22-23), so it wouldn’t be unusual for the king to visit with the shepherds tending his flocks. In any case, Shulammite contemplated going to find Solomon at midday, when the flocks and shepherds would be resting. Yet she did not want to be mistaken for a common prostitute walking among the fields for illicit reasons. Her motives were pure. Verse 8. Solomon responded to his bride, referring to her as the most beautiful among women. His compliment indicated that Shulammite alone had captured his heart. Her unique beauty was not merely physical. Inner beauty showed through her life in general and specifically through her devotion to her husband. Solomon welcomed his bride’s visit. His instructions for finding him, perhaps intended to be playful, helped ensure that she wouldn’t be in peril or mistaken as a prostitute. He wanted her to be near him and urged her to join him as soon as possible. Godly love grows through interaction between two people committed to each other in a marriage relationship. They nurture their love by words and acts of tenderness. 76

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COMMENTARY 2. MUTUAL ADMIRATION (SONG OF SONGS 1:15–2:2) Chapter 1, verse 15. Throughout the love song, Solomon and Shulammite constantly take opportunities to express their admiration for each other. Here Solomon admired again his bride’s beauty. He did not simply enjoy her beauty, he expressed admiration for her. The phrases he chose emphasized the extent of his delight in her. They implied that she had cultivated both inner and outer beauty to please him. Many married couples have affectionate nicknames for each other. Solomon called Shulammite his darling. The sweet sentiment of this word does not fully convey the meaning of the Hebrew language. This term describes a cherished companion, someone whose association is greatly desired. Solomon’s comparison of his bride’s eyes to doves suggests the symmetry and softness of their appearance. The reader can almost visualize the bride gazing up into her husband’s adoring face. People in love speak endearingly to each other, and they never tire of hearing mutual expressions of admiration. Verse 16a. Shulammite responded with sincere praise for her beloved husband. He was handsome, with pleasing features. She delighted in him, and he alone commanded her heart. Verses 16b-17. If these verses describe a conversation before the actual wedding day (see Song of Songs. 3:9-11), then they are best understood as Shulammite’s admiration for Solomon’s preparations for their life together as husband and wife. Scripture declares that the marriage bed is honorable and should be kept undefiled (see Heb. 13:4). Shulammite found joy in every aspect of the couple’s marriage relationship. Likewise, Solomon provided a wonderful house in which they could live. The references to cedar beams and cypress rafters reflected beauty and durability. Their dwelling was a wonderful picture of their marriage relationship. Sadly, many stately, well-built houses do not reflect equally strong families on the inside. Too many of these structures house broken, dysfunctional marriages without mutual admiration or care. Where God’s love abides, however, even a one-room apartment can be a place of beauty and lasting joy. Chapter 2, verse 1. Some Christians are most familiar with this verse because of hymns such as Charles W. Fry’s “The Lily of the Valley,” which depicts Jesus’ relationship to the church. In its biblical context, however, the verse expresses Shulammite’s humble description of herself in simple terms. Solomon described her as more beautiful than any other woman. She thought of herself merely as a common wildflower, lovely in its simplicity. Probably neither flower mentioned is to be understood as the variety bearing that name today. Verse 2. Solomon responded to his bride’s humble description. If she were a lily, then all the other young women of marriageable age were like thorns as compared to her. She alone was his darling. In healthy marriages, spouses do not deceive themselves into thinking they can look lustfully at others. Husbands and wives who desire a solid relationship find absolute satisfaction solely in each other. A marriage characterized by mutual admiration grows stronger, fortified by honest affection expressed with devotion. 3. BE ON GUARD (SONG OF SONGS 2:15) Even good marriages experience pressure. Work and finances, conflicts over decision making, difficulties with children and teens—these and many more challenges can strain relationships. Every married couple needs to be on guard to protect their relationship. Verse 15. The woman asked for help with the little foxes. Bible scholars offer various interpretations of this reference. However, in the context of the love song, the foxes probably represent potential threats to the couple’s marriage relationship. Four insights can be drawn from this word-picture. First, married couples can 77

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COMMENTARY experience difficulties from internal and external sources. Like foxes creeping unawares into a vineyard, troubles can enter a relationship unexpectedly and may remain unobserved until too late. Second, broken relationships often begin not as major problems but as small irritations, doubts, or struggles that are taken lightly. Rarely do husbands or wives fall into immorality in one giant leap. Instead, they yield to smaller temptations that over time lead to sinful actions they “never thought would happen.” Third, when difficulties aren’t handled quickly and appropriately, the results can be ruinous. Foxes can destroy a vineyard at a time when it is most vulnerable. Fourth, while a husband and wife have the primary responsibility for keeping their relationship vibrant and strong, others can help too. Christian couples should be able to find encouragement and accountability help from believing friends and the church community. 4. TREASURE THE TREASURES (SONG OF SONGS 4:9-12) Generally, Bible students locate the actual wedding ceremony of Solomon and Shulammite in 3:6-11. Chapter 4 describes the wedding night and the couple’s ardent feelings for each other as they consummate their marriage. People who engage in sexual relationships outside of marriage misuse each other and sin against God’s design for marriage. Verse 9. Solomon expressed the overwhelming love he felt for his wife. Here he referred to his bride as “my sister,” a phrase that may sound strange in our culture. Shulammite was not literally Solomon’s sibling. In the culture of the ancient Near East, it was an expression of tenderness, familiarity, and affection. Current culture misunderstands the nature of genuine attraction. Selfish lust does not lead to true, God-given love. Shulammite had captured Solomon’s entire heart, not just his eyes. They had a singular devotion to each other. He expressed his surrender as having been captivated by a single glance from his bride. The allure of her eyes on him was like a jewel from her necklace, more precious than any treasure. Verse 10. Shulammite’s love was delightful to Solomon, more desirable than wine. Continuing to compliment his wife, Solomon also praised the fragrance of her perfume. A husband who truly loves his wife finds no greater satisfaction than the intimacy they share in a godly marriage. Verse 11. Continuing his litany of love, Solomon described the sweetness of his bride’s lips. The comparison of her kisses to honey and milk suggests tenderness. Even her garments gave off a pleasing aroma, like the freshness of a cedar forest. The cedar forests of Lebanon provided a familiar comparison for this pleasant aroma. Every aspect of his bride increased Solomon’s ardor for her. Healthy marriages involve both physical and emotional expressions of love. Verse 12. This verse may sound a bit strange to the modern ear. Solomon referred to his bride, a locked garden and a sealed spring. These phrases emphasize the fact that she came to their marriage as a virgin. She had protected her purity as if with a lock or a seal. When a man and woman enter the marriage relationship having kept themselves physically pure for each other, they not only experience God’s blessing but also find love’s greatest expression in the marriage relationship. Many people today treat romance casually. Media, culture, and commercial advertising combine to debase what God intended to be one of the most precious gifts a husband and wife can give each other. Numerous studies show that people who live together or otherwise engage in intimate physical activity outside of marriage have more difficulties in marriage and in life in general. When a man and a woman love the Lord and desire the best for their marriage, they protect their personal purity. Giving themselves only to each other is the most precious wedding gift a husband and wife can exchange. What about those who have not honored His design for marriage? God has shown that He forgives those who repent and turn to Jesus Christ for wholeness.

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INVEST IN THE BEST

WEEK OF MAY 25

WHAT YOU NEED > This week’s lesson on pages 28-29 of Collegiate’s Spring 2014 Explore the Bible® pull-out insert >Refer to “Forgiveness vs. Consequences” on page 29 of Collegiate’s Spring 2014 Explore the Bible® pull-out insert for a supplemental element to enhance your lesson. > For Option 2 in Apply to Life, find a copy of the song “You Won’t Relent” by Jesus Culture, or be prepared to play the lyric video from YouTube. HIGHLIGHTS It is evident that throughout our culture, more and more young adults are believing the lie that they can have sex with no strings attached. And today’s self-centered consumerist culture convinces us that loving relationships are as disposable as a plastic Solo cup. In this study of Song of Songs, we learn that a God-honoring marriage will not be a struggle-free ride and will require personal sacrifice. However, God honors the marriage commitment, uses marriage to bring about holiness, and purposes marriage to serve as a picture of Christ’s love for His church. SCRIPTURE Song of Songs 5:2–8:14 GETTING STARTED Take a few minutes and brainstorm some famous couples. Make a list on a poster or white board where everyone can see, and have students give them a “True Love” ranking from 1-10, with “1” being “Not in Love at All” and “10” being “Truly in Love.” Call on volunteers to give a ranking and explain why they choose that ranking.

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INVEST IN THE BEST

WEEK OF MAY 25

EXPLORE THE BIBLE 1. LONGING LOVE > HAVE A VOLUNTEER READ SONG OF SONGS 5:6-8. 6 I opened to my love, but my love had turned and gone away. I was crushed that he had left. I sought him, but did not find him. I called him, but he did not answer. 7 The guards who go about the city found me. They beat and wounded me; they took my cloak from me—the guardians of the walls. 8 Young women of Jerusalem, I charge you: if you find my love, tell him that I am lovesick.

In this passage, the bride was separated from her groom and she expressed the pain of longing to be near him. Ask a volunteer to describe a time when he or she was homesick or really missed a loved one. How can we turn to Christ during times of loneliness or difficulty? Marriages aren’t always easy. In this passage, the bride may have been experiencing a time of depression and loneliness while her husband was away. Ask someone in the group to share about a married couple who has led by their example, even through their times of difficulty.

2. EXCLUSIVE LOVE > HAVE A VOLUNTEER READ SONG OF SONGS 6:1-3. 1 Where has your love gone, most beautiful of women? Which way has he turned? We will seek him with you. 2 My love has gone down to his garden, to beds of spice, to feed in the gardens and gather lilies. 3 I am my love’s and my love is mine; he feeds among the lilies.

In verse 3, the bride declared to her friends that her and her husband belonged to each other. Why do you think many people in our world today have difficulty being exclusive when it comes to love? Just as a husband would be jealous if his wife were unfaithful, God is righteously jealous when we are not exclusive in our worship and love for Him. What are some things in your life that, if were not careful, you might be putting above your worship and love for Christ?

3. TRUE LOVE > HAVE A VOLUNTEER READ SONG OF SONGS 8:4-7. 4 Young women of Jerusalem, I charge you: do not stir up or awaken love until the appropriate time. 5 Who is this coming up from the wilderness, leaning on the one she loves? I awakened you under the apricot tree. There your mother conceived you; there she conceived and gave you birth. 6 Set me as a seal on your heart, as a seal on your arm. For love is as strong as death; ardent love is as unrelenting as Sheol. Love’s flames are fiery flames—the fiercest of all. 7 Mighty waters cannot extinguish love; rivers cannot sweep it away. If a man were to give all his wealth for love, it would be utterly scorned. 80

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INVEST IN THE BEST

WEEK OF MAY 25

For the second time in Song of Songs, the bride pleads with her virgin friends not to awaken love before God’s timing with the right person in marriage. Why do you think the bride is so adamant about purity before marriage? What are some reasons that young men and women choose not to follow God’s plan to wait to have sex within a God-honoring marriage? What are some of the ways that the bride describes the love she is experiencing? How is this love that the bride is describing different than lust?

APPLY TO LIFE OPTION 1:

Read and discuss the “Forgiveness vs. Consequences” sidebar on page 29 in the Spring 2014 Collegiate. OPTION 2:

Listen to “You Won’t Relent” by Jesus Culture or play the lyric video from YouTube. Discuss what this song has to say about God’s love for us and our love for Him. Father, thank You for loving us and for sending Jesus to show us the perfect standard of true love. Jesus, thank for Your unquenchable and fiery love, and for sending Your Holy Spirit as a seal upon our hearts until You return to make all things new. Holy Spirit, please give each student the patience to wait to awaken love in Your timing.

NEXT WEEK > Read the first lesson for next quarter, “When Your World Crumbles,” on pages 4-5 of Collegiate’s Summer 2014 Explore the Bible® pull-out insert.

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COMMENTARY BACKGROUND There’s no denying that the Christian view of marriage has taken a major hit in recent years. About half of all marriages end in divorce, and the rate is higher among those who marry another person after a divorce. Statistics point to a low view of marriage. Too many people are not willing to make the commitment required for biblical marriage. God ordained marriage; therefore, believers should uphold the standard of the marriage commitment. Christians need to proclaim the sanctity of biblical marriage not only with their voices, but with their examples. 1. LONGING LOVE (SONG OF SONGS 5:6-8) This scene in Solomon’s love song occurs some time after the couple’s wedding night. They are husband and wife, but something has taken him away from her for a time. Some Bible commentators hold that the separation is a figurative depiction of inner turmoil— in other words, an emotional flatness that contrasts with the bliss of their wedding night. Other commentators view the separation literally, meaning that something called for Solomon to be gone from his wife until a very late hour. Possibly the couple’s brief separation was both literal and the result of an emotion-filled disagreement. These passages, then, describe their emotional struggle and subsequent reconciliation based on their loving commitment to each other. Verse 6. Upon his return late in the night, Solomon sought to enter his wife’s bedroom. Shulammite at first protested that she had already gone to bed. However, his welcome voice stirred her feelings, and she finally arose to let him in (see Prov. 5:2-5). Yet when she opened the door, her beloved was gone. She looked all around; she called out his name. She couldn’t find him, and her heart sank. Possibly frustrated and angry, Solomon had withdrawn emotionally from his wife. Literally, he went back into the city. Either way, the scene is a real-life picture of what often happens with married couples after the honeymoon. Disagreements arise, feelings get wounded, and an unexpected emotional distance appears. This is when God-given love makes all the difference in a marriage. Both parties sacrifice pride and work through their differences. They rekindle their romance by learning to express their feelings honestly and lovingly. Successful relationships feature husbands and wives who value their love more than their egos. Verse 7. This verse is shocking to the reader. Shulammite went out into the dark city streets in search of her husband. The inherent danger in such an action for any person— but particularly for a lone woman—was real. This young bride suffered the consequences, yet her assailants were not street criminals but city guards! These rough military men may have thought she was a prostitute. They obviously did not recognize her as the king’s wife, since she was cloaked with a veil. However, no amount of misunderstanding justified the guards’ mistreatment of Solomon’s bride. They beat her, and possibly were attempting to rape her when she escaped. Physically, she was wounded; emotionally, she was distraught and filled with fear. Verse 8. Nevertheless, Shulammite was still determined to reunite with her husband. She enlisted a group of young women of Jerusalem to help her. She asked them to tell Solomon if they found him that she was lovesick for him. She was not ashamed for her husband to know how she yearned for his return. She wanted them to be together again physically and emotionally. She wanted their relationship to be as joyous and whole as it was on their wedding day. This verse is a good reminder that Christian brothers and sisters can serve as a source of encouragement and wisdom for their married friends. In addition, the church’s essential nature as a redeemed family of faith gives married couples yet another source of spiritual and relational help. A church’s support systems for Christian marriages help strengthen families as well as the church congregation. 82

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COMMENTARY Healthy marriages require both husbands and wives to invest in their relationship. Paul warned Christian couples to be consistent in meeting their spouses’ emotional and physical needs. Prolonged frustration opens the door for Satan’s temptation (see 1 Cor. 7:5). However, physical needs are not the only reason this issue is so vital. Intimacy is as much emotional as it is physical. It includes giving each other time and undivided attention. Meeting each other’s needs communicates that one’s spouse is special, valued, and loved. 2. EXCLUSIVE LOVE (SONG OF SONGS 6:1-3) For many Bible students, Solomon seems to be the least likely proponent of God’s design for marriage of “one man, one woman, for life” (see 1 Kings 11:3). Although Solomon did not maintain God’s design—he suffered consequences for his sins—his personal failure did not keep him from recognizing God’s design. The Song of Songs affirms the exclusivity of the marriage relationship. Verse 1. Following her unsuccessful search for Solomon and brutal mistreatment by the guards, Shulammite enlisted the help of a group of young women. The women recognized and affirmed that Solomon was her beloved husband, and they were willing to help her find him. They asked her two questions that on the surface seem odd. If Shulammite knew where Solomon was or the direction he went, she wouldn’t need their assistance. Likely then, the questions are rhetorical and refer to more than a geographical location. The young women reminded Shulammite that no one knew Solomon better than her, his beloved wife. True friends who are confided in for help never allow themselves to become part of a couple’s problems. They listen and encourage. They pray for spiritual healing and reconciliation. They rejoice when the husband and wife are restored in their marriage relationship. Verse 2. Shulammite suddenly realized that Solomon had gone to his garden. Because of the love song’s highly poetical nature, some Bible commentators understand this verse to be a description of Solomon’s intimate reuniting with his wife. The delightful scent of spices plus the pleasing images of gardens and flowers symbolically depict the couple’s renewed love. Genuine love does not allow temporary setbacks to ruin the marriage relationship. Godly husbands and wives work through whatever issues arise in their relationship. They learn to forgive because they value their love and because they know they have been forgiven in Christ. Verse 3. Reunited, the couple declared their unending commitment to each other. Solomon and Shulammite belonged to each other and to no one else. In their love, their actions, their desires, and their spirits they had given themselves to each other completely and uniquely. Righteous romance requires exclusive commitments. No one can maintain a godly marriage while flirting with infidelity. Husbands and wives want to know that no one else can take their place in their spouses’ hearts. Candlelight, candy, and flowers are nice, but real romance is built on the foundation of complete trust in a spouse’s love. 3. TRUE LOVE (SONG OF SONGS 8:4-7) Young people often daydream about true love. They imagine how their ideal mates might look and what their lives together might be. Dreamy ideas about true love can lead to disappointment when the person of one’s dreams turns out to be less than perfect. True love, however, is not based on romance novels or sentimental movies. Genuine love comes from God, who is love (see 1 John 4:8). Verse 4. Out of her dramatic experiences, Shulammite offered a strong admonition to the young women of Jerusalem. The admonition actually appears three times in the overall poem (see 2:7; 3:5; 8:4), indicating its importance. The Hebrew verb rendered charge has the root meaning of taking a solemn oath. Shulammite felt compelled to help unmarried young women know what enduring love is and what it is not. Sometimes we 83

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COMMENTARY learn only through trial and error, but by heeding godly counsel we can avoid mistakes others have made. The admonition is that the young women—young men should take heed as well— avoid becoming involved in sexual relations until they are married. The phrase until the appropriate time in this context is a clear reference to the marriage relationship. Thus this scriptural principle counsels equally against extramarital relations, adultery, homosexual behavior, and any other perversion of God’s design for sexual expression. God created marriage as the proper setting for the fulfillment of romantic love. Men and women should observe the joy of successful, God-centered marriages and witness the tragedy of sinful activity outside of marriage. Wise believers will learn from others and be motivated to follow scriptural guidelines in maintaining the sanctity of their marriages. Verse 5a. The speaker in this half-verse is unclear. It may have been the young women of Jerusalem speaking as a chorus to set up Shulammite’s response in 8:5b-7. More likely, however, the speaker is Solomon, who as the poem’s narrator used a rhetorical question to picture him and his wife together again as they were on their wedding day (see 3:6). The playful picture of the couple coming out of the wilderness and leaning on each other emphasizes they had been through a tough time but now were renewed in their love. Their joy was contagious, bringing happiness to all who cared for them. Verse 5b. In this half-verse, the speaker is clearly Shulammite. She addressed her husband directly and spoke of having awakened him under the exact fruit tree where his mother had given birth to him. This is an unusual figure of speech, to say the least! However, it doesn’t seem likely that Shulammite would make such a to do about literally rousing her husband as he slept under a tree. More likely, the figure of speech depicts the joyous awakening of the couple’s marital love. Just as Solomon was born as a result of his parent’s intimate relations, now he and Shulammite had consummated their love. Verse 6. In biblical culture, a seal was not merely something to fasten a container or scroll. The seal was made by dripping heated wax on the opening. Then as the wax began to cool and harden, the sender pressed the face of a signet ring into the wax. The image made in the wax signified ownership and identity. Using this imagery, Shulammite urged Solomon to place her as a seal on his heart and his arm. In Hebrew thought, the heart represented the very center of life, the place of decision making and godly faithfulness. The arm represented a person’s physical well-being and strength. Shulammite wanted their marriage to be secure emotionally, spiritually, and physically. Then the couple could walk arm in arm through whatever might come their way. True love is strong, unrelenting in its ardor, and like a blazing flame of fire. The flame of true love is the most intense imaginable—like a flame bursting from the Lord Himself. It refers to the strong, exclusive claims love demands of the one loved. It allows no rivals and tolerates no interference. True love is love that only the Lord gives, and only those who know Him through faith in Jesus Christ can express love to one another in its purest, most selfless form (see 1 John 4:7-11). Verse 7. True love endures. It is a flame that not even great rivers could extinguish though they were to flow over it. In this context, the waters and rivers represent various kinds of adversity that married couples might experience. None of them can douse the flames of true love. Most families experience difficulties at some point. Issues that often afflict marriages include financial strain, fidelity, decision making, and sexual issues. True love enables husbands and wives to survive attacks on their relationship. True love motivates them to work diligently to resolve differences and reconcile disagreements before the issues become fatal to their marriage. True love is a priceless treasure, but it can’t be bought. Marriage is God-given, Godguided, and God-preserved. Solomon wrote in Psalm 127:1 “Unless the LORD builds a house, its builders labor over it in vain.” In that regard, then, we can say that unless the Lord lays the foundation and supervises the building of a marriage, it will never be all that it could be or that He intends it to be. Conversely, those marriages with Christ at the center can flourish in true love and endure all adversity.

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