Wisdom From Above 

Scripture Reading: James 3:13-18.

Memory Verse: "But the wisdom that is from above is first pure, then peaceable, gentle, and easy to be intreated, full of mercy and good fruits, without partiality, and without hypocrisy." James 3:17.

Weekly Reading: Proverbs 1:1-3:26.

Introduction: The main emphasis of Proverbs is discussing and contrasting wisdom and folly. Handling relationships is another major theme in Proverbs. Special topics included for success in living deal with business affairs, plans, the tongue, anger, applications, finding a place under any of the major themes in the book.
  The book of Proverbs was completed probably by 687 B.C.. As far as we know, the proverbs in this book were finished before Solomon's death. Two chapters of this great book are credited to Agur and Lemuel (though some believe Lemuel is Solomon), but it is not certain exactly when these were written. Part of the book (128 of Solomon's 503 maxims) were edited and compiled later by the men of King Hezekiah. Hezekiah was the 13th king of Judah after the nation of Israel split following Solomon's death. The reign of Hezekiah was from 716 B.C.-687 B.C., and the Book of Proverbs as we have it today was most likely finished during this time. Some, however, speculate it could have been actually finished as late as 180 B.C..
  Proverbs is not just thrown together to form a book of jumbled phrases. Proverbs are two-line poems. The book of Proverbs is a book of poetry--the sayings themselves chosen and arranged to create poetic flow. There is a definite reason for their placement.
  Proverbs is a "textbook" of wise sayings. By expounding the wise thoughts to set forth what is right and what is wrong, young men could be schooled in wise and right living. The book was not taught once like a subject in school, but used over and over in constant repetition until the words of wisdom became an inseparable part of the student.
  The standard form of the proverb (Hebrew = mashal) is a single two-part sentence, with the second half balancing the first. The Hebrew language was very condensed, so the usual length of a proverb was only 6 to 8 words.

Questions for Study:

1. Can wisdom be found when searched out in a physical earthly way? Job 28:12-14.

2. Is it possible to acquire wisdom by purchasing it or bargaining for it? Job 28:15-19.

3. Who understands the way of wisdom and why? Job 28:20-27.

4. How can we know wisdom? Job 28:28.

5. From where does wisdom cry? Proverbs 8:1-3.

6. To whom does wisdom cry? Proverbs 8:4-5.

7. What is the cry of wisdom? Proverbs 8:6-11.

8. Does wisdom cry out to us from the gospel of the New Testament? 1 Corinthians 1:17-24.