pt. 1. Wisdom's portrait (1:1-9:18) -- pt. 2. Wisdom's instructors and wisdom's detractors (1:1-9:18) -- pt. 3. Wisdom's methods -- pt. 4. Wisdom's values : foundations (10:1-22:16) -- pt. 5. Wisdom's values : the practical dimension (10:1-22:16) -- pt. 6. Wisdom's values : the words of the wise -- Conclusions : Godliness in working clothes.
Discusses the meaning of the sayings found in Proverbs, the role of Lady Wisdom, and the historical background of the sayings. The book of Proverbs is the most practical book in the Bible. Its instruction in the art of living has been long tried and long proven. Its proverbial seeds of discernment are ready to be planted and rooted in the receptive soil of Wisdom's sons and daughters today. In The Message of Proverbs the ancient voice of Lady Wisdom cries out again. She summons us to the life skills of godliness and helps us say no to the foolish and destructive enticements that inhabit the malls, campuses, housing divisions and office buildings of the postmodern world. But as much as we glean from the surface of Proverbs, there remains still more in its depths. David Atkinson's commentary wonderfully illumines the ancient cultural and religious background of the discourses and sayings of Proverbs. Wisdom's values are brought into sharp relief. More important, Atkinson brings the wisdom of Proverbs into conversation with the wisdom of God now more fully displayed in Christ. In this way the place of Proverbs in the pattern of God's Word is clearly accented. -- ‡c From publisher's description.