In Parts two and three of this Intro to the Wisdom of Proverbs, we dealt with common contemporary counterfeits to wisdom. What is the whole truth? How does one actually become wise? Go back and re-read Proverbs 9:1-6, 13-18 and see that the answer is this: you become wise by dining at wisdom’s table. You simply know the best place to eat! You’re hungry, and you need some carbs. You refuse to consume counterfeits; you want the real deal. Imitation crab meat might help your casserole in a pinch, but who would choose that over an authentic Maryland feast awash in Old Bay seasoning?
What does it mean to dine at wisdom’s table? “Truly, truly, I say to you, unless you eat the flesh of the Son of Man and drink his blood, you have no life in you. Whoever feeds on my flesh and drinks my blood has eternal life, and I will raise him up on the last day. For my flesh is true food, and my blood is true drink” (John 6:53-55, ESV). Jesus is wisdom’s feast. Trust in him. Feast on his goodness and mercy. Ask him for life and wisdom. Quit gorging yourself on the secret bread of reputation, pleasure, relationships, wealth, or religious activity.
In Proverbs 1 through 9, Wisdom will build her house. She’ll hew out her pillars. She’ll cook her meat and mix her wine. She’ll even set a place for you at the table. Then she’ll invite you to tuck in and enjoy the feast. The rest of Proverbs will lie before you ready for consumption. Even more so, the rest of Scripture will open up for you, a delightful spread of all manner of wonderful things. But above all, Jesus will become more real to you, his mercy will extend toward you, and his passion for your freedom and glory will captivate you. All you can do then is start munching.
Next week we’ll begin.
Jake Swink says
Your analogy of Jesus as wisdom’s feast and to quit gorging on ourselves. The bible is amazing at showing how Christ is really the biggest and only thing that we ever need. My studies, my relationships, my life, all needs Christ. Through Him and Him alone will I find true wisdom. All glory to HIM.