Proverbs (The Crossway Classic Commentaries | CCC)

by Charles Bridges

Publisher:

Crossway

, 2001

Overview

While other parts of Scripture show the glory of the Christian’s high calling, Proverbs instructs in detail how to walk in and be worthy of this calling. A treasure trove of divine wisdom, Proverbs challenges readers to actively seek its priceless truths about daily living. Charles Bridge’s classic work provides the map. He divides Proverbs into three general sections, interpreting each nugget of instruction canonically—that is, as an organic part of the Bible as a whole—and evangelically—that is, assuming the change of heart through the Holy Spirit’s regenerating action about which evangelical theology is explicit—and practically—that is, as a guide to wise and godly behavior in all human relationships. With Bridge’s stimulating insights as a guide, you will find Proverbs to be a rare and extraordinary book which impresses on your heart the importance of faith’s fundamentals, the value of self-discipline, and the impact of bringing everything under the Word of God.

Contents

Top Highlights

“‘The great folly of man in trials,’ as Dr. Owen has rightly remarked, ‘is leaning to or on his own understanding and counsels. What is the result of this? Whenever in our trials we consult our own understanding, listen to our own reason, even though they appear to be good, the principle of living by faith is stifled, and we will in this way be let down by our own counsels.’” (Page 27)

“The heart must be known, so that it may be kept safe. Nothing is more difficult, but nothing is more necessary. If we do not know our hearts, it will be as if we knew nothing at all. Whatever else we know, to neglect this knowledge is to be a prize fool. If we do not know our weak points, Satan is well aware of them, ‘the sin that so easily entangles’ (Hebrews 12:2).” (Page 39)

“As well as the simple and the young, the wise gain instruction here. For a truly wise man is not a person who has attained everything, but one who knows that he has not attained and is pressing on to perfection (Philippians 3:12).” (Page 16)

“Listening is the way to acquire knowledge. Let the wise listen. Jethro instructed Moses (Exodus 18:17–26), our Lord his disciples (Matthew 13:11–16; John 16:12–13). Peter instructed his fellow apostles (Acts 11:2–18). Priscilla and Aquila explained to Apollos ‘the way of God more accurately’ (Acts 18:24–26). Indeed, we must be listeners if we want to be teachers. As Bishop Hall once wrote, ‘He gathers who listens; he spends who teaches. If we spend before we gather, we will soon become bankrupt.’ The more we learn, the more we feel we need to learn, and the more willing we are to listen and add to [our] learning (compare 9:9; 18:15).” (Page 16)

Product Details

• Title: Crossway Classic Commentaries: Proverbs
• Author: Charles Bridges
• Publisher: Crossway Books
• Publication Date: 2001
• Pages: 286

About Charles Bridges

Charles Bridges (1794–1869) was a well-known and prominent leader of the Evangelical Party in the Church of England. He is best remembered for his Old Testament commentaries and for The Christian Ministry, his 1829 treatise on pastoral ministry that remains influential today.