This seems a bit violent but the principle is important. After a verse saying we should not act rashly, we are now told that a “wise” (2450) leader “scattereth” (winnows NASB) (2219). Is this saying that a wise leader would drive the “wicked” (7563) out of the church?
This picture is continued in chapter 27:
(Proverbs 27:22 NAS77) Though you pound a fool in a mortar with a pestle along with crushed grain, Yet his folly will not depart from him.As I was reading this over today I saw a parallel I had not seen before. I was thinking about how Jesus told us to turn the other cheek, etc. How does that tie in? I think Romans 13 is the answer. As individuals our first responsibility is to turn the other cheek. The “king” (4428), or as Romans terms it, “higher powers” KJV or “governing authorities” NASB, has a different responsibility.
(Romans 13:4 KJV) For he is the minister of God to thee for good. But if thou do that which is evil, be afraid; for he beareth not the sword in vain: for he is the minister of God, a revenger to execute wrath upon him that doeth evil.Our role is to turn the other cheek. The governments role is to wield the sword against evil. How that works in a democratic form of government is beyond today’s scope.
So? Let the king be the king. We are to be servants. I know, it’s not too glorious but such is life and such is eternity.
2 comments:
Good catch. The individual's responsibility and range of action are different than the governor's. Nicely done.
As Americans we want to fly solo and be in charge. That is in conflict with the call to the body of Christ and submission. I struggle with the conflict.
Grace and peace.
Post a Comment