Threats That Need Not Apply

(Proverbs 15:10 KJV)  Correction is grievous unto him that forsaketh the way: and he that hateth reproof shall die.

Is this “grievous” (stern NASB) (7451a) “correction” (discipline NASB) (4148) referring to this life or eternity?  If it is in this life, does it come when you are still a believer or after you have left the fold?  This is an interesting phrase because in the Updated NASB it is translated differently than the 1977 edition.  The KJV says “correction is grievous”, the NAS77 says “stern discipline” and the Updated NASB has “grievous punishment”. 

The noun is an interesting word.  The most frequent translation in both versions is “instruction”.  Evidently students were no more thrilled with the prospects of learning in ancient Israel than they are today.  The adjective is a standard word but instead of the choices here the common translation in both KJV and NASB is “evil”.  Put it together and you could easily make it “evil punishment”.

So?  Take it for now or for then, the results of wicked living will be nasty.  I would hope that it is as far away from your reality as bread lines.  For those walking in obedience it is nothing to worry about.  For most it is a real danger.