By Sam E. Stone God always keeps his promises. The life of Abraham provides an excellent illustration of this. In recent weeks, we saw an elderly, childless couple become parents. Moving forward 2,000 years, today’s lesson reveals that from their descendants came God’s own Son, bringing the hope of salvation for all people. The first […]

by Sam E. Stone How should a person live in a world where everything seems meaningless at times? That is the question addressed in the book of Ecclesiastes. Late in his life, Solomon summarizes what he has experienced during his time on earth. He describes man’s relentless pursuit of whatever he thinks might turn out […]

by Sam E. Stone This month’s studies in Proverbs have been extremely practical—helping us to pursue righteousness, make right choices, and teach values. They have brought us to today’s theme.   Recording the Teaching/Proverbs 25:1 The book of Proverbs contains two groupings of Solomon’s proverbs (10:1–22:16 and 25:1–29:27). The book also includes collections of sayings […]

by Sam E. Stone The book of Proverbs does not read like many of the other Bible books. Because it is considered poetry, this form of wisdom literature often addresses a number of different topics in a single chapter—not necessarily following some orderly outline. We need not try to force the various words of advice […]

by Sam E. Stone Solomon presents instruction as a father to his son throughout the book of Proverbs (see 1:8, 10, 15; 2:1; 3:1, 11, 21). Chapter 4 begins, “Listen, my sons, to a father’s instruction; pay attention and gain understanding.” He then contrasts two possible ways to live. The way of wisdom is straight […]