FRUITFUL ORDER – Proverbs 3:1-10 – 7-21-24

The Third “My Son” oracle of Proverbs opens in chapter 3. Verses (1-10) comprise a set of 5 of condition/benefit couplets…followed by an exposition of the virtues of wisdom (11-26)…closing with a list of prohibitions and warnings (27-35).  Conditions, virtues, & warnings are key categories of Proverbs chapter 3. The genre of wisdom literature classically exemplified in our text today occasion some commentary on the relationship between obedience and blessing in the economy of godliness.  Here we recognize a distinction between grounds of justification and CREATION ORDER FRUITFULNESS for instance. The temporal relationship between Biblical law and the common good affirms the Lordship of Christ over the full range of human calling and experience.  The evangelical church has missed the message of Proverbs at times by hyperextending the “Law/Gospel” distinction or by overcorrecting against “Prosperity Gospel” heresies. While faithfulness to Biblical law does not secure our salvation, Solomon reminds us in his great wisdom treatise that it certainly is foundational to fruitful stewardship.  Furthermore while it is the height of presumption to assume godlike powers to manifest things & material wealth is neither the measure nor the objective of faith, nevertheless, there is a cause and effect connection between God’s commands and promises that He has established within the order of creation.