Wisdom Literature

Hey Guys,

It’s been so long since I blogged that I don’t remember what I’ve said and haven’t said. However, I’ve been reminded of a reality that is largely responsible (on a human level) for who we are as a church and why we have been spared some of the grief that commonly afflicts churches. It’s free for the asking, but as James 4:2 says, “You do not have, because you do not ask God.” What I’m referring to is something James talks about in 1:5—what the Bible calls “wisdom.” The book of James is the New Testament expression of what is called “wisdom literature.” It’s formally found in the Old Testament books of Job, Proverbs, Ecclesiastes, Psalms, and Song of Solomon.

It is reflection on life and subsequently drawing principles from that reflection that are generally true. It helps us live skillfully. In fact, the word “wisdom” means skill (originally in practical matters like carpentry, building, sculpture, etc.), which was extended to the relational and spiritual realms.

“The fear of the Lord is the beginning of wisdom.” It comes from God on a supernatural level, and practically from receiving—even seeking—instruction, reproof, and discipline. A person gets it if he/she desires, asks for, and seeks wisdom. It comes ultimately from God, but is mediated through people, Scripture, reading, observing/reflection, etc. The prerequisite attribute is humility.

When sought this way, God gives it and it causes us to live life skillfully and well.

In fact, wisdom literature gives us certain categories based on these certain criteria. There is the wise person: you can tell him/her by how they respond to correction and instruction. They seek it and learn from it and live by it. You give such people resources and more instruction.

There is the fool. You can tell him/her by the refusal to take instruction and correction. They always know best. You can only give them limits and consequences. (They “learn the hard way.”)

There is another category—the cynic. You can’t tell them anything and there is little need to even try.

As I have asked for wisdom over the years, God has given it. Oh, I’m still foolish in too many ways, but God has been (as always) as good as His Word. BRCC is the church that God used wisdom to build. (See Proverbs 8.)

Woody