Lecture Notes: The Book of Proverbs and Its Connection to Speech

Introduction

• The Book of Proverbs as a guide on speech and conduct.
• Importance for believers; transformation through Christ.
• Personal testimony on transformation from addiction.

Major Themes

Transformation through Jesus

• Believers experience a heart transformation.
• Evidence of transformation: markers in life, changes in behavior.
• Testimony as a tool for God's glory.

Speech and Sin

• Common sins include gossip, discord, and slander.
• Serious impact of "minor" sins in the church compared to "major" sins.
• Satan as "the accuser" fostering division through these sins.

Apologia Church's Ministry

• External attacks on the church do not affect it due to sanctification.
• Internal threats: gossip and discord.
• God's empowerment and mission work, including abortion and Mormonism ministries.

God's Justice and Internal Change

Old vs. New Covenant

• Old Covenant: external imposition of law.
• New Covenant: internal change through God's Spirit.
• God promises to establish justice internally in believers.

References to Scripture

• Isaiah 42: Messiah's role in bringing justice.
• Ezekiel 36: God’s promise of a new heart and spirit.
• Jeremiah 31: Internalizing God's law.

The Power of Speech

Temple Metaphor

• Believers as living stones of God's spiritual house.
• Gossip as destructive to God's dwelling; akin to setting fire to the temple.

Biblical Warnings and Advice

• James: Importance of controlling the tongue.
• Proverbs: Various scriptures outline the dangers of gossip and slander.

Practical Advice

• Stop gossip by addressing it immediately.
• Consider if you are the victim; address issues privately.

Final Exhortations

Love and Justice

• Romans 12: Genuine love without hypocrisy.

Church Discipline

• Titus: Address divisive persons clearly and biblically.

Key Actions

• Be quick to hear, slow to speak, and slow to anger.
• Practicing godly justice in relationships and speech.

Conclusion

• Call for repentance and humility.
• Aim for genuine love and service within the church.
• Prayer for transformation and alignment with Christ’s example.