Tyndale Open Study NotesProverbs 17

Wisdom is more important than privilege. If children act foolishly, a wise servant will become the leader of the household.

The Lord's refining fire (see Psalm 66:10; Jeremiah 9:7; Malachi 3:2–3) removes impurities from a person's heart, leaving only what is valuable (compare Proverbs 16:2; 21:2; 27:21).

Lies (Proverbs 6:16–19; 14:5, 25; 25:18), gossip (11:13; 18:8), and slander (10:18) twist the truth to harm others.

Mocking what God created is the same as mocking God.

• Only those blessed with a long life become grandparents. Continuing the family line shows God's blessing (see Genesis 12:1–3).

• father: This proverb applies to both fathers and mothers.

To have a good relationship, forgive others instead of focusing on their mistakes.

Wise people listen to gentle criticism and follow good advice. Even severe punishment will not change a foolish person.

Rebellion comes from the nature of evil people who resist the consequences of their actions.

This saying warns against teaching fools. A fool stuck in foolishness may respond with anger and violence.

release a flood: Once a quarrel starts, stopping it is hard. Avoid disputes whenever possible (see Proverbs 10:12; 15:18; 16:28; 20:3; 22:10; 26:21).

This message is repeated in Proverbs 6:1–5; 11:15; 20:16; 22:26; 27:13.

gate high: Overconfidence in winning a fight encourages people to start harmful arguments.

Wisdom is not natural; you must seek it. Wise people work hard to gain wisdom, but fools cannot stay focused.

A foolish son: This saying applies to both sons and daughters.