Tyndale Open Study NotesProverbs 28

The wicked face God's curse for breaking his covenant (see Leviticus 26:14–17, 36–37).

Wise leaders rule with justice and effectiveness (Proverbs 8:15–16).

Without laws, chaos happens and bad people thrive.

Bad people try to benefit by breaking the law. Justice makes sure they are punished, while good people receive rewards.

Virtue is more valuable than material wealth. This idea is repeated with a slightly different conclusion in Proverbs 19:1.

his father: This saying applies to both fathers and mothers.

The law forbade charging interest on loans to needy Israelites (Exodus 22:25; Leviticus 25:36; Deuteronomy 23:19). The rich were told to lend generously to the poor (Proverbs 3:27–28; 11:24; 28:27; 29:7, 14).

A person who ignores the law does not respect the Lord (Proverbs 1:7), the one who gives the law. That person's prayers are insincere, so why should God listen?

when the wicked rise: See also Proverbs 28:28.

Wise people admit their mistakes and wrongdoings and seek to correct them (see Psalm 32:1–5).

An unjust ruler will not help the poor. Like a roaring lion or an attacking bear, he ruins their lives.

• burdened by bloodguilt: See 1 Samuel 25:31; Romans 2:15; 13:5; compare Hebrews 10:22.

• let no one support him: Murder is so serious that a fine cannot replace the death penalty (see Numbers 35:32).

This proverb appears again with a different ending in Proverbs 12:11.

abound with blessings: You must earn wealth ethically, or it will cause harm and not last (see Proverbs 13:11, compare 10:2; 11:18; 13:22; 21:6).

Giving a wrong verdict because of a bribe is wrong (Proverbs 17:23; 22:16).

Wise people want honest feedback about their mistakes so they can improve (Proverbs 10:17; 13:1, 10; 15:24, 31–32).

Children who take advantage of their parents are wrong (see Exodus 20:12).

Greedy people fight to control situations to gain wealth. Trusting the Lord helps wise people stay calm and, surprisingly, find prosperity.

Wise people listen to others' advice, while those who only trust themselves act foolishly.

When the wicked come to power: See also Proverbs 28:12.