Proverbs 24:21

Commentary on Proverbs 24:21 KJV

Proverbs 24:21 offers timeless wisdom concerning one's disposition towards authority and societal stability. As part of the extensive collection of wise sayings in the Book of Proverbs, this verse is presented in the classic "father to son" instructional style, characteristic of much of the book's practical guidance for living a righteous and successful life.

Context and Core Meaning

The Book of Proverbs is a collection of wisdom literature, primarily attributed to King Solomon, designed to impart wisdom, discipline, and understanding. It often contrasts the path of the wise with that of the foolish. This specific verse falls within a section offering various moral instructions and warnings.

At its heart, Proverbs 24:21 calls for a dual respect: reverence for God and respect for human authority. The phrase "fear thou the LORD" signifies not a cowering terror, but a profound awe, reverence, and obedience to God, recognizing His supreme sovereignty and holiness. This is the foundation of all true wisdom, as also stated in Proverbs 9:10. Coupled with this is the command to respect "the king," representing the established civil authority. This acknowledges that God ordains governing authorities for order and justice, a principle echoed in the New Testament (Romans 13:1).

The second part of the verse, "meddle not with them that are given to change," serves as a crucial warning. It advises against associating with or joining those who are rebellious, unstable, or prone to radical, disruptive, and often ill-conceived changes. This isn't a prohibition against all reform or progress, but rather a caution against participating in factions or movements that undermine established order without wisdom, often leading to chaos and destruction.

Key Themes

• Reverence for God: The primary call is to hold God in ultimate awe and respect, leading to obedience and a moral life.
• Respect for Authority: A secondary but vital theme is the recognition and respect for human government and leadership, understanding their role in maintaining societal order.
• Prudence and Stability: The verse advocates for a stable, measured approach to life, warning against reckless association with those who are disruptive or revolutionary for the sake of change itself.
• Discretion in Association: It highlights the importance of choosing one's companions wisely, avoiding those whose unstable ways could lead to trouble.

Linguistic Insights

• "Fear the LORD" (יְרָא אֶת־יְהוָה - yirāʾ ʾet-YHWH): The Hebrew word for "fear" here, yir'ah, conveys a sense of awe, reverence, and worship, not just fright. It implies a recognition of God's power, holiness, and rightful authority over all creation.
• "Given to change" (שׁוֹנִים - shōnim): This term refers to those who are constantly shifting, innovating, or seeking radical alteration. It can imply instability, rebellion, or a restless desire for novelty without proper discernment, often leading to social unrest or personal ruin.

Practical Application

Proverbs 24:21 remains highly relevant for believers today. It calls us to:

• Prioritize God: Our ultimate allegiance and reverence must always be directed towards God. This foundational relationship informs all other aspects of life.
• Honor Civil Authority: While never compromising our obedience to God, we are called to respect and, where appropriate, submit to governing authorities, understanding that their authority is ultimately permitted by God.
• Seek Stability and Wisdom: Be wary of radical ideologies or movements that promise quick, disruptive change without a foundation of wisdom, justice, and respect for established order. Discernment is key in choosing our associations and the causes we support.
• Cultivate Prudence: This verse encourages a thoughtful, measured approach to life and societal engagement, avoiding impulsive decisions or alliances with those who are prone to recklessness.

In essence, this proverb encourages a life rooted in divine reverence and characterized by responsible citizenship and discerning companionship, leading to personal and communal well-being.