Pro 24:26 | KingComments | STEP | Here a new section begins, but clearly in close connection with the preceding one (Proverbs 22:17-24:22). This is evident from the words “these also are sayings” ( ). The now following sayings or proverbs – in – are “of” or “for the wise”. They are meant for those who are already wise, but who want to become even wiser. Wisdom is demonstrated precisely by a person’s desire to grow in wisdom. This section begins by condemning partiality in judgment ( ). The point is that a judge must clearly distinguish between righteousness and evil ( ; ; ). He must not confuse the two and apply them to the wrong person out of partiality. For example, he must not say to a wicked person: “You are righteous” ( ). If he does, not only will God judge him, but he will also bring upon himself the curse of the peoples and the abhorrence of the nations. This is not just any opinion, nor is it just anyone saying this. Here is someone speaking who speaks justice in public and does so in the Name of God. This is a gross violation of justice and also a great dishonor to the Judge of the whole earth. A judge who is so partial as to pronounce such a verdict is cursed and abhorred by everyone everywhere on earth. When justice is done by condemning the wicked and acquitting the righteous, it is a delight to those “who rebuke” ( ). Over judges who uphold justice and over those who rejoice in it will come a good blessing. God finds in them the characteristics of Himself. There is always blessing associated with doing and standing up for justice. In order for justice to be upheld and for a judge to make the right judgment in a case, it is important for a witness to give “a right answer” ( ). It may also be about the judge making a proper decision in a case. A right answer is a valuable contribution to peace and rest in the land, which we may apply to the local church. He who does this does not receive curses ( ), but expressions of love. Kissing the lips is a recognition of the value of the right answers given. Such words do not bring separation, but connect in love. A kiss is also a sign of reconciliation ( ). One who gives a right answers works reconciliation.

‏ Proverbs 24:26

No Partiality in Judgment

Here a new section begins, but clearly in close connection with the preceding one (Proverbs 22:17-24:22). This is evident from the words “these also are sayings” (Pro 24:23a). The now following sayings or proverbs – in Pro 24:23-34 – are “of” or “for the wise”. They are meant for those who are already wise, but who want to become even wiser. Wisdom is demonstrated precisely by a person’s desire to grow in wisdom.

This section begins by condemning partiality in judgment (Pro 24:23b). The point is that a judge must clearly distinguish between righteousness and evil (Pro 18:5; Lev 19:15; Deu 16:19). He must not confuse the two and apply them to the wrong person out of partiality.

For example, he must not say to a wicked person: “You are righteous” (Pro 24:24). If he does, not only will God judge him, but he will also bring upon himself the curse of the peoples and the abhorrence of the nations. This is not just any opinion, nor is it just anyone saying this. Here is someone speaking who speaks justice in public and does so in the Name of God. This is a gross violation of justice and also a great dishonor to the Judge of the whole earth. A judge who is so partial as to pronounce such a verdict is cursed and abhorred by everyone everywhere on earth.

When justice is done by condemning the wicked and acquitting the righteous, it is a delight to those “who rebuke” (Pro 24:25). Over judges who uphold justice and over those who rejoice in it will come a good blessing. God finds in them the characteristics of Himself. There is always blessing associated with doing and standing up for justice.

In order for justice to be upheld and for a judge to make the right judgment in a case, it is important for a witness to give “a right answer” (Pro 24:26). It may also be about the judge making a proper decision in a case. A right answer is a valuable contribution to peace and rest in the land, which we may apply to the local church. He who does this does not receive curses (Pro 24:24), but expressions of love.

Kissing the lips is a recognition of the value of the right answers given. Such words do not bring separation, but connect in love. A kiss is also a sign of reconciliation (Psa 2:12). One who gives a right answers works reconciliation.