“…wisdom is more precious than rubies, and nothing you desire can compare with her.” – Proverbs 8:11
“Do not be conformed to this world, but be transformed by the renewal of your mind, that by testing you may discern what is the will of God, what is good and acceptable and perfect.” – Romans 12:2
It is an understatement to say that wisdom is a worthwhile pursuit. The New Testament, and specifically the words of Jesus, provides both a view of God’s wisdom and how our lives are affected either negatively or positively as determined by our pursuit of wisdom.
While not exhaustive, this list of New Testament scriptures on wisdom will provide a continuance of our look at Old Testament scriptures on wisdom in your pursuit to understand and rightly apply knowledge. Additionally, you can focus more specifically on “the book of wisdom” at Proverbs scriptures on wisdom.
Understanding Wisdom in the New Testament
“The word of the cross is foolishness to the wisdom of this world. That’s why the wisdom of men is destructive to faith and why Paul was, and we should be, very eager that no one turn to the wisdom of men as the basis of faith but that all turn to the power of God.” – John Piper
Books of the New Testament
| Matthew | Mark | Luke | John |
| Acts | Romans | 1 Corinthians | 2 Corinthians |
| Galatians | Ephesians | Philippians | Colossians |
| 1 Timothy | 2 Timothy | James | 2 Peter |
| Revelation |
Matthew
Matthew 7:24
“Everyone then who hears these words of mine and does them will be like a wise man who built his house on the rock.”
It is both hearing and doing–the words of Jesus. When you do, you are like the person who builds on a firm foundation and is not easily moved. The wise man is one who benefits from doing the right thing with knowledge.
Matthew 11:19
“The Son of Man came eating and drinking, and they say, ‘Here is a glutton and a drunkard, a friend of tax collectors and sinners.’ But wisdom is proved right by her actions.”
Wisdom is something you and others will see–but not always from the start. Persevering in what is right will have its way and its say. There are times when words or verbal responses are not necessary because you’re able to speak more clearly and effectively by living out wisdom.
Matthew 12:42
“The Queen of the South will rise at the judgment with this generation and condemn it; for she came from the ends of the earth to listen to Solomon’s wisdom, and now one greater than Solomon is here.”
As renowned as Solomon was (even is), there is one who lived (and continues to live) that is greater than he. One–not one of. Jesus had none of the riches but exceeded in wisdom. Health and wealth do not seem to be part of the equation for true greatness.
Matthew 13:54
“Coming to his hometown, he began teaching the people in their synagogue, and they were amazed. “Where did this man get this wisdom and these miraculous powers?” they asked.”
Wisdom gets people’s attention. It’s gets them asking, wondering. It elevates the better way–nay, the best way. Wisdom expressed can even sway those that know you best.
God’s Wisdom for Navigating Life: A Year of Daily Devotions in the Book of Proverbs
“Proverbs is God’s book of wisdom, teaching us the essence and goal of a Christian life. In this 365-day devotional, Timothy Keller offers readers a fresh, inspiring lesson for every day of the year based on different passages within the Book of Proverbs.”
As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases.
Mark
Mark 6:2
“When the Sabbath came, he began to teach in the synagogue, and many who heard him were amazed. “Where did this man get these things?” they asked. “What’s this wisdom that has been given him? What are these remarkable miracles he is performing?”
Wisdom can amaze, and lead people to seek it, to want it. No doubt, God’s wisdom is distinct. Ultimately, this wisdom leads to miraculous outcomes.
Luke
Luke 1:17
“And he will go on before the Lord, in the spirit and power of Elijah, to turn the hearts of the parents to their children and the disobedient to the wisdom of the righteous – to make ready a people prepared for the Lord.”
Our life of godly wisdom can bring those opposed to God into an understanding of what is right and true and put them in a position to be met by the Lord.
Luke 2:40
And the child grew and became strong; he was filled with wisdom, and the grace of God was on him.
Wisdom is something to be acquired and absorbed. The ‘filling’ comes by a pouring out from God, with grace as its basis, resulting in our growing in strength.
Luke 2:52
And as Jesus grew up, he increased in wisdom and in favor with God and people.
Our increase in wisdom from God naturally endures us to Him. Not that we can earn favor, but that our humbled hearts can receive God’s blessing.
Luke 7:35
“But wisdom is proved right by all her children.”
It will bear out in our lives if we are wise or not, and in what ways. Our wisdom will be able to be traced to its source and found out for what it truly is.
Luke 11:31
The Queen of the South will rise at the judgment with the people of this generation and condemn them, for she came from the ends of the earth to listen to Solomon’s wisdom; and now one greater than Solomon is here.
A person of wisdom is a person to be sought. But it is only worthwhile to seek them if they possess wisdom from above. Solomon’s remarkable wisdom was that it was God’s wisdom.
Luke 12:12
“For the Holy Spirit will teach you in that very hour what you ought to say.”
We may agree that it is wise to be a learner; to never stop learning. But what is most important is who we learn from. Only allow the right teacher to have the greatest influence on you.
Luke 21:15
For I will give you a mouth and wisdom, which none of your adversaries will be able to withstand or contradict.
The wisdom that God provides will not be able to be thwarted. He will give you the understanding and the means to express it.
God’s Wisdom for Navigating Life: A Year of Daily Devotions in the Book of Proverbs
“Proverbs is God’s book of wisdom, teaching us the essence and goal of a Christian life. In this 365-day devotional, Timothy Keller offers readers a fresh, inspiring lesson for every day of the year based on different passages within the Book of Proverbs.”
As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases.
John
John 5:20
And we know that the Son of God has come and has given us understanding, so that we may know him who is true; and we are in him who is true, in his Son Jesus Christ. He is the true God and eternal life.
One of several significant reasons Jesus came to earth was to provide understanding. Things that we could not or would not know otherwise. In this case, He provides the understanding we need to know how He is. No wise man could come by that without Jesus giving him the ability to know Him. Having this understanding first is the foundation of living a life of wisdom.
John 8:32
“And you will know the truth, and the truth will set you free.”
This is the power of Truth. The truth from God sets us free! The verse before this is crucial to understanding this verse: without our abiding in, that is, “remaining in” His Word, we WILL NOT know the truth that sets us free— in spite our being deceived into feeling otherwise.
Acts
Acts 6:3
Brothers and sisters, choose seven men from among you who are known to be full of the Spirit and wisdom. We will turn this responsibility over to them.
Being “full of wisdom” will in turn invite significant responsibility. Being “full of the Spirit” will allow you to exercise that responsibility wisely.
Acts 6:10
But they could not stand up against the wisdom the Spirit gave him as he spoke.
The wisdom of the world is no match for the wisdom of God. When we rely on the Spirit for wisdom, it will allow us to speak with power and truth that no council or counsel of this world can withstand.
Acts 7:10
And rescued him from all his troubles. He gave Joseph wisdom and enabled him to gain the goodwill of Pharaoh king of Egypt. So Pharaoh made him ruler over Egypt and all his palace.
While wisdom can be used to correct and clarify, it is also winsome. It can win the favor of both God and man.
Acts 9:31
Then the church throughout Judea, Galilee, and Samaria enjoyed a time of peace and was strengthened. Living in the fear of the Lord and encouraged by the Holy Spirit, it increased in numbers.
The fear of the Lord is the beginning of wisdom. Better to not only start there, but stay there. Living in the fear of the Lord is not living in fear as we might think of it. It is coming in from the cold in anticipation of warming yourself by a well-stoked fire. You are compelled to draw near for warmth, but not too close as to get burned. You respect and revere the power while bathing in its strength. Living in fear of the Lord is remaining respectfully and beneficially close to the Lord.
Romans
Romans 11:33
Oh, the depth of the riches of the wisdom and knowledge of God! How unsearchable his judgments, and his paths beyond tracing out!
Do you want to be rich? Really rich? The riches that God offers from the stores of His wisdom is deeper than anyone could attain in this life. There is no council, collective, task force, committee, or other creative collaboration that could even remotely compare to the richness and depth of the wisdom of God. You cannot search to its ends, or conceive of mapping it out.
Romans 12:2
Do not be conformed to this world, but be transformed by the renewal of your mind, that by testing you may discern what is the will of God, what is good and acceptable and perfect.
Conform or transform? To transform, the mind must be renewed. That season of transformation will consist of God testing and rooting out the “wisdom” of the world, and replacing it with true wisdom—God’s wisdom—which is good, acceptable, and perfect.
1 Corinthians
1 Corinthians 1:17
For Christ did not send me to baptize, but to preach the gospel – not with wisdom and eloquence, lest the cross of Christ be emptied of its power.
Accessibility to the truth can sometimes be clouded by the words we choose, as well as our overall presentation. Wisdom does not require eloquence. It requires the truth, which can be and is often most appreciated, stated simply. Indeed, the truth Is most beneficial when stated simply.
God’s Wisdom for Navigating Life: A Year of Daily Devotions in the Book of Proverbs
“Proverbs is God’s book of wisdom, teaching us the essence and goal of a Christian life. In this 365-day devotional, Timothy Keller offers readers a fresh, inspiring lesson for every day of the year based on different passages within the Book of Proverbs.”
As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases.
1 Corinthians 1:19
For it is written: “I will destroy the wisdom of the wise; the intelligence of the intelligent I will frustrate.”
If the wisdom of the wise, in this case, the wisdom of the world, is all that, it would not require that God destroy it. He doesn’t just “agree to disagree” with the wisdom of the wise. Because it is directly opposed to true wisdom, it must be annihilated. Consider how it destroys mankind when it is allowed to remain.
1 Corinthians 1:20
Where are the wise? Where is the teacher of the law? Where is the philosopher of this age? Has not God made foolish the wisdom of the world?
The greatest minds are no match for the wisdom of God. Our attempts at determining truth a part from God can easily be seen as foolish. God’s Word, and His wisdom, are timeless and will therefore stand forever. It does not change, is not short-sighted, and is for all peoples, in all places, for all times—and for every occasion. There is not a moment or a situation where God’s Word is not warranted.
1 Corinthians 1:21
For since in the wisdom of God the world through its wisdom did not know him, God was pleased through the foolishness of what was preached to save those who believe.
God’s wisdom is shown to be superior by intentionally thwarting the wisdom of the world. We approach God on His terms, under His authority. When depending on our wisdom to understand God, we play the fool. One only needs to consider the various religions and myriad approaches taken to reach, find, or know God. All are futile because our wisdom is finite and driven by pride—and God opposes the proud.
1 Corinthians 1:22
Jews demand signs and Greeks look for wisdom.
This statement is certainly not putting Greeks against Jews. Rather, it depicts two focuses: the means, and the ends. The “signs” group looks for outcomes, and the “wisdom” group looks for processes. However, both means and ends are to be considered, with an emphasis on “the how.” Getting to the right “means” will guide you to the right “ends.”
1 Corinthians 1:24
But to those whom God has called, both Jews and Greeks, Christ the power of God and the wisdom of God.
You receive the calling of God, the power of God, and the wisdom of God. All are invited to receive all of this and more. This wisdom is in opposition to the world. The world’s wisdom is in no way capable of supplanting God’s wisdom—there is no comparing the two. Wisdom is a gift given solely by God and is available to you no matter who you are.
1 Corinthians 1:25
For the foolishness of God is wiser than human wisdom, and the weakness of God is stronger than human strength.
My, how smart we think we are. We think too highly of ourselves, and too little of God. Yet, what we think is God’s foolishness, is actually more wise than what we conceive or believe is so great. Our highest thought does not even reach His lowest. Our greatest strength could not overcome what we see of Him to be weakness. Truly, His ways are not our ways. Surrender your feeble, futile thinking, and embrace the strength and wisdom that spoke the Universe into existence.
1 Corinthians 1:30
It is because of him that you are in Christ Jesus, who has become for us wisdom from God—that is, our righteousness, holiness and redemption.
Our being in Christ is purposeful, intentional, and selective. Being placed in Christ is a very wise thing. We receive something that we are given, which we could never possess a part from this offer: holiness, righteousness, and redemption. It is simple. You don’t receive those things, you won’t have those things. The first step in getting wisdom: get wisdom (Proverbs 4:7). That is, receive Christ. How unwise it would be to not accept this gift of grace.
1 Corinthians 2:1
And so it was with me, brothers and sisters. When I came to you, I did not come with eloquence or human wisdom as I proclaimed to you the testimony about God.
There are only two kinds of wisdom. There is God’s wisdom, and then there is human wisdom. They are not just different, they are diametrically opposed. The contrast is staggering. Paul, as should we, chooses God‘s wisdom. It is true wisdom and requires no “fluffing up” or beautifying. Pure wisdom is delivered in humility because it is God’s wisdom and we have nothing to be proud of. Of the two that should be passed on, it is only God’s wisdom that should be put forth.
1 Corinthians 2:4
My message and my preaching were not with wise and persuasive words, but with a demonstration of the Spirit’s power.
Here is one of the distinct characteristics of God’s wisdom: the power of the Spirit. Wisdom does not require clever words or an eloquent presentation. Indeed, it is simple but true. The purity and power–God’s power–is the force of the Holy Spirit to penetrate and persuade in a way that human wisdom simply cannot. Paul skips past the fluff and bluster to speak the truth that makes clear that what he is saying is otherworldly; distinctly divine and holy.
1 Corinthians 2:5
So that your faith might not rest on human wisdom, but on God’s power.
Considering the previous verse, once you see and hear God’s wisdom you should necessarily trust in it rather than rely on something–anything–less than it. In this case, human wisdom. And not to imply they are even close by comparison. What are human words compared to the power of God? Presenting God’s wisdom (true wisdom), in God’s power, will convince the heart of those who hear it to transfer their trust to the One who spoke the universe into existence, whose will cannot be thwarted, and whose sustains all life.
1 Corinthians 2:6
We do, however, speak a message of wisdom among the mature, but not the wisdom of this age or of the rulers of this age, who are coming to nothing.
To continue the comparison, God’s wisdom is for the mature. Those that have the sense to listen to the truth. What is currently being propped up in our culture as “truth”, or is proclaimed by those in leadership, will come to nothing, but does not keep people from listening to, and abiding in, such emptiness. That has been borne out by history time and again. Pick a year, any year in history and you’ll find no shortage of proof that disqualifies man’s understanding and subsequent actions from being the right choice over God’s wisdom.
1 Corinthians 2:12-14
Now we have received not the spirit of the world, but the Spirit who is from God, that we might understand the things freely given us by God. And we impart this in words not taught by human wisdom but taught by the Spirit, interpreting spiritual truths to those who are spiritual.
Saying the right words (truth) comes from having the right understanding (knowledge), and having the right understanding comes from “the Spirit who is from God”. The words used by the wise, come from the Spirit which allows us to have an understanding of God that is not found in human wisdom. Human wisdom represents what is found in the world. God’s wisdom represents what is revealed by God through the Spirit.
1 Corinthians 3:18-20
Let no one deceive himself. If anyone among you thinks that he is wise in this age, let him become a fool that he may become wise. For the wisdom of this world is folly with God. For it is written, “He catches the wise in their craftiness,” and again, “The Lord knows the thoughts of the wise, that they are futile.”
We are deceived when we think we know more than God. Our pride prevents us from becoming the “appropriate fool”. That is, we lack the humility to admit that our wisdom is foolishness to God. We don’t want to be seen as a fool by others, because that is how human wisdom views God’s wisdom–as foolishness. The real fool is the one who rejects God’s wisdom. Pick what kind of fool you want to be: God’s fool or the world’s. To reject God’s wisdom is truly foolish. To receive God’s wisdom only seems foolish to those that are actually fools.
1 Corinthians 8:1-3
Now concerning food sacrificed to idols: we know that all of us possess knowledge. This “knowledge” puffs up, but love builds up. If anyone imagines that he knows something, he does not yet know as he ought to know. But if anyone loves God, he is known by God.”
“Knowledge by itself produces arrogance”. It “puffs up”. But coupled with love, what you really know is expressed by what you do (“build up”). Knowledge alone does not lead to the right actions. It must possess a moral motivator. The love we have received from God, we in turn show to others. To express yourself in this way, you reveal what you truly know. Your knowledge will either serve you (to puff you up) or will serve others (to build them up). Knowledge is necessary, but when it is not expressed in love, only proves that we do not yet know what we ought to know.
1 Corinthians 12:7-8
To each is given the manifestation of the Spirit for the common good. To one there is given through the Spirit a message of wisdom, to another a message of knowledge by means of the same Spirit,
God’s Spirit will manifest his way differently in each of the lives of those who are truly followers of Christ. From the list that Paul provides in this chapter, wisdom is one of those gifts as compared to knowledge. One point here is that the Spirit gives wisdom (and knowledge). That is, wisdom comes from God. The other point is that wisdom and knowledge are separated by things like level of maturity and perception. God can and will mature our understanding and application of the truth.
2 Corinthians
2 Corinthians 1:12
Now this is our boast: Our conscience testifies that we have conducted ourselves in the world, and especially in our relations with you, with integrity and godly sincerity. We have done so, relying not on worldly wisdom but on God’s grace.
God graciously provides the means and strength to conduct ourselves in the way of integrity and sincerity. The difference is that it most likely will be different, not so much on the surface, but in-depth and substance than how the wisdom of the world would be expressed. A godly life and speech are reliant on God’s grace. Again, a godly life is not possible otherwise. The wisdom of the world cannot produce or in any other way support a godly life. Don’t rely on it.
2 Corinthians 8:7
But as you excel in everything—in faith, in speech, in knowledge, in all earnestness, and in our love for you—see that you excel in this act of grace also.
Knowledge, and wisdom, are not destinations. It is fair to view them as paths. Our forward progress moves us up the path. We should think of the distance covered as our increasing in ability, even while the path grows more difficult. Which is to say it is easier going down the path than it is going up. We are called to increase, to grow, to advance in our trust, the way (and what) we communicate, and in our understanding of truth. We are not to excel in just any knowledge but in the right knowledge–that which is worth knowing. What is in view here is the knowledge of Christ.
God’s Wisdom for Navigating Life: A Year of Daily Devotions in the Book of Proverbs
“Proverbs is God’s book of wisdom, teaching us the essence and goal of a Christian life. In this 365-day devotional, Timothy Keller offers readers a fresh, inspiring lesson for every day of the year based on different passages within the Book of Proverbs.”
As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases.
Galatians
Galatians 4:9
But now that you have come to know God, or rather to be known by God, how can you turn back again to the weak and worthless elementary principles of the world, whose slaves you want to be once more?
If you’ve been looking for a good definition of the wisdom of man, here it is. Paul lists three of its components: weak, worthless, and elementary. This is not just in comparison to God’s wisdom, but when evaluated and scrutinized is revealed to be its very essence. It doesn’t hold up, it has no value or benefit and is otherwise impotent. In other words, it cannot withstand reality. It is wishful thinking. A nice thought. It is a schoolboy’s view of the world. God’s wisdom is reserved for those that trust Him and ask for it by name. It is erudite, saturated with strength and power, and more valuable than gold and silver–perfectly suited for reality.
Ephesians
Ephesians 1:7-8
In him we have redemption through his blood, the forgiveness of our trespasses, according to the riches of his grace, which he lavished upon us, in all wisdom and insight.
Wisdom allows us to see things that might otherwise be apparent. And in this case, even contradictory. How could we be deserving of the God of the universe lavishing anything on us? In His wisdom, and having the insight of our every thought and desire, He shed His blood to forgive our treason and betrayal. While in our most detestable state, God bestowed on us riches beyond what we could ever be worthy of. Common wisdom would say, give them what they deserve. But not God’s wisdom.
Ephesians 1:16-19
I do not cease to give thanks for you, remembering you in my prayers, that the God of our Lord Jesus Christ, the Father of glory, may give you a spirit of wisdom and of revelation in the knowledge of him, having the eyes of your hearts enlightened, that you may know what is the hope to which he has called you, what are the riches of his glorious inheritance in the saints, and what is the immeasurable greatness of his power toward us who believe, according to the working of his great might
True wisdom is the revelation of God, about Himself. Jesus said that He is the way, the truth, and the life (John 16:4). If you want to know the truth, you need to know Jesus. The Spirit of God allows you to see and understand the mysteries of His grace. In these verses, it includes: knowing the hope of His calling, the riches of our inheritance, and the power we receive. Wisdom is both what we exercise with other humans, but is also our understanding of, and standing with, God.
Ephesians 3:10
His intent was that now, through the church, the manifold wisdom of God should be made known to the rulers and authorities in the heavenly realms.
What Christ reveals is made known in both worlds. Here, in the material world, He reveals the significance and importance of the church through its role in making known the wisdom of God. It is in and through Christ’s followers that this world can glimpse the breadth and depth of God’s wisdom. Christ’s intent is that the wisdom of God be known. And so it shall be. We are without excuse for remaining in our own wisdom.
Ephesians 5:15-17
Look carefully then how you walk, not as unwise but as wise, making the best use of the time, because the days are evil. Therefore do not be foolish, but understand what the will of the Lord is.
The wise walk a certain way. They understand what the will of the Lord is and their lives reflect it. They use their time specifically to redeem it; to thwart evil. Because God’s wisdom is particular, specific, and unique, so are the lives of those that know and apply God’s wisdom. Oh, it will seem odd, even foolish to those viewing it through man’s wisdom. But the best use of our time is to live wisely.
Ephesians 6:18-20
Praying at all times in the Spirit, with all prayer and supplication. To that end keep alert with all perseverance, making supplication for all the saints, and also for me, that words may be given to me in opening my mouth boldly to proclaim the mystery of the gospel, for which I am an ambassador in chains, that I may declare it boldly, as I ought to speak.
When wondering “What should I say?”, remember that the answer comes from prior prayer. It comes as a result of spirit-led, persistent pleading in prayer. We are wise when enjoining our brothers and sisters, persevere in asking “in the Spirit” for what is right and good to “boldly proclaim”. It is God’s words that reveal God’s wisdom. We secure them when we are highly attentive and committed to our asking. We remain wise as we remain in prayer.
Philippians
Philippians 1:9
And it is my prayer that your love may abound more and more, with knowledge and all discernment,
There is a specific way that love should grow and be expressed. From 1 Corinthian 13, we understand the characteristics of this specific kind of love. It is God’s love that should be multiplied, and it flourishes when its foundation is built on knowledge and discernment. When, to do what, where, and for how long all come back to wisdom. It is how to express God’s love, God’s way. That too is a matter of prayer.
Philippians 3:15
Let those of us who are mature think this way, and if in anything you think otherwise, God will reveal that also to you.
You could say that maturity is one of the goals of wisdom, or at least, one of its outcomes. Our wisdom is reflected in our maturity. It is both a way of thinking and a way of acting. Our destination should be maturity, and wisdom will take us there. The infusion of knowledge and morality describes a mature person. This is how we can tell if someone is becoming wise: the way they think that leads to the right action. It stands to reason that if you’re not maturing, there is little chance that you’re becoming wiser. And what is both fortunate and necessary along this path of maturity and wisdom, is that God is there to teach, correct, and rebuke (2 Tim. 3:16-17).
God’s Wisdom for Navigating Life: A Year of Daily Devotions in the Book of Proverbs
“Proverbs is God’s book of wisdom, teaching us the essence and goal of a Christian life. In this 365-day devotional, Timothy Keller offers readers a fresh, inspiring lesson for every day of the year based on different passages within the Book of Proverbs.”
As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases.
Colossians
Colossians 1:9
For this reason, since the day we heard about you, we have not stopped praying for you. We continually ask God to fill you with the knowledge of his will through all the wisdom and understanding that the Spirit gives.
Matthew 6 is where we find the “Lord’s Prayer”. It is where Jesus is teaching His disciples (and us) how to pray. In verse 10, we are to pray that God’s “will be done on earth as it is in heaven.” If we are to have any understanding of what that is, we must ask God to provide that knowledge and conviction. And when we ask (pray and seek) the Spirit provides the understanding we need. Not every answer to every question, but what we need to know, when we need to know it.
Colossians 1:10
So as to walk in a manner worthy of the Lord, fully pleasing to him, bearing fruit in every good work and increasing in the knowledge of God.
Wisdom requires knowledge. In order to do what is right, you need to know what is right. Having the knowledge of what is right (as in what is truly good) comes from God. Increasing in wisdom is dependent on our increasing in the knowledge of God. This is how we’re able to walk worthy, please Him, and see what we do come to fruition in glorifying God.
Colossians 1:26-28
The mystery hidden for ages and generations but now revealed to his saints. To them God chose to make known how great among the Gentiles are the riches of the glory of this mystery, which is Christ in you, the hope of glory. Him we proclaim, warning everyone and teaching everyone with all wisdom, that we may present everyone mature in Christ.
Great care must be taken when teaching the truth. This is especially true when teaching others about God, because of what is at stake. Wisdom convicts and directs us in our handling of the truth, with a specific aim given to the understanding and assimilation of what we are presenting. In this case, it is someone that is wise teaching another about what is true. One needs to look no further than God’s wisdom. It is “all the wisdom” one needs.
Colossians 2:2-3
My goal is that they may be encouraged in heart and united in love, so that they may have the full riches of complete understanding, in order that they may know the mystery of God, namely, Christ, in whom are hidden all the treasures of wisdom and knowledge.
Being rich, at some time or another, is either a passing thought or tends to consume us, if only for a season. I’m speaking of being financially well off. Does anyone really think about being rich in any other way? We should. Christ offers riches beyond our physical possessions. In fact, He is the treasure we should seek: where wisdom and knowledge are found. Riches are greater than anything found in this world.
Colossians 2:5
For though I am absent from you in body, I am present with you in spirit and delight to see how disciplined you are and how firm your faith in Christ is.
When you consider that Jesus is truth (John 14:6), it makes perfect sense that your trust in Him would be firm, solid, and unyielding. As such, it would require discipline to not be distracted by what is not true, or unwise. The power of the Holy Spirit is our means of becoming and remaining disciplined to seek the truth only where it is to be found.
Colossians 2:8
See to it that no one takes you captive by philosophy and empty deceit, according to human tradition, according to the elemental spirits of the world, and not according to Christ.
First, being taken captive is a very serious consideration. But Paul does not say, don’t be taken captive, but that we’re not to be taken captive by a kind of thinking or a way of viewing the world that is fraudulent. There are three ways to test whether or not something is potentially deceptively empty: is it because it’s the way we’ve always done it? Is it only serving the base desires of the currently emphasized by the world? And, does it oppose Christ’s teaching in the Bible?
Colossians 2:23
Such regulations indeed have an appearance of wisdom, with their self-imposed worship, their false humility and their harsh treatment of the body, but they lack any value in restraining sensual indulgence.
Don’t be fooled by what appears to be wisdom. Observing certain behaviors or rituals can be very convincing. If it were truly wise, the outcomes would bear it out. You can see that all that has been put in place does not ultimately address the deepest desire. Beyond outward appearances, wisdom should penetrate deeply to address matters of the heart.
Colossians 3:16
Let the word of Christ dwell in you richly, teaching and admonishing one another in all wisdom, singing psalms and hymns and spiritual songs, with thankfulness in your hearts to God.
You may have heard the expression, “Garbage in, garbage out”. It refers to the quality of output related to the quality of input. This is also a fundamental aspect of wisdom. Is what you are “letting in” actually helping you become wise? Does it result in putting a song on your lips and filling your heart with gratitude toward God? The words of Christ, when allowed to richly dwell in you, will be expressed in how you teach and admonish others. People will see, not to mention be affected by, wisdom in you.
Colossians 4:5
Be wise in the way you act toward outsiders; make the most of every opportunity.
There is a reason why being truly wise is so important. Life is full of opportunities to let people see what wisdom looks like and how they and others would benefit from it. It is an opportunity to meet a need, help someone heal or break free, and ultimately know the Source of Wisdom. The best way for someone that does not know you to see what you are about, what is most meaningful to you, and also demonstrate your concern for their best interest, is to be wise. Wisdom has no other agenda than to see the truth applied appropriately. Your wisdom is in the best interest of others.
God’s Wisdom for Navigating Life: A Year of Daily Devotions in the Book of Proverbs
“Proverbs is God’s book of wisdom, teaching us the essence and goal of a Christian life. In this 365-day devotional, Timothy Keller offers readers a fresh, inspiring lesson for every day of the year based on different passages within the Book of Proverbs.”
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1 Timothy
1 Timothy 6:20
O Timothy, guard the deposit entrusted to you. Avoid the irreverent babble and contradictions of what is falsely called “knowledge,”
That is saying it plainly. There is a line that separates true knowledge, that which is morally and intellectually profitable, from what is ultimately bankrupt. False knowledge is just an elaborate marketing ploy to deceive many into thinking that it will fulfill the empty promises it makes. In reality, it is contradictory, juvenile nonsense. When you compare something to what is true and pure, anything you put next to it will be considered pathetic. It won’t even be a consideration. It is only when false knowledge goes unchallenged that it even has a chance to prosper. Like Timothy, guard yourself from being deceived.
2 Timothy
2 Timothy 2:7
Think over what I say, for the Lord will give you understanding in everything.
Wisdom isn’t just about having or getting the right answer. It will require us to think. And in some cases, think hard. There is a point about wisdom that includes who we trust with our thinking. As we think, we need to be dependent on the Lord to provide the understanding we need; the clarity we seek as we think through something. That way, our thinking and processing are protected from what is false, and guided toward what is true. Thinking freely is like driving a car blindfolded. Letting your mind go wherever it wants to can cause great harm and destruction.
2 Timothy 3:15
And how from infancy you have known the Holy Scriptures, which are able to make you wise for salvation through faith in Christ Jesus.
It is a supremely wise thing to receive salvation. The Bible is how God has revealed the “mysteries of Christ” such that we can have eternal life and be reconciled to God. The wisdom of the world cannot make us wise unto salvation–the most important decision we have to make in our lives. Knowing the Scriptures is a lifelong pursuit; it is wise to begin as early as possible.
2 Timothy 3:16-17
All Scripture is breathed out by God and profitable for teaching, for reproof, for correction, and for training in righteousness, that the man of God may be competent, equipped for every good work.
Do you want to be fully qualified? Not perfect. Not #1. Not popular. But sufficient for what God calls you to–be a man/woman of God. A man/woman of God is enabled with what he needs to accomplish what God has intended for him. The foundation for being a man/woman of God is knowing the Word of God. It is the very words of God and is beneficial to us by teaching us, reproving us, correcting us and training us in righteousness. We can’t be a man/woman of God, or be suited for what God has for us, without it.
James
James 1:5
If any of you lacks wisdom, let him ask God, who gives generously to all without reproach, and it will be given him.
In one sense, it is very simple to acquire wisdom. Some have spent their lives in pursuit of wisdom, while others have sought academics to reach this understanding, yet it comes down to asking the right question of the right person. God’s wisdom is provided by God. If you lack it, just ask. His response? He gives generously, without being critical. So much for the perception of Him being an unapproachable, angry old man.
James 3:13
Who is wise and understanding among you? Let them show it by their good life, by deeds done in the humility that comes from wisdom.
People can see your wisdom. It is expressed by humbly, doing good things. And by good, I don’t mean good for you. They are good deeds that are for, and about, others. They may or may not make you look good, or more popular, or more wealthy. Basically, you don’t–get–anything. If you want to prove you’re wise, that is how you will do it–that is how it will look.
James 3:15
Such “wisdom” does not come down from heaven but is earthly, unspiritual, demonic.
Further descriptors for “earthly wisdom”: it is man-made, there isn’t anything about it that is spiritual, and it is saturated with demons. Notice this one difference between earthly and godly wisdom: godly wisdom is from God, and earthly wisdom is from the devil. The devil!! How could anyone proudly claim adherence to “such wisdom”?
James 3:17
But the wisdom that comes from heaven is first of all pure; then peace-loving, considerate, submissive, full of mercy and good fruit, impartial and sincere.
If you needed a checklist for what true wisdom looks like, here it is. The source is from God, as evidenced by its purity. It is not tainted by human thoughts, desires, ambitions, or pride. It brings peace and thinks of others before itself. It adheres to righteousness, fairness, and the law. It is gracious and seeks the best outcomes–not the best outcome for itself. It judges fairly and objectively and cares genuinely and deeply.
God’s Wisdom for Navigating Life: A Year of Daily Devotions in the Book of Proverbs
“Proverbs is God’s book of wisdom, teaching us the essence and goal of a Christian life. In this 365-day devotional, Timothy Keller offers readers a fresh, inspiring lesson for every day of the year based on different passages within the Book of Proverbs.”
As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases.
2 Peter
2 Peter 3:15
Bear in mind that our Lord’s patience means salvation, just as our dear brother Paul also wrote you with the wisdom that God gave him.
True wisdom is distinct. First and foremost, is the source. You can’t have or get true wisdom any other way than from God. God gives it to us. However, He does not give it to the proud or the unrighteous. Wisdom is reserved for the right heart. A heart that is His. Short of that, you are fooling yourself that you are truly wise.
Revelation
Revelation 5:12
In a loud voice they were saying: “Worthy is the Lamb, who was slain, to receive power and wealth and wisdom and strength and honor and glory and praise!”
God and His wisdom are worthy of worship and praise. Of anyone who should be praised for his wisdom, it is God. This helps settle the tension of how we’re to regard anyone or any wisdom, that is less than God. God’s ways and God’s wisdom is what is to be praised and honored. He alone is worthy of receiving these characteristics, as He alone is capable of properly exercising them.
Revelation 7:12
Saying: “Amen! Praise and glory and wisdom and thanks and honor and power and strength be to our God for ever and ever. Amen!”
We must attribute God’s wisdom to God. But it is far from a reluctant, begrudging sentiment. It is explosive! And, not only is it just wisdom, but that all power, all strength, and all glory be possessed by God. There is no other, nor should there be, that is “all in all.”
Revelation 13:18
This calls for wisdom. Let those who have insight calculate the number of the beast, for it is the number of a man. That number is 666.
The ravenous evil that pervades our lives, will one day give way to the rise of “the beast.” It will require spiritual wisdom–that is, God-given wisdom to discern what and who this beast is. It may sound like fantasy, but the reality is that God’s Word speaks of it, and God’s Word is true. It will be necessary that we are prepared with this “insight” so that we can help others respond sensibly to these overwhelming events.
Explore wisdom further:
Define Wisdom
Words of Wisdom
Scriptures on Wisdom
Old Testament Scriptures on Wisdom
Proverbs Scriptures on Wisdom
The Right Life Manifesto