9 And moreover, because the Preacher was wise, he still taught the people knowledge; yes, he pondered and sought out and set in order many proverbs.
10 The Preacher sought to find acceptable words; and what was written was upright—words of truth.
11 The words of the wise are like goads, and the words of scholars are like well-driven nails, given by one Shepherd.
12 And further, my son, be admonished by these. Of making many books there is no end, and much study is wearisome to the flesh.
13 Let us hear the conclusion of the whole matter: fear God and keep His commandments, for this is man’s all.
14 For God will bring every work into judgment, including every secret thing, whether good or evil.
These final six verses serve as the epilogue to the book.
proverbs (v.9) — Solomon also wrote most of the book of Proverbs.
acceptable (v.10) = understandable, appropriate for the readers
goads (v.11) = sharp sticks used to poke animals to make them move. Words of wisdom should prod believers to act properly.
nails (v.11) — Wisdom should make us secure and stable, the way a nail secures a board.
A study of man’s words (v.3) can never bring wisdom.
After all the things Solomon considered in his life, his conclusion was that the entire purpose of man is to fear God and obey Him. This is the “whole duty” (v.13) of man, the reason he exists.
And here is the “final answer” to man’s purpose: to know and obey God. Why? Because God will bring EVERYONE into judgment. At that day, will you be found in Christ and free from condemnation” (Romans 6:23; Philippians 3:9)? Or will you be found outside of Christ and condemned for eternity? (Revelation 20:12-15). — Grace, page 1182.
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