In Proverbs 1:1–7, we see that wisdom begins not with information but with worship: “The fear of the LORD is the beginning of knowledge.” This sermon explores what the fear of the Lord is (and isn’t), distinguishing dread that drives us from God from reverent awe that draws us near. We consider how knowing God rightly becomes the most important knowledge, how it grounds all other understanding, and how it produces humility, stability, and courage for life in God’s world. Finally, we contrast this posture with the fool who despises wisdom and instruction, and we land on the gospel: in Christ, dread is cast out, reverent joy is born, and true wisdom finally has a beginning.

Proverbs 1:1-6

Life rarely follows the plan. When good intentions collide with real pressure—conflict, temptation, disappointment, or grief—we discover how much wisdom we actually lack. In this sermon on Proverbs 1:2–6, we explore the purpose of Proverbs: not merely to inform us, but to form us. Scripture calls us to a posture of teachability, a lifelong process of training, and a clear end—a life shaped by righteousness, justice, and uprightness before God. True wisdom is not talent or technique, but Spirit-shaped skill for living toward the right goal. Ultimately, this training is grounded in Christ himself, God’s wisdom incarnate, who transforms our instincts and faithfully finishes the work he begins.

What is wisdom—and why does Scripture insist that nothing matters more? In this opening sermon of our Proverbs series, we explore why biblical wisdom is not optional advice but essential for life. Looking at Solomon—the wisest king, and yet a tragic fool—we see both the beauty and the limits of wisdom as information. Proverbs gives us the path of life, but only Christ, the One greater than Solomon, gives us the power to walk it. This message sets the foundation for reading Proverbs through a Christ-centered lens, inviting us to pursue wisdom humbly, repent honestly, and hope confidently in Jesus, who has become for us wisdom from God.