p. 691 | The Wisdom of Solomon by Francis Nicoll Zabriskie

International Tract and Missionary Society · Oakland, California · Nov 20, 1884

FromSigns of the Times, Vol. 10, No. 44.

The Wisdom of Solomon.

By Francis Nicoll Zabriskie

Solomon showed his wisdom in the methods of instruction which he adopted. We are so constituted that the reception of the truth depends very much upon its presentation. The wise teacher will seek out "acceptable words," that is, the most apt and, as we say, the most telling words. In Solomon's case, this was the form of proverbs. He studied the form as well as the substance of his teachings. He "gave good heed." He "sought out and set in order many proverbs." By this I understand that he brought out of his treasure things both new and old. He drew upon the wisdom of the ancients for their most vital and pithy sayings, and he strove to give snap and exactness to his own.

I would that we were more like Asiatics in one respect—more silent and thoughtful in our ordinary life, and more concise and to the point when we speak. It was this that made them love proverbs, which are the current coin of wisdom, compact and portable, and bearing their value on their face. Men still, and everywhere, love condensed and comprehensive language. Our literature grows richer every day in words and phrases which are lightning gleams, as brief and as luminous. We have still Luther-words, which are "half-battles."

And herein Solomon was a model for all teachers who would be wise to win souls. They will "still teach the people knowledge." They will instruct them in the great principles of truth, as well as exhort them to duty. They will be anxious to have them grow in knowledge as well as in grace. The preacher will recognize it as his paramount commission to "teach" the nations. His word is to be profitable not only for "correction and reproof," but for "doctrine and instruction." It is the "wisdom" of God, before it becomes the "power of God unto salvation."—Rev. F. N. Zabriskie.