Proverbs in the New Testament: proverbs 10:12

Old Testament

• Ch. 10–12 emphasize paths between righteous and wicked
• 10:11–12 a loose pair of Proverbs linked by the word “conceal” or “cover”
• V. 12 contrasts the effects of hate and love
  • hate: conflict
  • love: peace
  • immediate context is speech so this most likely refers to the words coming from the attitude
• Love covers offenses because it seeks peace
  • “Covers all wrongs” — they are not concealed and forgotten but love reconciles the relationship

Textual

• James 5:20 only alludes to second part of Proverb
• “Stirs” — rouse, awaken
• “Cover” — Kasa — cover, conceal, hide

Jewish use

• Cover sin is to procure forgiveness

New Testament

• James 5:20
  • James applies the second part to bringing someone back to the faith. By bringing them back we do so lovingly and the act brings about forgiveness and “covers” sins because of their repentance.
• 1 Pet 4:8
  • They must remember to love in the midst of persecution because love would unify and not separate
  • Overcoming evil is not avoiding evil but doing good stops evil. By loving others they conceal sin not by hiding sins in secret but conceal them from causing dissension and division, by loving others with action