Proverbs in the New Testament: Proverbs 11:12

Proverbs 11:31 / 1 Peter 4:18

Old Testament

• Since the righteous receive consequences for their sin, certainly those who are not will be punished.
• Verses 28–31 — theme of two paths.
• There will be judgment for the wicked.
• The righteous are rewarded for their good deeds, and so the wicked will be punished for theirs.

Textual

• “Rewarded” — shalam — safe, at peace.
• LXX — “is saved.”
  • Instead of saying “in the earth,” it says “scarcely.”

Jewish Use

• God’s grace and judgment was a developing idea in early Judaism.

New Testament

• 1 Peter 4:18
  • The context is Peter’s audience is suffering persecution for being Christian.
  • God uses this as a divine purification.
    • Since God judges His own people, He will do so to the wicked.
  • It is difficult for the righteous to be saved because of persecution. This is why Peter quotes this proverb to encourage his readers to stay faithful and remember God will vindicate sinners.