What Proverbs meant to its original audience—and what it means to Christians today  

On one hand, Proverbs is perfectly straightforward—a collection of short statements on how to live wisely and well. On the other, the advice of Proverbs, written millennia ago, can seem disconnected from the realities of life today.   

John Goldingay’s fresh commentary untangles Proverbs with an eye toward Christian formation. Working from his acclaimed English translation, Goldingay explains each verse in its original context without getting bogged down in technical detail. The commentary centers theological insights beneficial to preaching and pastoral work.   

The wisdom of Proverbs can’t be reduced to platitudes. It requires something of the reader: thought, reflection, and openness to the Lord. The Commentaries for Christian Formation Proverbs guides us in the journey of faith seeking understanding.

John Goldingay is David Allan Hubbard Professor Emeritus of Old Testament at Fuller Seminary.