As we wrap up our WISDOM series in Proverbs. We take a deep dive into chapter 9. We see ourselves confronted with a choice to make. The passage portrays two houses. One stands open with an elegant lady named, Wisdom, inviting us in. The other stands open, with a seductive lady named, Folly, inviting in. So we see that there is a tug of war for our hearts – we must choose wisely. Proverbs 9 1. Invitation to a Feast (vv. 1-12) • Wisdom Warns (v.7) • Wisdom Instructs (vv. 8-10) 1) Do not reprove or rebuke a mocker, someoen who is unteachable and filled with pride. (v.8) 2) Rebuke only the wise (v.8) 3) Instruct the wise and they will become wiser (v.9) 4) Know the beginning point of wisdom: it is the fear of the LORD, trusting and knowing the Holy One (v.10) • Wisdom Rewards (vv. 11-12) Each person must bear the consequences of the choices he or she makes in life. On one hand, wise choices produce good fruit. On the other hand, foolish choices result in decay and death. New Testament Application: • Wisdom – the Lord Jesus Christ – is building a house for all those who accept Him • Wisdom's house is large, spacious enough for all who accept Christ's invitation • The Lord extends an invitation for all to attend a great supper, a great marriage feast, a spectacular celebration. He is planning at the end of the world. • The Lord Jesus Christ, the embodiment of wisdom, has prepared a great spiritual feast for all who accept His invitation, and He himself serves them • Every believer is a messenger and is commissioned to deliver the Lord's invitation to the world. • Believers can expect to be rejected and persecuted by others when they faithfully fulfill their responsibility to the Lord 2. Invitation to a Funeral (vv. 13-18) • Folly Distracts (vv. 14-17) • Folly Deceives (vv. 17) • Folly Dooms (vv. 18) 3. Two Destinations – You Must Choose (v. 12) Two suitors – Wisdom and Folly – are in a tug of war for your heart The key: "The Fear of the LORD is the beginning of wisdom, and the knowledge of the Holy One is understanding." Proverbs 9:10