The Ten Conditions of Proverbs are like the objects on a syllabus. They aim for learning outcomes. With that in mind it is important that we keep them before us as we study the book of Proverbs. These “conditions” or “objectives” will be seen throughout the study, so take a moment to look them over and then copy them out so you will have them handy as you work through the material.
1. To know wisdom and instruction; (Proverbs 1:2)
2. To perceive the words of understanding;
3. To receive the instruction of wisdom, justice, and judgment, and equity; (Proverbs 1:3)
4. To give subtlety to the simple, (Proverbs 1:4)
5. To the young man knowledge and discretion.
6. A wise man will hear, and will increase learning; (Proverbs 1:5) and a man of understanding shall attain to wise counsels:
7. To understand a proverb, and the interpretation; (Proverbs 1:6)
8. The words of the wise, and their dark sayings.
9. The fear of the LORD is the beginning of knowledge: (Proverbs 1:7)
10. but fools despise wisdom and instruction.