The book of Proverbs uses the words fool, fools, and foolish at least sixty-nine times. However, the foolish man theme is found in at least one hundred places in Proverbs. The book of Proverbs is not just about becoming wise, it is also about not becoming a fool. There are a myriad of admonishments for wise living, but on the other hand the writer places just as much emphasis on forsaking foolishness. Wisdom isn’t just about growing in knowledge, and information. Wisdom is applying what you have learned. The fool, on the other hand, doesn’t seek knowledge, and therefore does not desire to apply it.
The word “fool” in the Hebrew is defined as being thick headed and stubborn. A person who will not grow in wisdom is a thick-headed fool. Proverbs gives us at least ten characteristics of a fool.
The Fool is a Skeptic: “The fool says in his heart, ‘There is no god’” (Ps. 14:1). This is perhaps one of the more well-known scriptures concerning the fool. This foolish concept is being peddled in public schools and universities. Christians need to know the basic doctrines of God’s existence (1 Pt. 3:15).
The Fool Doesn’t Fear the Lord: “The fear of the Lord is the beginning of knowledge; fools despise wisdom and instruction” (Pro. 1:7). Fools disdain wisdom and instruction. The fool who believes there is no God, will not fear that God.
The Fool is Always Right: “The way of a fool is right in his own eyes, but a wise man listen to advice” (Pro. 12:15). Reasonable people will take correction and learn from their mistakes and shortcomings. On the other hand the fool rejects such advice. The foolish man believes that he is always right and everyone else is always wrong.
The Fool is Reckless and Careless: “One who is wise is cautious and turns away from evil, but a fool is reckless and careless” (Pro. 14:16). A wise Christian will be cautious about their behavior and will seek to avoid evil.
The Fool is Unteachable: “A fool takes no pleasure in understanding, but only expressing his opinion” (Pro. 18:2). To not have any regard for learning, or growing in knowledge is foolishness. Christians who never read and study Scripture, or who are always distracted during the preaching of God’s Word will undoubtedly fail at spiritual matters.
The Fool Speaks Foolishly: “The heart of fools proclaim folly” (Pro. 12:23b). Considering that a fool is unteachable, he then will not have anything of value to speak. The fool values his own opinion.
The Fool Returns to His Sin: “Like a dog that returns to his vomit is a fool who repeats his folly” (Pro. 26:11). Christians who do not forsake their sin are like the dog that returns to his vomit. He returns to what previously made him sick. The gall of guilt should be enough for us to not return to our sin.
The Fool Lacks Self-Control: “A man of quick temper acts foolishly, and a man of evil devices is hated” (Pro. 14:17). True strength is being able to control yourself rather than be controlled by circumstance and situation. A man without self-control is like a city broken into and left without walls (Pro. 25:28).
The Fool is Contentious: “A fool’s lips walk into a fight, and his mouth invited a beating” (Pro. 18:6). The young lady who can’t control her emotions, probably doesn’t have the resolve to control her tongue either. Our tongues are a strong muscle, and wise is the woman who learns to control it.
The Fool Mocks Sin: “Fools make a mock at sin” (Pro. 14:9 KJV). How many people mock and scorn the church? Too often young people are drawn to the rebels who believe Christianity is nothing more than a cosmic killjoy. Those who mock God’s wisdom, will one day be mocked by God while they are in their calamity (Pro. 1:24-26).
Believers should heed to the many warnings of foolish living. Proverbs doesn’t paint a pretty picture of the outcome of being a fool. It would be wise for Christians to read the book of Proverbs to see just what it means to be a fool.