Summary of the Verse

This verse contrasts the fear of the Lord with the consequences of living without it. The 'fear of the Lord' is described as a source of life, suggesting that a deep reverence and awe for God leads to a fulfilling and meaningful existence, while stepping away from this reverence can lead to vulnerability to death's dangers.

Key Insights from Commentaries

• Matthew Henry:

  Henry emphasizes that the "fear of the Lord" is not merely a fear of punishment but a profound respect and love for God that leads to wise living. It is the beginning of wisdom and a guiding principle for decisions.

• Albert Barnes:

  Barnes points out that this fear constitutes a life-giving principle. By adhering to the fear of the Lord, individuals can escape the traps and dangers that life poses, notably those that lead to spiritual and physical death.

• Adam Clarke:

  Clarke interprets the 'fountain of life' as representing the abundant life that flows from revering God. He explains that to 'depart from the snares of death' means to steer clear of sin and the negative consequences that arise from straying away from God's path.

Bible Verse Cross-References

Understanding Proverbs 14:27 can be enriched by exploring several related verses. Here are 10 cross-references that connect with its message:

• Proverbs 1:7 - "The fear of the Lord is the beginning of knowledge: but fools despise wisdom and instruction."
• Proverbs 19:23 - "The fear of the Lord tendeth to life: and he that hath it shall abide satisfied; he shall not be visited with evil."
• Psalms 111:10 - "The fear of the Lord is the beginning of wisdom: a good understanding have all they that do his commandments: his praise endureth forever."
• Isaiah 33:6 - "And wisdom and knowledge shall be the stability of thy times, and strength of salvation: the fear of the Lord is his treasure."
• Ecclesiastes 12:13 - "Let us hear the conclusion of the whole matter: Fear God, and keep his commandments: for this is the whole duty of man."
• Romans 8:6 - "For to be carnally minded is death; but to be spiritually minded is life and peace."
• Matthew 10:28 - "And fear not them which kill the body, but are not able to kill the soul: but rather fear him which is able to destroy both soul and body in hell."
• 1 John 4:18 - "There is no fear in love; but perfect love casteth out fear: because fear hath torment. He that feareth is not made perfect in love."
• James 1:12 - "Blessed is the man that endureth temptation: for when he is tried, he shall receive the crown of life, which the Lord hath promised to them that love him."
• Philippians 2:12 - "Wherefore, my beloved, as ye have always obeyed, not as in my presence only, but now much more in my absence, work out your own salvation with fear and trembling."

Thematic Connections

The verse emphasizes vital thematic connections that can guide scripture study. Studying Bible verse parallels and engaging in comparative Bible verse analysis enhances our understanding of how to live wisely:

• Fear and Wisdom: The theme of the fear of the Lord as fundamental to wisdom is prevalent in several texts, indicating its central place in a believer's life.
• Life and Death: The contrast between spiritual life brought by reverence for God and the death arising from sin is a recurring biblical motif.
• Obedience and Blessing: The verses collectively echo the importance of obedience to God's commandments as a source of blessings and life.

Bible Study Tools and Guidelines

Utilizing tools for Bible cross-referencing can deepen your study:

• Explore a bible concordance to find related themes across different scriptures.
• Use a cross-reference Bible study method to draw insights between interconnected passages.
• Analyze comprehensive Bible cross-reference materials that help in thematic explorations.
• Participate in Bible chain references to understand how various scriptures interlink.

Conclusion

Proverbs 14:27 encapsulates a foundational principle for believers: the importance of fearing the Lord to experience life fully. Inter-Biblical dialogue through cross-referencing enhances our appreciation of this verse and its life-giving implications.