King James Version

What Does Proverbs 28:23 Mean?

“He that rebuketh a man afterwards shall find more favour than he that flattereth with the tongue.”

Context

To have respect of persons is not good: for for a piece of bread that man will transgress.

He that hasteth to be rich hath an evil eye, and considereth not that poverty shall come upon him. hasteth: or, hath and evil eye hasteth to be rich

He that rebuketh a man afterwards shall find more favour than he that flattereth with the tongue.

Whoso robbeth his father or his mother, and saith, It is no transgression; the same is the companion of a destroyer . a destroyer: Heb. a man destroying

He that is of a proud heart stirreth up strife: but he that putteth his trust in the LORD shall be made fat.

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Commentary

Ellicott’s Commentary for English Readers

(23) **He that rebuketh a man, afterwards shall find more favour **. . .*—i.e., *when the man reproved comes to his senses, and finds how true a friend the reprover has been to him. Or, the words may perhaps mean, *He that rebuketh a man *(that is going) *backwards. *(Compare Jeremiah 7:24, and James 5:20.)

Charles John Ellicott (1819–1905). Public Domain.

Historical Context

This verse is found in the book of Proverbs. Understanding the historical and cultural background helps illuminate its meaning for the original audience and for us today.

Theological Significance

Proverbs 28:23 contributes to our understanding of God's character and His relationship with humanity. Consider how this verse connects to the broader themes of Scripture.