Wisdom About Wisdom: How the Bible Defines and Redefines Wisdom

Wisdom About Wisdom: How the Bible Defines and Redefines Wisdom

What is biblical wisdom? The Bible gives three very different answers to that question: First, wisdom is the best possession possible, so everyone should “get wisdom”! Second, wisdom is God’s domain, which no one can understand, so the only wise path is to fear him. Third, Jesus the Messiah is God’s wisdom alive. He is co-wise with God and reveals God’s wisdom. We can access his wisdom by living as he lived. One lesson all of the wisdom writers agree upon is that wisdom is not about being smarter than everyone else but about having good character. The wise display their wisdom in humility and good deeds. "Do you want to live wisely instead of just reacting? Giles provides a judicious account of what the Bible says about wisdom. The book helpfully shows that wisdom guides us on the straight path as we live out biblical virtues such as integrity, empathy, respecting others, faithfulness, humility, self-control, and honesty." --John Sanders, Professor Emeritus, Hendrix College "Most people would expect a book on biblical wisdom to be too theological and ponderous to be enjoyable. Put those fears aside. Giles explores profound truths but with a light touch. He thoroughly explores the teaching of Proverbs, Ecclesiastes, and Job, but also visits with Sherlock Holmes and Poor Richard. He concludes with a penetrating analysis of wisdom's fulfilment in Jesus of Nazareth. If you want to become wise, read this book!" --Frederic M. Martin, Pastor Emeritus, Evangelical Free Church of Bemidji, Minnesota "What a gift this book is for our times! A truly fresh approach to what biblical wisdom is and is not and why it matters for us and our world. The many relevant illustrations make the reading enjoyable while taking the reader into deeper reflections on this important topic. It should be required reading for all who wish to walk more intentionally in God's ways." --Ruth E. Van Reken, Co-founder, Families in Global Transition Greg Giles is a retired missionary, having served in Africa, South Asia, and China. He also taught missions at Oak Hills Christian College in Bemidji, Minnesota. His final role was superintendent of Corn Bible Academy in Corn, Oklahoma. He and his wife Jean now reside in Cordell, Oklahoma.